Odisha Deputy CM Pravati Parida Empowers Women SHGs with Rs 208 Crore Financial Boost
In a significant move to bolster women's economic participation, Odisha Deputy Chief Minister and Mission Shakti Minister Pravati Parida disbursed substantial financial assistance, including interest subvention, to lakhs of women self-help groups (SHGs) at an event in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday. The initiative aims to strengthen their economic activities and promote women entrepreneurship across the state.
Women at the Forefront of Odisha's Development
Addressing the gathering, Parida highlighted the transformative role of women in Odisha's progress. "Women are now at the forefront of the state's development journey," she stated. "While earlier efforts focused on how to uplift women, today they have emerged as key drivers of social and economic transformation in Odisha." She emphasised that as SHG members grow economically stronger and self-reliant, they are laying a solid foundation for a developed Odisha.
Key Financial Disbursements to Strengthen Grassroots Institutions
The event saw the distribution of interest subvention amounting to Rs 208.35 crore to 2,67,131 SHGs across the state against their bank loans. To further empower grassroots institutions, additional financial assistance was provided under various categories:
- Revolving Fund: Rs 6.43 crore to 3,510 SHGs
- Community Investment Fund: Rs 57.05 crore to 180 gram panchayat level federations (GPLFs)
- Vulnerability Reduction Fund: Rs 1.40 crore to 101 cluster level federations (CLFs)
Call for Prudent Financial Management and Cyber Vigilance
Parida urged women to effectively utilise the financial resources provided under various government schemes, reinvest their earnings wisely, and enhance financial literacy. She also cautioned them to remain vigilant against rising cyber frauds, underscoring the importance of digital safety in today's economic landscape.
This comprehensive financial support package is expected to significantly boost women-led enterprises, foster sustainable economic growth, and reinforce Odisha's commitment to gender-inclusive development through the Mission Shakti programme.
