By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 15: As many as 647 SHGs from different parts of East Khasi Hills and Ri-Bhoi participated in a large-scale Self Help Group (SHG) meet and festival at the Khasi Heritage Village, Mawphlang, on December 12, organised by the Khasi Hills Community REDD+ Project, through the Synjuk Ki Hima Arliang Wah Umīam Mawphlang Welfare Society.
SHGs from Ri Bhoi also presented special cultural and awareness programmes during the event.
The festival showcased traditional food preparation, hand-crafted products such as textiles and handicrafts, highlighting the skills and entrepreneurship of women. Several competitions, including the Mrs SHG walk and tug-of-war among SHGs, added colour to the event.
The programme highlighted how women, through collective efforts in SHGs, have successfully engaged in income-generating activities such as oil extraction, water-related enterprises, weaving, and other livelihood initiatives. With financial support from banks, many women have become self-reliant, supported fellow members, and improved their household income and overall economic status.
The SHG meet and festival is part of the REDD+ Project’s broader initiative to empower women through SHGs and Village Organisations across the region.
The first phase of the programme was attended by Deputy Commissioner of East Khasi Hills District, RM Kurbah as the chief guest.
Also present were Tambor Lyngdoh, Project Director and key leader of the Synjuk, along with village heads and members of various Synjuk committees, including Socio-Economic and Tourism committees.
