AmritaSREE project enters its 17th year

Mumbai, December 20, 2021: AmritaSREE (Self-Reliance Education & Employment), the women’s empowerment program launched by Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi (Amma), has completed 16 years and is entering its 17th. Currently, AmritaSREE comprises 15,000 groups with more than 2.5 lakh members in 21 states. Most of the members are from villages and other isolated rural areas.  

This year, the Math organised the anniversary event at Amritapuri, where it launched a second instalment of a COVID-19 aid package to SHG members. It consists of financial assistance, grocery kits and clothes worth ₹35 crore. Aid is also going to people affected by recent floods in Kerala.  

Amma explained this is support for the fact that these women sincerely try their best to stand on their own two feet. “They do not shift their responsibilities to anyone else, or depend on others, or blame others. If we focus on the faults and shortcomings of others, there will be time for nothing else. Instead, take up the reins of your life firmly in your own hands and move forward,” she said.  

“Many of the AmritaSREE members in different units have been able to put in money and start their own businesses. Many have been able to build homes for the homeless with profit from their businesses. Many were able to conduct weddings with the money. Many were able to give money to others for treating illnesses. Even though those people did not have much, they had the attitude to contribute what they had earned through their hard work.” 

Sri C.R. Mahesh, Honourable Member of the Kerala Legislative Assembly for Karunagapplly, attended the event and expressed his gratitude for the positive impact AmritaSREE has had upon the women and their families.   

“As a social worker who represents this area, when people unburden their sorrows, unknowingly my tears flow. People all around us are in debt, sick and dying because they cannot afford treatments. The sadness that started with floods continues unabated due to COVID and we Malayalees are pushing ahead with sadness,” he expressed.  

“It is during these times that Amma is showering us with her grace. Irrespective of religion, caste, creed, or affiliation, accepting all those who come to Amma, receive her love and care. Amma consoles them and lightens their sadness. The noble activities that Amma is doing, that this Math is doing; as the people’s representative, I am happy and extend my support.” 

V Muraleedharan, Union Minister of State for External Affairs & Parliamentary Affairs of India said “It is a known fact that women are the foundation of all kinds of development happening around the world. According to the UN World Survey in 2014, fields such as education, health, employment have exhibited drastic improvement following the participation of women in decision making. The advancement of society is entirely based on the empowerment of women in that society. In Kerala, various self-help groups such as Amrita Sree have been launched. And it is true that groups such as Amrita Sree have helped a lot to empower women in Kerala.”

He further added, “Amma being aware of the importance of women's involvement in developmental activities helped drive the intention of SHGs.”