Livelihood Mission transforms fortunes of women in Madhya Pradesh; how has Krishna Livelihood Group become an example of women's empowerment?
When strong determination combines with collective efforts, even limited resources can create a significant success story. Thirteen women from Kulpa village in the Lanji development block of Balaghat district have achieved just that.
By joining the Krishna Livelihood Self-Help Group, these women have not only brought prosperity to their lives but have also set a new example of women's empowerment for the entire village.
When these women started the group a few years ago, they had limited resources but high spirits. They strengthened the group by building discipline, solidarity, and regular savings. Regular meetings, monthly savings, timely loan repayments, and collective decision-making empowered the group.
In the first six months, under the guidance of the block office, the group received a revolving fund of 13,000 rupees. Economic activities, initiated with this small amount, gradually increased their self-confidence. Later, with the support of Bank Sakhi, the group received a loan of Rs 1 lakh as the first CCL, which the women invested in agricultural work and repaid with interest within 12 months.
The group received loans of Rs 2 lakh and Rs 3 lakh respectively in the second CCL. With this amount, the women started several small businesses such as goat rearing, general stores, paan shops, vegetable production, online centers, and tractor purchases. These efforts not only boosted their income but also created employment opportunities in the village.
Another Rs 3 lakh was received as the fourth CCL, with which the women expanded their businesses. Additionally, they received a CIF amount of Rs 1,10,000 from the village organization, which was used for important activities such as agriculture and education.
Many women in the group are earning good incomes
Today, many women in the group are earning good incomes. Vachla Dussehra's monthly income has reached approximately 20,000 rupees, Pustkala Verma's 25,000 rupees, Rambati Damahe and Imala Shende's 15,000 rupees, and Vimala Nagpure's 8,000 rupees. Other members also earn Rs 4,000 to 5,000 monthly from goat rearing and agriculture.
Neera used the support and loans to educate her three daughters
The most inspiring story from this group is that of Neera Dussehra. She used the support and loans she received from the group to educate her three daughters. Today, all three of her daughters are employed and earning approximately 1 lakh rupees per month. These women from Kulpa village are proving that when women organize and move forward, they can not only transform their families' economic situation but also spread a new light of self-reliance and empowerment throughout society.