EMPOWERMENT OF SELF HELP GROUP WOMEN THROUGH VALUE ADDITION OF FINGER MILLET.

Empowerment in the content of women's development is way of defining, challenging and overcoming barrier in a woman's life through which she increases her ability to shape her life and environment. It is an active, multidimensional process which should enable women to realize their full identity and power in all spheres of life. Based on these, the University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore implemented the project "Rural Bio-Resource Complex" funded by Department of Biotechnology under the Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India, since April 2005. Project envisages improving the standard of living of all families coming in the project area. Appropriate strategies for empowerment of SHG women is addressed through organizing appropriate trainings both on and off-campus, including higher level trainings, follow-up activities, providing relevant leaflets and folders, exposures besides recognizing and encouraging women to come forward and take up processing and of linger millet products value addition and income generating activities. The project has made a successful impact in improving the livelihood security for rural women in Tubagere Hobli of Doddaballapura Taluk of Bangalore rural district. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]