Biodiversity Convention: Seed, Soil & Millets

“Stitching Dreams into Reality: Lucky Devi’s Empowering Journey as a Seamstress.”

Introduction:

This case study revolves around the inspiring story of Lucky Devi, a determined woman from Dhar Gaon in the Bhilangana block. Despite facing life’s challenges after her marriage, Lucky Devi’s passion for sewing remained dormant. However, with the support of the HRIDAY project, MVDA, and her local community, she found the courage to rekindle her dreams and empower herself, making a positive impact on her family and village.

The Revival of Passion:

Before marriage, Lucky Devi had honed her sewing skills. Sadly, after her marriage, her time was consumed by household responsibilities, leaving her passion untouched. Nevertheless, when the HRIDAY project initiated livelihood support for women in the village, Lucky Devi seized the opportunity to reignite her love for sewing.

A Ray of Hope:

The need assessment was pivotal in understanding Lucky Devi’s aspirations and proficiency in sewing. It revealed her genuine interest in reviving her talent and contributing to her family’s income. The village women’s group, recognizing her potential, decided to lend a helping hand, providing her with a sewing machine.

Empowerment through Support:

Financially backed by LIC Housing Finance Limited (LIC HFL), Lucky Devi received an electric automated sewing machine and the necessary training. With this support, she established her sewing center strategically located in her village, allowing her easy access to potential customers while balancing her familial responsibilities.

Stitching a Bright Future:

The assessment took into account the sustainability of Lucky Devi’s tailoring business. It considered the seasonal demands and fluctuations in her income. By involving her in contributing towards the sewing machine’s purchase, a sense of ownership was instilled in her, nurturing her commitment to success.

The assessment took into account the sustainability of Lucky Devi’s received electric automated sewing machine and the necessary training. With this support, she established her sewing center strategically located in her village, allowing her easy access to potential customers while balancing her family responsibilities.

Conclusion:

Lucky Devi’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of support and the unwavering determination to pursue one’s passion. Through the HRIDAY project and the compassion of her community, Lucky Devi stitched together a brighter future, enriching not only her own life but also the lives of those around her. Her story serves as an emotional reminder that dreams, with the right encouragement, can become reality, sparking a ripple of positive change that extends far beyond an individual’s aspirations.

Jayathi

During my two-month internship at MVDA’s Paukhal office, I gained valuable insights into cooperative operations and witnessed how MVDA’s collaborative strategy fosters unity and shared success among individuals and communities. This experience provided a strong foundation for efficient collaborations in my future work. Additionally, I learned about the intricacies of the social sector, emphasizing the importance of personalized solutions, empathy, and cultural awareness. Interacting with diverse stakeholders improved my cross-cultural communication skills and highlighted the significance of meaningful connections for positive change. This internship also honed my adaptability and problem-solving abilities in MVDA’s dynamic environment..

Anupriya

During my time at MVDA, this internship has proven to be an invaluable experience, enabling me to gain hands-on knowledge and enhance my communication skills.

The team at MVDA was not only approachable but also supportive, fostering a conducive learning environment. Through this internship, I had the privilege of delving into the lives and challenges faced by mountain farmers. Additionally, I gained insights into a variety of traditional seeds and storage methods such as the kothar.

Overall, this internship has been a rich and enlightening experience, offering me practical insights and a deeper understanding of agricultural practices in mountainous regions.

Prabesh Prasad Nautiyal

I recently completed a life-changing internship at an NGO Mount Valley Development Association that focused on agriculture, and I must say it was an unforgettable experience. Throughout my time there, I had the opportunity to work alongside dedicated professionals, passionate about sustainable agriculture and making a positive impact on rural communities.

The NGO’s commitment to promoting environmentally friendly farming practices and empowering local farmers to improve their livelihoods was truly inspiring. From day one, I was encouraged to actively participate in various projects, gaining hands-on experience and valuable skills in agricultural techniques, soil conservation, and crop management

Shubham Painyuli

MVDA’s experience was very good in which we learned what problems and challenges farmers face in farming in the hilly areas of Uttarakhand. Which we did a survey related to millet. And we have come to know what decisions are made in the mountains and how much yield they give. In which we learned the importance of millet. We saw that people in the hilly areas of Uttarakhand are still attached to their farming despite facing many problems. I thank Mount Valley Development Association from the bottom of my heart for giving us this opportunity.

KM.Sweta

My experience at MVDA was fantastic. We received all necessary facilities, including food, accommodation, and transportation. We learned extensively about different types of millets and their benefits, such as barnyard millet for jaundice patients and finger millet for diabetic patients. We also discovered rare millets like Porso and foxtail millet. MVDA’s efforts to motivate farmers to grow millets and raise awareness about their nutritional value were commendable. This experience improved my communication skills through interactions with farmers, and I’m grateful to MVDA for the opportunity to learn about rural agricultural practices and the challenges they face, including crop damage by wild animals.

Neelam Maletha

I had an opportunity to work as an intern at MVDA, they gave me a platform to understand the rural lifestyle and about different millets which I have never practically seen ever like Foxtail millets, I have learned so many new things and got lots of experience about the situation in the villages, the faculty was very helpful, and the farmers of villages was very nice and response very well it improves my communication skills as I have interacted with so many farmers I am very thankful to MVDA for providing me this opportunity, I have learned about agriculture practices of rural area. All the provided facilities by MVDA were great i.e. stay, travel, and food. I would like to thank MVDA for giving me this opportunity and the faculty members who gave me great knowledge and help in understanding the village lifestyle.

Against all Odds

Manju Devi, a remarkable and resilient woman, faced a daunting challenge when her husband tragically passed away, leaving her as the sole provider for her two young children. Undeterred, she fearlessly embraced her role as both mother and father. In the midst of her struggles, a trusted friend introduced her to Mount Valley Development Association (MVDA), a life-changing organization focused on empowerment.

Joining MVDA’s processing unit marked the beginning of a transformative journey for Manju. Through their support, she achieved financial independence and stability, securing a job that allowed her to meet her family’s needs and provide for her children’s education. Additionally, her resourcefulness shone through as she managed a small farm, supplementing their income and nourishing her family with fresh produce.

Despite her own challenges, Manju’s heart of compassion extended to caring for her mother-in-law. Balancing the demands of work, farm, and family, she exemplified the values of love and support that MVDA stood for.

MVDA’s impact went beyond just providing employment; it became a source of empowerment and a supportive community for Manju. Each opportunity they offered fueled her confidence, making her stronger and more self-reliant.

Manju Devi’s inspiring journey with MVDA proves the indomitable human spirit’s ability to overcome adversity. Her story stands as a testament to the life-changing power of empowerment and the unwavering determination of individuals to create a brighter future for themselves and their loved ones.

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