In a significant push towards rural empowerment, Tripura has witnessed two remarkable initiatives under the Tripura Rural Livelihood Mission (TRLM) – the formation of a Self-Help Group (SHG) comprising specially-abled members in Gomati district and the sanction of over ₹115 crore in loans to women SHGs across the state within just 29 days.

At Amarpur in Gomati district, a new SHG named 'SAKSHAM’ has been formed at Gungia VC of Amarpur RD Block with five specially-abled members. Among them, two are visually impaired, one is hearing impaired, and another is intellectually disabled. 

The initiative, led by BDO Amarpur Utpal Das and his team, aims to create livelihood opportunities and self-reliance among Divyang individuals. 

The group has already started its first entrepreneurial venture by handcrafting Diyas, marking the beginning of their journey towards financial independence.

Meanwhile, under the Samriddhi Campaign launched on August 1, banks have sanctioned loans worth ₹115.44 crore to SHG Didis across Tripura, surpassing the target of ₹100 crore in just 30 days. 

The campaign was inaugurated by Rural Development Secretary Abhishek Singh in the presence of District Magistrates and bank officials.

District-wise loan sanction figures highlight South Tripura at the top with ₹24.86 crore, followed by North Tripura with ₹21.86 crore, West Tripura with ₹13.32 crore, Khowai with ₹13.15 crore, Dhalai with ₹12.97 crore, Gomati with ₹12.89 crore, Sepahijala with ₹11.83 crore, and Unakoti with ₹4.55 crore.

Officials said these twin achievements reflect the government’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and economic growth at the grassroots level. 

While the formation of ‘SAKSHAM’ showcases a step forward in empowering specially-abled citizens, the success of the Samriddhi Campaign underlines the growing confidence of financial institutions in rural women’s entrepreneurship.