Navsari, March 7 (NationPress) Asmita Patel, hailing from Soldhara village in Chikhli Taluka of Navsari district, has successfully launched a thriving rural business that generates an impressive annual revenue of Rs 10.20 lakh while simultaneously creating job opportunities for 10 women in her community.

Her enterprise, which includes honey production, pickles, ragi (finger millet) products, baked goods, and organic food items, showcases the remarkable potential of rural self-sufficiency and women's empowerment.

Growing up in a farming family, Asmita acquired knowledge in agriculture and animal husbandry early in life. After losing her father while pursuing an Art Teacher Diploma, she was determined to continue her education with the support of her progressive in-laws, ultimately earning a Bachelor of Arts degree. "Even during tough times, I believed that education and self-improvement could unlock new opportunities," she shared.

Confronted with limited farming income, Asmita explored alternative income sources. In 2010-11, she completed a beekeeping course and began producing honey for local markets.

In 2014, she further enhanced her skills by completing a bakery course at Navsari Agricultural University, adding to her diverse skill set.

By 2015, with the assistance of rural development officials, Asmita established the 'Sahyadri Sakhi Mandal' with 10 women. The group initially produced pickles from mango, lemon, and karonda (carissa carandas), along with seasonal products.

Financial support through the Mission Mangalam scheme, which provided a revolving fund of Rs 15,000, enabled them to broaden their production line to include ragi-based products, papad, biscuits, and flour.

Later, a business loan of Rs 2,00,000 facilitated the acquisition of turmeric processing and grinding machinery, allowing for the production of organic turmeric powder.

Currently, the members of Sahyadri Sakhi Mandal divide tasks based on their skills.

Some are responsible for honey packaging and processing at home, while others focus on producing pickles, amla candy, ragi wafers, and bamboo crafts. Their products are sold locally and showcased at both state and national agricultural fairs.

Reflecting on her journey, Asmita remarked: "Just as the strength of a tree is anchored in its roots, our group has flourished when provided with opportunities."

She attributes the success of her self-help group to a blend of traditional knowledge, natural resources, and community collaboration. Her accomplishments have gained national recognition.

Under the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), Asmita has been acknowledged for her initiatives in promoting rural self-reliance and empowering women.

She has had the privilege of meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi three times and has received the prestigious Krushi Ratna Award from the Gujarat government.

In 2015, she was also honored with the Atma Award by the District Agricultural Technology Management Agency.

Notably, the upcoming Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference (VGRC) will take place in Surat this April, aimed at connecting local women's self-help groups and rural entrepreneurs with larger markets.

This platform will provide opportunities for women entrepreneurs like Asmita to showcase their talents and explore new business avenues.

Today, Asmita is recognized as a respected leader and guiding figure within her community.

She credits her success to the support provided through Mission Mangalam and the government's efforts to uplift women in rural regions.