BHUBANESWAR: In a move to woo the women voters ahead of the panchayat polls scheduled in February, 2017, chief minister Naveen Patnaik today announced the state government's decision to double the credit linkage of women self-help groups (WSHGs) from `500 crore to `1000 crore.
Announcing the decision at the state level 'Mahila Samavesh' organised by the panchayatiraj department here to mark the birth centenary of former chief minister Biju Patnaik and 80th year of formation of Odisha as a separate state, the WSHGs will be given loan at one percent interest rate.
The promise made during the 2014 election to provide loan at one percent interest rate to the WSHGs has been fulfilled, he said and added that with this the income of women will be doubled.
Biju Patnaik was the first leader in the country to take steps to bring women into the mainstream and empower them, he said and added, "We will carry forward his vision."
The chief minister said an increase in the credit linkage will enhance economic activities of WSHGs and help women members to generate more income. Stating that the
'Mission Shakti' has turned into a silent revolution for Odia women, Naveen said already over 50 lakh women in the state had come under its fold.
"It is a big opportunity for the WSHGs of Odisha to avail loan of worth Rs 1,000 crore at the rate of only one per cent," Naveen said, adding the rise in the income of women would lead to better socio-economic development of rural families and their children could avail better education.
The Chief Minister said all the welfare schemes of his government were inspired by the ideology of Biju Patnaik.
Stating that women are facing difficulties because of the demonetisation decision of the Centre, Naveen Patnaik said he has taken up this matter with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and requested him to resolve the problem.
Addressing the Samabesh, minister of state for panchayatiraj Arun Sahu said contribution of women to economy, society and other sectors would make Odisha a developed state.
Members of council of ministers, MPs, MLAs and senior BJD leaders attended the convention.