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New Delhi, Nov 26 (IANS) Women from the remote Nandanagar block of Chamoli district in Uttarakhand are writing a remarkable story of self-reliance and rural entrepreneurship under the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM).
Beneficiaries of women self-help groups (SHGs) say the government-run program has not only strengthened their livelihoods but also significantly improved their family incomes, enabling them to stand on their feet with dignity.
In the villages of Nandanagar, SHG members are producing and selling a wide range of traditional Pahari products – Pahari pulses, pickles, juices, incense sticks, faran, cumin, Himalayan salt and wool-based items.
There is a strong demand for these locally made products among residents as well as visitors, with many impressed by their quality and authenticity and buying them immediately.
The rising sales have boosted the confidence of women, who say the scheme has proved to be a “blessing” for their families.
Lakshmi Devi, a beneficiary from Nandanagar, told IANS: “I am a resident of Nandanagar. Today all the women are working because of this mission. We thank the government for empowering the poor women. We have collected our goods and reached such a big market and we will continue this work.”
Another beneficiary Mamta Devi also expressed happiness over the opportunities created under NRLM. She said the mission has opened doors to economic independence, inspiring women to take their skills to the next level.
Resident Bhawan Singh Negi said the scheme has changed the fortunes of the area. “In our area, many women have taken off because of this scheme. They have got employment by producing and selling hill products – rajma, soybean, millet and other products. Through their SHG, they collect these products, market them together and earn profits ranging from Rs 50,000 to Rs 1 lakh,” she told IANS.
With increasing demand and mass marketing, the women of Nandanagar are emerging as a model of empowerment – proving how grassroots initiatives can strengthen rural economies and uplift entire communities.
–IANS
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