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Housing and Urban Development Department organised ‘Praise Awards 2023-24’ ceremony, a performance recognition for access to financial inclusion and street vendors empowerment at Eco-park main market Leh, on September 9. First lady of Ladakh, Neelam Mishra was the Chief Guest and Hon’ble Executive Councillor was Ghulam Mehdi was the Guest of honour during the occasion. Principal Secretary, Housing and Urban Development Department Sanjeev Khirwar, Director Urban Local Bodies Moses Kunzang, Executive Officer, Municipal Committee Stanzin Rabgyas along with other guests were also present during the event.
The event aimed to celebrate Ladakh being the Best Performing State in Small State & UT category under PM Svanidhi Scheme at National Level. Executive Officer, Stanzin Rabgyas mentioned that Ladakh was able to achieve the 1st position within 4 years of the inception of PM Svanidhi Scheme. He adds that more beneficiaries can avail the scheme and boost their small business.
Welcoming the guests, beneficiaries and students, Director, Moses Kunzang briefed the audience about the scheme and encouraged the street vendors to avail this scheme. He mentioned that the department has taken initiative to empower the local vendors and help them in branding their products. He also mentioned about the role of banks to achieve this scheme. In addition, he also spoke about the development of winter friendly bus stop at Leh and Kargil which has a cafe and public toilet facility. He adds that the café is run by Self Help Groups.
Hon’ble Executive Councillor Ghulam Mehdi praised the achievement of the Housing and Urban Development Department. He adds that, through this scheme we are able to help the small street vendors and was able to achieve the 1st position on national level under this scheme. He also adds that such scheme will help Ladakh become independent in the long run.
First Lady Neelam Mishra spoke about the importance of street vendors in the society especially stressing on women entrepreneurs. She asserted on forming Self Help Groups and Cooperatives to avail more benefits to upgrade their business and also stressed on availing this loan to become more independent in their business. Speaking about products, she spoke on working on improving the quality of products which can boost the sale of their products.
To mark the event, ‘Praise Awards’ were distributed by the first lady to the beneficiaries and banks to recognize their successful work. Students from New Millennium School and Upper Leh presented cultural performance during the event. A nukkad natak was also performed by Women Theater and Cultural Group to raise awareness about the PM Svanidhi scheme to the general public. Local public took keen interest and participated in the event.
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