Women residing in Kishun Nagar Gram Panchayat, located within the Ambikapur block of Surguja district in Chhattisgarh, are setting a strong example of financial independence ahead of Raksha Bandhan. A 12-member self-help group named Jai Maa Durga Self Help Group has developed an innovative method to manufacture beautiful and eco-friendly rakhis by utilizing common kitchen ingredients and seeds. By using everyday staples such as rice, wheat, maize, and pumpkin seeds, the group is producing attractive handcrafted items at a minimal expense.
Creative Process and Resource Utilization
Elaborating on the creative technique, group members Sonali Singh and Deepti Choudhary shared that the process begins with selecting dry grains and seeds available at home. Grains of rice, wheat, corn kernels, and pumpkin seeds are carefully dyed in vibrant colors and allowed to dry. Once prepped, these elements are arranged into eye-catching geometric and artistic patterns. To give each piece structural strength and visual finesse, the women purchase silk threads, wool, and essential decorative accessories from the local market. Utilizing home-grown agricultural raw materials dramatically lowers the overall production costs while promoting sustainable craftsmanship.
Distribution and Sales Strategy
Group member Deepti Choudhary explained that the 12 women assemble during their spare time to construct the rakhis collaboratively. As the festive rush intensifies and customer demand surges, the group scales up production by dedicating extra working hours to the project. The finished products are sold through temporary stalls erected at regional markets as well as directly from the members' homes to visiting buyers. The revenue generated from these sales directly feeds back into supporting their family expenses and expanding their collective enterprise.
Institutional Support from the Bihan Scheme
The enterprise has received crucial encouragement and structured assistance through the government's Bihan scheme. Under this initiative, the Jai Maa Durga Self Help Group received support for establishing low-cost livelihood avenues and improving their operational techniques. Beyond seasonal rakhi fabrication, the women adapt their work to align with different seasons and festivals throughout the year. This flexible business model enables the group to sustain a steady flow of income and strengthen rural livelihoods over time.
