Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, October 23:
Under the sponsorship of National Commission for Women, New Delhi, the Association for Upliftment Services, Saiton Awang has begun a two-day long workshop on the theme of 'Study on availability of micro credit to women and role of SHG' from today at Saiton Bazar.
The inaugural function of the workshop was attended by Chairperson of Manipur State Commission for Women Dr Ch Jamini Devi and president of Manipur State Co-operative Union Kh Borekishore as chief guest and functional president respectively.
Members of Manipur State Commission for Women namely Laljan Begum and Lhingjaneng Gangte were also present at the occasion as guests of honour.
In her address as chief guest, Dr Jamini pointed out that proper implementation of the various developmental programmes and schemes launched by the Government from time to time is essential for bringing about economic independence of the people and prosperity in the State.
Dr Jamini also suggested that setting up a micro-financing bank specially for the benefits of women in Manipur would be helpful in empowering them economically.
In his presidential address, Borkeshore observed that empowerment of women is necessary for development of the State and ushering in peace in the society.
Out of the total population of 26 lakhs in the State, only one percent is in Government service as there is not the possibility of providing jobs to all.
So special thrust should be given to the development of the co-operative movement in the State for generating more economic activities, he said, adding that women can and should play an important role in this regard.
He further pointed out that since most of the Self Help Groups (SHGs) formed in the State are constituted by women, giving more power to the women would behelpful in furthering the cause of the co-operative societie which are mainly made up of by these groups.
So development of such co-operative societies formed by the women is absolutely essential for development of the co-operative movement in the State, Borkeshore said.
He also appealed to all the members of the Co-operative societies to work sincerely and with dedication.
After the inaugural function and in continuation of the programme, Project Officer of NCUI, Bishnupur M Debendra and Faculty member of IMC Dr KI Meitei spoke on different related topics as resource persons of the workshop.