From 4600 in 2018, we have been able to raise the number of SHGs to 45000, says the Hon’ble Chief Minister; Presidents laud the efforts of the Government

MUMBAI: The Hon’ble President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, graced the Self-Help Groups (SHGs) Programme organized by the Government of Meghalaya, at the Baljek Airport, Tura. During her visit, the Hon’ble President also laid the foundation stone for the New Integrated Administration Complex, marking a significant step towards enhanced administrative capabilities in the region. Esteemed dignitaries in attendance included Hon’ble Governor of Meghalaya, Shri Phagu Chauhan, Hon’ble Chief Minister, Shri Conrad K Sangma, Minister of Community & Rural Development, Shri Abu Taher Mondal, Minister of Education, Shri Rakkam A Sangma amongst others.

Reflecting on the women of Meghalaya and the SHGs, the Hon’ble President said, “I have interacted with many SHGs of Women. I have noted that they are all happier and more satisfied after they start earning and contributing economically to the family. I have witnessed the same confidence and energy among all the women present here today. The idea of women-led development can be implemented only when women get the freedom to implement their choices. I do not mean that women can make decisions only if they are the earning member of the family but economic self-reliance brings a better self-confidence in women.”

Lauding the efforts of the Conrad Sangma-led Government, the Hon’ble President spoke about different SHGs of Meghalaya and said that these initiatives like the Lakhpati Didi “aim to transfer the rural economy and improve quality of life of rural people by promoting women entrepreneurship. The people need to take all the opportunities that the Government is providing them. It is said ‘Ek Akela thak jaayega, milkar bojh uthana’, and the SHGs reflect the same where the women come into groups and empower themselves, receive financial support from the Government, banks, and other institutions”.

Speaking at the program, Hon’ble Chief Minister, Shri Conrad Sangma said, “We express our earnest gratitude to our respected President for her maiden visit to our state. Being the first tribal President of the country is indeed a very special moment for each one of us. In Meghalaya, we had less than 4600 Self Help Groups when he took over the government in 2018. In mere 5-6 years, we have been able to raise this number of groups to nearly 45000. Today, almost one woman from every rural household is a part of one SHG or the other. Our government does not believe in scheme-based development. We believe in a stakeholder-based approach, a purpose-driven approach, for the youth, women, and Farmers of Meghalaya”.

The highlight of the event was a compelling success story presented by Smt. Venella D Sangma, an SHG member, spoke about how the support from the Government transformed her hardships into opportunities for growth. Hon’ble President went down the dais and talked to hundreds of women in person, listened to their stories visited the stalls, and gave them suggestions for growth.

Following this, President Murmu participated in the disbursement of the Community Investment Fund amounting to Rs 25 crores and loans worth Rs 32 crore, reaffirming the government’s commitment to empowering local communities. Additionally, she awarded certificates to three exemplary SHGs and three Village Organizations, recognizing their outstanding contributions to community development.

Initially, Hon’ble Minister of Community & Rural Development Shri Abu Taher Mondal conferred the welcome address and thanked the Honourable President for visiting the state. Hon’ble Minister laid focus on the growth of SHGs in the state and the programs including PRIME, FOCUS and FOCUS+, CM ELEVATE, and others highlighting their transformative role in the lives of the people of Meghalaya.

After the successful program at Baljek Airport, President Murmu proceeded to Shillong to lay the foundation stone for the Shillong Peak ropeway project and inaugurate other key infrastructure projects, further underlining the government’s dedication to fostering progress and connectivity in the region.

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The Declutter and Donate Drive initiative encouraged people to declutter their homes and donate items they no longer used, to help those less fortunate. With Love recognizes the importance of reusing and recycling and organizes this drive as a means of redistributing these resources to those who need them most.

Pune residents were encouraged to participate by contributing items such as clothing, toys, books, kitchenware, and other household items that they no longer need.

“We believe in the power of collective generosity,” said Dimple Somji, founder, and trustee of the NGO, “Through the Declutter and Donate Drive, we aim to bridge the gap between those who have more than they need and those who struggle to make ends meet. It’s an opportunity for our community to come together and create a positive change.“

Another key project the NGO undertook was the JoyBag Drive. This heartfelt initiative focused on collecting essential kitchen grains to support underprivileged diabetic kids and their families in need.

Amidst economic challenges, many families struggle to put meals on the table during Diwali. The JoyBag Drive helps to organize essential kitchen grains such as rice, wheat, lentils, and more; for these families so that the festivities are stress-free for them as well.

Neelima Ladkat, another key trustee of the NGO, expressed gratitude, saying, “The overwhelming response from our community demonstrates the incredible compassion and unity of purpose. The JoyBag Drive is about more than just providing food; it’s about creating a stronger, more supportive community.“

These initiatives not only aim to provide essential support but also raise awareness about the challenges faced by underprivileged families struggling to make ends meet. It encourages a spirit of empathy and understanding within the community, fostering a more compassionate and inclusive society.

With Love, the NGO extends its heartfelt appreciation to the community, partners, and supporters for their invaluable contributions. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of underprivileged children and their families, ensuring a brighter future for all.

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