STREE SHAKTI CONVENTION - Chitradurga -11 Nov 2014

Women from Chitradurga, Davangere, Tumakuru, Chikkamagaluru, Shivamogga and Ballari attended the  convention.

On the occasion the chief minister announced that the direct loans obtained from the Karnataka State Women’s Development Corporation (KSWDC) will be waived. A government order in this regard would be released after the Cabinet meeting, he also reiterate that the government is committed to the development of the state, upliftment of the oppressed sections and women and has hence waived Rs 2,448 crore loans given by various corporations, housing schemes and others.

A hike in loans to Stree Shakthi Sanghas from the present Rs 1 lakh to Rs 3 lakh from the next financial year. These loans will be linked with the banks and the rate of interest will be six per cent per annum.

 The revolving fund which was Rs 5,000 will be increased to Rs 25,000 and the additional fund of Rs 20,000 would be given in four annual installments of Rs 5,000 each, he said. This will place an additional financial burden of Rs 70 crore on the exchequer and about 1.40 sanghas will benefit from it.

Stree Shakthi Kendras to be set up at all 176 taluk centres. Goods produced by the sanghas will be marketed to ensure that their financial position improves and in turn leads to education of their children.

The chief minister expressing disappointment over the sex ratio in the state he said, “In Karnataka there are just 968 girls for every 1,000 men. Serious measures need to be initiated to end female foeticide. To ensure education of girls, the government is offering a loan of `2 lakh to girls who attend schools. This will be deposited directly into the students’ bank accounts.”