The government of Haryana has decided to allot 33% of ration depots to women in the future. Self-help groups applying for a ration depot will get priority. Besides, if they apply for the fish farming contract of panchayat land or pond, they will receive a 10% discount on the auction amount. The chief minister announced this decision while connecting with the beneficiaries of the self-help groups. He also stated that 25% of shops allotted through lottery or any other means at the bus stand would be reserved for self-help groups, and they will get a 10% discount on the amount auctioned. The beneficiaries of self-help groups expressed gratitude to the chief minister for making significant announcements for them. The chief minister further shared that they have established a call centre to provide different kinds of information to the beneficiaries.
The number of self-help groups in Haryana has grown significantly since 2014. While there were only 812 self-help groups in 2014, it has increased to over 57,000 in the last eight and half years. The government’s emphasis on the development of self-help groups has resulted in the formation of 2,100 new groups in the first year. These groups have been provided with a revolving fund, community investment fund, and bank credit linkage. The government has also increased the revolving fund amount from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 20,000.
Self-help groups are playing a vital role in providing social support and creating employment opportunities for women. Women joining these groups not only take care of their families through self-employment but also help other women in the community. Therefore, the chief minister suggested the groups to be referred to as social help groups instead of self-help groups.
In conclusion, the Haryana government’s decision to allot 33% of ration depots to women is a significant step towards promoting women’s empowerment. It will provide equal opportunities to women to become financially independent and contribute to their families’ well-being. This move will also serve as an example to other states to undertake similar initiatives to support women.
