Janaki Dhurve of Jhalmala Village Becomes Self-Reliant Through Bihan Scheme

Raipur, February 2026 : The Chhattisgarh State Rural Livelihood Mission’s Bihan Scheme is a powerful initiative aimed at making rural women self-reliant. By participating in this program, women are using their skills and hard work to create new avenues of livelihood. One such inspiring story is of Janaki Dhurve from Jhalmala village in Kabirdham district, who has not only increased her income but also become a role model for self-reliance through vegetable cultivation with the support of a Self-Help Group (SHG) and the Bihan Scheme.

Mrs. Janaki Dhurve has been associated with the Bihan Scheme since 2013 and is a member of the “Maa Sheetla Self-Help Group.” After joining the group, she learned the importance of saving and received loans when required. To start her venture, she took a loan of Rs. 1 lakh from the group, which she invested in vegetable farming. She cultivated eggplant, cabbage, and potatoes, and through careful attention and hard work, her crops flourished.

She sells her vegetables to Anganwadi centers, school midday meal programs, local markets, and mandi, earning good prices due to easy market access. Today, Janaki Dhurve earns approximately Rs. 1.5 to 2 lakh annually, which helps her repay loans on time and meet her family’s needs comfortably.

Looking ahead, she plans to expand her produce under an Integrated Farming Cluster, including cultivation of tomatoes and onions, which will further increase her income.

Janaki Dhurve’s story is a testament to how the Bihan Scheme, SHGs, and women’s hard work can empower rural women. Today, she not only supports her family but also inspires other women in her village to pursue self-reliance.