Report on Visit to the Collector’s Office, Chennai District

Srs. Pratima and Madhu visited the Collector’s Office in Chennai District to facilitate the allocation of sewing machines for six women from Manali New Town, Burma Nagar, and Sadayankuppam. The women underwent a practical stitching test, oral questioning, and verification of their original documents. During the process, it was identified that three of the women belonged to the Denotified Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes (DNC) group. The officer in charge expressed readiness to support them with material assistance for their livelihood and requested them to resubmit their documents to receive a special card provided by the Government.

The remaining three women also completed their tests and are currently under consideration for sewing machine allocation. They are expected to be called back in about one and a half months for the next steps. During the visit, it was observed that the Government offers several welfare schemes for vulnerable groups. The team also met a supportive official who is actively working to assist migrant workers and the Irula community. This official expressed willingness to help these women register with the Welfare Board to avail of government benefits. The visit was productive, and the process for sewing machine allocation is progressing steadily.