Harsha Sakhi Mandal Becomes ‘Lakhpati Didi’ in Hazira

Surat : In the heart of Vanswa village, near the industrial hub of Hazira, lies an inspiring story of transformation and empowerment. Harsha Sakhi Mandal, a women’s self-help group established in 2009, has emerged as a beacon of hope for unorganised and economically disadvantaged women in the area. With the support of the Adani Foundation and the central government’s “Lakhpati Didi Yojana,” these women have not only lifted themselves out of poverty but have also become symbols of self-reliance and economic empowerment.

A Journey of Resilience and Determination

Harsha Sakhi Mandal was formed under Mission Mangalam (National Rural Livelihood Mission – NRLM) with the initial goal of small savings among its members. However, for years, the group struggled to find a way to increase their income and provide a better future for their families. Many of the women in the group faced extreme hardships, including the challenge of putting food on the table.

Nimishaben Patel, President of Harsha Sakhi Mandal, recalls the early days of struggle. “We were not doing any activity except small savings,” she says. “But our sisters needed to do something more to support their families. That’s when we met the team from Adani Foundation Hazira.”

With the guidance and support of the Adani Foundation, the group found its footing. Nimishaben, who had experience in catering and running a small canteen at a village school, proposed starting a canteen at the Adani Hazira Port. The idea was met with enthusiasm, and in August 2023, the canteen was launched with an initial investment of just Rs. 10,000.

The Birth of “Lakhpati Didi”

In just one year, the canteen became a resounding success, with monthly earnings exceeding one lakh rupees. This achievement earned the women of Harsha Sakhi Mandal the prestigious title of “Lakhpati Didi,” a recognition under the central government’s Lakhpati Didi Yojana. The scheme aims to make women economically empowered and self-reliant by providing interest-free loans of up to Rs. 5 lakh for employment-oriented training and self-employment.

The Adani Foundation provided essential support, including utensils, refrigerators, light bills, and rent-free space for the canteen. The women of the Sakhi Mandal took charge of the daily operations, managing groceries, cooking, and serving meals to the employees of Adani Hazira Port. The canteen now serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with snacks like wafers and biscuits, generating a steady income for the group.

Overcoming Challenges and Changing Perceptions

Running the canteen was not without its challenges. The women faced opposition from their families, who were skeptical of their ability to manage a business. There were also practical difficulties, such as the limited number of women on the port and the strict regulations governing canteen operations. However, the women persisted, and their hard work paid off. Today, the canteen is widely appreciated by the employees of Adani Hazira Port for its cleanliness, quality, and taste.

Nimishaben proudly shares that the income generated from the canteen has not only improved their livelihoods but has also changed the perception of their families. “Family members who were once against us running the canteen are now supportive,” she says.

A Model for Women’s Empowerment

The success of Harsha Sakhi Mandal has caught the attention of the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), which has recognized the group as a model of women’s empowerment. The initiative has also provided employment opportunities for women from the Koli and Halapati communities, including three widows who now have a stable income to support their families.

Falguni Desai, Project Director of Adani Foundation, emphasises the foundation’s commitment to empowering women in rural areas. “The 10 sisters of Harsha Sakhi Mandal have become self-sufficient today,” she says. “We are proud to have played a role in their journey.”