Kangra women script success story through self-reliance

The Self-Help Groups (SHGs) initiated by the Department of Rural Development in Kangra are transforming the lives of rural women, enabling them to become self-reliant. Women who once had no independent source of income are now running their families through small businesses established with the help of these groups.

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Megha Devi, a resident of Sullah village in Kangra district, is one such inspiring example. Coming from a modest background, she struggled to meet the daily expenses of her family due to her husband’s limited income. The financial burden made it difficult for her to support her children’s education. In search of a solution, she joined the Shri Ganesh Self-Help Group in her village, which turned out to be a life-changing decision.

Through the National Rural Livelihood Mission, Megha Devi received training in the manufacturing of duna pattal (leaf plates and bowls), a traditional business with high demand in the market. With government support and proper guidance, she started her own business. Today, Megha Devi earns between Rs 15,000 to Rs 20,000 per month, and her products are recognised beyond her local area. From struggling to meet basic needs, she has now become a millionaire, proving that financial independence is achievable with determination and support.

Another inspiring figure, Sanju Kumari from Markoti village in Rait block, has also transformed her life through sheer dedication and hard work. Previously without a stable source of income, she joined the Shiv Shakti Self-Help Group, where she received training in making bamboo products under the National Rural Livelihood Mission.

Sanju Kumari mastered the craft of bamboo handicrafts, and today, her products are in high demand in local markets. Her monthly earnings have increased to Rs 20,000, allowing her to support her family and fund her children’s education. Like Megha Devi, Sanju Kumari has also achieved financial success, becoming a millionaire through self-employment. She now aims to train other women in her area, helping them become self-reliant by learning bamboo craftsmanship.

Kangra Deputy Commissioner Hemraj Bairwa highlighted that over 8,000 self-help groups are operating in the district, with thousands of women engaged in businesses such as sewing, knitting, agricultural processing, animal husbandry and handicrafts. He emphasised that under the National Rural Livelihood Mission, women receive revolving funds, startup funds and training from the government. This initiative not only boosts their financial independence but also empowers them socially by enabling them to participate in decision-making processes.

The success stories of Megha Devi and Sanju Kumari demonstrate the transformative power of self-help groups. By utilising government schemes and training programmes, these women have become role models in their communities, inspiring others to achieve financial independence.