Mumbai Haat Addresses Grievances of Women Self-Help Groups in Maharashtra

In a move to strengthen the robust network of women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in Maharashtra, the state Chief Minister Devandra Fadnavis gave the green signal to establish “Mumbai Haat”, catering exclusively to market products made by such SHGs. The haats will be set up at Metro Cinema subway, Dhobi Talao, and will be managed by women themselves.

Last year, the government had made available soft loans at zero interest rates, making them financially independent and self-reliant. The exercise was a success as the financial institutions have acknowledged 100 per cent loan recovery from these women groups. However, the SHGs in rural areas have often complained of lack of proper market linkages for their products.

Addressing the issue, the government has decided to gradually set up such haats across the state. Stalls will be erected in the subways showcasing their products from household items to jewellery. Also included in the plan is a selfie stall.

“Mumbai Haat” will be a joint initiative of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Department, supported by UNDP (India), Mahila Arthik Vikas Mahamandal (MAVIN) along with other government departments.

Spelling out the aims and objectives of the project, Chief Minister Fadnavis said, “It is one step forward towards the government’s larger objective to promote women SHGs which have a network across rural Maharashtra. The initiative is to provide these groups — also called ‘bachat gaat’ — a robust market where their products can be put up for sale and will fetch them better remuneration. Such haats will help women groups to build their own brands for their products. With a larger purpose to economically empower the women, Mumbai Haat, therefore, should not be seen as another local market.”

The Chief Minister has also announced the constitution of a committee, with an exclusive objective to ensure its success. He also emphasised the importance of professional management of the project to reap maximum benefit.

Self reliance definitely is the only road to true freedom and self respect as these enterprising women have shown to the world with their never say die attitude.

News Source: Indian Express | DNA India
Image Source: ISRJ (Representational Image)

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