- From struggle to success: Rita Minj of Vasundhara Women’s Self-Help Group changes her fortune with bus transport business
It is said that with hard work, confidence, and the right guidance, every dream can come true. Rita Minj, a resident of Chanwaridand village in the Manendragarh development block, has proven this to be true. Once struggling with limited resources and financial constraints, Rita Minj has now, with the help of Bihan (Chhattisgarh State Rural Livelihood Mission), become not only financially independent but also a source of inspiration for women in her village and surrounding areas. Today, her business, “Minj Bus Transport,” has become a new example of success.
Rita Minj is an active member of the Vasundhara Women’s Self-Help Group, formed on July 12, 2017. The group comprises 10 women who, while supporting each other, explored new livelihood opportunities. Through the Bihan Mission, the group received training, financial assistance, and the necessary guidance to start a business, which laid a strong foundation for positive change in these women’s lives.
Initially, Rita Minj, like a typical rural woman, was confined to family responsibilities. The family’s financial situation was not strong, and limited sources of income left her worried about the future. At this time, she resolved to transform her life by joining the Bihan Yojana. Group meetings, training programs, and financial literacy instilled in her the confidence that, with the right guidance, she could establish her own business.
Under the Bihan Yojana, her group initially received a revolving fund (RF) of 15,000 rupees. This was followed by a Community Investment Fund (CIF) of 60,000 rupees and a bank loan ( Bank Linkage ) of 3 lakh rupees. With all this financial support, Rita Minj also invested herself and expanded her business. With an initial investment of approximately 140,000 rupees, she started “Minj Bus Transport,” a business that transformed her life.
Today, Rita Minj’s bus transport business is successfully operating, generating a monthly income of approximately 80,000 rupees. This has not only strengthened her family’s financial situation but also made meeting their needs easier. Now, she no longer needs to rely on moneylenders or private lenders for daily needs or business.
Rita Minj’s success is not just a personal achievement, but has become an inspiring example for women throughout the village. Seeing her, many women are joining self-help groups and moving towards self-reliance through self-employment. She also periodically participates in group meetings to inspire other women about business, savings, and self-reliance.
With the support of Bihan Mission officials and the group, Rita Minj has proven that with strong willpower and proper utilization of government schemes, even rural women can achieve big dreams. Today, her transportation business has become not only a source of income but also a symbol of women’s empowerment.
Rita Minj believes that the Bihan Yojana not only provided financial assistance but also gave her the confidence to stand on her own feet. Today, she runs her business with dignity and inspires other women to move forward.
The success of the Vasundhara Mahila Self-Help Group sends the message that by taking full advantage of government schemes, rural women can also become economically empowered, increase their family income, and establish a new identity in society. This inspiring journey of Rita Minj is a living example of self-reliance, self-confidence, and success not only for the women of Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur district, but for the women of the entire state.
