SGHs in Kerala, a model for country: Sonia

Pathanamthitta, Apr 18 (UNI) Congress President Sonia Gandhi today said the growth of the self-help groups (SHG) in Kerala was a model to the country and other states were eager to study their activities.

Addressing an election meeting here, Ms Gandhi said it was the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) Govenment which was responsible for the growth of the SHGs by extending all possible assistance to them.

During its five-year rule, the UDF succeeded in providing basic amenities to the people and bringing about great changes in the traditional industry and agriculture sectors, she said.

The UPA Government at the Centre also extended special consideration to the state's needs, she said, citing the development of Sabarimala.

Later, addressing another public meeting at Kollam, she said those who criticised the UDF Government should reflect on what they had done for the people while in power.

The people in the state were aware of the developmental projects implemented by the UDF Government and did not believe in false propaganda, she said and appealed to the people to give another term to the Front to complete the on-going projects.

Ms Gandhi later left for Thiruvananthapuram.

UNI