SHGs making significant contribution to social and economic progress: Metsubo

Dimapur, November 15 (MExN): The Self Help Group (SHG) Expo and SHG Marketing Project at the Naga Shopping Arcade, Dimapur was inaugurated by Metsubo Jamir, Minister for Rural Development & SIRD, on November 14.

During the inauguration, Metsubo thanked the Project Director for taking the initiative to hold the expo which provides opportunities to the SHGs, a DIPR report stated. “The lifeline of our society lies in the hands of those people who contribute economically to the community. And the women of the SGHs contribute to the social and economic progress of the state,” he said. 

The Minister said that being self-reliant not only gives financial independence but also helps making decisions, large and small, which impact the lives of women and the communities. “The positive effect of the SHGs is that women have become more empowered and they now take charge of their lives, their finances, and their futures. Through SHGs, rural women are empowered socially, economically, and politically and gain the skills and confidence to participate in decision-making processes,” he observed.

Despite the limited resources the SHGs are making a significant contribution to social and economic progress, he noted while added, “They are the silent warriors, the unsung heroes of our society.”

Metsubo also lauded the Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission (NSRLM) for doing a commendable job in giving hand holding support in every aspect of the progress of SHGs. He also said it is a niche market that is yet to be fully explored and appreciated. 

He added that there are significant challenges these rural women face, and one significant hurdle is the distribution and marketing of these local products as traveling to cities, towns in search of markets to sell their products is not only time-consuming but also financially draining for women. 

“By leveraging the power of technology, particularly e-commerce one can bridge the gap,” the Minister suggested and said that by establishing an online platform dedicated to selling products made by rural women, one can solve an important issue faced by the rural women. “E-commerce not only eliminates the need for physical transportation, but provides a platform for these women to tell their stories – the stories of their products, their craftsmanship, their culture, and their unwavering determination.

 It brings their unique work into the limelight and allows consumers to appreciate the true value of these products,” he stated. 

Market linkage is another critical aspect that needs to be addressed, he underlined. “By creating partnerships with established businesses and e-commerce giants, we can help these women reach a wider audience and these partnerships can provide the necessary training and resources to help rural women understand the nuances of online selling and digital marketing,” he stated.

Moa Sangtam, NCS, Project Director cum District Mission Manager (DMM), District Rural Development Agency (DRDA), District Mission Management Unit (DMMU), Dimapur gave the welcome address. He informed that the main objective of the SHG Expo is to bring local artisans, SHGs into a platform where they can promote, sale and export their products to a larger customers with no middle men involved in the sale and buying of goods, the DIPR report stated. 

Sangtam also informed that Dimapur has started the marketing project in four designated areas and put up shelves were SGHs can sell their goods. The areas are Tourist Lodge; The Garden in Supermarket; Hotel Saramati; and Referral Hospital canteen. These marketing shelves will help the SHGs to sell their products, he added.

Imtimenla, Joint Secretary & Mission Director, NSRLM speaking on the occasion said that DMM, DRDA and DMMU have done a commendable job in organising the expo. Such expo will provide maximum exposure to SHGs and it will create a competitive spirit amongst the SGHs and they will learn from each other. She also informed that the SHGs that have potential are selected and are sent to National SARAS Fairs held in different parts of India, where they are given the opportunity to advertise and sell their products.

Jamir encouraged the SHGs to open up stalls during the Employers’ Meet which will be held from December 1 to 4. She also informed that the Regional SARAS Fair will commence from December 1 to 10, which will coincide with the Hornbill Festival, and encouraged all the SHGs to participate in the event. 

Vinikali K Yepthomi, AC (FI), BMMU, Dhansiripar chaired during the inaugural function, invocation was pronounced by K Thenjamo Tsanglao, Pastor Lotha Baptist Church, Dimapur, and vote of thanks was given by M Yinok Phom ADPM, NSRLM, DMMU, Dimapur. 

A marketing project where the SHGs can sell and showcase their products was also inaugurated by Minister Metsubo Jamir at Hotel Saramati, Dimapur during the event. 

The Dimapur Self Help Group (SHG) Expo was organised by District Rural Development Agency (DRDA), NSRLM, District Mission Management Unit (DMMU), Dimapur. The Expo will be held for two days (November 14 and 15). Altogether six blocks – Chümoukedima, Kuhuboto, Niuland Aghunaqa, Medziphema and Dhansiripar are participating in the expo.