Empowerment and Dignity

Chanda Singh: A Journey from Struggle to Sustainable Success

Chanda Singh and her husband, Ramachandra, reside in Tangiabasa, a village within Budhikhamari Gram Panchayat in the Bangriposi Block. As a dedicated mother of two, Chanda carries the responsibility of being the sole breadwinner for her family, given Ramachandra’s physical challenges that limit his ability to work. Their story is one of resilience, determination, and the transformative power of community support and training.

Initial Challenges

Before being included in the project facilitated by the APF, Chanda found herself juggling wage-earning responsibilities while ensuring the well-being of her family. Despite her hard work, financial instability and limited opportunities left them struggling to meet their basic needs. Chanda knew she needed a sustainable solution that would not only provide for her family but also empower her to achieve financial independence.

A Turning Point: The Project Intervention

The turning point in Chanda’s life came when she became a participant in the APF-supported project. This initiative offered her comprehensive training in Integrated Animal Management (IAM), Self-Help Group (SHG) management, leadership development, and access to various government schemes designed to uplift women in rural communities.

With an initial support grant of INR 3,000, Chanda invested in two female goats, marking the first step towards her economic independence. The training provided her with essential knowledge about livestock management and the importance of strategic planning. It ignited a spark of entrepreneurial spirit that would soon flourish.

Building a Diverse Livelihood

Chanda’s dedication to her newfound venture was unwavering. Over the years, she expanded her operations significantly. Today, she proudly tends to a flock of 11 goats and 40 chickens. Her meticulous care and attention to her animals have not only improved their health but also their productivity. Last year alone, her entrepreneurial spirit translated into a remarkable income boost, with goat sales amounting to INR 22,000.

But Chanda’s ambition did not stop there. Inspired by her success in goat rearing, she diversified her income sources. She established mango orchards on her land, tapping into the lucrative market for fruits. Additionally, she introduced turmeric (haldi) intercropping, further enriching her farm’s productivity and ensuring a steady cash flow throughout the year.

Sustainable Farming Practices

Chanda’s journey exemplifies sustainable farming practices. By integrating goat rearing with poultry farming and crop cultivation, she created a balanced ecosystem that benefits all her agricultural activities. The goats provide manure that enriches the soil for her crops, while the chickens help control pests, reducing the need for chemical interventions.

Chanda also ensures that her children are involved in these activities, teaching them the value of hard work, responsibility, and the importance of sustainable living. Her efforts have not only improved her family’s economic situation but have also fostered a sense of teamwork and shared purpose within her household.

Empowerment and Community Leadership

Chanda’s success story has inspired others in her community. As she gained confidence and experience, she took on a leadership role within her SHG, motivating other women to explore similar opportunities. She actively shares her knowledge and experiences, helping to uplift others who face challenges similar to those she once encountered.

Through her leadership, more women in Tangiabasa have begun to participate in livestock rearing and diversified farming, leading to a collective growth in the community’s economic health. Chanda’s transformation from a struggling wage worker to a successful entrepreneur is a testament to the impact of training and support on individuals and communities.