The Hindu : New Delhi News : New programme to make rural women self-reliant

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Sunday, Feb 17, 2008
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New Delhi

New programme to make rural women self-reliant

Special Correspondent

CHANDIGARH: Emphasising that empowerment of women and nurturing of children are areas of major concern in the social service sector, Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator S.F. Rodrigues on Saturday announced a programme for making rural women self-reliant and economically independent by imparting them vocational training in embroidery, stitching and other creative artwork.

Addressing the Rotract Conference at Rotary Club, Gen Rodrigues said the Chandigarh Administration would provide raw material and colour combination design and ensure the marketing of products through a well-established network and pay them for their work.

He called upon the Rotary Club members to support various societal endeavours by contributing their time, energy and commitment. He said the problems being faced by the poor and disadvantaged sections were enormous and there was a need for effective strategies to tackle them. “Let your compassion turn into action for bringing about a transformation in our social system through service-oriented programmes,” he added.

Noting that the Chandigarh Administration had launched various programmes for improving the quality of life and rehabilitation of needy women and children in slums and rural areas, he said three centres, one for mentally retarded children, another for street children and the third for crippled children, were being set up for their rehabilitation and making them useful citizens.

Baldev Raj Aggarwal, District Chairman Rotract Club, said the goals of the Rotract Club were to develop professional and leadership skills, emphasise respect for the right of others, recognise, practise and promote ethical standards, provide opportunities for personal and group activities to serve the community and develop knowledge and understanding of the community’s needs.