Wed Dec 17 13:47:23 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text and a rewritten version as a news article:
Summary:
Tamil Nadu Tourism Minister R. Rajendran distributed identity cards to 77,000 women self-help group (SHG) members in Salem district on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. This distribution is part of a larger initiative that has seen over 1.47 lakh women in Salem receive these cards, following previous distributions in September and earlier in December. The Minister highlighted the history and impact of SHGs in the region, noting the significant financial assistance and opportunities provided to women through these groups. He also noted the involvement of SHG members in state-level programs like healthcare and school breakfast initiatives.
News Article:
Salem District Empowers Women with SHG Identity Cards
Salem, Tamil Nadu – In a major step towards empowering women in the region, Tamil Nadu Tourism Minister R. Rajendran oversaw the distribution of identity cards to 77,000 women self-help group (SHG) members in Salem district on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. The ceremony, held across multiple locations including Fort, Omalur, and Poosaripatti, marks the latest phase of an initiative that has now provided over 1.47 lakh women in Salem with these vital identification cards.
The Minister emphasized the long-standing impact of SHGs, which began in Dharmapuri in 1989 under former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi. Salem district alone boasts 20,313 SHGs, comprising over 2.04 lakh women.
“These identity cards represent more than just documentation; they symbolize the recognition and empowerment of women who are driving economic growth and social change in our communities,” stated Minister Rajendran.
He also highlighted the significant financial support provided to SHGs in Salem, including the waiver of ₹132 crore in loans for 41,754 members from 4,292 groups. Over the past four-and-a-half years, a total of ₹5,924.79 crore in funds has been distributed to SHG members.
The Minister further noted the active involvement of SHG members in key state government initiatives. 506 members are volunteering under the Makkalai Thedi Maruthuvam Scheme, and 2,346 members are working in 1,284 schools across the district as part of the Chief Minister’s Breakfast Scheme.
The event was attended by District Collector R. Brindha Devi, Deputy Mayor M. Saradha Devi, and other key officials, underscoring the government’s commitment to supporting women’s self-help initiatives in the region. The distribution of identity cards is expected to further strengthen the SHG movement in Salem, providing women with increased access to resources and opportunities for economic advancement.
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