After a period where Self-Help Groups (SHGs) for persons with disabilities (PwDs) were largely overlooked, Telangana’s Society for Elimination of Rural Poverty (SERP) is now making their empowerment a top priority. Following directives from Panchayat Raj and Rural Development Minister Dansari Anasuya (Seethakka), SERP has initiated a statewide campaign to fortify and expand these SHGs. The ultimate goal is to champion financial independence and ensure robust social inclusion for PwDs. Sources indicate that Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy is expected to officially inaugurate this significant new program.
This development comes shortly after the current Congress government introduced the Indira Mahila Shakti (IMS) scheme, designed to bolster women’s SHGs in establishing businesses. Recognizing that the IMS scheme lacked specific provisions for PwDs, the department promptly devised a distinct initiative. This ensures that persons with disabilities are fully integrated into the state’s self-reliance efforts.
Leadership Empowering Women
Officials report that over 50,000 individuals are already enrolled in 4,800 PwD SHGs throughout Telangana. Each group will comprise a minimum of five members, fostering community engagement and shared decision-making. Membership is open to both men and women, with a specific emphasis on reserving leadership roles for women with disabilities. This approach aims to boost inclusivity and enhance their involvement in the decision-making processes.
Crucial Financial Support
The initiative is designed to build platforms where PwDs can share experiences, access vital skill development training, and explore various self-employment avenues. The government plans to extend essential financial resources to these groups, including bank linkages, revolving funds, and credit facilities, mirroring the successful model employed for women’s SHGs.
Minister Seethakka affirmed the government’s commitment, stating, “Our goal is to enable persons with disabilities to achieve both financial self-reliance and social respect. We believe in empowering them through equal opportunities, not through sympathy. These SHGs will serve as powerful spaces for mutual support, capacity building, and generating sustainable livelihoods.”
Dedicated Officers for PwD SHGs
SERP, which has a proven track record with its IMS model — mobilizing over ₹25,000 crore annually in bank loans for women’s groups — has now appointed specialized officers. These officers will oversee and monitor the implementation of the PwD SHGs. Plans are underway to swiftly deposit revolving funds into the group accounts, and banks will be actively encouraged to provide loans, facilitating small businesses and other income-generating activities.
Minister Seethakka expressed her strong confidence that these SHGs for persons with disabilities will evolve into robust platforms, driving self-employment, enhancing skills, and ultimately leading to greater social inclusion across Telangana.