Nilokheri, October 11: Dr. Virendra Singh Chauhan, Director of the Haryana Rural Development Institute, stated that India's true strength lies in its villages. Only when villages become self-reliant will India become strong and prosperous. Dr. Chauhan was addressing the staff and officers of the Haryana Rural Livelihood Mission. The Mission's four-day training program is underway in the institute's auditorium.
He stated that the Rural Livelihood Mission strengthens the foundation of a self-reliant India, providing confidence, skills, and a respectable livelihood to poor families.
Dr. Chauhan stated that approximately 70,000 self-help groups are currently active in Haryana, with over 550,000 women economically empowered by joining the Livelihood Mission. He added that these groups have distinguished themselves by performing remarkable work in areas such as spice manufacturing, dairy, food processing, biofertilizers, and handicrafts.
Dr. Chauhan said that these women have proven that, given opportunities and training, village women can become not just housewives but also entrepreneurs. These groups have become a symbol of organized effort, not just assistance.
Dr. Virendra Singh Chauhan, Director of the Haryana Rural Development Institute, said that the Mission's success will be meaningful only if "Livelihood Dialogue" is organized in every Gram Sabha and village youth, farmers, and women receive training and marketing support based on their talents.
Dr. Chauhan said that through digital technology and e-commerce, village products are now reaching national markets; this is the true embodiment of Vocal for Local.
He also took feedback from participants on the Mission's work and training and encouraged them to share their field experiences.
In conclusion, Dr. Chauhan said, "The Rural Livelihood Mission is not just a poverty alleviation scheme, but a mass movement for village pride and self-reliance."
Program coordinator, Assistant Professor Sushil Mehta, welcomed the Director, presented the program's details, and highlighted the Mission's progress.
Representatives of Ministry of Rural Development Isaac Francis, Rajinder, State Project Manager, Devinder, DPM, Yamunanagar, Sonal Sharma, Saurabh Arora, Gori were also present on the occasion.