The TP Central Odisha Distribution Ltd on Saturday distributed hand-woven Ikat sarees and specially-made Dhokra badges to Abha Shakti members (Women Self-Help Groups) at an event here on the eve of the National Handloom Day.
Energy Minister Pratap Keshari Deb was chief guest of the event, also attended by TPCODL CEO M Shenbagam and Tata Power T&D president Sanjay Banga.
The event was held to recognise the role played by Abha Shaktis who have been trained under the Roshni (Skilling) programme to become social change agents. The women have been skilled for meter reading, billing and collection (MBC) activities enabling them to become self-employed. The company plans to distribute a total of over 2,000 sarees to about 1,000 Abha Shaktis in the coming days.
The sarees designed by upcoming young native designers also have elements inspired by Odisha's culture like Konark Wheel and the domestic handmade designs used in rural households during Lakshmi Puja. A total value chain of over 6100 families, directly and indirectly, benefitted through the entire programme apart from the Abha Shakti members who will receive two sarees each.