Empowered Women in Haryana's Self-Help Groups Achieve Financial Independence

Karnal, Dec 11 (NationPress) The women from self-help groups who showcased their products at the exhibition held at ICAR-IIWBR in Karnal, Haryana, spoke about their transformation into self-reliant individuals and the notable increase in their earnings.
Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan laid the foundation stone for the Natural Agriculture Laboratory at the Indian Institute of Wheat and Barley Research (IIWBR), part of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) in Karnal, Haryana, on Wednesday.
Women from various districts of Haryana participating in the exhibition are thriving in their entrepreneurial ventures supported by government initiatives, leading to a rise in their incomes. Many of these women have now become 'Lakhpati Didi' as their annual earnings have surpassed Rs 1 lakh. Through diverse jobs, they have built confidence and are now capable of supporting themselves while also caring for their families.
These women operate different groups within their villages. Some are engaged in bag making, while others specialize in sewing. Additionally, there are those who produce pickles, jams, and chutneys free from chemicals, generating income by selling their products through various channels.
Some members craft earthen pots, earning money through their sales. The initiatives begun by these women through self-help groups have soared to new heights. Not only are they boosting their income, but they are also proudly identifying as 'Lakhpati Didi'.
'Lakhpati Didi' Balbiro mentioned, “We are part of a group focused on making and stitching bags. Our group comprises 400 women from the Ambala district, named 'Upkar'. Ten of us have come here today.”
Another participant, Savitri, shared that she is involved in earthen pot production. “We create cups, plates, and bowls. Our group, called 'Chand', consists of 12 women from the Nuh district. With government support, our income has seen a boost.”
Usha, affiliated with the self-help group 'Saraswati', stated, “From Kurukshetra district, our group specializes in making pickles, jams, and chutneys without chemicals. We have 10 women in our group and operate 32 groups in total. The income for all women in our group has also improved.”