Self-reliance is not only a means of economic empowerment, but also an opportunity to give new recognition to one’s skills and local resources. The women of the women’s self-help groups in Korba district are steadily moving forward in this direction through their hard work, creativity, and innovation. The Prasanna Self-Help Group of Bela Kachhar, Dondro Panchayat, is an example of such an inspiring initiative, where the women have created attractive Rakhis using local resources.
- ’22-member group associated with Bihan since 2018′
The Prasanna Self Help Group has been promoting women’s empowerment and livelihood activities through its partnership with Bihan since 2018. The group has a total of 22 members. The women in the group produce a variety of products tailored to the season and demand, including wicks, incense sticks, cosmetics, and textiles. Over time, the women in the group have expanded their income opportunities by adding new products to their workspace.
In view of the festival of Rakshabandhan, the women in the group have showcased their creativity and infused traditional Rakhi with a local touch. Rakhis made from local and natural resources such as paddy, barley, sago, and rice have become a special attraction among the people. The uniqueness of these Rakhis lies not only in their beauty, but also in the women’s skill behind them and their vision for optimal utilization of local resources. These Rakhis, prepared by the women in the group, are not only promoting local products but also strengthening the spirit of women entrepreneurship.
The group’s sisters, Mrs. Neetu Karsh and Mrs. Meera Devangan, set up a Rakhi stall in the Collectorate premises. They displayed a variety of handmade Rakhis. Collector Mr. Kunal Dudawat visited the stall and purchased Rakhis. He praised the group’s efforts and skills, encouraging them. Collector Mr. Dudawat’s encouragement has given the sisters increased confidence in improving their products and pursuing new initiatives in the future.
- Mahatari Vandan Yojana became an economic support
The sisters of the Prasanna Self Help Group stated that they are receiving financial support from the Mahatari Vandan Yojana. They are using the funds under the scheme to meet their needs as well as for their work and livelihood activities. The sisters stated that they have received 30 installments of the scheme so far. The regular financial assistance has provided them with considerable relief and support in advancing their small and large endeavors. The funds received from the scheme have not only provided them financial support but also boosted their self-confidence.
On the occasion of Rakshabandhan, the sisters from the group also prepared a special Rakhi for Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai. The sisters expressed their gratitude to the Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai for the continued financial support they receive from the Mahatari Vandan Yojana.
- ‘The path to self-reliance through skill, hard work and opportunity’
The story of the Prasanna Self Help Group demonstrates that when women are given the opportunity, training, and support of programs to work together, they can turn their skills into a strong source of livelihood. From rakhis to other products made from locally sourced materials, the women in the group are working tirelessly to promote local products and promote progress towards self-reliance.