How are Chamoli's women transforming local produce into thriving livelihoods under NRLM?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Women empowerment through self-help groups is transforming rural livelihoods.
- The NRLM program significantly boosts family incomes.
- Local products are gaining popularity, enhancing community economic stability.
- Collective marketing strategies are proving effective in maximizing profits.
- Grassroots initiatives can lead to profound community upliftment.
New Delhi, Nov 26 (NationPress) In the isolated Nandanagar block of Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, women are crafting an inspiring tale of self-sufficiency and rural entrepreneurship through the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM). Beneficiaries from women’s self-help groups (SHGs) report that this government initiative has not only fortified their livelihoods but also substantially enhanced their family incomes, allowing them to achieve independence with dignity.
Across the villages in Nandanagar, SHG members are engaged in the production and sale of a diverse array of traditional mountain products—pahadi pulses, pickles, juices, incense sticks, faran, cumin, Himalayan salt, and items crafted from wool.
These locally crafted products are increasingly popular among both locals and tourists, with many choosing to buy them “hands-on,” impressed by their quality and authenticity.
The surge in sales has significantly boosted the confidence of these women, who describe the scheme as a “blessing” for their households.
Laxmi Devi, a participant from Nandanagar, shared with IANS, “I come from Nandanagar. Today, because of this mission, all women are engaged in work. We are grateful to the government for empowering underprivileged women. We have pooled our goods and reached a larger market, and we will continue this endeavor.”
Another participant, Mamta Devi, expressed her joy over the opportunities created under NRLM, stating that the mission has paved the way for economic independence, inspiring women to elevate their skills.
Resident Bhawan Singh Negi remarked on the transformative impact of the scheme in the region. “In our community, numerous women have advanced thanks to this initiative. They have secured jobs by producing and marketing pahari products—rajma, soyabean, millets, and more. Through their SHGs, they gather these products, market them collectively, and earn profits ranging from Rs 50,000 to Rs 1 lakh,” he told IANS.
With growing demand and collaborative marketing efforts, the women of Nandanagar are emerging as a beacon of empowerment—demonstrating how grassroots initiatives can invigorate rural economies and uplift entire communities.