In the small village of Bhainsakmed, nestled near Nathdwara, a group of rural women is leading a remarkable initiative that is setting an example for the entire country. This effort is not just about empowering rural women to become self-reliant, but also about establishing their products in the broader market. As part of this endeavor, the women are producing healthy cookies made from coarse grains, which are not only delicious but also highly nutritious.
Innovative Approach to Healthy Cookies
Nathdwara MLA Vishvaraj Mewar recently visited the project and tasted the cookies, commending the effort. He remarked, “People love packaged products, and if they are healthy, even better. The women here in Bhainsakmed are doing something extraordinary. This pilot project is aimed at making rural women self-sufficient.”
The initiative is supported by the National Skill Development Corporation and the Sanskriti Vikas Kendra. The program provides training to rural women, enabling them to create healthy cookies using coarse grains like millets. These cookies are not only tasty but also beneficial for health.
A Step Towards Economic Independence for Women
The main objective of this project is to empower rural women economically. MLA Mewar emphasized, “This project will not only provide women with employment but will also make them financially independent. It’s a significant step towards enabling them to market their products and achieve economic freedom.”
One of the standout features of this initiative is the simplicity of the production process. No heavy machinery is required, as the cookies can be baked using a pressure cooker, making it easy for women to produce them from home. This project is offering employment opportunities while also strengthening the financial stability of their families.
A Business Model with Government Support
The project aims to expand on a larger scale, with support from local authorities and representatives to help these cookies gain market traction. The Akshaya Patra Foundation has also pledged its support, announcing that the cookies will be distributed alongside their meals, ensuring wider promotion and visibility.
MLA Mewar commented, “This initiative is not only providing employment to women but also has the potential to strengthen the rural economy in the future. A robust economic model will emerge from this project, allowing women to engage in business on a larger scale.”
The Road Ahead and Hopes for Further Innovation
Currently a pilot project in Bhainsakmed, there are plans to extend this initiative to other areas as well. Through this innovation, rural women are not only moving beyond traditional industries but are also working towards bringing modern products to the market. Given the rising popularity of cookies and biscuits, the future of this project looks promising.
In conclusion, this initiative is not only empowering rural women but is also improving the economic conditions of their families. It is providing them with a platform and paving the way for a new business model that could potentially transform the rural landscape in the coming years.