BENGALURU: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday highlighted the inspiring journey of Bengaluru street vendor Ningamma during the 137th episode of Mann Ki Baat, describing her success under the PM SVANidhi scheme as an example of women's economic empowerment.
Ningamma, who is originally from Hassan, runs a small roadside hotel near Hosahalli Metro station on Magadi Road. She received a Rs 50,000 loan under the PM SVANidhi scheme, which provides financial assistance to street vendors to help them establish and strengthen their businesses.
Using the loan, Ningamma built a livelihood through her food business and has been able to support her family with the income generated from the eatery. She has also ensured better educational opportunities for her children.
What makes her story particularly notable is her effort to extend support to children from economically weaker families. Ningamma has reportedly used part of her earnings to help poor children pursue their education.
Modi referred to her journey while discussing the wider impact of the PM SVANidhi scheme. He noted that women account for around 46 per cent of its beneficiaries, describing their participation as an important indicator of growing financial and economic independence among women.
The Prime Minister's reference to Ningamma's story brought attention to the role of small businesses and affordable credit in transforming the lives of street vendors.
Her journey from seeking financial assistance to running an independent business demonstrates how access to formal credit can provide livelihood opportunities to people working in the informal sector.
Through Mann Ki Baat, Modi presented Ningamma as an example of how determination, entrepreneurship and targeted financial support can help women become self-reliant while contributing to their families and communities.
