Government of India
Vijayalakshmi
State : Pondicherry
District : Pondicherry
Block : Ariyankuppam
Village : Madukarai West
Self-Help Group : Athivarathar Self Help Group
Livelihood Activities : Mat Weaving
The use of new designs, vibrant colors, and hard-working concepts are the only boosters to survive in this fast-moving challenging world, say traditional mat weavers of Mrs. Vijayalakshmi who entered into women’s Self Help Group despite initial skepticism from her family and community, she formed the Athivarathar Self Help Group with like-minded individuals. She started her business with an initial revolving fund of Rs. 20,000/-. Then she diversified into weaving and gradually took larger loans, including Community Investment Fund (CIF) loan Rs. 50,000 and bank linkage Rs. 80,000 and started her business with two mat producing machinery. At present, she is producing 60 mats / per day and involves two women for production & Marketing purposes. She earns a net profit of Rs. 20,000 per month and also, she exhibited her products at Diwali Bazar, organized by the Block Development office, Ariyankuppam. The story of Mrs Vijayalakshmi is the testament to the power of determination and hard work where she overcomes numerous obstacles and has emerged as a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women. Her success stories are a reminder that entrepreneurship is not just about making money but also creating positive social and environmental impact in the society.
