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The local artisans excel in crafting beautiful fabrics, each piece telling a story of skill and tradition passed down through generations.
Textiles and handlooms of India embody the essence of the country’s rich cultural heritage and artistic diversity. Renowned worldwide for their quality, these textiles showcase intricate designs and vibrant colors, woven into fabric using traditional techniques passed down through generations. Each region offers its unique weave, from the fine silks of Varanasi to the block prints of Rajasthan and the exquisite handloom cottons of Bengal.
These textiles are not just pieces of cloth but art forms that tell stories of the land, its people, and their beliefs. The craftsmanship speaks of India’s dedication to preserving its ancestral arts, making Indian handlooms a testament to the country’s unparalleled legacy in textile artistry.
Raisen, a hidden gem in the state of Madhya Pradesh, is no different. Being a unique blend of historical charm and cultural richness, Raisen is well known for its tales of bygone eras. But it is also a cradle of traditional textiles and art.
In the heart of Raisen district, a remarkable story of empowerment and resilience is unfolding. The women of Self Help Groups (SHGs) in the Silwani block have set an exceptional example of self-reliance, demonstrating the profound impact of a little guidance and financial support.
These women, with their exceptional sewing skills, have drawn attention not only from the prestigious Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Indore but also from the Reliance Foundation. The journey of these women was not so easy going. From learning the basics of sewing to mastering it, the story has been nothing short of inspiring. Within just three years, these members of the Ajeevika Mission’s SHG have made a significant mark with their skills that outperformed everyone.
The project has extended its reach to nearly 14 villages in the Silwani block generating income for around 300 women. These hard working women have dedicated themselves towards the work so passionately that over 40 women are continuously engaged in sewing work at a given time.
Their hard work paid off, resulting in the initiative to attract students from IIM Indore. The Reliance Foundation has also collaborated with the SHG to provide special and advanced training in sewing techniques and handling advanced machines.
The introduction of advanced sewing machines has enabled these diligent women to produce over 1,28,000 school uniforms, significantly improving their economic status.
Rekha Namdev, a SHG member, shared, “The journey from having no work to becoming proficient in sewing, has led me to a substantial improvement in the financial situation. Today, we stitched 1,28,000 uniforms and have made good earnings altogether.”
The happiness and pride in their achievements are evident among all members. Rajni Vishwakarma, another member, joyfully expressed, “Earlier, I was battling even to earn basic labor work. But now, joining the group has elevated me and other women to a better economic status, even reaching the stage of becoming lakhpati.”
The transformation in their lives is evident, with members highlighting the improvement in their living standards. The association with the SHG has enabled them to earn comfortably, with members bringing home ₹10-12 thousand easily.
The journey began with training from the Gramin Swarojgar Training Institute (RSETI), where 85 women were trained, and 26 of them received loans of 30,000 rupees each. This support allowed them to purchase modern sewing machines, marking the beginning of their journey towards empowerment.
The continuous encouragement from Anju Bhadauria, the CEO of Raisen’s Zila Panchayat has become the icing on the cake. Expressing her joy, she shared, “It is extremely grateful that these women’s capabilities are getting recognition by institutions like the Reliance Foundation. This recognition not only boosts their morale but also marks the potential within these women to achieve great heights.
The story of these women from Silwani block is not just about sewing uniforms; it’s a narrative of empowerment, resilience, and the journey towards self-reliance. It stands as a testament to the fact that with the right support and opportunities, women can transform their lives and even communities. This initiative not only provides them with a sustainable source of income but also embeds a sense of pride and confidence, proving that given the chance, women can lead the way in creating a better future for themselves and their families.
Ravivar Vichar has made a commitment to bring forth the stories of every such woman and make us aware of their lives.
In this WomensWebXMahilaMoney impact series, we bring you entrepreneurs like these women from Raisen, MP, who had not just the ambition to grow, but took the steps needed to bring their dreams to fruition. Apply for a loan of up to 25 lakhs to fuel your business growth by downloading the Mahila Money App on Google Playstore or visiting the website here.
Image source: by Bhupi from Getty Images Free for Canva Pro
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