While India is known as an agrarian country, the struggles and hardships faced by many farming families often go unnoticed. Sunita’s family, residing in the small village of Patoora in the Satna district of Madhya Pradesh, was one such example.
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Despite relentless effort in farming, Sunita’s family faced continuous setbacks. The path ahead seemed unclear, but Sunita was determined not to succumb to defeat. In her quest for solutions, she discovered the concept of Self-Help Groups (SHGs), a new experience for her. She joined an SHG named Lalitamba SHG, which was working in her village.
Reflecting on her journey, Sunita shares, “Before joining this group, my financial situation was deplorable. Despite dedicated efforts in farming with my family, we were not achieving any success. Joining this group opened my eyes to new insights and techniques related to my work and agriculture.”
Reaping success from the land
Sunita also learned about the National Rural Livelihood Mission, commonly known as the Aajeevika Mission, which aimed to empower women farmers like her. Taking advantage of the initiative, she secured a loan to purchase land and decided to focus all her efforts on it. Sunita chose to cultivate crops such as onions, cauliflower, and leafy vegetables that could be grown throughout the year.
Her first harvest exceeded expectations, and the quality of her produce attracted attention from local traders. Sunita remarks, “I am delighted that the quality of my produce has improved, and traders prefer buying vegetables in bulk from my farm due to the good quality.”
Joining the SHG resulted in boosting confidence
Taking a loan from the Aajeevika Mission and connecting with the SHG not only transformed Sunita’s agricultural practices but also boosted her confidence. Today, she imparts training to other women, inspiring them to change their lives.
Sunita expresses her happiness, stating, “I am earning between 23,000 to 25,000 rupees per month. Earlier, the cost of cultivation was high, and the results were not satisfactory. However, after joining the Aajeevika Mission and receiving training, my earnings from the harvest have significantly improved.”
Landless woman farmer, now a lakhpati
Sunita’s annual income now ranges between 6 to 7 lakhs, with cultivation costs amounting to only 3 lakhs. She has become a role model for other women in her village and neighbouring communities. The government’s efforts to integrate women like Sunita into agriculture through the Aajeevika Mission have been instrumental in bringing about positive changes.
Never miss real stories from India’s women
Sunita’s success story showcases how determination, hard work, and support from initiatives like the Aajeevika Mission can lead to transformative outcomes. Through her contributions, she not only changed her own life but also inspires and uplifts other women in her community.
Stories of women like Sunita, demonstrate that with hard work and determination, victories are achievable, and success touches your footsteps. Today, Sunita’s economic circumstances in the village of Patoora have improved. She is making every possible effort to connect more women like her to this mission, providing inspiration and motivation.
In the MahilaMoneyXRavivaarVichar impact series, we bring you captivating narratives showcasing the journeys of women entrepreneurs. These stories encapsulate a range of experiences, from challenges to triumphs. Our main goal in this collaboration is to amplify the visibility of women entrepreneurs, promoting diversity within the entrepreneurial landscape and offering inspiration to fellow women.
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