What are the objectives of Rastriy Mahila Kosh (RMK)? Describe the important promotional and innovative scheme of RMK.

The Rashtriya Mahila Kosh (RMK) is a national-level organization established by the Government of India in 1993 to promote and support women's entrepreneurship and economic empowerment. The primary objectives of RMK are to facilitate credit support and financial services for women entrepreneurs from marginalized and economically disadvantaged sections of society. RMK aims to empower women by providing them with access to credit, promoting self-employment ventures, and supporting income-generating activities. Let's delve into the objectives and key schemes of RMK:

Objectives of Rashtriya Mahila Kosh (RMK):

1. Financial Inclusion: RMK aims to promote financial inclusion by providing microcredit and financial services to women who lack access to formal banking channels. The organization facilitates access to credit for women entrepreneurs, especially those from rural and underserved areas.

2. Women's Empowerment: RMK seeks to enhance women's economic empowerment by supporting their entrepreneurial ventures and income-generating activities. The organization aims to improve women's socio-economic status and promote gender equality through financial inclusion.

3. Poverty Alleviation: RMK contributes to poverty alleviation efforts by providing financial assistance and support to women engaged in small-scale enterprises and livelihood activities. The organization targets women from marginalized communities to help uplift their economic conditions.

4. Capacity Building: RMK focuses on capacity building and skill development among women entrepreneurs by providing training, mentoring, and technical assistance. The organization aims to enhance women's entrepreneurial skills and promote sustainable livelihoods.

5. Promotion of Self-Employment: RMK encourages self-employment among women by facilitating access to credit for setting up micro-enterprises, cottage industries, handicrafts, and small businesses. The organization supports women in becoming self-reliant and independent.

Promotional and Innovative Schemes of Rashtriya Mahila Kosh (RMK):

1. Mahila Shakti Kendras (MSK) Scheme:
   The Mahila Shakti Kendras scheme was launched by RMK to promote women's entrepreneurship and economic empowerment at the grassroots level. Under this scheme, RMK establishes Mahila Shakti Kendras (Women's Power Centers) in partnership with NGOs and community-based organizations. These centers provide a range of services including skill development, training, capacity building, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship development programs for women.

2. Swavalamban Schemes:
   RMK implements Swavalamban Schemes to support women's self-employment initiatives and micro-enterprises. The scheme provides credit assistance to women entrepreneurs for starting or expanding their businesses. RMK offers loans at affordable interest rates and flexible repayment terms to encourage women's participation in economic activities.

3. Mahila Udyam Nidhi (MUN):
   Mahila Udyam Nidhi is a revolving fund scheme launched by RMK to provide financial assistance to women entrepreneurs for setting up small-scale enterprises and micro-enterprises. The scheme aims to promote women's entrepreneurship and facilitate access to capital for business development.

4. Joint Liability Groups (JLGs):
   RMK promotes the formation of Joint Liability Groups (JLGs) among women to facilitate access to credit and financial services. JLGs are informal groups of women borrowers who collectively undertake entrepreneurial activities and share responsibility for loan repayment. RMK provides credit linkage and support to JLGs to promote women's economic empowerment.

5. Livelihood Support and Employment Generation:
   RMK focuses on livelihood support and employment generation initiatives for women by promoting income-generating activities such as handicrafts, handloom weaving, agro-processing, and small-scale industries. The organization supports women in accessing markets, technology, and business networks to enhance their economic opportunities.

In conclusion, Rashtriya Mahila Kosh (RMK) plays a vital role in promoting women's entrepreneurship, economic empowerment, and financial inclusion in India. Through its innovative schemes and initiatives, RMK aims to empower women from marginalized communities, enhance their livelihood opportunities, and contribute to sustainable development. The organization's focus on capacity building, credit support, and skill development underscores its commitment to fostering women's self-reliance, economic independence, and socio-economic empowerment.