Uttar Pradesh: Gorakhpur Woman Usha Devi Becomes Rural Entrepreneur Through Self-Help Group Support

In Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's administration is striving to empower rural women economically through initiatives like the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) and Self-Help Groups. Usha Devi, a resident of Naharpur village in the Chargawan block of Gorakhpur, is a shining example of this change. Four years ago, Usha Devi's family faced financial struggles, making it difficult to meet household expenses.

She discovered Self-Help Groups through neighboring women, who encouraged her to join. Through the group, Usha Devi gained knowledge about savings, banking, and self-employment, boosting her confidence. In July 2022, she received a loan of approximately Rs 1.50 lakh from the Self-Help Group, which significantly improved her grocery shop business.

Today, her shop supports her family's financial needs and generates steady income. Usha Devi now serves as a Samuh Sakhi, managing nine Self-Help Groups that collectively empower 130 women in the village. These groups engage women in various self-employment activities, including goat rearing, cow rearing, poultry farming, tailoring, embroidery, and small businesses.

Self-Help Groups have not only provided women with financial assistance but have also boosted their confidence, allowing them to become self-reliant. Usha Devi believes that with proper guidance and opportunities, women can achieve success in any field. The National Rural Livelihood Mission aims to organize rural women, connecting them with Self-Help Groups for savings, loans, training, and self-employment.

Usha Devi's success story demonstrates that when government schemes reach the right beneficiaries, they can transform lives, enabling women to stand on their own feet and contribute to their families' income.