Kumar Bahukhandi
Chief Minister Sai Paid for Purchases from His Own Pocket: Mudra Loan-Funded Enterprise Emerges as a Shining Example of Self-Reliance
Raipur: A deeply moving moment unfolded on Sunday May 3, 2026 during the statewide ‘Sushasan Tihar’ when Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai made an unannounced stop at a modest grocery shop in the remote forest village of Chandagarh, under Pathalgaon development block in Jashpur district.
The shop is run by ‘Lakhpati Didi’ Sumila Korwa, whose journey of dedication and determination has become a shining example of grassroots entrepreneurship and self-reliance.
Soon after his helicopter landed in the village, Chief Minister Sai walked straight to Sumila’s shop located near the helipad. Overwhelmed by his sudden presence, Sumila grew emotional and welcomed him in a traditional manner by offering cloves and cardamom, a gesture that lent the moment an intimate and cultural warmth.
Engaging in a candid conversation, Chief Minister Sai learned about Sumila’s inspiring journey. She shared that she had started the grocery shop with a loan of Rs 1 lakh under ‘Mudra Yojana’.
Today, her store not only caters to daily essentials but also houses a photocopy machine and a refrigerator, enabling villagers to access cold drinking water and other necessary services locally.
During his visit, Chief Minister Sai purchased cold water and falahari chivda from the shop and personally paid for the items from his own wallet.
When Sumila hesitated to accept the payment, he gently insisted, saying, “This is the rightful earning of your hard work, please accept it.” He commended her efforts, saying that meeting the needs of people in such a remote forest region is truly commendable and serves as an inspiration for other women.
Sumila recounted that she initially supported her family through agriculture but later identified a local opportunity and decided to set up the shop. Today, the business is thriving and has become a significant source of income for her family.
She also proudly shared that her daughter, Priyanka, a student at the Girls’ High School in Kasabel, has secured the first position in her class this year and is helping at the shop during the summer holidays.
Further, Sumila informed that her family owns a tractor and a four-wheeler, both of which are rented out to villagers for agricultural work and social occasions like weddings. Alongside running the shop, she efficiently manages her household and farming responsibilities.
Applauding her dedication and resilience, Chief Minister Sai remarked, “You have achieved the status of a ‘Lakhpati Didi’ through your hard work; in the coming years, you will surely become a ‘Crorepati Didi’.”
Chief Minister Sai’s simple yet humane gesture left a lasting impression on the villagers and vividly reflected the spirit of Sushasan Tihar, which envisions a direct, sensitive, and trust-based dialogue between the government and the people.
