Kolkata, Oct 17 (IANS): A campaign has been launched to produce Indian gooseberry or amla sauces, candy, dried chips, pickle, jellies to provide an alternative livelihood for poor women in rural West Bengal.

As part of the 'Amla Campaign', as many as 7,000 amla saplings were distributed in schools and to Anganwadi health workers (community health workers) in rural Bengal, a release said Friday.

The initiative was kick-started by Village Financial Services (VFS) in partnership with the state's department of health and family welfare.

In addition, workshops and discussions are being organised in phases for self-help groups across districts on manufacturing amla products.

"The aim of the Amla Campaign is to create awareness about the nutritive value of amla and to encourage people to consume amla which has extensive health benefits," the release attributed to VFS said.

To reach out to children, essay competitions, drawing contests and poetry writing have been conducted on the benefits of amla.

Bright green in hue, the fruit is a powerhouse of Vitamin C and anti-oxidants. It is known to improve the digestive and circulatory system and is also good for the hair and skin.