Basavaraj Bommai, the chief minister of Karnataka, said on Wednesday that the financial aid programme for Sthree Shakhti Sanghas will begin on October 2.
The Federation of Karnataka Voluntary Service Organizations, Karnataka Border Areas Development Corporation, Karnataka Gandhi Smaraka Nidhi, and Sumangali Seva Ashrama jointly arranged the convention of State Level Voluntary Service Organizations, which the Chief Minister had just opened.
For the first time, a grant of Rs 1.5 lakh has been made available in the state budget for each Sthree Shakthi Sangha to enable them to contribute to the GDP of the state. An anchor bank has also been linked to meet their needs for financial services, purchase necessary equipment, and improve market access for their products. Additionally, efforts are being made to connect them with online marketing platforms like Amazon to increase marketing opportunities for their products, according to Bommai.
Stressing the need for empowerment of women, Bommai said, "the state government is keen to promote the Sthree Shakthi products in international markets. It would boost the state's economy."
Only 30% of the population in Karnataka contributes to the state's GDP, which places it in third place overall.
The remaining 70% of people are working to survive. This must be altered. According to Bommai, about 70% of the population would be monetarily able to contribute.
Farm Producer Organizations are working to increase the value of agricultural products and secure a higher price for them. Fishermen and craftspeople are now included in the programme. To support local artists, product-based Micro Clusters like Channapatna (toys), Ilkal, Molakalmuru, and Sidlaghatta (sarees) would be created, according to Bommai.
The Chief Minister urged women to take advantage of the various state and federal government initiatives implemented for their economic empowerment and wellbeing.
"Industries minister Murugesh Nirani has provided employment for about 75,000 persons. He is a man who walks the talk," Bommai said.
The Chief Minister praised Susheelamma's contributions and referred to her as an inspiration to everyone for her unwavering commitment to helping society.
