Women in the (SHGs) empowered through the RIPA-Based Oil Mill Processing Unit.
Raipur… The Chhattisgarh government’s ambitious plan is transforming the lives of rural people and women through the establishment of Rural Industrial Parks (RIPA). These efforts to foster self-reliance are delivering positive and improved outcomes, enabling rural residents and women to advance by developing their skills and accessing small-scale employment opportunities.
In Koliyari Gram Panchayat, Narayanpur district, the Chhattisgarh government has initiated a women-led oil mill processing unit as part of the Rural Industrial Park (RIPA) scheme. Ten members of the Bajrangi Self-Help Group underwent training in processing and packaging at RIPA and are now integrated into its operations. Following their training, the Bajrangi Self-Help Group procures oilseed crops from local farmers, processes and packages them for sale in the market.
The exceptional quality of the oil has led to a growing demand in the market. The group has already packaged 600 liters of oil, selling it at a rate of 250 rupees per liter and generating sales of up to 1,50,000 rupees. Previously, group members could only earn between one to fifteen hundred rupees per month, but now, each member’s monthly income has risen to up to 6,000 rupees. The group currently has orders worth approximately 10 lakh rupees for their oil. In addition to their work at the oil processing unit, the women of the Bajrangi Self-Help Group are engaged in agricultural activities and participate in the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) work. They express their happiness at earning a good income, which is contributing to their family’s well-being.
Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel launched the Mahatma Gandhi Rural Industrial Park Scheme, RIPA, on Gandhi Jayanti, October 2, 2022. Under this scheme, the development of 300 rural industrial parks is underway in the first phase. The state government has allocated a budget of 600 crore rupees for the development of these parks, with two crore rupees designated for each RIPA.
Through this scheme, the linkage of villages with Mahatma Gandhi Rural Industrial Parks is resulting in increased income for rural families. Emerging income sources are strengthening the financial well-being of rural residents, while the promotion of entrepreneurship at the village level is creating substantial employment opportunities, reducing the need for migration in search of work.
