DIMAPUR — Three beneficiaries of Aspirational Block Programme (ABP) from Nagaland along with their spouses have been invited by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as ‘special guests’ to witness the 78th Independence Day celebration in New Delhi.
The three invitees namely Renung, Kughalu K and AP Tsupan have been selected from the Aspirational Block Programme, launched in January 2023, which covers 500 blocks across the country, a DIPR report stated.
Renung and her self help group (SHG) ‘Limreh’ from Kiusam block in Kiphire district have significantly benefited from the aspirational district programme through the establishment of a ‘Weaving and Tailoring Centre’ in Kiusam village. The project has provided training to the women of the village and generated income through the sale of traditional and non-traditional products.
As a beneficiary of the MGNREGA scheme, Kughalu K from Emlomi village of Akuhaito aspirational block under Zunheboto district has played a vital role in the development of his village. He currently serves as the general secretary of the Village Development Board Association under RD Block in Akuhaito.
AP Tsupan of Thonoknyu aspirational block in Noklak district is a beneficiary of the PM-KISAN scheme, which has supported his agricultural endeavours and contributed to his livelihood.
Tsupan has been involved in farming since 1997 and under the PM-KISAN flagship scheme he cultivates perilla seeds and soybeans, including mixed oilseeds.
Additional support from the scheme has been utilised for domestic requirements such as tea, salt, daily wages and sending children to school as well as providing daily support to other cultivators at the farm.
The major crop benefiting from the PM-KISAN scheme in the Thonoknyu village region is the foxtail millet, which has seen improved yields.
Senior scientist, Dr. Lahar Jyoti Borodoloi, at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Kiphire, will be accompanying the three guests as the nodal officer from the state of Nagaland.
“These special guests are being honoured for their exemplary leadership and entrepreneurship. Their achievements highlights the positive impact of initiatives like the aspirational district/ block programme, MGNREGA and PM-KISAN, showcasing how these programmes are transforming lives at the grassroots level across the country,” it stated.