A State-level orientation programme of Women SHGs for “Capacity Building by KVKs of OUAT” and “Livelihoods Support by Directorate of Horticulture” was held at in the College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, OUAT here on Thursday.
To strengthen SHGs and help them earn sustainable income, whole hearted support and activities by the Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, State line departments and financial institutions are required, said Mission Shakti Commissioner Sujata R Kartikeyan.
She said the Women SHGs in Odisha are not confined to activities like Badi and Papad making, but they have gone beyond the horizon in accepting several other activities like paddy procurement, supplying baby food through Anganwadis and diet for patients in medical.
OUAT Vice-Chancellor Dr Pawan Kumar Agrawal presiding over the meeting said development can be effected through SHGs. Our technological competencies need to be translated in terms of employment and sustained income for the farming community, he said.
Extension Education Dean Prof PK Roul welcomed the guests and briefed the project “Capacity Building of Women SHGs” to be implemented in 12 KVKs under the OUAT.
Horticulture Director Dr BK Upadhyay discussed the project “Supporting Livelihoods for Women SHGs through Horticulture” to be implemented in all the districts by the Directorate of Horticulture.