Life for Upendra Kumar, a resident of Erki in Jehanabad district, was once defined by financial hardship and uncertainty. Following his marriage, his family responsibilities increased significantly, but a lack of formal education meant traditional job opportunities remained out of reach. Making ends meet became a daily struggle for the household. Despite these hurdles, he harbored a persistent ambition to build something substantial, a venture that would not only sustain his own family but also create livelihoods for others around him. He spent three years striving to find a viable path, initially without success.
The Early Struggles and Tractor Work
With conventional employment options exhausted, Upendra utilized his modest savings to purchase a tractor. He began employing the vehicle for various manual tasks, including tilling fields, filling soil, and transporting gravel and sand. The earnings from these grueling daily operations provided just enough to cover basic food and household expenses. He continued this demanding routine for two years. While the income kept his family afloat, his mind was constantly searching for a bigger commercial opportunity that could fulfill his entrepreneurial aspirations.
A major turning point arrived when he learned about the Bihar government’s Chief Minister Udyami Scheme. Without hesitation, he submitted an application for financial assistance under the program, specifically proposing a manufacturing unit for concrete paver blocks. Throughout this administrative process, the Jehanabad District Industries Department provided crucial support. His application was successfully selected, granting him financial backing worth 10 lakh rupees, which served as the foundational capital for his new enterprise.
Expanding Business and Empowering Others
With the 10 lakh rupee capital secured, Upendra launched his concrete brick manufacturing business. Over time, his commercial network expanded rapidly across the region. Today, his enterprise supplies approximately one lakh bricks annually, reaching clients not only in Jehanabad but also across multiple parts of Arवल, Patna, Gayaji, and Nalanda districts. Demand occasionally outpaces production capacity. This thriving operation generates a steady monthly income of 80,000 to 90,000 rupees, which regularly reaches up to one lakh rupees. Furthermore, the business currently employs around a dozen local workers, ensuring reliable livelihoods for their families as well.
