Meghalaya CM distributes cheques amounting to ₹48.55 Lakhs to Self Help Groups and farmers

Shillong, Dec 15: In order to extend financial assistance to Self Help Groups (SHGs) and farmers, the Meghalaya government distributed cheques amounting to ₹48.55 Lakhs to 70 Farmer Producers' Groups impacting 971 households. This came under Meghalaya’s biggest farmers’ welfare program- FOCUS (Farmers Collectivisation for Upscaling and Marketing System).

 

Meghalaya chief minister Conrad K. Sangma said the state government is committed to create a turnaround in the socio-economic condition of the rural population with an inclusive program that promotes SHGs movement and farmers collectives across the state. The Meghalaya CM said this while attending an SHG mela along with agriculture minister Bantiedor Lyngdoh at Rapleng village under Mawkynrew block in East Khasi Hills.

 

 

“Our government understands the importance of SHGs and how it can provide direct benefit to our women organisations. Through the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), we have been able to provide financial aid and support to thousands of SHGs in the last three years,” said the Meghalaya CM.

 

During the SHG Mela, the chief minister and agriculture minister also handed over appreciation certificates and cash reward to villages, for their innovative and successful enterprises, which has brought laurel to the villages under Mawkynrew block.

 

Community Investment Funds (CIF) amounting to Rs 22.80 lakhs sanctioned to 8 Village Organizations benefitting 42 SHGs & covering 420 households and Rs 27 lakh sanctioned as bank loan to 19 SHGs. He also launched the market outlet at Laitdiengsai under Mawkynrew C&RD Block, a project implemented in convergence with MGNREGS, NRLM & MBMA. The outlet will showcase the traditional indigenous products of the SHGs.