HT Correspondent
NAGAON, May 17: Union Minister of Panchayati Raj and Agriculture, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, on Saturday thanked Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for implementing various developmental schemes under the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) and for supporting self-help groups.
The minister’s remarks came during his visit to Samaguri in Nagaon district, where he interacted with over 50 women entrepreneurs from the Lakhpati Baideo and Mahalakhpati Baideo initiatives at the “Kunhi Tea Bar” in the Bheleoguri area.
Speaking on the occasion, Chouhan highlighted how women involved in NRLM groups have achieved self-reliance and benefited from state government initiatives. He also reviewed products made by the women and expressed satisfaction with their quality and innovation.
He further emphasised the need to empower Lakhpati Baideo participants to become Mahalakhpati Baideo and encouraged more women to join self-help groups.
The National Rural Livelihood Mission aims to promote financial independence and entrepreneurship among women in rural areas. Through the formation of self-help groups, the mission provides a platform for women to launch micro-enterprises and improve their livelihoods. The district administration played a key role in organising the event.
Self-help groups have been instrumental in empowering women across the state by helping them develop skills, access credit, and become entrepreneurs. According to an official press note, these groups have also contributed to poverty reduction and improved living standards in rural communities.
Nagaon deputy commissioner Narendra Kumar Shah, Zila Parishad CEO Manoj Kumar Chikariya, and other officials from the district administration and allied departments attended the event.