- In a significant move CM Naveen Patnaik has announced a slew of incentives for Self-Help Groups (SHGs) under the Mission Shakti program.
- Under this initiative, all SHGs enrolled in the Mission Shakti program will have access to interest-free loans of up to Rs 10 lakh, aiming to empower women entrepreneurs and facilitate the growth of their businesses.
- Additionally, an amount of Rs 145 crore has been allocated towards interest refunds, further alleviating financial burdens on SHG members.
- Highlighting the pivotal role of Mission Shakti women in Odisha’s development journey, Patnaik emphasized their transformation from SHGs to SMEs.
- With the inauguration of the Mission Shakti Bazaar, SHG products, including handicrafts, handlooms, food products, and personal care items, will be made available both online and offline.
- Patnaik reiterated the government’s unwavering dedication to women’s development and emphasized the crucial role of Mission Shakti women as partners in Odisha’s transformation.
In a significant move ahead of the forthcoming elections in Odisha, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has announced a slew of incentives for Self-Help Groups (SHGs) under the Mission Shakti program, including interest-free loans of up to Rs 10 lakh. The announcement was made during the inauguration of the Mission Shakti Bazaar in Bhubaneswar.
Under this initiative, all SHGs enrolled in the Mission Shakti program will have access to interest-free loans of up to Rs 10 lakh, aiming to empower women entrepreneurs and facilitate the growth of their businesses. Additionally, an amount of Rs 145 crore has been allocated towards interest refunds, further alleviating financial burdens on SHG members.
Chief Minister Patnaik expressed his commitment to supporting women’s empowerment and entrepreneurship by setting up 5000 Mission Shakti Bazaars across the state over the next five years. These bazaars will serve as platforms for marketing products manufactured by SHGs, promoting economic self-sufficiency among women.
Highlighting the pivotal role of Mission Shakti women in Odisha’s development journey, Patnaik emphasized their transformation from SHGs to small and medium enterprises (SMEs). He underscored the significant business opportunities generated for SHGs, amounting to Rs 8000 crore, and their transition into valuable contributors to the state’s economy.
Commissioner-Cum-Secretary of Mission Shakti, Sujata Raut Karthikeyan, lauded the impact of the interest-free loan system in empowering mothers financially and strengthening their entrepreneurial endeavors. This year alone, SHGs have received loans amounting to Rs 15,000 crore, with plans to extend Rs 75,000 crore in loans over the next five years, signaling the government’s sustained commitment to women’s economic empowerment.
With the inauguration of the Mission Shakti Bazaar, SHG products, including handicrafts, handlooms, food products, and personal care items, will be made available both online and offline. This initiative aims to expand market access for SHGs and showcase their diverse array of offerings to a wider audience.
Patnaik reiterated the government’s unwavering dedication to women’s development and emphasized the crucial role of Mission Shakti women as partners in Odisha’s transformation. By providing financial support, market access, and opportunities for growth, the government seeks to empower women entrepreneurs and foster inclusive economic development in the state.
(With inputs from agencies)
