How are Women Leading Development in India? PM Modi Praises SHG Efforts in Meghalaya, Telangana, Karnataka, and MP

New Delhi, June 29 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday recognized the transformative impact of women throughout India who are pioneering change via Self-Help Groups (SHGs), safeguarding cultural heritage and forging a new path for the nation.

During the 123rd episode of his monthly radio show Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi emphasized how initiatives spearheaded by women are empowering the 'Women-Led Development' movement.

"Just as India is celebrated for its regional, linguistic, and cultural diversity, the variety of arts, crafts, and skills is also a remarkable attribute of our country," said PM Modi. "Wherever you travel, you will discover local specialties. We frequently highlight such unique products in Mann Ki Baat."

In reference to one such product, the Prime Minister spotlighted Meghalaya's traditional Eri Silk, which recently achieved the Geographical Indication (GI) tag.

"Eri Silk is a heritage treasure for Meghalaya. The Khasi community, in particular, has preserved it for generations, enhancing it with their craftsmanship. Its most unique aspect is that the silkworms are not killed to produce it, hence it's also termed Ahimsa Silk," he remarked.

Highlighting its increasing global interest, he stated, "Today, the demand for such products is surging worldwide—products that are non-violent and eco-friendly. Eri Silk from Meghalaya is an ideal product for the global marketplace. It provides warmth in winter and coolness in summer, making it suitable for various climates."

He further pointed out, "Women of Meghalaya are advancing this heritage through Self Help Groups. I commend the people of Meghalaya and encourage everyone to try Eri Silk apparel. Remember—Khadi, handloom, handicrafts, Vocal for Local. If consumers purchase exclusively Indian-made products and merchants sell only Indian-made goods, it will inject new vitality into the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan."

PM Modi also shared inspiring stories from Telangana and Karnataka that illustrate the effects of women-led economic initiatives.

"You will take pride in knowing the success story of the women from Bhadrachalam in Telangana. These women, who once worked as laborers, are now producing biscuits from millets—Shree Anna. Their biscuits, named 'Bhadradri Millet Magic', are reaching markets from Hyderabad to London," he stated.

"These women became part of an SHG and received training. They also began producing Giri Sanitary Pads. In just three months, they manufactured 40,000 pads and supplied them to schools and offices at affordable prices," he added.

The Prime Minister also commended the women of Kalaburgi in Karnataka for branding traditional jowar rotis.

"The aroma of these rotis has extended beyond their village. A special counter has been established in Bengaluru, and online orders are pouring in. Kalaburgi roti is now making its way into the kitchens of major cities. This is not merely a culinary tale—it is a narrative of rising incomes and empowered lives," he remarked.

PM Modi underlined that women nationwide are not only crafting their success stories but are also reshaping the nation’s developmental landscape.

"The principle of Women-Led Development is steering India toward a new direction, a promising future. Our mothers, sisters, and daughters are presently transforming not only their own lives but also those of society as a whole," he stated.

PM Modi also highlighted Suma Uike from Balaghat district, Madhya Pradesh—a woman who has attained self-reliance through mushroom farming, animal husbandry, and community entrepreneurship.

The Prime Minister praised her journey from joining a self-help group in Katangi block to ultimately managing a Didi Canteen and a Thermal Therapy Centre.

“This exemplifies the glow of self-confidence and self-reliance. One such individual is Suma Uike from Madhya Pradesh. Sumaji's accomplishments are commendable. She received training in mushroom farming and animal husbandry by joining the Self Help Group in Katangi block of Balaghat district. Thus, she discovered her path to self-reliance,” PM Modi remarked.