Government of India
Sharmila Murmu
State : West Bengal
Village : Bastardih
Block : Kashipur
District : Purulia
Self Help Group : Marang buru Mahila Samiti
Livelihood Activities : Agriculture, Fishery, Livestock, Mushroom
Lakhpati Didi Journey
Smt. Sharmila Murmu’s journey is a testament to the transformative impact of joining a Self-Help Group (SHG). She received crucial technical knowledge and hand-holding support, overcoming initial challenges such as crop failures and a lack of expertise in dryland farming techniques, crop calendars, and selecting resilient crops. Addressing societal hurdles that often marginalized women in agriculture, Sharmila and her fellow SHG members formed a Women-led Producer Group (PG) named Mahila Kisan.
Through this collective effort, they received extensive training in various aspects of agriculture, including crop cultivation, animal husbandry, and sustainable farming practices. Engaging in collective farming and marketing of successful crops, as well as venturing into fisheries and livestock initiatives with the support of government departments, Sharmila demonstrated resilience and innovation. Her involvement in scientific fish farming, coupled with comprehensive knowledge in agriculture and various livelihood aspects, reflects her commitment to continuous learning. With a monthly income of Rs. 22,000, Sharmila not only ensures the quality education of her children but also actively contributes to her family’s overall well-being, showcasing the transformative power of SHGs and collective efforts in rural empowerment.
