GUWAHATI: Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal ceremonially launched distribution of revolving fund amounting to Rs. 30 crores to around 20,000 women SHGs (self-help groups) under Kanaklata Mahila Sabalikaran Asoni in the State on Saturday. The revolving fund distribution ceremony was organized by Assam State Rural Livelihood Mission under the P&RD department at Veterinary College playground at Khanapara in Guwahati.
Speaking on the occasion, Sonowal said that women are the source of great strength and they are the quintessential force for any change in society. He said that Kanaklata Baruah who laid down her life fighting against the British was a glaring example of the women power in the State. He observed that the women in the State possess the same strength and they would have to play a vital role in expediting the process of development in the State.
Underlining the Prime Minister’s special initiative for girl child and women such as Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao, PM Ujala Scheme, Swacch Bharat Mission, the Chief Minister said that inspired by such schemes, the Assam government also took up several steps for empowerment of women. He said that the aim of the State government is to raise the stature of women in society and cited examples of appointment of Dr. Malinee Goswami as the first women Vice Chancellor of Assam and retired IAS officer TY Das as the first women chief secretary of the State under his government as examples of the State government’s moves in that direction. He also said that due to the favourable environment generated by the government, today various women including film director Rima Das, sportspersons Hima Das, Lovlina Borgohain, Jamuna Boro, Angkushita Boro and others have made successful inroad into world platform in their respective fields.
Sonowal also said that the State government launched various schemes such as Arundhati scheme, Indira Miri Widow Pension Scheme, Swahid Kushal Konwar Universal Old Age Pension Scheme etc. with a view to give dignity to the women in society. He also urged the women to keep close watch for ensuring positive work culture and academic environment in the State. He also asked them to play an important role in motivating and inspiring their children to take up their studies seriously.
He further said that the State government is committed to safeguard the rights and interests of the indigenous people and would take all decisions in cognizance with the people of the State. He also said that his government is unwaveringly working to protect and promote the local language, culture and tradition and there is no need for the people of the State to panic.
Minister of State (independent) for P&RD department Naba Kumar Doley said that under Kanaklata Mahila Sabalikaran Asoni, the State government since its launch has been able to touch the lives of more than 18 lakh households and 1,78,720 SHGs across the State have received financial benefit, a press release said.