A Leap Forward in Uttar Pradesh

With support from Rashtriya Chemicals and Fertilisers Limited (RCF Ltd), All India Institute of Local Self-Government (AIILSG) has started a ground-breaking initiative to empower women social entrepreneurs. This initiative aligns with the ambitious One District, One Product (ODOP) scheme’s overarching objective of fostering entrepreneurship.

There is unrealised potential in the rural areas of Uttar Pradesh’s districts, like Varanasi and Prayagraj, which are well-known for their vibrant marketplaces and heavy flow of people. These regions are ideal for fostering job prospects, especially with the support of Self-Help Groups (SHGs). Recognising this potential, AIILSG launched the “Strengthening Self-Help Groups and Uplifting Women and Girls through Entrepreneurship for Social Impact in Uttar Pradesh” project in Varanasi, Prayagraj, and Sultanpur.

The project’s objectives are ambitious yet achievable, with plans to train 210 women, transforming them into social entrepreneurs. By focusing on enhancing the skills of SHG women in producing “agarbattis” (incense sticks) and Moonj handicrafts, the initiative aims to leverage traditional crafts for modern markets. Moonj is a wild grass found in the wastelands of eastern Uttar Pradesh. Moonj basketry is made by local women using the coiling technique of basket weaving to create kitchen items. Furthermore, it endeavours to instruct these budding entrepreneurs in marketing strategies, enabling them to launch their products effectively. A significant highlight of the project is the production of agarbattis from floral waste in Varanasi, showcasing an innovative approach to environmental sustainability.

At the heart of this transformative journey is the establishment of the Uttar Pradesh Mahila Social Entrepreneurship Market Connect (UPMSEMC). This innovative nodal centre will serve as a single point of contact (SPOC) for women, connecting them with potential buyers and markets. The UPMSEMC is poised to play a crucial role in bridging the gap between rural artisans and urban consumers, fostering a marketplace where traditional crafts meet contemporary demand.

By focusing on traditional crafts and innovative products, this project paves the way for sustainable development, rooted in the rich cultural heritage of Uttar Pradesh. In the story of UP’s development, these entrepreneurs are weaving new narratives of empowerment, resilience, and success. The project is slated to end in August 2024.