Government of India
Jayanthi
State : Pondicherry
District : Pondicherry
Block : Villianur
Village : Koodapakkam
Self Help Group : Sri Meenakshi Amman Self Help Group
Livelihood Activities : Terracotta Toys and Wooden Toys Making
Lakhpati Didi Journey
Mrs. Jayanthi is a prime example of how skill, perseverance, and the right support can transform lives. A dedicated member of the Sri Meenakshi Amman Self-Help Group, Jayanthi discovered her passion for making traditional terracotta and wooden toys, a craft deeply rooted in her community’s culture. However, like many rural artisans, she faced financial challenges in her business. Her turning point came when she received assistance from the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), a government initiative aimed at empowering rural women through skill development and financial support. With the help of this scheme, Jayanthi secured a Rs. 50,000 bank loan from Indian Bank, coupled with her own investment of Rs. 10,000. This financial boost allowed her to purchase raw materials and tools and invest in marketing her unique products. Her craft began to flourish, and soon she was running a small but successful business. Through her hard work and dedication, her toy-making enterprise now generates a steady income of Rs. 12,000 per month. The support she received from NRLM not only improved her financial situation but also equipped her with essential business skills, including pricing, marketing, and market expansion. In addition to her local success, she showcased her products at Saras Mela events held in Noida, Delhi, Haryana, and Hyderabad. These events significantly increased her visibility, helping her expand her customer base and boost sales.
