Turning traditional food-making into a path to empowerment

Our Correspondent

Chamba, Updated At : 07:47 AM Nov 09, 2024 IST

Members of a SHG preparing mango pickle at village Haripur near Chamba town.

In Haripur, on the outskirts of Chamba town, a remarkable group of women is turning traditional food-making into a path to empowerment and economic independence. Under the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), the Astha Self-Help Group (SHG), formed in 2014, has become a model of self-sufficiency by producing and selling local specialties such as pickles, Chamba Chukh, papad and Badi (lentil chunks). Through this initiative, each woman earns an additional annual income of Rs 15,000 to Rs 20,000, providing essential financial support to their families.

Astha SHG’s journey doesn’t stop at economic independence; it also fosters inspiration. Motivated by their achievements, the women actively mentor and train other women in nearby villages, encouraging them to explore business opportunities through similar self-help groups.

Key achievements

Nine women’s SHGs operating under Ekta Mahila Gram Sangathan
Sixty women engaged in food production, organic farming and dairy
Annual income between Rs 15,000 and Rs 20,000 per woman
Products sold locally, statewide and nationally
Training and mentorship for other women

Impact

Economic independence for rural women
Preservation of traditional crafts
Contribution to local economy
Empowerment through self-sufficiency

Thanks to this effort, Haripur Panchayat now has a vibrant network of nine women’s SHGs, operating collectively under the Ekta Mahila Gram Sangathan. Through this organisation, nearly 60 women from various groups such as Chamunda, Asha, Raghav Jagriti, Shakti, Prarthana, Pooja, Lakshmi Narayan and Kiran SHGs are engaging in diverse business ventures, including traditional food production, organic farming and dairy.

Astha SHG Secretary Rita Devi shared the group’s inspiring story, explaining that their journey began with the Watershed Development Programme and later transitioned to NRLM in 2018. This affiliation opened doors to new resources, including specialised training in traditional food production at the Rural Self-Employment Training Institute (R-SETI) in Balu.

Equipped with new skills, the women of Astha SHG expanded their production capacity, selling their products not only locally but also across the state and country. Their offerings, which include organic and traditional foods, quickly gained popularity, finding retail outlets at Him Era shops, local fairs, exhibitions and tourist destinations across Himachal Pradesh.

Astha SHG has also successfully diversified by running the Him Era canteen at the Government Polytechnic Institute in Chamba (Sarol), proving their ability to operate various business ventures. The popularity of their products has extended beyond Himachal Pradesh, with demand growing in other states as well. The women of Astha SHG take pride in showcasing not only their skills but also the flavours and traditions of their region.

While Astha SHG’s progress has been remarkable, the group sees opportunities to grow further. They hope to secure a free retail outlet in Chamba city, which would allow them to reach a larger customer base and expand their business. Additionally, they are seeking subsidies on large-scale machinery and equipment to lower production costs and increase output. Access to these resources would enhance their ability to compete with branded products in terms of both quality and price.

Mission Executive Nisha, who oversees the NRLM in Chamba Block, highlighted the initiative’s goal of empowering rural women through skill development and entrepreneurship. Under NRLM, women in rural areas are trained and supported to pursue business opportunities, fostering self-reliance and societal respect.

The programme provides ongoing training, financial assistance, and grants of up to Rs 40,000 for each SHG, Rs15,000 for machinery and the remainder for raw materials. Most of the food products made by the SHGs use organic, locally sourced ingredients, which not only supports local agriculture but also provides healthier, more nutritious options for consumers. This commitment to quality has boosted demand for their products, further contributing to the women’s success.

With the growing market demand and sustained support from the NRLM, the women of Haripur are setting a shining example of resilience and self-sufficiency. Their journey underscores the power of community, the value of preserving traditional crafts, and the potential for rural women to drive economic growth within their region. The success of these self-help groups highlights how, with the right resources and support, rural women can transform their lives and contribute meaningfully to their communities.