Rohit Kumar
Sri Vijaya Puram, 21 March 2025
The Block Development Office, Ferrargunj, under the aegis of the Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA), conducted a one-day training program titled ‘Building Synergies Between Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) for Community Development’ at the CMTC building, Ferrargunj. The program aimed to empower elected women representatives, Community Resource Persons (CRPs), and SHG members by emphasizing the importance of collaboration between SHGs and PRIs to foster sustainable community development.
The session was inaugurated by Mr. M.K. Hussain, Pradhan of Stewartgunj Gram Panchayat, who provided an insightful overview of the formation and evolution of SHGs. He highlighted the pivotal role of women in decision-making and stressed how integrating SHGs with PRIs can significantly enhance grassroots development.
Ms. Pramila Kumari, Zilla Parishad Member, Chouldari, encouraged participants to actively engage in decision-making processes and assume leadership roles within their communities. She emphasized the need for women to take charge and contribute to the socio-economic growth of their regions.
Ms. Deepa Biswas, Domain Expert (Livelihood) from the Directorate of Rural Development, PRIs & ULBs, delivered an in-depth address on the importance of synergy between SHGs and PRIs. Her presentation underscored how a collaborative approach can lead to enhanced livelihood opportunities and community progress.
Adding a practical dimension to the session, Ms. Taposi Saha, Pradhan of Chouldari, shared real-life experiences and success stories of SHG members. Through compelling examples, she demonstrated how SHGs have transformed lives by promoting self-reliance and economic empowerment among women.
The training provided a crucial platform to reinforce the role of SHGs and PRIs in driving positive change at the grassroots level. Participants left with a deeper understanding of the need for collective efforts to strengthen community development and ensure inclusive growth. (Story Based on PR)