National Rural Livelihood Mission is Strengthening Women’s Economic Standing
Women in Una district are securing financial independence by joining Self-Help Groups (SHGs) under the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM). These groups empower women to produce high-quality food items such as pickles, sepu badi, masala badi, papad, turmeric, honey, black wheat porridge, flour, chutney, and natural corn flour. Not only are these products rich in nutrition, but their popularity is also increasing in local and out-of-state markets, boosting women’s financial stability.
SHG-produced goods are not limited to local sales; they are also showcased at Himaira Shops and various fairs across districts, states, and even neighboring regions. This exposure has helped women receive fair market value for their hard work and significantly improved their economic standing.
Success Story of Radhe Krishna Group
Neelam Devi, a member of Radhe Krishna Group from Gram Panchayat Takarla, shared how ten women formed this group under NRLM in 2011. They initially saved small amounts in the bank but later secured a ₹5 lakh loan and a ₹15,000 revolving fund from the Central Bank of India at a low interest rate to expand their work.
Neelam highlighted that the group has registered with the Indian Food Safety and Standard Authority, ensuring their products meet quality standards. As a result, their goods are now sold in major cities like Delhi, Gurgaon, Chandigarh, and Dehradun, significantly increasing their income. The group’s profits have enabled Neelam to support her husband’s shop business and finance her children’s education.
Group Secretary’s Perspective
Radhe Krishna Group Secretary Jeevan Lata recalled how they started with just ₹20 in savings. Over time, women in the group secured bank loans to buy cows, allowing them to generate income by selling milk, curd, cheese, and ghee. Their participation in fairs, including one in Delhi, earned them ₹2 lakh, while the SARS fairs in Himachal Pradesh brought in another ₹1.5 lakh. Encouraged by their success, the group now plans to expand its product range by introducing momos and siddu.
Training and Government Support
Neelam Devi emphasized that the group received specialized training in Mashobra to improve product quality. Additionally, the district administration recognized their efforts with an NRLM certification, while the Ministry of Rural Development honored them with the Lakhpati Didi commendation in 2024.
A Model for Community Empowerment
Neelam urges other women to join self-help groups, as these initiatives not only strengthen financial stability but also contribute to rural development and women’s empowerment.
The National Rural Livelihood Mission, in collaboration with the district administration, is making concerted efforts to enhance women’s financial independence. More women are being encouraged to join SHGs to increase their participation in the rural economy and secure their future.
Government’s Commitment to Women Empowerment
Project Officer DRDA Una, KL Verma, stated that Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu’s directive has led to the formation of 2,788 self-help groups in Una district. These groups have collectively received ₹9.85 crore through Startup Funds, Revolving Funds, and Community Investment Funds, enabling them to thrive and become self-reliant.
This initiative is playing a pivotal role in reshaping women’s economic landscape, fostering entrepreneurship, and ensuring financial security for countless families across Himachal Pradesh.
