- Overcoming financial hardship, she became self-reliant and was recognized through the Aajeevika Mission.
The government-run Aajeevika Mission is bringing positive changes in the lives of women in rural areas. Under this mission, women are being linked to self-employment by forming self-help groups. Through training, financial assistance, and market linkages, women are now standing on their own feet. Mrs. Sarupi Meena, a resident of Ratanpur Girdhari village in Sanchi development block of Raisen district, has not only become financially self-reliant by joining the Aajeevika Mission, but is also a source of inspiration for other women in the area. Mrs. Sarupi Meena is running a Rural Mart in Sanchi. Along with this, she has also created a distinct identity for herself by the name of Drone Didi.
Sarupi Meena emerged from financial hardship and became self-reliant.
Mrs. Sarupi Meena explained that she was educated up to the 10th grade. Her husband worked in agriculture, which barely provided for the family. Due to poor financial circumstances, she was unable to pursue further education, even though she had a strong desire. A few years ago, Aajeevika Mission staff visited the village and encouraged women to join a self-help group. At the time, Sarupi Meena was unemployed and looking for opportunities to advance. Despite financial constraints, she decided to join the group.
After joining the group, she began regular savings and resumed her studies with a loan from the group. Additionally, she began working as a CRP (Community Resource Person), conducting group formation and survey work, earning her an honorarium. With the help of the loan and honorarium she received from the group, she opened a grocery store. Furthermore, she was given the opportunity to work as a Bank Sakhi, which also led to her group’s CCL (Cash Credit Limit). Through all these activities, her monthly income reached 4,000 to 5,000 rupees. Later, she also began operating a CSC center, which further increased her income. Through continued hard work and dedication, Mrs. Sarupi Meena continued her education and completed her graduation.
- Recognition from Livelihood Mission, increased income through drone technology
Due to Mrs. Sarupi Meena’s dedication and hard work, she was given the opportunity to manage a Rural Mart in Sanchi. She sells products from Didi groups and other items at the Rural Mart. Additionally, Mrs. Sarupi Meena benefited from the Namo Drone Scheme in 2023-24. She explained that after being selected for the Namo Drone Scheme, she received drone training in Gwalior. She was subsequently provided with a free drone. An engineer from the company also provided her with complete drone training. Afterward, she began spraying pesticides in fields using the drone, earning approximately three lakh rupees annually. Mrs. Sarupi Meena, thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, says that the Aajeevika Mission is playing a crucial role in empowering women economically. This has not only empowered women but also increased their respect in society.