Hyderabad, December 21, 2023....... The Women Empowerment wing of the Federation of Telangana Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FTCCI) on Thursday organised a program "Empowering Women for Livelihood" at its premises at Red Hills. 

Dr V.S. Alagu Varsini, IAS, Director of Handlooms and Textiles and Apparel Export Parks, Government of Telangana was the chief guest.  Speaking on occasion she said women are in no way less than men. Real empowerment starts from your home. You must know the earnings and expenditures of your family. 

Women must be financially independent.  Currently, every family including some governments think of girls/women as a burden. Empowered women are not a burden to the society, she said. 

The couple must share equal responsibilities in raising children, she added

Speaking further the bureaucrat said women at work, even in government offices are subjected to sexual harassment.  Women must know their rights.  Women should come forward to complain about sexual harassment incidents. 

Women should have 'me-time', said Dr VS Alagu Varsini.  She explained Why ‘Me Time’ is important for women.  Women are multitasking. We are always overwhelmed with scores of responsibilities. We should take time out for ourselves, she informed. 

She urged FTCCI to reach out to rural women.  She suggested they have a strong base in districts and ensure more women participation in them. She gave an example of how Uzbekistan country's chamber is quite strong at local community levels. 

Giving his opening remarks Meela Jayadev, President of FTCCI  stressed on more equitable and vibrant world.  FTCCI has been organising many women empowerment programs.  We plan to organise eight series of awareness programs in Class 'C' cities for SC and ST women; five export and import programs with a focus on areas such as Textiles and Handlooms and Financial Literacy, he added.  He gave a call to chalk out a program where women play a central role in economic development. 

Smt. Bhagwati Devi Baldwa, Chair, of the Ladies Wing and Women Empowerment Committee, said Livelihood programs are important as they help women sustain themselves and secure the necessities of life. Livelihood support helps them earn with dignity. The support can prevent dependency, reduce vulnerability, enhance self-reliance and develop a set of specific skills during displacement.

Renu Bajaj gave testimony that a machine that was given to her last year made her stand on her feet and earn additional income for the family.

Smt Meena Navander, Smt. Koaml Dwarkani, a member of the ladies wing of FTCCI also participated.

Together, we can continue to break barriers, challenge stereotypes and create a more inclusive and equitable world for all said Senior Vice President of FTCCI Suresh Singhal, while proposing a vote of thanks.

About 150 women participated in the program.