In what marked a significant milestone in the promotion of rural livelihood, a newly- constructed office building of the Savei Village Level Federation (SVLF) has been officially dedicated to self-help groups (SHGs) operating under Jessami block in Ukhrul district.
The new facility, that has come up at Razai Khunou village, has been made possible through the generous support and contributions of Transport and Veterinary & Animal Husbandry Minister Khashim Vashum.
On March 20, 2024, the newly constructed SVLF office building was inaugurated by State Mission Manager of Manipur State Rural Livelihoods Mission (MSRLM- RD&PR), Khamba Ronglo, in the presence of social activists Shimreingam Zimik, Thotreihan Ruivah, and Thanshok Vashum, along with the district coordinator of L (farm) & BI, Jessami, Dr Khamrang Mathukmi.
“This building has opened a new chapter of hope and progress in enhancing rural livelihood and economy, which will be a testament to the collective efforts of the local SHGs,” stated Shimreingam Zimik, while attending the inauguration ceremony on behalf of Minister Khashim Vashum who could not make it owing to his official engagement.
With Minister Vashum’s support and contributions, the SVLF has been able to create a valuable resource for the SHGs, empowering them to improve and sustain their livelihoods, he added.
Zimik, who is also the president of Naga People’s Front (NPF) Chingai Unit, encouraged the SHGs to take full advantage of this new facility, not just as a physical structure, but also as a source of inspiration and motivation. He emphasized the importance of SHGs in striving towards self-sufficiency and growth, and urged them to continue their efforts in this direction.
With the official inaugration, the SVLF office building will now serve as a common facility for SHGs, providing them with a central location for meetings, trainings and other activities, he said. “This will greatly benefit the SHGs and the rural community as a whole. The space provided by this building will enable SHGs to conduct their meetings and trainings in a comfortable and organized manner,” he added.
Zimik also expressed his gratitude to Minister Vashum for recognizing the significance of empowering rural communities, especially women, and supporting their livelihoods.
Addressing the gathering, State Mission Manager Ronglo announced that the SVLF office building is the first of its kind in the entire Ukhrul district. He highlighted that there are only four such village level federation (VLF) offices in the state, all of which were built with the support of concerned MLAs and Ministers. He mentioned that out of the four VLF offices, only one is located at Razai Khunou village in Ukhrul district and the other three are in Imphal East.
Ronglo specifically acknowledged Minister Khashim Vashum for recognizing the needs of local Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and providing them with the new facility.
Ronglo expressed his optimism that this new office will play a crucial role in the economic development of the local womenfolk.
Stressing the importance of the new facility as a means of improving the local economy, he urged the SHGs to make the most of this facility in order to enhance their economy.
Ronglo, also highlighted the primary goal of MSRLM to uplift the impoverished population by implementing economic, social and spiritual changes, while also promoting unity and humanity through the use of SHGs.
He encouraged the SHG members to cultivate financial discipline for the sake of self-sufficiency and growth. emphasized the same in aiding the SHGs to make sensible use of resources and progress through small savings.
He informed that MSRLM has currently reached 1090 villages in 16 districts of the state, with 55 blocks covered out of 70 total blocks.
Among the other exhorters of the day were Thotreihan Ruivah and Thanshok Vashum who advocated for the empowerment and upliftment of the rural economy and encouraged the SHGs to strive for economic development and self-sufficiency.
Ruivah motivated the SHG members in leading a life of inner peace, good health, and righteousness. He believed that having a passion for one’s occupation was crucial in achieving overall well-being.
Meanwhile, Thanshok Vashum went on to share a list of projects that were accomplished under Minister Khashim Vashum in the field of forest and environment across the Chingai assembly constituency. He also highlighted the various benefits extended to different SHGs, such as cash incentives and distribution of saplings.
Expressing gratitude on behalf of the federation, Sangyaola Vashum extended thanks to Minister Khashim Vashum for his support and concern for the federation and all the SHGs under it, including the provision of much-needed facilities.
“His contribution has played a significant role in the establishment of this building, which will serve as a vital resource for the SHGs,” she said acknowledging the Minister’s contribution.
The event was attended by over 500 members of SHGs drawn from Chingjaroi CV, Khunou and Khullen, Razai Khullen, Kharasom, and Jessami, showcasing the widespread impact of the SHGs and the support they have received.
