Hyderabad: Telangana government launched 565 ‘Indira Mahila Shakti’ stalls for the Medaram Maha Jatara to boost women’s economic empowerment through self-help group (SHG) businesses.
SHG stalls to promote women-led rural livelihoods
Minister Seethakka said the government, through the State Rural Poverty Alleviation Society (SERP), created the ₹6 crore initiative to enable SHG women to sell 27 varieties of products during the tribal fair. These include millet laddus, Mahua oil, traditional snacks, and bakery items for the Indira Mahila Shakti.
Officials set up 464 stalls in and around Medaram. Additionally, they placed 63 stalls along the routes to and from the venue, while the remaining stalls operate at other key locations. This effort aims to generate sustainable income for rural women and enhance household earnings.
The funding structure includes ₹341.30 lakh for 315 stalls through SERP bank linkage. Furthermore, SERP CIF funds support 80 units with ₹86.50 lakh. The scheme also draws ₹92 lakh for 90 units from Streenidhi, ₹64 lakh for 60 units from Mandal Federation CIF, and ₹19.50 lakh for 20 units via Village Federation funds.
According to Seethakka, this initiative reflects the state’s commitment to women-led development. Moreover, it reinforces rural economic stability during Telangana’s largest tribal congregation.