With active participation of women, the Rural Ajeevika Mission in Madhya Pradesh is being implemented effectively. As a result, women from Pipliya Karadiya village in Mandsaur district have scripted an inspiring story of self-reliance.
The ‘Maharana Self-Help Group’ is not only strengthening its own economic condition but is also generating employment opportunities for others. The women of the group have developed expertise in producing natural and flavorful juices and shakes. Their products include lemon, jeera, ginger-lemon, raw mango and amla juices, along with milkshakes such as badam shake, rajbhog and shahi gulab shake, which are gaining significant popularity among customers.
Under the Rural Livelihood Mission, the group received financial support in the form of a bank loan of Rs 5 lakh, a Community Investment Fund of Rs 1.5 lakh, and a revolving fund of Rs 10,000. This assistance has played a crucial role in strengthening and expanding their business.
Products Reach Delhi and Chandigarh
With guidance and support from the Livelihood Mission, the group has expanded beyond the local level to establish a presence at the national level. By participating in fairs organized in cities such as Ujjain, Bhopal, Delhi, Noida, Surat, Vadodara, Chandigarh, and Gurugram, the group has built a distinct identity for its products.
The ‘Maharana Self-Help Group’ earns a net monthly income of Rs 25,000 to 30,000, with annual earnings reaching approximately Rs 4 lakh. The group is empowering its 10 women members economically while also providing direct employment to 10 other individuals. Today, the group stands as an inspiration for rural women, demonstrating that no goal is unattainable with proper guidance and government support.
Women Leading Across Sectors in the State
In Madhya Pradesh, women are playing leading roles in initiatives such as Didi Café operations, homestay management, small-scale industries, and even responsibilities at toll tax centers. With nearly 5 lakh self-help groups in operation, over 62 lakh women have become self-reliant.
The state’s women empowerment initiatives have achieved remarkable success. While girls in urban areas are becoming pilots and flying aircraft, their counterparts in rural regions are excelling in sports like cricket and adventure activities such as mountaineering, winning medals and bringing pride to the state and the nation.
