Daijiworld Media Network-Udupi (HB)

Udupi, May 29: Minister of State for Women and Child Welfare Umashree laid foundation stone for the union government funded 'Sakhi' One Stop Centre for helping women in distress here at Sthree Seva Nikethan premises at Nittur on Sunday May 29.

Addressing the gathering, Umashree said, “The aim of the centre is to provide medical, legal and rehabilitation facilities for women affected by violence. Union government has sanctioned a total of Rs 45.87 lac for this project. Under Nirbhaya fund Rs 37.68 lac and Rs 8.19 lac will be provided to the centre for women empowerment. On November 1, 2014 special treatment unit in the Udupi District Government Hospital was started. Already 93 women and girls in distress have got help from this unit here.”

“About Rs 10 crore loan and interest which was pending by women welfare board has been waived off. About 11 crore pending money by physically challenged has also been waived off.”

“Former minister Motamma under S M Krishna's ministry had formed about 14,0000 Sthree Shakthi organisations. Only in the year 2004 these organisations were given Rs 5000 grants, thereafter until 2013 no grant was given. Current chief minister has implemented a scheme under which for 5 years Rs 5000 will be paid to each organisation which would cost Rs 60 to 70 crore.”

Udupi district in charge minister Vinay Kumar Sorake said, “These Sthree Shakthi organizations have strengthened and organized women. As usual Udupi has secured second place in the SSLC and PUC results and women have secured upper hand which is a matter of pride for the district.”

Pramod Madhwaraj, MLA, Meenakshi Bannanje, president of Udupi City Municipal Council, Sandhya Thilak Raj, vice president Veronica Carnelio, Chairperson of Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Ltd and others were present.