Over 100 women from seven blocks targeted for linkage with micro food-processing units
Staff Reporter
Dibrugarh, Oct 8: A joint block-level credit camp was organised in Dibrugarh on Thursday under the Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) scheme, with the aim of connecting rural women entrepreneurs and self-help group (SHG) members with credit facilities and government support schemes.
Organised under the aegis of the Assam State Rural Livelihoods Mission (ASRLM) in collaboration with the Department of Panchayat and Rural Development, the camp brought together more than 100 women entrepreneurs and SHG members from seven blocks of the district. The programme was held at the auditorium of the Handloom Trade Centre in Dibrugarh.
The initiative focused on formalising micro food-processing enterprises and facilitating access to bank credit and various government schemes. Participants were briefed on different credit schemes of the Central and State governments, the loan application process, product packaging, marketing and strategies for expanding their market reach.
Minister Bimal Bora said the government was focusing on strengthening existing micro food-processing units in Dibrugarh while also encouraging entrepreneurs to establish new ventures based on innovative ideas.
He said the PMFME scheme would help women entrepreneurs improve the marketing of their products and gradually explore markets beyond the State, including opportunities in national and international markets.
Officials informed participants that eligible beneficiaries under the PMFME scheme can avail themselves of a subsidy of up to 35 per cent for setting up micro food-processing units. Women entrepreneurs and SHGs interested in the scheme were also provided guidance on the application process, bank loans and other available support.
Officials emphasised that the initiative was not limited to facilitating credit, but was also aimed at creating markets for products made by rural entrepreneurs, improving packaging and marketing practices, and connecting local producers with larger markets.
The initiative is expected to play an important role in promoting entrepreneurship among rural women through self-help groups and helping them achieve greater economic independence. Officials expressed hope that the PMFME scheme would encourage the establishment of new micro food-processing enterprises in rural areas of Dibrugarh, thereby strengthening the local economy and giving further impetus to women-led entrepreneurship.
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