AGARTALA: The Forest Department organised a distribution programme at Rabindra Sathabarshiki Bhawan here, handing out Self-Help Group (SHG) seed money, Community Interest Group (CIG) and Joint Liability Group (JLG) loans, and driving licences to youths.
Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma attended the event as chief guest, along with other departmental officials and dignitaries.
The initiative is aimed at strengthening livelihood opportunities for young beneficiaries associated with forest-based and allied economic activities. SHG seed money typically helps self-help groups begin income-generating ventures, while CIG and JLG loans support collective enterprises, particularly in the agriculture and allied sectors. The driving licences distributed at the event are expected to aid beneficiaries seeking employment in transport-related trades.
The programme forms part of the state government’s broader push to promote self-employment and skill-based livelihoods among youth through departmental welfare schemes.
Details on the number of beneficiaries, the total value of seed money and loans disbursed, and the date of the event were not immediately available.