Governor: Health of nation depends on well-being of villages
Initiative aids 276 SHGs, reduces plastic use, and supports women’s empowerment in Husnabad
Warangal: Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Varma said, “Complete independence comes only when ‘Gram Swaraj’ is achieved.” He emphasised that the health of the nation depends on the well-being of its villages, where the majority of the population resides.
The Governor, accompanied by ministers Ponnam Prabhakar and Konda Surekha, as well as SC Commission chairman Bakki Venkaiah, launched the ‘Steel Bank’ initiative on Thursday at Koheda mandal in the Husnabad constituency of Karimnagar district. The programme has been undertaken by the Ponnam Sattaiah Charitable Trust in memory of Minister Ponnam Prabhakar’s father, Sattaiah.
The Trust is managing the Steel Bank, established at a cost of Rs 2.5 crore. It will distribute steel utensils to around 276 Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in the Husnabad constituency. The initiative aims to promote the use of reusable steel items instead of single-use plastics at weddings and other community events. Each Steel Bank kit includes essential utensils such as tiffin and lunch plates, water and tea glasses, cups, dishes, buckets, spoons, and various cooking pots.
Speaking on the occasion, Governor Varma recalled being deeply impressed when Minister Ponnam Prabhakar first introduced the idea of a “Barthan Bank” at Raj Bhavan. “Though it may appear to be a small initiative, it lays the foundation for a healthier future. Its impact is greater than that of the automobile or IT revolutions because it directly addresses public health. Where there is plastic, the environment cannot remain green,” he remarked.
The Governor also shared his observations from a visit to Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy’s district, where he witnessed the strength and potential of women-led Self-Help Groups. “An SHG is not just a small group, it is a revolution, a movement for women’s empowerment,” he said.
Praising Minister Prabhakar's commitment, Governor Varma noted, “Opportunities to serve humanity are rare. When one commits to such service, it becomes a movement.” He wished the Steel Bank initiative continued success.