How is a Self-Help Group in Prayagraj Empowering Women?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Empowerment: The initiative is empowering women to become self-reliant.
- Eco-Friendly Products: They are creating sustainable idols and decorative items.
- Community Growth: The group has expanded significantly since its inception.
- Creative Expression: Women are exploring their creative sides through this venture.
- Financial Independence: The initiative provides avenues for earning from home.
Prayagraj, July 26 (NationPress) A women's self-help group in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj has created a remarkable model of women's empowerment, transforming their lives and serving as a beacon of inspiration for many.
In line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for women empowerment, and under the auspices of the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), these women are crafting eco-friendly idols of Lord Shiva and his family, diya (earthen lamps), and other decorative items based on demand.
The members of the SHG informed IANS that they are producing idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati using cow dung cakes and soil as the Teej Mahotsav and the sacred month of Sawan or Shravan is upon us.
They also mentioned making Ganesh idols for the upcoming Ganpati festival.
An SHG member, Vartika Trivedi, stated that the products they create are eco-friendly. "Even if the idols are not immersed in the Ganges after worship, they can be utilized as compost in gardens," she remarked.
Trivedi expressed that she was motivated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Aatmanirbhar initiative and aspired to create something of her own.
Reflecting on her four-year journey, she shared, "We began with a modest team of five, and it has grown rapidly. The demand for our products is increasing. Our items received a positive response even during the Maha Kumbh."
She highlighted that the initiative has empowered them to become self-sufficient. The women can now generate income from the comfort of their homes, Trivedi noted.
Another member, Kajol Kesarvani, stated that PM Modi envisions providing employment to every woman and empowering them. She added that aside from empowerment, it has also unveiled their creative abilities.
Importantly, NRLM is a poverty alleviation initiative implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development. It focuses on organizing the underprivileged into SHGs and equipping them for self-employment. For these women in Prayagraj, it has unlocked avenues for financial independence and dignity.