GHMC helping SHGs become self-reliant

Coordinating with banks, the GHMC is helping Self Help Group (SHG) women get loans at a lesser interest rate.

Hyderabad: It is not always about roads and potholes for the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC). The civic body is playing a crucial role in improving the lives of women from economically weaker sections as well.

Coordinating with banks, the GHMC is helping Self Help Group (SHG) women get loans at a lesser interest rate. There are 46,255 SHGs with over 4.67 lakh women in the GHMC limits. Each group consists of 10 women and they appoint one among them as their group leader to approach the GHMC with documents.

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“Once the documents are submitted, the remaining part of the exercise involved is taken care of by the civic body and the amount is credited into their account without any hurdles,” GHMC officials said.

Speaking to Telangana Today, the women said their lives had changed after the State government launched the initiative through the GHMC.

“Our group members have started a clothing shop and grocery shops with a loan of Rs 5 lakh. Fortunately things are working out well for us and we are repaying the loan on time,” says Ayesha from the Raja Rajeshwari SHG.

“Before the loan was sanctioned, I could take care of only household chores, but things have changed for us now. Our quality of living has improved due to increased income. I thank the State government for standing by women like us,” says Kavitha from the Durga Mahila SHG, which was sanctioned a loan of Rs 5 lakh. One of the members started a food stall in Banjara Hills, while the remaining members are jointly running a tea stall, grocery store and a shop that purchases scrap.

“At a time when people run from pillar to post for loans, the poor are being sanctioned loans without any hassle. This project is a boon for poor women,” says Kalpana from Sai Podupu SHG.

SHG women are also being provided skill training. In some parts of the city, they are being trained in English language and basic computer skills, stitching, making jute bags etc. An official from the UCD wing said as on date, family members of SHG groups were also being administered with the Covid-19 vaccine.

“SHG women have already been vaccinated. Once the vaccination drive for their family members ends, more people will be enrolled and loans will be sanctioned. Due to Covid-19, we are processing their loan applications online,” a GHMC official said.