Assam Minister Pijush Hazarika distributes MMUA cheques to over 45,000 women in Nagaon
Nagaon, July 22
Assam Agriculture, Irrigation and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pijush Hazarika distributed Rs 10,000 Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyaan cheques to more than 45,000 women beneficiaries during two public meetings in the Rupahihat and Samaguri assembly constituencies of Nagaon district.
Hazarika distributed cheques to 19,840 beneficiaries in Rupahihat and 25,658 beneficiaries in Samaguri under the MMUA scheme.
Speaking at the programmes, the Minister said the scheme, envisioned by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, has empowered underprivileged women to build sustainable livelihoods and contribute to the state's economic growth.
He highlighted schemes such as MMUA, Nijut Moina and Orunodoi, saying they have helped ensure a dignified life for women by providing access to free education, seed capital for setting up micro-enterprises and direct financial support.
Reiterating the state government's commitment to developing all regions and sections of society without discrimination, Hazarika stressed the importance of properly utilising the initial Rs 10,000 seed capital.
He urged the beneficiaries to use the financial assistance effectively to establish their ventures and become eligible to receive Rs 25,000 and Rs 50,000 in subsequent tranches under the scheme.
Citing the example of developed nations where female workforce participation is significantly higher, he called upon women to take full advantage of government initiatives to achieve economic empowerment and contribute more significantly to Assam's economy.
Underlining the need to accelerate the development of the Nagaon parliamentary constituency, Hazarika urged people to support the Central and state governments to ensure faster development in infrastructure, education, healthcare and women's empowerment.
He also called upon citizens to choose their public representatives carefully to ensure that people derive maximum benefits from government initiatives.
Barhampur MLA Jitu Goswami and Nagaon District Commissioner Devasish Sharma were among the key dignitaries present at both meetings.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Finally some real action for women's economic empowerment in Assam! 👏 The MMUA scheme plus Orunodoi and Nijut Moina together can really transform lives. My mother-in-law in Jorhat got Orunodoi benefits and it's helped her buy medicines regularly. Hope the implementation is smooth.
Impressive numbers - 45,000+ women reached in just two constituencies. But I'm curious about the long-term impact. Will these women really get the next tranches of Rs 25,000 and Rs 50,000? Often such schemes sound good on paper but poor follow-through happens. Hope Assam proves different.
Good that the minister urged proper utilisation of funds. In our village, some women misuse such money for household expenses instead of starting businesses. There should be mandatory training before giving the cheque. Also, local banks need to be more supportive for small loans later.
The minister's point about female workforce participation in developed nations is valid. But we need more than just seed money - creches near workplaces, safe transport, and flexible work hours. Only then will women truly join the workforce in large numbers.
Heartening to see political focus on women's economic dignity. The Rs 10,000 might seem small to urban folks, but in rural Assam that's substantial starting capital. I just hope the selection process is transparent - too often it's political connections that decide beneficiaries.
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