Pics: Harshini Brahmavar
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD/HB)
Udupi Oct 22: Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, bishop of Udupi on Sunday October 21 inaugurated ‘Inchara Mahila Okkoota’ at Inchara in Kaup taluk, which was formulated under the leadership of Catholic Sthree Sanghatan, Udupi diocese, Shirva deanery.
Inaugurating the association Bishop Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo said, “We have to strengthen our women financially. For this reason, we have created self-help groups in every ward. Sthree Sanghatan is also putting in efforts in this regard. After the establishment of Udupi diocese, we formulated the motto of Sthree Sanghatan,”
“Through self-help groups, we are aiming to build a strong women’s association on diocesan level. At least one female member of each family should become the member of Sthree Sanghatan. Training for self-employment will be provided. The situation in foreign countries is very dangerous. No one is having job security there. In his crucial time, to strengthen our economic status, self-employment helps a lot. There are 67 women members in gram panchayat of our diocese. Women should take part in gram panchayat and other related meetings in large number. They provide us a platform to ask for our rights. Our Sthree Sanghatan members have availed more than Rs 5 crore loan from the government in the previous year. Next year this number should increase,” he added.
“Women play a major role in our diocese. They take major decisions in their families. We have to draw our children’s attention towards public service. In the next 10 years, at least 25 youths of our diocese should be in governmental service. There are 473 engineering students in our diocese. But the number of public service aspirants is very less. Parents should draw their children’s attention towards these competitive examinations,” he said.
Assistant director of Women and Child Welfare department Veena Vivekananda said, “Women are joining the Sthree Sanghatan for various purposes like for the development of skills, and education for children. If women we get united, they can achieve anything they want. If there is good understanding and cooperation in a family, that could do wonders. Parents must treat their children equally. There must be no gender discrimination at home. Let this Inchara Mahila Okkoota become a model Okkoota to the nation.”
Sr Janet Fernandes, animator of Catholic Sthree Sanghatan Udupi diocese gave a brief introduction about Inchara Mahila Okkoota. Fr Reginald Pinto delivered the keynote address.
Meena Rebimbus was felicitated on the occasion. She entertained the audience with her melodious and soulful singing.
Treeza Machado, president, welcomed the gathering.
Flavia D'Souza and Irene Cardoza compered the programme.
Sunitha Noronha rendered the vote of thanks. Fr Rock D’Souza, spiritual director, Catholic Sthree Sanghatan, Shirva deanery, and Janet Barboza, animator, Catholic Sthree Sanghatan, Udupi Diocese were present during the function.