Laxmiben Dabhi
State : Gujarat
District : Kheda
Block : Kathlal
Village : Chhipiyal
Self Help Group : Jai Ambe Self Help Group
Livelihood Activities : Organic Farming using Neem Seeds and Entrepreneurship of Neem-coated area
Lakhpati Didi Journey
Laxmiben Dabhi belongs to the small village of Chhipiyal in Kathlal block, Kheda District. She transformed her life from a BPL family housewife to a successful entrepreneur. She was inspired by campaigns on organic farming in her village. She joined the Jai Ambe Self Help Group and has been instrumental in leveraging local resources like Neem seeds for organic farming practices, specifically Neem-coated urea.
Through participation in State Rural Livelihoods Missions financial literacy program, she and other women in her group effectively manage both personal and group bank accounts, achieving annual transactions of Rs. 15 to 20 lakh. She capitalized on the abundant Neem trees in Kheda District, initiating a profitable venture in collaboration with the Gujarat Narmada Valley Fertilizer Company. Her efforts in Neem seed collection and organic farming align with the vision of utilizing local resources for sustainable livelihoods. The Gujarat State Rural Livelihoods Mission initiative has been pivotal in transforming the Self Help Group members from economically struggling individuals to self-motivated entrepreneurs. They have developed skills in marketing, negotiation and are actively engaged in community and economic activities.
Her journey showcases the potential of rural women to rise above socio-economic challenges. Her dedication and hard work have not only enhanced her financial status but also inspired many women in the community to pursue similar paths of empowerment.