Lakhimi Baruah
Lakhimi Baruah | |
|---|---|
| Born | Jorhat, Assam, India |
| Occupation(s) | Banking professional, social activist |
| Known for | Pioneer of Assam's first women-operated cooperative bank, Konoklata Mahila Urban Cooperative Bank; women's financial empowerment |
| Awards | Padma Shri (2021), Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Award (2015), Jingle award (2019) |
Lakhimi Baruah is an Indian banking professional, social activist, and the pioneer behind Assam's inaugural women-operated cooperative bank, Konoklata Mahila Urban Cooperative Bank, which focuses on enhancing women's financial empowerment. In recognition of her contributions toward advancing women's access to financial services in Assam, she was honored with the Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian distinction, in 2021.
Early life and career
Originating from Jorhat, Assam, Baruah endured the loss of her mother during childbirth and her father during adolescence, subsequently being raised by family members. Due to economic hardships, she halted her education in 1969, entered into marriage in 1973, and later achieved her graduation in 1980 while employed at a banking institution. In 2021, the Jorhat district administration included her in the Systematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) initiative.
Accolades
Baruah's dedication to empowering women financially within Assam has earned her multiple honors, such as:
- Padma Shri (2021)
- Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Award (2015)
- Jingle award (2019)