Union Minister Jual Oram has lauded the Isha Foundation for its significant role in empowering tribal women and transforming them into taxpayers. During his visit to the Isha Yoga Center in Coimbatore, Oram interacted with local tribal villagers and commended the foundation's rural development initiatives.
Oram highlighted the inspiring success stories of women from the Thanikandi village who, with the support and guidance of the Isha Foundation, started businesses with initial investments as low as ₹200 and have now become lakhpatis. He emphasized that such efforts significantly contribute to the development of India. The minister acknowledged that the training and guidance provided by the Isha Foundation have led to the economic and social empowerment of tribal women, enabling them to become self-reliant.
The Isha Foundation, founded by Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev, has been actively involved in various rural development programs aimed at improving the quality of life for rural communities, including tribal populations. These programs often focus on providing education, healthcare, and livelihood opportunities. The foundation's work has been particularly impactful in remote and underserved areas, where access to resources and opportunities is limited.
The "Lakhpati Didi Sammelan," hosted by the Jammu & Kashmir Rural Livelihoods Mission (JKRLM), recognized the achievements of women-led self-help groups and celebrated the economic self-reliance and transformation of rural women across the Union Territory. Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan praised the women as "real change makers" and reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting rural women. He also distributed certificates of appreciation to women who have created livelihoods for themselves and employment for others.
The success of the Isha Foundation's initiatives aligns with the government's focus on promoting women's empowerment and rural development. Government initiatives such as the Ladli Lakshmi Yojana and Ladki Behna Scheme are also positively impacting the lives of women across the country. By providing tribal women with the necessary skills and resources to start their own businesses and become financially independent, organizations like the Isha Foundation are not only improving their livelihoods but also contributing to the overall economic growth of the nation.
While the Isha Foundation has received praise for its work, it has also faced scrutiny and controversy. Allegations of land grabbing and lack of environmental clearances have been raised, with some groups urging the government to take action against the foundation. However, the foundation has denied these allegations, stating that they have the necessary documents and permissions for their projects.
Despite the controversies, the Isha Foundation's efforts to empower tribal women and promote rural livelihoods have had a positive impact on many communities. By providing training, resources, and support, the foundation has helped women become self-sufficient and contribute to the economy as taxpayers. The recognition from Union Minister Jual Oram further validates the importance of such initiatives in achieving inclusive and sustainable development.
