Karnataka Government Allocates Rs 70 Crore to Boost Women-Led SHG Federations
In a significant move to strengthen rural livelihoods, Karnataka's Minister for Medical Education, Skill Development, Entrepreneurship, and Livelihood, Sharan Prakash Rudrappa Patil, announced the release of Rs 70 crore as a Community Investment Fund (CIF) for self-help group (SHG) federations in Dakshina Kannada district. This funding is being distributed under the Karnataka State Rural Livelihood Mission (KSRLPS), aiming to empower women and enhance community development.
Supporting Grassroots Federations and Economic Activities
Speaking at the 'Namma Saras 2026' event—a national-level exhibition showcasing products manufactured by SHGs—Minister Patil detailed the government's initiatives. The exhibition was organized by the Department of Skill Development, Entrepreneurship and Livelihood in collaboration with the district administration, zilla panchayat, and Mangaluru City Corporation at the Karavali Utsav Ground.
Patil emphasized that gram panchayat-level federations of SHGs receive startup funds of Rs 1.5 lakh each. This financial support is crucial for establishing offices, managing funds, and facilitating various community development activities. Currently, Karnataka boasts approximately 5,000 such federations, which play a pivotal role in empowering women across the state.
Marketing Platforms and Women-Centric Schemes
To further assist these groups, the government organizes marketing platforms like melas (fairs) to promote and sell SHG products. Additionally, women-centric guarantee schemes have been successfully implemented, benefiting thousands of families by empowering women and uplifting vulnerable groups.
Minister Patil highlighted that when women receive financial assistance, they prioritize their families' wellbeing over personal spending. "Achieving tangible change for ordinary citizens requires an increase in family incomes. Therefore, empowering women is crucial for national prosperity, particularly for boosting the income of rural households," he stated. "The government is firmly committed to the belief that the sustainable development of rural families can only be achieved through women."
Recognition from Assembly Speaker and Other Dignitaries
Assembly Speaker UT Khader praised the efforts of SHGs, noting that women are sending a strong message as strong pillars not only for their families but also for the country's economic development. "Empowering women helps nation building," he said, recalling how women in Dakshina Kannada have historically worked in sectors like cashew processing, beedi rolling, and fishing to earn livelihoods for decades. "The role of women in creating a harmonious society is commendable," Khader added.
The event was attended by several key figures, including Dakshina Kannada MP Capt Brijesh Chowta, Mangaluru City South MLA D Vedavyas Kamath, Deputy Commissioner Darshan HV, and Zilla Panchayat CEO Narwade Vinayak Karbhari. Their presence underscored the collective commitment to supporting women-led initiatives and rural development in the region.
