Meghalaya: President Droupadi Murmu Empowers Meghalaya's Women Through SHGs and Development Initiatives
President Droupadi Murmu's impactful visit to Meghalaya, where she champions women-led development through Self-Help Groups.
SHILLONG: In a momentous event near Baljek Airport, President Droupadi Murmu graced Meghalaya's Self-Help Groups (SHGs) Programme, showcasing the government's commitment to empowering women and enhancing regional administrative capabilities. The visit also marked the laying of the foundation stone for the New Integrated Administration Complex.
Esteemed dignitaries present included Governor Phagu Chauhan, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, Minister of Community & Rural Development Abu Taher Mondal, and Minister of Education Rakkam A Sangma, among others.
President Murmu acknowledged the positive impact of SHGs on women's lives, emphasizing economic self-reliance as a catalyst for improved confidence. She highlighted the success of initiatives like Lakhpati Didi, aiming to transform the rural economy by promoting women entrepreneurship.
Commending the efforts of the Conrad Sangma-led Government, President Murmu urged the people to seize the opportunities provided by the government, emphasizing a collaborative stakeholder-based approach.
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma expressed gratitude for the President's maiden visit, highlighting the significant increase in SHG numbers under his leadership. The state witnessed a remarkable rise from fewer than 4600 SHGs to nearly 45000 in just 5-6 years, with almost every rural household having a woman participating in an SHG.
A compelling success story shared by SHG member Venella D Sangma illustrated how government support transformed hardships into opportunities for growth. President Murmu engaged with hundreds of women, listened to their stories, and offered suggestions for further development.
The event included the disbursement of a Rs 25 crore Community Investment Fund and Rs 32 crore in loans, reaffirming the government's commitment to empowering local communities. President Murmu recognized three exemplary SHGs and three Village Organizations for their outstanding contributions to community development.
Minister of Community & Rural Development Abu Taher Mondal emphasized the growth of SHGs in the state, highlighting transformative programs like PRIME, FOCUS, FOCUS+, and CM ELEVATE. He expressed gratitude to the President for her visit, reinforcing the government's dedication to the well-being of the people of Meghalaya.
President Droupadi Murmu's visit underscored the government's commitment to women-led development, community empowerment, and transformative initiatives in Meghalaya, setting the stage for a more prosperous and inclusive future.
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