The Suraji Gaon Yojana has brought an unprecedented change and awareness in rural areas of Chhattisgarh, significantly improving the social and economic status of women.
Women from self-help groups have got acquainted with new areas of self-employment. They are equipped with information about various welfare schemes of the government.
Anupa Sahu from a Gauthan in Dhiri village in Rajnandgaon development block said that joining Gauthan proved to be a turning point in her life.
She said that livelihood activities such as vermicompost manufacturing, green-vegetable production and fish farming happen in Gauthan.
Vermicompost, greens vegetables and locally manufactured household products are supplied to nearby Anganwadi centers.
She said there are 10 members in her Jai Maa Angarmoti Women Self Help Group who are collectively working towards financial empowerment.
Many members of this group have bought smart phones with their earnings. Rural women have become adept in running all types of applications including Phone Pay, Google Pay and WhatsApp.
The women in the group earned Rs 2.50 lakh from the sale of vermicompost.
In Dhiri Gauthan, the Jai Ambe Maiya Women's Self Help Group, the Jai Ganga Maiya Women's Self Help Group and the Sheetla Women's Self Help Group are associated with various livelihood activities.
