NEW DELHI (India CSR): In the small village of Sunderpur, nestled in the heart of Jharkhand, the rhythmic hum of a grinding machine fills the air. Rekha Devi, a 38-year-old entrepreneur, skillfully manages her tasks, her face reflecting quiet determination. This scene, once unimaginable, symbolizes the journey of empowerment she has undertaken. Married at the tender age of 15, Rekha’s education was cut short, and her life revolved around household chores and earning a meager income through cooking. Today, she stands as a beacon of empowerment, embodying the transformative power of IndiGoReach, the corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative of IndiGo airlines. Through their efforts, Rekha has redefined her path, showcasing the impact of uplifting marginalized women in rural India. IndiGoReach, as the CSR arm of InterGlobe Aviation Ltd, focuses on four main pillars—Education, Women’s Empowerment, Environment, and Heritage—driving meaningful change in these areas.
Rekha Devi: A Symbol of Empowerment
The air hums with the rhythmic whir of a grinding machine in Sunderpur, a small hamlet nestled in Jharkhand’s landscape. Rekha Devi, a 38-year-old entrepreneur, expertly manages the flow of ingredients, her face reflecting a quiet confidence. Years ago, this scene of self-assured industry would have been unimaginable. Married at 15, Rekha’s education was cut short, her days consumed by household chores and a meager income from cooking. But today, she stands as a symbol of empowerment, a testament to the transformative power of IndiGoReach, the corporate social responsibility arm of IndiGo airlines, and their commitment to uplifting marginalized women in rural India. IndiGoReach, the CSR program of InterGlobe Aviation Ltd (IndiGo), focuses its efforts on four key areas: Education, Women’s Empowerment, Environment, and Heritage.
The WATER Project: Igniting Change
Rekha’s journey, like that of many women in the region, began with hardship. Limited opportunities and societal expectations confined her to traditional roles. But with the arrival of IndiGoReach’s “WATER” project – Women Collectives-led Actions Towards Environment Rejuvenation – a spark of change ignited within her. The IndiGo x PRADAN WATER project stands as a powerful example of how collaborative efforts can drive meaningful change in marginalized communities. Across Jharkhand’s Hazaribagh, Godda, and Bokaro districts, the project has targeted 37,000 women, providing them with the skills, resources, and support they need to become self-reliant entrepreneurs. Through skill-building workshops, financial literacy training, and access to crucial resources, IndiGoReach is breaking down traditional barriers and igniting an entrepreneurial spirit in these rural communities. With a focus on inclusivity, sustainability, and empowerment, IndiGo and PRADAN are transforming the lives of thousands of women, ensuring a brighter, more prosperous future for rural India.
Rekha’s Transformation: From Pashu Sakhi to Entrepreneur
With PRADAN’s guidance, Rekha became a Pashu Sakhi, providing vital veterinary care to her community. She later pursued nursing and, despite facing a health scare, persevered to become a successful feed entrepreneur, earning over Rs. 1.4 lakh annually. “PRADAN empowered me every step of the way,” Rekha shares, her resilience shining through. She now runs a thriving feed business, supplying quality feed to local livestock farmers. The rhythmic whir of her grinding machine is a constant reminder of her hard-won success and the transformative power of the WATER project.
Kosalya Devi: A Story of Independence
Kosalya Devi, from Jaina Panchayat, tells a similar story of empowerment. Once earning a mere Rs. 30 a month as a cook, Kosalya now runs a thriving paper plate business, thanks to the support of her Self-Help Group and IndiGoReach. With the financial support of IndiGoReach and technical support of PRADAN, she received training, a packaging machine, and raw materials for her venture. “Buying a motorbike to expand my reach wasn’t just a dream; it became a reality,” she says, her words reflecting the newfound mobility and independence these women are experiencing.
A Ripple Effect of Community Empowerment
The WATER project’s impact extends beyond individual success stories. Over 37,000 women-led SHGs, Village Organisations (VOs), and Cluster Level Federations (CLFs), have been formed, fostering community-based solutions and sustainable practices. From improved agricultural methods and livestock management to micro-enterprise development, the project is creating a ripple effect of positive change. These initiatives have yielded remarkable results in Jharkhand, with a significant increase in overall income, a rise in livestock income by 264% (INR 8,500 to INR 30,500) and fishery income increasing by 87% (INR 9,000 to INR 16,781). Over 60% of participating families now earn over INR 1 lakh a year, proudly earning the title of “Lakhpati Didis.”
Environmental Impact and Government Support
The project’s environmental focus is equally impressive. Over 2,300 hectares of degraded land have been rehabilitated, and over 1,300 hectares of irrigation infrastructure developed, enabling climate-smart regenerative agriculture. The project has also facilitated access to government benefits, securing over INR 106.8 lakhs in pensions and agricultural support.
Apna Bazaar: Building a Sustainable Future
The Apna Bazaar initiative, born out of the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, further exemplifies the program’s adaptability and impact. Women like Mamta Didi, of Berho panchayat in Tati Jharia block of Hazaribagh district in Jharkhand, who now runs a successful turmeric processing unit, selling an impressive 360 kg monthly turmeric unit, are building thriving businesses and creating a sustainable future for their communities. Now, with diverse businesses under its umbrella, Apna Bazar is building a sustainable future for these communities, inspiring other women to embrace entrepreneurship and take control of their livelihoods.
Transforming Communities through Women Empowerment
IndiGoReach’s work in Jharkhand is a powerful example of how investing in women can transform entire communities. By fostering entrepreneurship, promoting sustainable practices, and strengthening social bonds, IndiGoReach is not just building businesses; it is building a brighter future for rural.
(India CSR)
