The holistic development of the nation is impossible without the empowerment and self-employment of women, Finance Minister of Tripura, Pranajit Singha Roy asserted at the Agri Outreach Program organized by Punjab National Bank (PNB) at Agartala Town Hall on Saturday.
Inaugurating the event, he emphasized the pivotal role of self-help groups (SHGs) in fostering financial independence among women, highlighting that their activities have now transformed into a movement across the state.
The outreach program, organized under the Prime Minister’s Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) scheme, was aimed at supporting women-led SHGs in agriculture and allied sectors.
During the event, Singha Roy said Prime Minister Narendra Modi is committed to transforming India into a Vikshit Bharat (developed nation) by 2047.
He noted that India currently ranks as the world’s fifth-largest economy and is making rapid strides toward economic self-sufficiency.
As part of the initiative, Punjab National Bank disbursed loan cheques worth Rs 2.3 crore to 35 women-led SHGs. Similar events were conducted at 138 locations nationwide.
Rise of Women-Led SHGs in Tripura
Highlighting the growth of SHGs in Tripura, the Finance Minister revealed that the number of such groups has surged from 4,150 in 2018 to 52,355 as of December 2024, with over 4.77 lakh women members.
Notably, 91,000 women from the state have become “Lakhpati Didis” through their participation in SHGs. He encouraged more women to join these groups, underscoring their role in economic empowerment.
Government Initiatives Boosting Farmers and Women Entrepreneurs
Addressing the importance of agriculture, the Finance Minister described it as the backbone of India’s economy. He highlighted key initiatives launched by the Central Government, including:
* PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana, implemented in 100 districts to enhance agricultural productivity.
* An increase in the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) loan limit from Rs 3 lakh to Rs 5 lakh, benefiting 7.7 crore farmers.
* The PM Mudra Loan limit being raised from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 20 lakh, providing greater financial support to small businesses.
* The extension of the free food grain distribution scheme for 80 crore people until 2028 to ensure food security.
Singha Roy noted that agriculture and allied sectors in Tripura are witnessing steady growth. The state’s Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) and per capita income have been rising, with farmers’ average monthly income doubling from Rs 6,550 to Rs 13,000 in recent years.
Dignitaries and Loan Distribution Ceremony
The event was attended by Punjab National Bank’s MD & CEO Ashok Chandra, RBI’s General Manager Surendra Nidar, and NABARD’s General Manager Anil S. Kotmere, among others.
The welcome address was delivered by PNB Zonal Manager Chittaranjan Pust, while Tripura Gramin Bank Chairman Satyendra Singh and TRLM CEO Ajit Shukladas were also present.
As part of the program, loan cheques were distributed to SHGs, followed by a video presentation on self-help groups and the Agri Infra Fund under PNB. The vote of thanks was delivered by PNB’s Deputy General Manager Rituraj Krishna.
Following the event, the Finance Minister and other dignitaries visited stalls showcasing products from various self-help groups.
PNB Expands Financial Outreach Nationwide
Speaking at a press conference after the event, PNB MD & CEO Ashok Chandra highlighted the bank’s efforts in promoting financial inclusion.
He stated that on February 6 and 7, the bank organized events at 150 locations across India focusing on housing loans and the PM Suryaghar Muft Bijli Yojana.
As a result, PNB received Rs 10,000 crore worth of housing loan applications and 1,000 applications under the solar power scheme.
