How Did Sunita Patel Transform from Teacher to Entrepreneur Under NULM?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Sunita Patel's journey highlights the potential of self-help groups.
- NULM plays a crucial role in empowering women economically.
- Collaboration among women can lead to successful business ventures.
- Government initiatives can significantly uplift marginalized communities.
- Women can achieve financial independence through entrepreneurship.
Jaunpur, Sep 27 (NationPress) In the vibrant city of Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh, a transformative shift is unfolding. The lives of women are experiencing a profound metamorphosis, with their aspirations becoming a tangible reality. This remarkable change is largely attributed to the National Urban Livelihood Mission (NULM), a pivotal initiative aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. The inspiring tale of Sunita Patel, hailing from the Matupar locality in the Line Bazaar area, has captured the town's attention.
Sunita Patel’s transition from a private school teacher earning a modest Rs 3,000 monthly salary to a flourishing entrepreneur is nothing short of extraordinary. In a conversation with IANS, Sunita recounted her experience teaching at a local college, where she worked alongside a colleague who later became an Anganwadi worker. It was this colleague who introduced her to the concept of women’s self-help groups (SHGs) and inspired her to join one.
Recognizing the potential, Sunita took the initiative to form her own group. She rallied ten women and successfully established an SHG. Through this collective, they secured a loan of Rs 1 lakh from a bank, which enabled them to launch a small workshop for making purses and bags.
Today, this workshop generates approximately Rs 15,000 per month. The women collaborate to craft stylish and affordable purses.
“We sell each purse at Rs 90 wholesale and Rs 140 at retail,” Sunita elaborates. “Currently, during the festive season, demand is soaring. We’re receiving bulk orders from jewelry shops and other retailers.”
They source raw materials from local markets in Machhlishahr and Lucknow, and for larger orders, they even import materials from Delhi.
Sunita expresses her gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the transformation in her life. “What Modi Ji has done for women is truly commendable,” she shares emotionally.
“In the past, we women remained marginalized. Even in private employment, we toiled for little compensation and frequently encountered exploitation. But now, thanks to the opportunities provided, we no longer need to rely on others for assistance. We can earn according to our efforts.”
With heartfelt gratitude, Sunita concludes, “I thank Modi Ji from the depths of my heart. No one has considered women in the way he has.”