Sri Vijaya Puram, Nov. 23 (PIB): An Interaction Programme with the MSME Women Cluster was organised today by the MSME Department at Sri Vijaya Puram. Shri G.K. Sinha, Assistant Director In-charge, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Andaman and Nicobar Islands, welcomed the participants and highlighted the significant role of MSME initiatives in strengthening Self Help Groups (SHGs) across the Islands.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Atul Soni, DANICS, Director, Industries Department, outlined various women-centric development projects being implemented in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. He stated that the UT Administration is working in alignment with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat and Viksit Andaman, adding that women’s empowerment is a key pillar in achieving these goals.
Smt. Vijaya Rahatkar, Chairperson, National Commission for Women (NCW), delivered the Chief Guest address. She announced that NCW will collaborate with the Andaman & Nicobar UT Administration to enhance skill-development opportunities for women. As part of this initiative, NCW will conduct training programmes aimed at improving digital literacy among women.
Smt. Rahatkar urged all participants, particularly SHG members, to register on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal, enabling them to directly market and sell their products to Government buyers. She further encouraged SHGs to leverage e-commerce platforms such as Amazon and Flipkart to expand their market access. She also announced that NCW will select ten SHGs for a special workshop to be conducted in New Delhi.
Several women beneficiaries shared their experiences during the programme. Shri Sabu from the Coir Board proposed the vote of thanks.
Earlier in the day, Smt. Vijaya Rahatkar visited SHG-run handicraft stalls and interacted with the women entrepreneurs, appreciating their efforts in promoting local craftsmanship and self-reliance.