In Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh, the Union Ministry of Textiles’ skill development programme is proving to be a success. Under this programme, training is imparted to women in operation of electronic sewing machines, and these machines are expected to double their income with less physical effort.

Reputed textile companies located in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu hired several women from rural areas of Srikakulam district with enhancement of skills. This is all because of the initiative of the Union government through various local agencies.

Savvana Umamaheswari, Founder, Gayatri Women Association for National Integration and Social Service, said women’s empowerment had become a reality with training programs sponsored by the Union government. She stated that as, Srikakulam women were good at operating electronic sewing machines, many textile companies preferred to hire them. Also, since they are hard working, it has helped them earn more— up to Rs 15, 000 per month. In the last one year, around 100 candidates bagged jobs with a decent income, some even started their own shops.

Besides, many women felt that by investing up to Rs 25, 000 on each machine, they could create self-employment. B Ramanamma, a resident of Srikakulam said that initially, they were afraid to operate the machines. However, the two-month training programme helped them learn its operation and new designs and now they feel confident about starting a tailoring centre and help other women to earn as well.