Jai Badadev Women’s Group Becomes a Symbol of Self-Reliance Through Goat Rearing

Raipur, Aug 2025 : In line with the vision of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, special efforts are being made for the economic empowerment of women in the state. Women are being linked to beneficiary-oriented schemes run by various departments and are being provided opportunities to engage in economic activities. By associating with the Rural Livelihood Mission and receiving specialized training, women are starting their own businesses and becoming self-reliant.

The women of Guljhar village in Mahasamund district have proved that the path to self-reliance is not distant if there is proper guidance, strong willpower, and collective effort. Formed in 2019, the Jai Badadev Women’s Self-Help Group has utilized local resources to create a strong means of livelihood and has transformed their economic condition.

Goat Rearing Became a Sustainable Source of Income

The group’s president, Mrs. Gomti Dhruv, shared that they initially adopted goat rearing as a business because it could prove profitable in rural settings with minimal costs and basic training. According to her, goat rearing has not just been an activity of livestock farming but has become an effective pathway towards self-reliance.

Financial Strength Gained through Bihan Scheme

They began their goat rearing venture with a loan of ₹1 lakh under the Bihan scheme. After repaying the loan in regular installments, they became debt-free and gradually expanded their business by availing further loans of ₹2 lakh and ₹4 lakh. Due to timely repayment, the group also received a revolving fund of ₹15,000 and a community investment fund of ₹60,000.

Additional Income from Goat Manure and Growing Market Demand

Today, each of the group’s eight women members owns four to five goats. Besides goat rearing, they are also producing organic goat manure, which they sell in the market. This has provided each member with an additional monthly income of ₹4,000 to ₹5,000. The demand for goat manure has extended to larger cities like Pune, owing to its quality and organic nature.

Impressive Performance at Aakansha Haat

Recently, at the Aakansha Haat organized at the District Panchayat premises, the group’s stall showcasing goat manure received an overwhelming response from visitors. This experience has greatly boosted the women’s enthusiasm and self-confidence.

Inspiring Other Rural Women

Mrs. Gomti Dhruv and her fellow group members have demonstrated that if rural women organize themselves and effectively utilize government schemes, they can not only strengthen their livelihoods but also become a source of inspiration for others. The group’s women expressed their gratitude to the government for providing them with this platform and opportunity through the Bihan scheme and other livelihood-oriented initiatives.