SHGs to turn entrepreneurs: Bhatti

Hyderabad: In a significant push towards women empowerment and sustainable energy, Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka announced an ambitious plan to transform members of women self-help groups (SHGs) into entrepreneurs under the Indira Mahila Shakti scheme. The initiative aims to involve SHGs in generating 4,000 megawatts of solar power.

During a meeting at Praja Bhavan on Friday, the Deputy CM stressed the need to train rural SHG members as entrepreneurs, equipping them to take up large-scale solar power projects. "By financially and socially empowering women, we can bring about transformative change in rural communities," Bhatti said.

Officials were directed to identify and lease suitable land to SHG federations for solar power production. The government will collaborate with bankers to secure financial assistance for SHGs. Citing a 99 per cent loan repayment rate by SHG members, the Deputy CM highlighted their credibility and the willingness of banks to support them.

Women SHG members will receive training and support to ensure effective management and operation of solar power units. Other initiatives, such as setting up solar power production plots and providing buses to the RTC, are also being considered to bolster entrepreneurial efforts among women.

Officials from various departments, including from panchayat raj, rural development, and energy, were urged to work in coordination to realise these goals. "This programme is not just about power generation; it's about empowering women to lead and contribute meaningfully to the state’s economy," said the Deputy CM.

Bhatti stated that financially strengthening SHGs would have a ripple effect, fostering both economic and social empowerment for rural women. The initiative is seen as a step towards achieving energy sustainability while creating entrepreneurial opportunities for women at the grassroots level.

Senior officials, including PR&RD secretary DS Lokesh Kumar, SERP CEO Divya Devarajan, Transco CMD D Krishna Bhaskar, and REDCO vice chairman and MD Vavilla Anila, attended the meeting, committing to the vision of empowering SHGs and promoting renewable energy.