Bihar's Ankur Abhishek Transforms Unemployment into Opportunity with Pasta Business Under PMEGP
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Patna, March 19 (NationPress) Ankur Abhishek, hailing from Husainabad village in the Sheikhpura district of Bihar, has become a prominent figure due to his pasta business, which has transitioned from a modest shop to a thriving enterprise with orders coming in from nearby areas.
The pasta restaurant he established after losing his previous job has not only redefined Ankur's identity but has also brought significant attention to his village for its unique culinary offerings.
With support from the Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP), Ankur has successfully launched a sustainable business while creating job opportunities for local youth.
Before venturing into entrepreneurship, he was employed at a private company in Delhi, earning a substantial salary and enjoying a comfortable lifestyle. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 drastically changed his circumstances. During the lockdown, he had to return to his hometown.
Upon his return, he faced prolonged unemployment and was unable to secure a new job. Faced with these challenges, he began contemplating starting his own business.
He sought information from the District Industries Department about various government initiatives, which led him to discover the Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP).
This scheme offers government subsidies ranging between 15% to 35%, alongside bank loans, to help establish small and medium enterprises. It provides financial aid of up to Rs 25 lakh for projects of similar value, empowering young entrepreneurs to launch their own businesses.
Ankur decided to pursue a pasta manufacturing venture and applied for the PMEGP scheme. Once approved, he acquired a pasta-making machine and began production on a small scale. Through hard work and dedication, his business gradually flourished.
Today, his pasta production facility has transformed from a small outlet to a mini-enterprise, producing pasta daily for distribution to markets in neighboring districts, including Nawada, Munger, Nalanda, and Lakhisarai. The demand has consistently risen, leading to impressive profits for his business.
Ankur shares that although he encountered numerous obstacles initially, he persevered. Currently, his factory employs around 8 to 9 workers.
He attributes his success to the PMEGP scheme and expresses gratitude to the Prime Minister, highlighting that this initiative is a remarkable opportunity for young entrepreneurs like himself.