- Home
- Latest News, Telangana
- Mini Rice Mills Empower Cherla’s Tribal Hamlets
Empowering Tribal Hamlets: 20 Mini Rice Mills Distributed in LWE-Affected Cherla Mandal
Samaya Jyothi | Cherla Mandal, Telangana
In a significant stride toward rural empowerment and economic development, 20 mini rice mills worth ₹50 lakh were distributed in Cherla Mandal as part of a targeted initiative to uplift tribal hamlets in Left Wing Extremism (LWE) affected areas. The program, aimed at fostering self-reliance and enhancing local livelihoods, is a part of the government’s comprehensive development activities in vulnerable regions.
This milestone initiative has been rolled out under a special development scheme designed to integrate remote tribal communities into mainstream economic growth. The distribution ceremony took place in Cherla Mandal, which has long been under the radar due to socio-economic challenges and geographic isolation.
Speaking on the occasion, local administrative officials emphasized the importance of sustainable development in tribal belts. “The government’s goal is to empower every village with tools for self-sufficiency. These mini rice mills will not only improve food processing capabilities but will also generate employment within the communities,” said an official representative.
Mini Rice Mills for Self-Reliance
Each mini rice mill, valued at ₹2.5 lakh, is equipped with modern machinery capable of dehusking and polishing rice efficiently. These units were strategically allocated to selected beneficiaries from tribal hamlets after a careful assessment of need, capacity, and training readiness.
Tribal families often face exploitation by middlemen due to lack of access to post-harvest processing units. With these mills, farmers can now process their own paddy within the village, thereby adding value to their produce and increasing their income directly.
“Earlier, we had to carry our paddy to distant markets or rely on agents. Now, we can process our rice right here and sell it at better prices,” said Ramesh Naik, a local tribal farmer and one of the beneficiaries.
TRENDING
Economic Upliftment and Local Employment
The ripple effect of this initiative is expected to be profound. Besides enhancing agricultural output value, the mini mills will offer employment to youth in the region. With adequate training provided to the operators, the initiative ensures that the technology is not only accessible but also effectively used.
A dedicated training module has been introduced to educate the recipients on operating and maintaining the machinery. This includes safe handling, routine servicing, troubleshooting, and business management skills.
Additionally, the government is working with local self-help groups (SHGs) and cooperative societies to facilitate market linkages, branding, and packaging for locally processed rice, thereby enabling these hamlets to access larger markets.
LWE-Affected Areas Getting a New Lease of Life
Cherla Mandal, which falls under the LWE-affected zone, has witnessed a transformation in recent years thanks to focused development programs. Infrastructure projects, skill-building initiatives, and livelihood interventions are reshaping the landscape of previously neglected areas.
Security forces have also noted a visible decline in extremist activities as development gains momentum. “When people are given employment and opportunities, they naturally gravitate towards peace and growth,” said a senior district official.
Integration of Technology and Tradition
These rice mills represent a fusion of traditional agricultural practices and modern technology. By reducing dependency on external players, the initiative reinforces the tribal community’s autonomy and pride in their occupation.
Moreover, the availability of such processing units within walking distance significantly reduces post-harvest losses and transportation costs. Women, who are actively engaged in farming and processing, stand to benefit the most, as the initiative reduces their physical labor and allows them to participate in income-generating activities.
Way Forward
The success of this intervention in Cherla Mandal could serve as a model for other LWE-affected regions across India. With proper monitoring, follow-up support, and periodic evaluation, the government aims to scale this program to more villages and backward districts.
Future plans include the establishment of farmer-producer organizations (FPOs), cooperative processing centers, and integrated cold storage units to further strengthen the agricultural value chain.
The mini rice mills are more than just machines—they symbolize a new dawn of self-reliance, dignity, and economic security for the tribal communities of Telangana.
Click for more latest news. Also get top headlines and latest news from India and around the world at samaya jyothi
Stay Connected with Samaya Jyothi!
