How Did Rajasthan’s Sapna Prajapati Become a Model of the PM SVANidhi Scheme?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Sapna Prajapati turned adversity into opportunity through entrepreneurship.
- The PM SVANidhi scheme provides vital financial support to street vendors.
- Community empowerment can lead to significant economic impact.
- Micro-credit initiatives are essential during crises.
- Government support plays a crucial role in uplifting local businesses.
New Delhi, June 1 (NationPress) The five-year milestone of the PM Street Vendor’s Atmanirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) has showcased extraordinary achievements as numerous beneficiaries have shared their transformative journeys, illustrating how the scheme has provided them with much-needed stability amid the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
One such remarkable example is Sapna Prajapati from Rajasthan. Initially starting a small mask-making venture during the pandemic, she has successfully expanded it into a thriving business, employing many women from her village. Her evolution is a testament to her unwavering determination and contributes significantly to the Atmanirbhar initiative.
Modi Story, a well-known social media platform on X, highlighted her journey to commemorate the fifth anniversary of the PM SVANidhi scheme's launch in 2020. The platform shared a video showcasing her discussing the financial support available through the scheme, which has been crucial in preventing the downfall of countless small business owners.
Reflecting on her path, Sapna reveals that her dream of entrepreneurship faced setbacks due to the pandemic.
“During the pandemic, I learned about the PM SVANidhi scheme and applied for assistance. With the sanctioned loan, I purchased a sewing machine. Inspired by PM Modi’s call for Vocal for Local, we created mask samples, which received approval. Subsequently, we secured a Rs 16 lakh order for the production of PPE kits and hospital bedsheets, which involved a group of around 40 women.
She reminisced about her conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating that his uplifting words encouraged them to contribute positively to society and take extra steps for social causes.
In a video interaction with PM SVANidhi beneficiaries two years prior, PM Modi commended her initiative.
She fondly recalls the moment when PM Modi remarked, ‘Sapna ji, you look like a leader’.
Importantly, this micro-credit scheme was initiated by the Centre to empower street vendors.
Launched on June 1, 2020, amid the Covid-19 pandemic by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, the scheme offers collateral-free loans of up to Rs 50,000 for eligible street vendors in incremental amounts.
Loans are provided in three phases: the first tranche of Rs 10,000, the second tranche of Rs 20,000 contingent on the repayment of the first tranche, and the third tranche of Rs 50,000 upon repayment of the second loan.