From Homemakers to Breadwinners: How Navjyoti SHG is Rewriting Rural Women’s Destiny

Sihan Village, Himachal Pradesh – In the quiet lanes of Sihan village, a quiet revolution is brewing. A group of women, once confined to their kitchens, are now running a thriving enterprise, stitching dreams together—one badana (puffed rice snack) at a time.

Meet the women of Navjyoti Self-Help Group (SHG)—farmers’ wives, mothers, and daughters who refused to let their talents go unnoticed. With nimble fingers and unyielding determination, they’ve turned traditional skills like sewing, embroidery, and snack-making into a sustainable livelihood.

A Kitchen Turned Workshop

What started as a small circle of women exchanging recipes and stitching tips has now blossomed into a full-fledged business. Their homemade badana, badiyan, and handcrafted kumkum are no longer just household staples—they’re in demand as far as Shimla, Chandigarh, and even Dehradun.

“Earlier, we hesitated to step out. Now, we’re the ones bringing money home,” beams Madhuri Gupta, the group’s president. “When our snacks sold out at the Shimla fair, we realized—we’re not just making food, we’re building futures.”

When Government Schemes Meet Grit

The women credit their success to training and seed funding from NRLM (National Rural Livelihood Mission) and the state’s Women and Child Development Department. With sewing machines, skill workshops, and market access, they’ve gone from struggling to self-sufficient—each member now earning ₹10,000–12,000 monthly.

But the real win? Breaking stereotypes.

“People used to say, ‘What can women do except cook?’ Now, they ask for our business advice,” laughs Navin Lata Gupta, the group’s secretary.

A Ripple Effect

The SHG’s success has sparked a movement. Neighboring villages are forming similar groups, and local officials are taking note.

“Navjyoti proves that when women get support, they don’t just rise—they lift entire communities,” says Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan.

As dusk falls over Sihan, the women pack orders for the next market day. Their hands are busy, but their smiles are brighter. Because today, they’re not just homemakers—they’re changemakers.

“Ab ghar ka kharcha hum uthate hain,” (“Now, we handle household expenses”) says Madhuri, her voice ringing with pride. And in that simple statement lies a revolution.

What’s Next?
The group plans to expand online sales and train more rural women. “If we can do it, anyone can,” they say.

[Your Name] is a rural development enthusiast documenting grassroots change. Follow for more stories of unsung heroes.

Why This Matters

• Economic Independence: 12+ women earning stable incomes.
• Preserving Tradition: Reviving local crafts and recipes.
• Rural Role Models: Inspiring neighboring villages.

#WomenEmpowerment #RuralSuccess #HimachalStories