TFP Bureau, Korba, October 15, 2024: In a joint effort by BALCO and Chhattisgarh’s Rural Livelihood Mission ‘Bihaan’, the micro-enterprise outlet ‘Unati’ was inaugurated at the Korba Collectorate, marking a significant step towards the economic and social empowerment of women. The initiative, part of BALCO’s Unnati Project, will see women from the Matri Bhumi Self Help Group (SHG) of Naktikhar village selling tea, coffee, snacks, and traditional Chhattisgarhi dishes. The outlet was inaugurated by District Panchayat Vice President Mrs. Reena Ajay Jaiswal and District Program Manager Mr. Chirag Thakkar.
Unati offers a variety of tea and coffee flavors sourced from Jaspur and Bastar, alongside Chhattisgarhi delicacies like Saloni and Khaja, produced by the SHG women under the Chhatisa Micro Enterprise of the Unnati Project. This collaboration aims to promote rural entrepreneurship and improve the livelihoods of women in the region.
BALCO CEO and Director Rajesh Kumar praised the initiative, emphasizing the importance of empowering women to become economically independent. “Women are contributing significantly to the progress of their families, society, and the nation. We are committed to supporting such initiatives that bring positive change to the community,” he said.
Mr. Chirag Thakkar highlighted the role of Bihaan in providing a platform for SHG women to sell their products and achieve self-reliance. “This micro-enterprise is a remarkable step toward social empowerment and economic self-sufficiency for women,” Thakkar remarked.
Ramabai, a member of the Matri Bhumi SHG, expressed her gratitude, saying, “Thanks to BALCO, I have gained economic independence and confidence. I am now able to contribute to my household’s expenses.”
The Unnati Project, run in collaboration with NGO GPR Strategies and Solutions (GPRSS), has provided skill training to over 5,768 women across 531 SHGs in 45 urban and rural areas of Korba. This initiative continues to uplift women by equipping them with skills and opportunities to stand on their own feet.
