India, May 18 -- Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Sunday announced collateral-free loans of up to Rs 10 crore for women-led startups and self-help groups (SHGs), saying the Delhi government itself would act as guarantor to promote women entrepreneurship and indigenous products. Launching the two-day Mega SHG Mela-2026 near Rohini West Metro Station, the Chief Minister said the initiative was aimed at making every woman in the capital financially independent while strengthening the "Vocal for Local" movement. Addressing the gathering, Gupta said, "The Delhi Government is working on a large scale to make women self-reliant, entrepreneurial and economically empowered." She added, "We have made arrangements for collateral-free loans up to Rs 10 crore for women self-help groups and startups, for which the Delhi government itself will act as guarantor." Also Read - Fuel-saving push: Delhi bats for WFH in pvt sector, carpooling... The mela, organised by the North-West District Administration, saw participation from around 24 self-help groups showcasing handicrafts, crochet work, khadi products, food items and household goods under the "One District, One Product" initiative. MP Yogendra Chandolia, MLA Kulwant Rana and senior district officials were also present at the event. Highlighting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of "Atmanirbhar Bharat" and "Vocal for Local", Gupta said Indian handmade products were "second to none in quality" and needed stronger branding and marketing support. "People often run after foreign brands, whereas products made by our women are equally good. They deserve national and international recognition," she said. The Chief Minister also announced that local products made by women entrepreneurs would be given regular platforms in malls and large shopping complexes across Delhi to help them reach larger markets. Linking the initiative with sustainability campaigns, Gupta said the Delhi Government was also promoting "Monday Metro" and "No Vehicle Day" in response to the Prime Minister's appeal for fuel conservation and greater use of public transport and indigenous goods.

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