‘Tribal women becoming taxpayers’: Union minister lauds Isha Foundation’s role in empowering rural livelihoods

NEW DELHI: Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Jual Oram praised the Isha Foundation during his visit to the Isha Yoga Center in Coimbatore, praising its role in transforming the lives of tribal women and contributing to the vision of a 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India)."I’m glad that tribal women are now paying income taxes and becoming lakhpatis (millionaires in rupees) thanks to the Isha Foundation," the minister said after interacting with local tribal communities. He added that initiatives like these align with the vision of both Sadhguru and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.The minister was referring to the inspiring journey of tribal women from Thanikandi village, who formed the Chellamariyammann self-help group in 2018 under Isha’s guidance. Starting with just Rs 200 capital, the women set up small shops near the Adiyogi statue, a popular tourist destination. Over the years, these ventures have grown into businesses generating annual revenues in crores. The women now proudly pay taxes and actively contribute to India’s economic development.Oram also expressed admiration for Isha’s rural outreach programs, particularly those focused on tribal welfare. "Isha’s efforts in rural development, education, health, spirituality, and cultural preservation are commendable. The village I visited today has greatly benefited from Isha’s work, and the residents are visibly happy," he said.During his visit, the minister toured key sites at the Isha Yoga Center, including the iconic 112-foot Adiyogi, the sacred Dhyanalinga, Suryakund, and Linga Bhairavi Devi. He also visited Isha Home School, known for its holistic and child-centric approach to education, as well as Sadhguru Gurukulam Samskriti, a traditional residential school modeled on the ancient Bhartiya Gurukulam system.