Government of India
Lalita Devi
State : Bihar
District : Vaishali
Block : Goraul
Self-Help Group : Devi Self-Help Group
Livelihood Activities : Nursery, honey production, mushroom cultivation, and farming
Lakhpati Didi Journey
Smt. Lalita Devi, from Goraul block in Vaishali district, Bihar, is a testament to the transformative power of self-help groups. Joining the Devi Self-Help Group, she used loans totaling Rs. 1.9 lakh to build a diverse livelihood portfolio, including a nursery, honey production, mushroom cultivation, and farming. Her strategic investments paid off, raising her family’s monthly income to Rs. 18,000 – Rs. 20,000 and ensuring financial stability. Lalita’s leadership skills led her to become a Village Resource Person, supporting 300 women farmers. Earlier, as a WASH-Community Resource Person under the Swachh Bharat Mission, she mobilized villages to construct over 300 toilets, significantly improving sanitation., Lalita trained at the National Institute of Rural Development, launching a nursery that earned Rs. 1.5 lakh in its first year. She further expanded her income by forming a 30-member honey production group and venturing into mushroom cultivation. Lalita became a skilled extension worker, earning Rs. 5,300 monthly plus training fees. With her combined ventures, Lalita now earns over Rs. 20,000 per month. Her journey from humble beginnings to entrepreneurship showcases resilience, skill-building, and the impact of collective action in achieving financial independence and inspiring others to follow her path.
