In Chhattisgarh, the state government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel, has launched the Mahatma Gandhi Rural Industrial Park (RIPA) to generate new employment opportunities and foster the growth of small enterprises. This initiative aims to address rural migration by providing job prospects for women and youth within their own villages. Notably, the Surguja district has witnessed the establishment of two RIPA units in each development block, where various small-scale enterprises have commenced operations.
One such success story comes from the Lakhanpur development block in Surguja district, where the Jaya Mahila Group operates a thriving bakery unit within the Puhputra Rural Industrial Park. The women in this group have undertaken the production of bread, toast, and cream rolls, which are then distributed from rural areas to urban centers. This endeavor has not only provided economic benefits to the participating rural women, but it has also contributed to the reduction of migration. Sumitra Rajwade, a member of the Jaya Mahila Self Help Group, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity and emphasized the training provided by the district administration to ensure the production of high-quality bread. With the support of a modern bread-making machine, the bakery unit continues to meet the demand. Sumitra praised the visionary approach of Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel, recognizing his efforts in promoting women entrepreneurship and creating such employment opportunities.
Furthermore, as part of the RIPA initiative, the silk department has collaborated to introduce tussar threading activities in Puhputra. Twenty women have been trained to operate the Buniyaad machine and engage in taser threading work. In the first phase, a group of ten women has undergone training to produce top-notch yarn. This silk threading activity offers year-round potential, enabling beneficiaries to earn a substantial income. Each participant can generate a minimum of Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 6,500 by producing 2-2.5 kg of high-quality thread. This step toward sustainable employment through threading activities under the RIPA initiative reflects the commitment of the Chhattisgarh government in creating long-lasting opportunities for rural development.
The RIPA initiative in Chhattisgarh, spearheaded by Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel, not only promotes the growth of small enterprises but also empowers rural women by providing them with meaningful employment opportunities. This comprehensive approach is aligned with the government’s vision to foster entrepreneurship and drive economic progress in rural areas.
