Mithapur/Okhamandal: Tata Chemicals Society for Rural Development (TCSRD), the CSR arm of Tata Chemicals Limited, marked the International Day for Rural Women with a vibrant event in Arambhada village, Okhamandal. Emphasising the power of entrepreneurship for empowerment, 154 women from 16 self-help groups (SHGs) shared their inspiring success stories while also showcasing their unique skills and innovative products.
The event was supported by Tata Chemicals employees, retired personnel, and their families. Distinguished guests, including representatives from the State Horticulture Department and Anushkaa Foundation, graced the occasion.
Speaking at the event, N. Kamath, Chief Manufacturing Officer & Site Head (Mithapur), Tata Chemicals, said, “Women play a crucial role in the development of our society. It is imperative that steps are taken to empower them. In this region, several women have embarked on the path of self-reliance with support from Self-Help Groups. This event was organised with the purpose of recognising their achievements. It is heartening to see how these women have adapted to changing times by adopting digital technologies to conduct business seamlessly. The purpose behind this event was to take the empowering stories of grit and determination of these women to a wider audience. The motive was also to create a forum for women to exchange their stories, fostering mutual inspiration and encouragement. We are glad to see such good attendance and enthusiasm by the locals.”
Four SHGs were honoured based on the Empowerment Index of Self-Help Groups – a parameter to quantify SHGs’ role in achieving empowerment in our country – as an acknowledgement of their outstanding achievements. Thirty women were felicitated for embracing digital transactions in their businesses.
During the celebration of the “International Day for Rural Women,” women participants also undertook cultural and creative performances, showcasing their talents and skills on the stage. The performances were based on the themes of “digitisation” and “the dream of a woman to become a businesswoman.”
TCSRD has kept women as the primary focus in developing and implementing all of its CSR initiatives. Supporting the livelihood of women through cluster development programs has been one of the key interventions. This event was an addition to a comprehensive range of initiatives for women’s empowerment by the organisation.