Divi Neguma boost for cottage industries

Divi Neguma has identified 77,637 beneficiaries of the Divi Neguma National Development Project's Cottage Industries Division. Equipment and raw materials have been provided to 12,535 out of 18,601 who have completed training under this program.

Under Divi Neguma Phase Five, which began on October 11, 4,901 will become beneficiaries of this scheme by the end of the year.

This program - which the Economic Development Ministry is coordinating under Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa - is directed by the Ministries of Traditional Industries and Small Industries, Industry and Commerce, Technology and Research and Youth Affairs and Skills Development.

The establishment of hand-loom industrial centres in 10 districts has already begun.

This will benefit 200 people with 20 from each village. The Commerce and Industries Ministry has provided funds to 278 beneficiaries in the Madampella, Meerigama. The encouragement given to hand-loom industrialists is expected to give a higher value to the national economy.

Since self-employed persons make a silent but considerable contribution to the national economy, a program was launched this year to raise their living standards and strengthen them on a professional level.

Garment production, kitul and palmyrah production are among the leading cottage industries while the rest include products associated with food items, fruits, mushroom, leather, coir, ornamental flowers, chemicals, silver, brass, batik and handicrafts. Over 200 such producers were provided with equipment and tools worth Rs. 14 million.

Industrial exhibitions were held in 14 districts to identify small entrepreneurs and mini programs were held to identify their requirements. Banks have coordinated in providing them with low-interest loans from State and non-State financial institutions.

The Government is also providing relief assistance worth Rs. 15,000 to each family engaged in bee-keeping at Divisional Secretariat level for which five families have already been selected. Boxes for bee hives will also be provided.

Similar assistance will be given to those growing mushroom. Each of them will be provided with relief assistance of Rs. 20,000 at Divisional Secretariat level.

The activities of all those have been provided with loans will be monitored to see their progress.