Determination, self-confidence and the right utilisation of opportunity—these three elements transformed the life of Kumari Yashoda Nag from Pujari Para in Kuakonda village of Dantewada district. Despite facing challenges such as the financial burden of supporting her family, limited educational resources and unemployment, Yashoda refused to give up. The Tribal Women Empowerment Scheme of the District Antyavasayi Cooperative Development Committee opened new doors of hope and self-reliance for her. Today, through her grocery business, Yashoda earns between ₹7,000 to ₹10,000 per month, becoming a pillar of support for her family.
Yashoda shares that before 2023–24, her future felt uncertain. After the demise of her father, the entire responsibility of the family fell on her shoulders. From managing household needs to ensuring the education of her mother and two younger siblings—every responsibility was hers to bear. Due to circumstances, she could study only up to Class 12. Despite several attempts to secure a job, success eluded her, but she never lost hope.
During this time, she came to know about the Tribal Women Empowerment Scheme. After submitting the required documents at the District Committee Dantewada, she received the benefits of the scheme. Under this initiative, she was provided a loan of ₹2 lakh, which she used to start a grocery store. Today, the shop is her permanent source of livelihood. Yashoda says she is able to repay the loan instalments without any difficulty, and her business continues to grow steadily.
She expresses proudly, “This business has improved my family’s financial condition. Today I am standing on my own feet and have become a support system for my family. This achievement brings me pride and satisfaction. The government’s scheme has given me a new life.”
