From Cow Service to Crorepati Dreams: Jhansi’s Pravesh Kumari Becomes a Lakhpati

Women Becoming Self-Reliant by Producing High-Quality Fodder Using Solar Energy
Collective Participation Begins in Villages Through New Startups
CM Yogi’s Vision of Self-Reliance Gains Momentum

Lucknow, January 2026 : The land of Bundelkhand is now being recognised not only for its history of valour but also as a rising hub of women entrepreneurship. Pravesh Kumari from Jhansi has achieved a remarkable milestone through a cattle-feed manufacturing unit, emerging as a role model for millions of women across the state. Translating Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s vision of an “Atmanirbhar Uttar Pradesh” into reality, Pravesh has set up a high-quality animal fodder unit powered by solar energy. Through this initiative, she has not only become financially empowered herself but has also provided employment opportunities to other women in her village.

Zero Electricity Cost, Affordable and Nutritious Fodder
The most notable feature of this enterprise is its eco-friendly nature. Established with the support of the Yogi government and Development Alternatives (DA), the unit operates entirely on an 18 kW solar power system. As a result, electricity costs are virtually zero, significantly reducing production expenses. The availability of affordable and nutritious fodder has improved the health of livestock owned by local dairy farmers, leading to increased milk production and better livelihoods.

A New Model of Employment and Collective Participation
Today, Pravesh Kumari earns nearly ₹25,000 per month. Her startup has not only strengthened the local economy but has also transformed the social structure of the village. The initiative has generated employment at the grassroots level, enabling other women to gain stable incomes and economic independence. These women are now able to contribute meaningfully to their households and take on greater responsibilities with confidence.

Handling Everything from Procurement to Quality Control
Modern machinery and standardised techniques are used at the unit to produce nutritious cattle feed while ensuring timely supply as per local market demand. Pravesh is not just an entrepreneur but also an efficient manager. She independently oversees raw material procurement, financial accounting, production planning and quality control. Owing to her hands-on approach and strong financial discipline, her brand, “Gomata Cattle Feed,” has received several awards and recognitions.

A Big Beginning from a Small Effort
What began as a small initiative gradually evolved into a successful business with guidance from the Uttar Pradesh National Rural Livelihood Mission and Development Alternatives. Today, women in the village work together as a collective, strengthening community participation and shared growth.

“It started as a small effort, but with the right guidance and support, it turned into a business. Today, village women are working together and moving towards self-reliance,” said Pravesh Kumari, women entrepreneur.