Empowering Rural Women through Collective Action: A Case Study on Mushroom Cultivation
In the heart of a rural village, the Budhakata Forest Protection Committee witnessed the remarkable journey of two families’ female members, Suchitra Bariha and Gulapi Singh, who transformed their humble homes into thriving agricultural enterprises. Their resolute determination not only uplifted their own families economically but also ignited inspiration among fellow villagers. Despite facing initial hardships, both families contemplated innovative strategies to alleviate financial distress and embarked on cultivating mushroom and rose farming within their households.
With minimal resources, they sought encouragement from their community and actively participated in the Budhakata Forest Protection Committee’s Self-help group meetings. Through collaborative efforts, they gathered essential agricultural knowledge and facts to cultivate mushrooms efficiently. Additionally, they established their own mushroom cultivation units, collecting mushrooms from nearby areas initiated sales.
By December 2021, they proudly presented 90 units of mushrooms and 30 units of rose farming. With diligent efforts, they began sales from their homes and the Budhakata village. Within the past two months, they recorded a remarkable profit, selling 5400 units of mushrooms and incurring a total expense of 10400 rupees, resulting in a net profit of 6600 rupees. Similarly, with 30 units of rose farming, they incurred expenses of 2000 rupees and sold 10500 units, yielding a net profit of 8500 rupees.
Their success extended further as they applied for subsidies through the Department of Horticulture, receiving 1500 rupees each. Moreover, they received assistance from the Horticulture department , Kutra, and the State Plan Input Subsidy . Empowered by their newfound enterprise, they promised to extend a helping hand to fellow villagers through the Budhakata Forest Protection Committee’s initiatives.
The present self-help group members of the village are now actively engaging in gathering necessary information and enhancing their knowledge and skills. They are poised to contribute to the collective growth of their community.
