Chaitanya, Shimoga, December 15, 2020: Samrudi Rural Upliftment Foundation, Bengaluru organized “Samrudi – Swavalambana Karyakrama at Chaitanya – SMSSS, Shivamogga on 15 December 2020 wherein 84 poorest of the poor SHG Members from 14 Diocesan Social Service Societies received financial support of Rs 25,000/- each to start a new micro-enterprise. Samrudi Rural Upliftment Foundation, Bengaluru was started in 2007 under KROSS. From 2012 onwards the Diocesan Social Service Societies started borrowing money from Samrudi for promoting micro enterprises. Till date about 10,300 women have availed the benefits from Samrudi for various micro enterprises. The total turnover till date is about 16.50 Crore.
The day’s programme began with prayer led by the staff of SMSSS, Shimoga and Rev. Fr Shanthraj S, director of CMSSS, Hassan. Rev. Fr Clifford Roshan Pinto, the Director of SMSSS welcomed all the dignitaries and the KROSS team. Rev. Fr Sebastian Fernandes, the director of KROSS welcomed the directors of all 14 DSSSs and the beneficiaries. Thereafter he gave a brief report on the progress of KROSS and Samrudi.
Most Rev. Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, the Bishop of Udupi, the President of KROSS and the Director of Samrudi inaugurated the programme. In his inaugural address the bishop highlighted the importance of organization, Co-operation and self-reliance. We should become human beings with a strong feeling for others and ready to support them. This is how we can stand by the side of those who are in need.
Most Rev. Dr Joseph Arumachadath, Bishop of Bhadravathi was the Chief Guest. He spoke on Women as agents of change – augment family income and decision makers.
Most Rev. Dr Francis Serrao SJ, Bishop of the Diocese of Shimoga presided over the programme. In his presidential address taking the example of Shri Mahila Griha Udyog Lijjat Papad the bishop noted that if there is a clear vision for the future then we can climb the mountains or overcome any hardships without any difficulty. He appreciated the progress Samrudi Rural Upliftment Foundation has made over the years and congratulated the brains behind the progress and wished every success to the beneficiaries.
Rev. Fr Peter Ashirwad, Assistant Director, BDSSS, Belgaum and Rev. Fr Yagappa, Director, BDSS, Bellary shared their experience. Mrs Precilla Martis, President of Streebandhu Multipurpose Souharda Cooperative Limited, Shimoga was a special invitee for the programme. Of the 84 beneficiaries fr0m 14 DSSSs selected to receive one time 100% subsidized grant to start a new micro enterprise 77 women were present and received the cheques.
Mr Varghese, Coordinator, KROSS proposed the vote of thanks. Sr Zita D’Souza, Regional Coordinator, Women Empowerment Programme, KROSS compered the programme. Mr Clement Fernandes and Mr Richard Martis, staff of KROSS were present for the programme.
