UP Women Success Story: Self-help groups (SHGs) are bringing a big change in the lives of women in the villages of Uttar Pradesh. Usha Devi of Gorakhpur, who was once troubled to meet the household expenses, is today managing her business and is showing the path of employment to other women too. His story shows that with the right opportunity, some financial help and strong willpower, the direction of life can be changed.
Usha Devi, a resident of Naharpur village in Chargaon block of Gorakhpur, was facing financial challenges about four years ago. The family’s income was limited and there was no permanent source of income to run the household. During this time, she got information about self-help groups from some women from the neighboring village. She encouraged Usha to join the group and connect other women too. Usha Devi did not let this opportunity slip away.
After joining SHG, he got information related to savings, banking, loans and self-employment. Gradually his confidence increased and he decided to pursue his own business.
Loan of Rs 1.50 lakh changed the picture of business
July 2022 brought an important turning point for Usha Devi. He got a loan of about Rs 1.50 lakh through a self-help group. He used this amount to strengthen his grocery shop and expand his business. Today his shop is fulfilling the daily needs of the village people. Due to continuous hard work and better management, the shop has become a source of regular income for the family. Usha Devi has been running this business for the last four years.
130 women associated with 9 groups
Usha Devi’s achievements are not limited to her business only. She is also currently working as a group friend. About 9 self-help groups are running under his leadership, with which about 130 women are associated. Women of these groups are doing different work according to their choice and ability. Some are rearing goats, while others are increasing their income through dairy or poultry farming. Many women are strengthening the economic condition of their families through tailoring and small business.
Women’s confidence increased with self-reliance
Usha Devi believes that self-help groups not only provided financial help to women, but also gave them the confidence to take their own decisions and move forward. Women who were earlier confined to home, are now making their own identity in the family and society with their earnings.
Rural women are getting opportunities from NRLM
The objective of the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) is to increase livelihood opportunities by organizing rural families, especially women, through self-help groups. Opportunities to connect with savings, loans, training and self-employment are helping women become economically stronger. The story of Usha Devi is an example of this change. Apart from becoming self-reliant herself, she has also given a platform to other women to move forward.