India’s textiles and handlooms embody the essence of the country’s rich cultural heritage and artistic diversity. Renowned worldwide for their quality, these textiles showcase intricate designs and vibrant colours woven into the fabric using traditional techniques passed down through generations. Each region offers its unique weave, from the fine silks of Varanasi to the block prints of Rajasthan and the exquisite handloom cotton of Bengal.
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These textiles are not just pieces of cloth but art forms that tell stories of the land, its people, and their beliefs. The craftsmanship speaks of India’s dedication to preserving its ancestral arts, making Indian handlooms a testament to the country’s unparalleled legacy in textile artistry.
Raisen, the citadel of heritage and nature
Raisen, a hidden gem in the state of Madhya Pradesh, is no different. Being a unique blend of historical charm and cultural richness, Raisen is well known for its tales of bygone eras. But it is also a cradle of traditional textiles and art. The local artisans excel in crafting beautiful fabrics, each piece telling a story of skill and tradition passed down through generations.
Skills of women SHGs charmed everyone from IIM Indore to Reliance Foundation
In the heart of Raisen district, a remarkable story of empowerment and resilience is unfolding. The women of Self Help Groups (SHGs) in the Silwani block have set an exceptional example of self-reliance, demonstrating the profound impact of little guidance and financial support.
These women, with their exceptional sewing skills, have drawn attention not only from the prestigious Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Indore but also from the Reliance Foundation. Their journey was not easygoing. From learning the basics of sewing to mastering it, their story has been nothing short of inspiring. Within just three years, these Ajeevika Mission’s SHG members have made a significant mark with their skills that outperformed everyone.
Stitch that earned advanced machines and special training programs
The project has extended its reach to nearly 14 villages in the Silwani block, generating income for around 300 women. These hard-working women have dedicated themselves to the work so passionately that over 40 women are continuously engaged in sewing work at a given time.
Their hard work paid off, resulting in the initiative to attract students from IIM Indore. The Reliance Foundation has also collaborated with the SHG to provide special and advanced training in sewing techniques and handling advanced machines.
A chance to improve economic status
The introduction of advanced sewing machines has enabled these diligent women to produce over 1,28,000 school uniforms, significantly improving their economic status.
Rekha Namdev, an SHG member, shared, “The journey from having no work to becoming proficient in sewing has led me to a substantial improvement in my financial situation. Today, we stitched 1,28,000 uniforms and have made good earnings altogether.”
All members are happy and proud of their achievements.
Rajni Vishwakarma joyfully expressed, “Earlier, I was even battling to earn basic labour work. But now, joining the group has elevated me and other women to a better economic status, even reaching the stage of becoming lakhpati.”
The transformation in their lives is evident, with members highlighting the improvement in their living standards. Their association with the SHG has enabled them to earn comfortably, with members easily bringing home ₹10–12 thousand.
Purchased advanced machines from the loan
The journey began with training from the Gramin Swarojgar Training Institute (RSETI), where 85 women were trained. Twenty-six of them received loans of 30,000 rupees each. This support allowed them to purchase modern sewing machines, marking the beginning of their journey towards empowerment.
The continuous encouragement from Anju Bhadauria, the CEO of Raisen’s Zila Panchayat, has become the icing on the cake. Expressing her joy, she shared, “It is extremely grateful that these women’s capabilities are getting recognition by institutions like the Reliance Foundation. This recognition boosts their morale and marks the potential within these women to achieve great heights.
The story of these women from Silwani block is not just about sewing uniforms; it’s a narrative of empowerment, resilience, and the journey towards self-reliance. It is a testament to the fact that women can transform their lives andcommunities with the right support and opportunities. This initiative provides them with a sustainable source of income and embeds a sense of pride and confidence, proving that given the chance, women can lead the way in creating a better future for themselves and their families.
In the MahilaMoneyXRavivarVichar 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, promote diversity within the entrepreneurial landscape, and offer inspiration to fellow women.
If you are a #JiyoApneDumPe woman entrepreneur who wants to take your business to new heights and needs working capital and entrepreneurship resources, speak to us on Mahila Money. Apply for a loan of up to 25 lakhs to fuel your business growth by downloading the Mahila Money App or visiting our website http://www.mahila.money.
