Vivek Venkatswamy distributes interest-free loans and Indiramma sarees in Narsapur

Hyderabad: State Minister Vivek Venkatswamy on Tuesday distributed interest-free loans SHGs worth ₹3.50 crore and Indiramma sarees to women during a programme held at Narsapur in Medak district.

The minister handed over cheques to women Self-Help Groups within Narsapur Municipality limits under the interest-free loan scheme. He also distributed cheques towards reimbursement of interest already paid by SHGs on bank loans. He said these measures would strengthen women financially and promote economic self-reliance.

Vivek Venkatswamy stated that empowering women remained a core priority of the Congress government. Therefore, he encouraged women to make effective use of interest-free loans SHGs and expand their livelihood activities. He also advised officials to promote the formation of new SHGs alongside existing groups.

Interest-free loans SHGs linked to women welfare initiatives

During his visit, the minister also attended a preparatory meeting for the upcoming municipal elections in Narsapur. DCC president Anjaneyulu Goud and several Congress leaders attended the meeting. Addressing party workers, he urged them to work in coordination and avoid internal differences ahead of the polls.

Vivek Venkatswamy said the election notification could be issued on the 25th or 26th of the month. Hence, he stressed the need for early clarity on candidates and disciplined campaigning. He said unity among party leaders would play a crucial role in securing victory.

The minister announced that Indiramma sarees would be distributed to all women in Narsapur Municipality. He described former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi as a symbol of women’s empowerment and said welfare schemes in her name reflected the Congress party’s commitment to women.

He further said the District Collector had been instructed to examine the feasibility of setting up petrol pumps for women SHGs. According to him, such projects would provide sustainable income sources for women groups.

Responding to political criticism, Vivek Venkatswamy alleged that bills worth nearly ₹40,000 crore remained pending during the previous BRS government. He said the present government was mobilising funds transparently and prioritising development works. Expressing confidence, he said Congress was strong in Narsapur and would win the municipal elections through collective effort.