The Hindu : Karnataka News : `SHGs should have a federation'

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Friday, Jan 07, 2005

Karnataka

Karnataka

`SHGs should have a federation'

By Our Special Correspondent

SHIMOGA, JAN. 6. A State-level workshop on the `Role of self-help groups in social transformation' held on January 4 and 5 under the auspices of the Postgraduate Department of Social Work of Kuvempu University and the Mahatma Gandhi Rural Development and Social Changes Trust has suggested that members of all self-help groups, sponsored either by the Government or non-governmental organisations, should form their own federation at the district level to ensure effective functioning.

The workshop adopted resolutions on the need to redefine the role of SHGs in bringing about social awareness. It asked them to fight social evils that had become detrimental to rural development. Emphasising the need for holding regular training for members of SHGs to maintain the quality of service, the workshop wanted banks to open special counters of their branches in rural areas to meet local needs, particularly those of SHGs.

It suggested that the Government formulate a common policy for SHGs and Stree Shakti groups. It appealed to the universities to associate themselves more actively with the activities of voluntary organisations that aimed at women's empowerment.

Crucial role

Joe Mary M. Lobo of the Sri Sharana Christ Samsthe, who was the chief guest at the valedictory function, said that the workshop had helped in understanding the problems of SHGs and Stree Shakti groups which have been playing a crucial role in ensuring social transformation in rural areas.

The chairman of the Postgraduate Department of Social Work of Kuvempu University, H.M. Panchaksharaiah, who presided over the function, observed that women who are a key link in society can play a meaningful role if they are actively involved in the decision-making process.

He announced that the university will introduce several programmes exclusively for rural women and women's empowerment.

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