Women in Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh are achieving financial independence through self-help groups by creating and selling handmade products. These groups, such as the Adarsh Self-Help Group and Om Namah Shivaya Self-Help Group, have received training under the Namami Gange initiative by the Indian Wildlife Institute to produce items like organic jams, pickles, chutneys, and cloth bags.
The locally made products are now being sold at nearby stalls and are gaining popularity among customers. Babita Kaushal from the Adarsh Self-Help Group mentioned that the products are in high demand and are fetching good prices in the market, thanks to the support from government schemes that encourage women to be financially independent.
Parvati Devi, a member of the Om Namah Shivaya Self-Help Group, highlighted that the organic food products prepared by the women have been well-received by buyers. She emphasized that the combination of skill development training and government assistance has enabled women to engage in income-generating activities, thereby improving their social and economic standing.
The initiative not only provides a stable income source for women but also promotes entrepreneurship and self-reliance in rural areas. By participating in such programs, women are enhancing their economic status and serving as role models for others in the community.
