Centre asks states to set up marketing facilities for SHGs

New Delhi, Aug 18 (UNI) The Central government has asked all states to allot land in all metros and district headquarters to help rural artisans display and sell their products, Rural Development Minister Raghuvansh Prasad Singh today said.

The Rural Development Ministry has sent letters to all chief ministers to strengthen marketing facilities for Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Mr Singh told the Lok Sabha during question hour.

Mr Singh said the Centre would provide a financial assistance of Rs five lakh to every district to build marketing infrastructure for the products of the artisans.

''We are trying to boost marketing facilities for our rural artisans. It is very essential for eradication of poverty and economic progress of the country,'' he said in the face of demands from members cutting across party lines for more support to SHGs to sell their products.

''The government is encouraging Self-Help Groups,'' he added.

According to Mr Singh, his Ministry had received requests from several foreign missions in the capital to buy products of rural artisans, which are not freely available in the market.

The government is also supporting states to conduct 15-day-long 'Saras Melas' in every state for SHGs coinciding with the birth anniversary of the late prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru on November 14, he added.

The India International Trade Fair starting also on November 14 in Pragati Maidan here will have 50 stalls for showcasing rural products, he said.

According to government figures, more than three lakh SHGs have been given state support so far while three lakh more have applied for funds.

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