Sewing machines distributed
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, May 28 2013:
Sewing machines have been distributed to 120 women participants of a vocational training programme organised by Social Welfare Department with the aim of securing livelihood of underprivileged women.
The sewing machines were distributed at a function held at Welfare Training Institute, Takyel in the presence of Social Welfare Minister AK Mirabai, Social Welfare Principal Secretary, Social Welfare Joint Secretary, Director and other officials.
The six-months training course included cutting, sewing and embroidery.
Apart from giving Rs 5000 each in cash to purchase sewing machines of their own, the trainees were also given monthly stipend of Rs 200 each.
If the grant of Rs 5000 falls short for buying sewing machines, the additional amounts should be produced by the trainees themselves.
The sewing machines distributed today cost Rs 7100 each.
Speaking at the occasion, AK Mirabai said that Social Welfare Department has been imparting vocational training to destitute women in batches since 1982 with the objective of enabling destitute women earn their own livelihood.
She also assured that the grant of Rs 5000 for purchasing sewing machines would be increased based on the financial condition of the State from the next course.