DWCRA Initiative a National Model for Women's Empowerment: AP CM

By: WE Staff | Friday, 9 January 2026

• The DWCRA initiative has become a national model for women's economic empowerment- said Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu
• DWCRA, or Development of Women and Children in Rural Areas, has been in use for three decades

Addressing the gathering on Thursday, the Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu reiterated that the DWCRA concept, started thirty years ago, is now an ideal for the country regarding the economic empowerment of women.

Addressing the inauguration of Saras Mela 2026 at Guntur, he appreciated the contribution of self-help groups that helped women attain financial independence. After inspecting stalls erected by DWCRA members, he also addressed the attendees.

Remembering the genesis of this movement, where women who attended meetings outside their homes were criticized, he is proud that DWCRA has emerged as a major force with accomplishments all over the country.

The Chief Minister proudly revealed a staggering fact: DWCRA members in Andhra Pradesh have managed to mobilize savings to the tune of Rs 26,000 crore with a corpus fund creation of Rs 5,200 crore. In 2024-25, a massive bank loan of Rs 46,590 crore was sourced by DWCRA groups.

CM has also sent his greetings to Union Minister Pemmasani Chandrasekhar for arranging the national-level mela at Andhra Pradesh.

The event has been hailed as 'Mini India,' having a festive flavor. The mela would assist in the promotion of handicrafts, handlooms, and local foods and generate market for women entrepreneurs.