Nainital, Mar. 8 : Benefiting from Central Government's poverty eradication scheme, many women belonging to lower income group have become self reliant in Uttarakhand.

The Swarnjayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojna (SGSY) provides self-employment through small industries. Under this scheme, assistance is given to women living below the poverty line to become self-employment.

At present, there are around 216 self-help groups in Haldwani Block in Nainital. 156 of them are rated as first grade functional, and getting certain extra facilities. Some of the women members have also been nominated as Gram Pradhans (village heads).

"Through this society, women have benefited a lot. They have got jobs and have become self-reliant. Women who were earlier confined to the four walls of their homes have now come forward. Women are even given employment training," said Rekha Pathak, a Gram Pradhan.

Aided by the SGSY, many women make their livelihood by selling a wide range of items like diary products, spices, candles etc.

Under SGSY, training is also provided in different vocations.

Women feel that their status in society has improved after becoming economically independent.

"Women come to the meetings and put forward their problems. Apart from economic development, it has also facilitated the upliftment of their social status. They have also gained self confidence," said Dhana Devi, Block Development Officer, Haldwani block, Nainital.

Bank officers keep on visiting various SHGs to give handy tips to the members on how to save their hard earned money. (ANI)