A vocational training programme in solar power installation, financial assistance to women’s self-help groups (SHGs), and three retail outlets were launched at a five-in-one programme jointly organised by NERD NGO and Dr. Kamaraj Uzhavar Producer Company in Coimbatore city on Saturday.

Minister for Backward Classes Welfare V. Sampath Kumar handed over a loan of ₹7 lakh to the 10 member Lotus Women’s SHG and inaugurated the one-week solar power installation training programme for 30 candidates.

Certificates were distributed to candidates who completed a three-month free training programme, which included food and accommodation. Those who completed the one-week programme were also given certificates and an incentive of ₹3,500 each.

Mr. Sampath Kumar said such skill training would improve employment opportunities and enable beneficiaries to increase their incomes and standard of living. He highlighted government support for women’s SHGs, including a revolving fund of ₹15,000 per group and subsidised loans.

On rooftop solar systems, he said the Centre provided a subsidy of ₹78,000 and the State government an additional subsidy of ₹22,000 for a three kW system, taking the total subsidy to about ₹1 lakh. He urged households to make use of the scheme to reduce electricity expenses and contribute to environmental protection.

He also inaugurated vegetable, fruit and textile sales outlets established by Dr. Kamaraj Uzhavar Producer Company.

Kamaraj, NERD NGO director and managing director of Dr. Kamaraj Uzhavar Producer Company, said the organisation was working for poor and underprivileged communities, including tribespeople. The vegetable outlet in Vadavalli would sell produce at affordable prices, he added.