Empowering Tribal Women: A Tale of Economic Transformation in Khajurijharan Bana

Introduction

Khajurijharan Bana Surakhya Samiti, situated within the Sundargarh FMU of Sundargarh Forest Division, is a community comprising 68 households, all belonging to the scheduled tribe community. Facing economic challenges, the families relied on daily wage labor and fell under the BPL category.

Background

Despite the presence of six women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in the VSS, there was a lack of income-generating activities (IGAs) due to factors such as insufficient knowledge, skills, and irregular meetings.

Project Intervention

With the intervention of OFSDP-II, the project staff initiated regular meetings and savings practices within the VSS area. They provided awareness on various IGAs for economic growth and facilitated skill development training in tailoring and vermicompost production through KVK and ITDA. Additionally, financial assistance of two thousand rupees was provided for the construction of vermicompost tanks.

Outcome

The SHGs have now embraced sustainable economic activities, achieving self-sufficiency and prosperity. Producing one quintal of compost per month in each of the four tanks, they sell it in the local market at Rs 15 per kg, earning a monthly income of Rs 6000. Moreover, one SHG undertakes tailoring orders from the local market, generating a monthly profit of Rs 10,000.

Conclusion

The transformation of the SHGs in Khajurijharan Bana has not only brought them social and economic recognition but has also made them a source of inspiration for other SHGs within the VSSs. Their journey stands as a testament to the empowering potential of community-led initiatives and sustainable development interventions.