The Kudumbasree movement should evolve as a support system for the larger society that also includes indigent people and senior citizens, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has said.
Addressing a gathering of Kudumbasree activists at the State-level launch of the Kudumbasree school at Vilappil grama panchayat on Saturday, Mr. Vijayan urged them to go beyond their focus of ensuring self-reliance among women. Kudumbasree workers had a greater responsibility to address the burning issues faced by society including drug menace, terminal illness, and poverty alleviation, he said.
Focus
But even while diversifying the activities of Kudumbasree units, the Chief Minister said the focus on poverty alleviation shouldnt be lost. He said the workers of the movement had a significant role to play in helping disadvantaged sections, even those who were not members of ‘ayalkoottams.’
“Besides taking the lead in generating the assistance required for those who were in dire need of support, community development societies could also play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of senior citizens and others, who live largely secluded lives, and struggle to make both ends meet. Only then can the Kudumbasree movement fulfil its responsibility of social service,” Mr. Vijayan said.
Citing its involvement in the operation of the Kochi metro, he said the Kudumbasree Mission must position itself to accept greater responsibilities and uphold high standards in each of its activities. Mr. Vijayan called for caution against efforts aimed at destroying the movement. He urged the Kudumbasree members to learn from ‘negative experiences.’
I.B. Satheesh, MLA, Kudumbasree executive director S. Harikishore, Haritha Keralam vice chairperson and Kudumbasree governing body member T.N. Seema, Nemom block panchayat president Shakunthala Devi, Vilappil panchayat president L. Vijayaraj and Kudumbasree activists were present on the occasion.