- 14 women self-help groups of Konta received bank linkage loan of Rs 39.50 lakh.
The Chhattisgarh government’s “Bihan” scheme has brought about a significant economic transformation in the lives of women. Self-help groups are providing rural women with skills and new livelihood opportunities, empowering them with self-reliance and improving the economic well-being of their families.
In the remote forest region of Sukma district in South Bastar, the National Rural Livelihood Mission (Bihan) is creating a new story of economic transformation in the lives of women. Under the direction of Collector Amit Kumar and the guidance of District Panchayat Chief Executive Officer Mukund Thakur, 14 women self-help groups in the Konta Janpad Panchayat have been provided bank-linked loans totaling ₹39.50 lakh. This loan is not just financial assistance for women, but an opportunity to become self-reliant and strengthen their families’ financial situation.
- Small businesses will get a big boost
The loan funds have boosted the enthusiasm and confidence of the women’s groups. The women will use the funds to expand their agriculture, animal husbandry, sewing, and local small businesses. This will increase their income, and they will no longer have to rely on others to meet their family needs.
- Children’s education and family’s future will be strengthened
Women associated with self-help groups say that strengthening their livelihoods will enable them to contribute more effectively to their children’s education, household needs, and a better future for their families. Through “Bihan,” women are becoming financially strong by engaging in savings, group management, and banking activities.
- Lessons of banking and financial discipline
During loan distribution, administration and bank officials interacted with women and encouraged them to use the loan funds for income-generating activities. They were also informed about the importance of timely payment of loan installments, regular savings, and financial discipline. This will strengthen women’s trust in the banking system and their financial confidence.
- ‘Bihan’ is becoming a medium of change
In forested districts like Sukma, “Bihan” is connecting rural women into groups, providing them with savings, bank linkages, self-employment, and livelihood opportunities. Women are no longer limited to family responsibilities, but are actively participating in economic activities through their hard work and the strength of their groups.
- Coordination between the administration and the bank has increased the strength of women
In this initiative, Development Extension Officer of Janpad Panchayat Konta, Mr. Gopal Netam, Branch Manager of Chhattisgarh State Rural Bank Konta, Mr. Ramakrishna, In-charge BPM, Mr. Arvind Kumar, Cluster Coordinator Mrs. Rukmani Karma and Mrs. Aarti Baghel were present.
The success of these women from Sukma district sends the message that with government support, banking support, and proper guidance, rural women can transform the economic landscape of their families and entire villages. This initiative by Bihan is giving new direction to the self-confidence and self-reliance of women in the forest region.