Balod: Women of Khairwahi Transform Their Lives Through Vegetable Farming

Becoming Self-Reliant Beyond the Four Walls of Their Homes

Balod : In the small village of Khairwahi in Gurur block of Balod district, a group of women has rewritten their life stories by stepping beyond the confines of their homes. Amidst limited opportunities and resources, these women have embraced vegetable farming, paving the way toward self-reliance and empowerment.

The Kamla Self-Help Group (SHG) in Khairwahi, led by Sita Sahu, chose vegetable farming over traditional paddy cultivation. This decision has significantly improved their monthly income, making them financially independent and capable of supporting household expenses. The group, consisting of 10 women, strengthened itself by joining the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) – Bihan. Through this initiative, they learned crucial skills such as taking bank loans, utilizing agricultural land, irrigation techniques, planting vegetables, and transporting produce to markets. Their journey with Bihan has introduced a new chapter of empowerment and financial independence in their lives.

Starting small, the women now cultivate around 23 acres of farmland, employing others in their village. They grow seasonal vegetables, ensuring high yields and better profits. Initially, they sold produce in local markets, but as production increased, they expanded sales to Balod, Dhamtari, and Charama vegetable markets. Currently, they cultivate okra, pumpkin, bottle gourd, cabbage, and cucumber.

Additionally, all members benefit from the Mahatari Vandan Yojana, further encouraging their efforts. They expressed gratitude toward Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, acknowledging his initiatives to empower women and uplift them economically through schemes like Lakhpati Didi.

During a recent visit, District Panchayat CEO Dr. Sanjay Kannauje inspected the group’s vegetable production and appreciated their efforts. He emphasized that under the Chief Minister’s directives, the NRLM-Bihan program continues to train and support women, integrating them into sustainable livelihood activities for self-reliance and empowerment.