Palamu : Many types of schemes are being run by the Central and State Government to make women self-reliant. By joining Self Help Groups (SHGs), women are not only becoming financially strong. Rather, she is also creating a new identity in her family and society. One such inspirational story is that of Pratima Devi, a resident of Kankari Panchayat of Chainpur block of Palamu district, who has changed the direction of her life by joining the group.
Earlier the condition of the house was weak
Pratima Devi tells that a few years ago the financial condition of her house was very bad. She mostly remained idle at home and her husband worked as a laborer in a hotel. It became difficult to run the household with her husband’s income. It was a big challenge to meet the children’s education and daily expenses. Many times she thought of doing some work, but could not understand the path.
Thinking changed after joining the group
Pratima Devi joined the self-help group about 3 years ago. In the group meetings they got information about savings, loans and small business. From here the desire to do something new arose in his mind. He started considering different works. During this time her husband suggested why not open his own small hotel. Pratima Devi liked this idea and both of them decided to move forward together.
Opened hotel by taking loan
After joining the group, Pratima Devi got a loan of one lakh rupees. With this capital he started opening hotels on a small scale. There were definitely challenges in the beginning, but with hard work and dedication the hotel gradually started running. The number of customers started increasing due to the facility of providing tea, breakfast and food.
Today there is a grocery store along with the hotel.
After saving the income from the hotel, Pratima Devi moved ahead and also started a grocery shop. Now both hotel and shop are running together. Many types of items including samosa, chaat, tea, breakfast and food are made in the hotel. People nearby like the food of his hotel.
Earning Rs 50000 per month
Pratima Devi says that now she earns 40 to 50 thousand rupees every month. Due to this, the financial condition of the house has improved a lot. Children are getting good education and the family is living a life with respect.
New preparations to move forward
Pratima Devi is now preparing to further expand her business by taking a loan. She says that if women get the right guidance and opportunities, they can do anything. Her story has become an inspiration for many women today.
