Empowering women is key to uplifting communities, transforming not only individual lives but entire societal structures. In the rural heartlands of Jharkhand, this principle has become a tangible reality through the efforts of IndiGoReach, the CSR arm of IndiGo, in partnership with PRADAN. Women like Kosalya Devi and Rekha Devi, once constrained by limited opportunities and societal expectations, are now thriving entrepreneurs, reshaping their futures and inspiring others to follow suit. Through initiatives such as the WATER project and Apna Bazaar, IndiGoReach has provided training, resources, and unwavering support, enabling women to build successful businesses, increase household incomes, and embrace climate-smart, sustainable practices.
This article delves into the stories of transformation that highlight the extraordinary impact of empowering women in rural Jharkhand. By nurturing entrepreneurial talent and fostering resilience, IndiGoReach is not just creating livelihoods but driving a movement that redefines possibilities for women and their communities.
Wings of Empowerment: IndiGoReach and the Rise of Women Entrepreneurs in Jharkhand
In the heart of rural Jharkhand, where the rhythm of life is shaped by the land, Kosalya Devi stands as a shining example of transformation. Once, she struggled to make ends meet, earning a meagre income as a cook. Today, she is the proud owner of a thriving paper plate business—an entrepreneur in her own right, her journey made possible by the empowering support of IndiGoReach, the corporate social responsibility (CSR) arm of IndiGo and her Self-Help Group (SHG).
"I never thought owning a motorbike would be a reality, let alone running my own business," Kosalya says, her face lighting up with pride. "But thanks to the financial assistance from IndiGoReach and the training I received, I have everything I need to succeed." The support Kosalya received included access to a packaging machine, raw materials, and essential business training—all of which propelled her into a new chapter of life. What was once a distant dream has now become her everyday reality.
Kosalya’s story is not just an individual success; it is part of a wider wave of change sweeping through rural Jharkhand. Through strategic partnerships with PRADAN, IndiGoReach is working to uplift marginalised communities, under its 4 key pillars including Education, Women’s Empowerment, Environment, and Heritage.
From Struggles to Success: Rekha Devi’s Story
In the tranquil village of Sunderpur, the hum of a grinding machine signals more than just the preparation of ingredients. It is a sound of resilience, of dreams fulfilled, and of a woman who has defied the odds to build a flourishing business. Rekha Devi, 38, once lived a life constrained by societal expectations. Married at 15 and with her education cut short, she spent years caught in a cycle of domestic duties and meagre earnings from cooking.
Yet today, Rekha’s life is a testament to the transformative power of IndiGoReach and PRADAN’s partnership. Through the WATER project—Women Collectives-led Actions Towards Environment Rejuvenation—Rekha was empowered to become a Pashu Sakhi, providing veterinary care to local livestock farmers. This marked the beginning of her entrepreneurial journey. Armed with further training in nursing and the unwavering support of PRADAN, Rekha now runs a highly successful animal feed business, earning over Rs. 1.4 lakh annually.
"PRADAN has stood by me, every step of the way." Rekha says, her eyes gleaming with the confidence of someone who has fought and worked hard for her success. "From veterinary care to running my own feed business, I never imagined such a life was possible." Her story is a powerful reminder of the resilience of women who, given the right resources, can redefine their futures.
The WATER Project: A Ripple of Empowerment
Rekha’s story is just one of over 37,000 women across Jharkhand who have found new opportunities through the WATER project. This initiative, driven by IndiGoReach and PRADAN, focuses on building Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Village Organizations (VOs), and Cluster Level Federations (CLFs), creating a powerful network of support for women across Hazaribagh, Godda, and Bokaro districts. The results have been staggering: livestock income has soared by an impressive 264%, from Rs. 8,500 to Rs. 30,500, while income from fisheries has increased by 87% (INR 9,000 to INR 16,781). Today, more than 60% of participating families earn over Rs. 1 lakh annually, earning the well-deserved title of "Lakhpati Didis."
Beyond economic upliftment, the WATER project has a profound environmental impact. Over 2,300 hectares of degraded land have been rehabilitated, while over 1,300 hectares of irrigation infrastructure have been developed, enabling women to engage in climate-smart, regenerative agriculture. This focus on sustainability ensures that the progress achieved today will continue to benefit future generations.
Apna Bazaar: Adapting to Challenges
When the pandemic struck, it brought with it many devastating challenges, particularly for small businesses. During these trying times, IndiGoReach responded with ingenuity and resilience, launching the Apna Bazaar initiative to support women entrepreneurs through these uncertain times.
Mamta Didi from Berho Panchayat in Hazaribagh is a shining example of this adaptability. During the pandemic, Mamta pivoted her small turmeric processing venture into a thriving business, now selling over 360 kg of turmeric every month. What began as a modest operation has blossomed into a sustainable, profitable enterprise, thanks to the support from Apna Bazaar. The initiative has expanded to include a wide range of businesses—from turmeric processing to other agro-based industries—each one contributing to a brighter future for rural women across Jharkhand.
A Future Powered by Women
The impact of IndiGoReach’s work in Jharkhand goes far beyond mere business creation. It is about reshaping communities, reimagining futures, and empowering women to take charge of their own destinies. Through skill-building workshops, financial literacy training, and access to crucial resources, IndiGoReach is breaking down traditional barriers and igniting an entrepreneurial spirit in these rural communities. With a focus on inclusivity, sustainability, and empowerment, IndiGo and PRADAN are transforming the lives of thousands of women, ensuring a brighter, more prosperous future for rural India.
Kosalya, Rekha, and Mamta—these are just a few of the thousands of women whose lives have been changed by IndiGoReach’s commitment to rural empowerment. By investing in women, IndiGoReach is helping build not only businesses but stronger communities, more sustainable livelihoods, and a brighter future for generations to come.
These women, once bound by tradition and limited by circumstance, are now soaring—empowered by the wings of change. With every success, they prove that when women thrive, entire communities prosper. IndiGoReach is not just transforming lives; it is cultivating a movement of resilience, ambition, and entrepreneurship that will shape rural India for years to come.
Disclaimer: The inputs in this story are provided by IndiGoReach.
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