Nandita Barman: Empowering Women through Entrepreneurship and Community Development

RWE details

Village- Balijana

Cluster – Balijana

District- Goalpara

Nandita Barman, a 30-year-old Pashu Sakhi from Goalpara district, Balijana Block, has been working with The Goat Trust (TGT) as a Livestock Business Counselor (LBC) under Udyamini program to promote sustainable livestock management practices in her community. With a strong educational background, including a Bachelor’s degree in General Course from Goalpara College, Mrs. Barman has been instrumental in reducing livestock mortality rates and improving the overall health of cattle in her area.

Family profile

Mrs. Barman’s desire to expand her goat farming business was hindered by financial constraints. However, her determination and resourcefulness led her to explore alternative options. Upon learning about the Chief Minister’s Atmanirbha Asom Abhijan (CMAAA) Scheme, which provides financial assistance to young entrepreneurs in Assam, Mrs. Barman saw an opportunity to turn her business idea into a reality. With the support of TGT, Mrs. Barman successfully applied for the scheme and received a grant of ₹75,000.

The CMAA Scheme has enabled Mrs. Barman to expand her goat farming business, purchasing high-quality goats, ducks, and chicks, and constructing a decent shelter for the animals. With her increased income, she is now able to cover her family’s expenses, pay her children’s school fees, and invest in her business. Mrs. Barman’s initiative has also led to the conduct of monthly meetings, BPP (Backyard Poultry Promotion), and video shows to educate and train community members on sustainable livestock management practices.

Through her intervention and with the support of TGT, Mrs. Barman has brought awareness to her community on the importance of treating sick goats and saving their lives. She has also taught community members how to manage thei r goat shelters and food. Additionally, Mrs. Barman prepares supplements for goats, which she learned from TGT, and earns income by selling them to goat farmers.

Initially, community members were hesitant to adopt new practices, but through her step-by-step approach, Mrs. Barman has convinced them of the benefits. Today, people seek her expertise for goat treatment at a low cost. Receiving the CMAA scheme has boosted her business and motivated her to strive for more. Mrs. Barman is now a role model for many women in the society, inspiring them to take up entrepreneurship and community development initiatives.

Mrs. Barman’s success has also encouraged other women in the community to participate in the CMAA scheme, promoting women’s empowerment and entrepreneurship in the region. Her story is a testament to the impact of training, support, and access to resources in enabling women to become change-makers in their communities.

Livestock Status

Additional source of income Post Training by TGT under Udyamini program-