Media Release
Beltangady, Nov 24: The Vimukti Self-Help Group (SHG) Trust celebrated its silver jubilee with grandeur at Krishnanugraha Hall, Ujire, on November 23. The celebrations commenced with a spiritual dance by the members at 10.30 am.
Fr Vinod Mascarenhas, director of Capuchin Krishik Seva Kendra (CKSK), delivered the introductory speech, reminiscing about the trust's impactful journey. He expressed gratitude to the late Fr Theophilus Pereira, founder of CKSK, and the late Fr Joel Pinto, founder of Vimukti SHG Trust, for their visionary leadership.
Initially established in Kalmanja village, the trust has expanded across districts, offering a platform for rural poor women to achieve social and economic empowerment. Over the years, beneficiaries transformed into contributors, implementing initiatives such as self-employment activities, Vidya Snehi (interest-free loans for higher education), Arogya Nidhi (healthcare support for women and their families), and advocating for the establishment of DAYA Special School.
The silver jubilee celebrations were inaugurated by MLC K Pratapsinha Nayak, alongside Vimukti SHG Trust president Shali, CKSK president Fr Alwyn Dias, former MLC Harish Kumar, Best Foundation founder Rakshith Shivaram, advocate Ashwini D'Souza, Fr Vinod Mascarenhas, and Fr Rohan Lobo.
Addressing the gathering, advocate Ashwini D'Souza from Moodbidri spoke on women’s empowerment through self-help groups. She lauded the efforts of Vimukti SHG members in achieving social and economic independence and urged them to continue combating gender discrimination and superstitions hindering women’s progress.
MLC K Pratapsinha Nayak congratulated the trust and its members for their achievements, while Harish Kumar encouraged the attendees to leverage opportunities provided by CKSK and government initiatives. Rakshith Shivaram commended the trust for establishing DAYA Special School, which recently received the Karnataka Rajyotsava Award 2024, and pledged his continued support for the institution and its children.
Fr Alwyn Dias congratulated the members, urging them to dream big and achieve greater milestones, while acknowledging the support of the trust's staff and directors.
During the event, former and current presidents, secretaries, directors, and assistant directors of Vimukti SHG Trust were felicitated for their dedicated service. The trust also launched Arogya Nidhi, a new health guarantee scheme, during the program.
A celebratory lunch followed the stage events, after which members showcased colorful cultural programs. The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Prameela and a closing address by counselor Merin.
The jubilee celebration marked a significant milestone in the trust's journey, reflecting its dedication to empowering women and uplifting the community.