Rural Haat
In the tribal villages of Bali block, the majority of families rely on agriculture and daily wage labor for their livelihoods. However, due to limited landholdings, with an average of up to 1 beegha, these traditional sources of income often fall short in meeting their daily expenses and aspirations for a better life. Recognizing the need to empower these communities and create sustainable opportunities for economic growth, Ghoomar Mahila Samiti, in collaboration with SRIJAN and NABARD, took the initiative to develop micro-entrepreneurship in the region. The goal was to provide an avenue for small entrepreneurs to establish their businesses and sell their products, fostering self-reliance and financial independence.
To realize this vision, a Rural Hart was constructed in Koyalwav. This facility serves as a hub for micro-entrepreneurs to gather and set up their small shops on a fortnightly basis. The Rural Hart was thoughtfully designed to cater to the needs of these entrepreneurs, offering essential amenities such as toilets and bio-degradable facilities. The spacious layout accommodates up to 40 shops, providing a vibrant marketplace where the community can come together and engage in economic activities.
The Rural Hart has become a bustling center of commerce, attracting local residents and visitors alike. With a capacity to host up to 200 people at a time, it has emerged as a vital community space that fosters a sense of unity and cooperation among the entrepreneurs.
To prepare the aspiring entrepreneurs for their ventures, the Micro Enterprise Development Program conducted six comprehensive training sessions in six villages: Gordhanpura, Thandiberi, Koyalwav, Bhimana, Upla Bhimana, and Tani. A total of 180 members were targeted and provided with training on technical aspects of running a business, as well as the unique characteristics of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) such as custard apple, ber, and palash.
Equipped with newfound knowledge and skills, 31 selected members were further supported with an initial capital investment of Rs 6000 to establish their micro-enterprises. This financial boost has enabled them to kick-start their ventures and generate income for themselves and their families.
Through the establishment of the Rural Hart and the implementation of the Micro Enterprise Development Program, the communities of Bali block are witnessing positive transformation. The journey towards self-reliance and empowerment continues, with the hope of creating a brighter and more prosperous future for all the villagers involved. The spirit of entrepreneurship, coupled with the collective effort of various organizations and support systems, has laid the foundation for sustainable development and progress in these tribal villages.