Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (MS)

Udupi, Oct 15: Manikanta, who repairs and restores footwear at Shastri Circle of Kundapura has got an invitation from the union government to participate in the Republic Day parade that will be held on January 26, 2024 in New Delhi.

Manikanta has been selected as one of the beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Swanidhi scheme. He is working as a cobbler for the past 23 years.

Manikanta said, “I am happy that I have got a chance to travel by flight for the first time in my life. Moreover, a cobbler like me has been invited to take part in the Republic Day function also makes me feel very happy."

“I am excited to fly to New Delhi and to watch the Republic Day parade from a close distance. Town municipality officials have said that they will make arrangements for my flight ticket," he said.

“My grandfather and father have been cobblers for the last seven decades. After my father, I have set up a Lidkar shop with the help of the government and continued with my profession. Two of my children are studying in college. I am satisfied that my profession has helped me in building many lives in my family," Manikanta said.

“I have availed myself of loan three times from Syndicate Bank under the Pradhan Mantri Swanidhi scheme. First time, I borrowed Rs 10,000 and for the second time I took Rs 20,000 and at the third instance I borrowed Rs 50,000. I am repaying them promptly. Swanidhi Scheme has helped cobblers like me as I didn't have the necessity to approach private money lenders for my financial needs,” he added.