Balasore: Self-help groups under Mission Shakti are undertaking a wide range of economic activities and generating substantial incomes, enabling financial stability and empowerment of women in the state. Of late, thirty vibrant women are doing fantastic transactions through their SHG at a village in the Balasore district by manufacturing and marketing edible oils.
The members of Jaya Basulimata SHG are into extracting oil from locally sourced seeds and nuts, including mustard, groundnut, and castor, using a machine.
According to sources, 10 women of Baliapala came forward and set up Jaya Basulimata SHG with an initial deposit of ₹100 each. Now the number of members has increased to 30 and they are earning monthly profits of Rs 60,000 to Rs 70,000. Each member earns a monthly income of Rs 2,000 to Rs 2,500, which has significantly improved their financial stability. Without wasting their leisure time in gossiping, these women are utilising their time in doing something meaningful.
The success of the group can be attributed to the availability of raw materials in the region, making it easier for them to source mustard, coconut, groundnut, and castor seeds.
As per reports, the women are selling mustard oil for Rs 300 per litre, almond oil for Rs 350 per litre, castor oil for Rs 500 per litre, and coconut oil for Rs 500 per litre. To produce one litre of oil, they require 3-3.5 kilograms of mustard seeds, 2-3 kilograms of groundnuts, 3 kilograms of castor seeds, and 3 kilograms of coconut, respectively. The cost of production ranges from Rs 220-250 per litre for mustard oil, Rs 250-300 per litre for groundnut oil, Rs 400-450 per litre for castor oil, and Rs 300-350 per litre for coconut oil.
Additionally, the group has also found a creative way to utilize the by-products, selling them to fish and betel farmers at Rs 30 to Rs 40 per kilogram.
“We women, who were once solely dependent on our husbands for financial support, have now become equal partners in managing household expenses. By earning a steady income through our self-help groups, we are able to support our children’s education and healthcare, and contribute to the family’s daily needs, such as groceries and utilities”, said a member.
Bharati Pradhan, president of the SHG, said, “We founded the group in 2016. Despite being into a job, I make sure to find out time for our SHG. We came up with the SHG after a few village women showed their interest in becoming self-sufficient. I approached block officials and Mission Shakti officials to launch the SHG. Earlier, members of the SHG asked for even Rs 5 to have an ice cream. Now, they are self-reliant. They are happy to have an income source now. However, we are seeking additional infrastructural support to further expand our business and it will help our SHG members to earn Rs 5,000 each.”
