In the heart of Champajhar village, Odisha, a woman’s determination to change her life has become an inspiration for many. Sangita Majhi, now 26, transitioned from a homemaker to a successful entrepreneur, proving that resilience and ambition can break barriers.
A Journey Sparked by Adversity
Married at the age of 20 to a primary school teacher, Sangita faced the challenges of managing a family of six on a modest income. Determined to contribute financially, she sought opportunities beyond traditional household roles. Her breakthrough came in 2017 when she joined the Second Chance Education program by PRADAN and UN Women, an initiative designed to empower women through skill development and entrepreneurship.
Turning Challenges into Opportunities
Life took an unexpected turn with the birth of her son and the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, temporarily stalling her progress. However, a simple moment of eating puffed rice—a popular local snack—sparked an idea that would redefine her future. Recognizing the potential of the puffed rice business, she decided to establish her own production unit.
With a loan of ₹30,000 from PRADAN’s Rang De initiative, she invested in a puffed rice roaster machine. Despite skepticism from her community about a woman running a business in a male-dominated sector, Sangita was undeterred. She turned to YouTube tutorials to grasp the nuances of the trade and even hired an experienced worker to refine the production process.
Rising Above Challenges
Through relentless efforts, Sangita transformed her small-scale operation into a thriving enterprise. Her business now generates a monthly turnover of ₹40,000, with profits of approximately ₹22,000. She leverages social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp to market her products, ensuring steady sales and expanding her customer base.
The financial independence she has gained allows her to support her son’s education and contribute significantly to her family’s well-being. More than just a businesswoman, Sangita has become a beacon of hope for other women in her village. She actively participates in local meetings, sharing her journey and encouraging women to pursue self-sufficiency.
Inspiring a New Wave of Women Entrepreneurs
Sangita’s story is not just about her success; it is about inspiring change. She urges women to believe in their abilities and take charge of their financial future. “Open your wings and fly; nothing is impossible,” she often tells those seeking guidance.
Her journey exemplifies the power of determination, skill-building, and community support. With initiatives like PRADAN and UN Women empowering rural women, stories like Sangita’s will continue to unfold, shaping a future where financial independence and entrepreneurship become the norm for women in rural India.
