TURA: The Empowerment and Income Generating Programme for the women of the Muktidata Tribal Welfare Society Aitibi of Tikrikilla was launched on Thursday with the inauguration of three units by Raksamgre MLA Limison D Sangma who was present as the chief guest.
The income generating units comprise Abisa tailoring and embroidery unit, Marian Rosary making unit and Ama washing powder unit.
The programme, which is already in its second phase, is being supported by the Catholic Church to help uplift the poor and save tribal farmers from exploitation by middlemen.
The first phase launched last April led to the setting up of a ‘Fair Price’ shop under the Muktidata Multipurpose Cooperative Society.
In his inaugural address, Sangma urged the people to cooperate with such ventures so as to help them earn extra income for their families.
Recalling how the innocent farmers used to be exploited, Rev. Fr Benoy Joseph spoke about the mortgage of their gardens and areca nut plantations to middlemen who reaped profits for years. He urged farmers to stop giving away their prime land on mortgage.The programme is expected to give employment to over 800 women and school dropouts by the time the third phase is launched.
The third phase which is soon to begin will provide training and support for women in the making of candles, phenol, harpic, Lysol, hair shampoo and umbrella manufacturing.
Joint secretary of Muktidata Tribal Welfare society, Sandesh Bhakshaka, said such awareness programmes will go a long way in creating awareness in improving of one’s economic life.
