Minister Hebbalkar Lauds Gruha Lakshmi Scheme's Widespread Impact on Women's Empowerment
In a significant address at the inauguration of the Kisan Sabha auditorium in Kukkundur, Karkala, on Wednesday, Minister for Women and Child Development and District Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar emphasized the Siddaramaiah-led government's unwavering social commitment. She highlighted the transformative role of the Gruha Lakshmi scheme in advancing women's empowerment across Karnataka.
Gruha Lakshmi Scheme Reaches Millions with Substantial Financial Support
Hebbalkar reported that the Gruha Lakshmi initiative has successfully penetrated households statewide, bringing meaningful improvements to women's lives. "So far, 26 instalments have been credited, providing Rs 52,000 each to 1.2 crore women beneficiaries," she stated, underscoring the scheme's extensive reach and tangible benefits.
Notably, she pointed out that Udupi district, despite the Congress party not securing any seats there, boasts one of the highest numbers of Gruha Lakshmi recipients. This achievement was partly attributed to the diligent efforts of Uday Kumar, who personally visited homes throughout the Karkala constituency to ensure all eligible women accessed the scheme's advantages.
Tribute to M Veerappa Moily's Pioneering Educational Contributions
During her speech, Hebbalkar paid homage to former Chief Minister M Veerappa Moily, praising his life and work as an enduring inspiration. "He introduced the Common Entrance Test (CET) to assist poor students in accessing education, which became a model for the entire nation," she remarked.
She elaborated that the CET later influenced the central government to enact the Right to Education (RTE) Act, showcasing its national significance. Additionally, Hebbalkar commended the Mahatma Gandhi Residential Schools initiated by Moily, which have selflessly offered free education to underprivileged children.
"His life serves as a guiding force for all of us. Serving society continuously for over five decades is no small feat," she added, lauding his decades of public service.
Call for Lifelong Social Service and Community Engagement
Emphasizing the critical importance of sustained social service, Hebbalkar urged that such efforts should transcend occasional events and become a lifelong mission. "If we dedicate our time, energy, and talents to societal welfare, our state and country will progress further. Today's program exemplifies this spirit," she asserted.
She expressed optimism that the Kisan Sabha Trust would persist in its service activities in the coming years, fostering continued community development and empowerment.
