In Madhpar village of Bihar’s Nalanda district, Pratima Kumari once lived a life confined within her home, with little chance to earn or take decisions. Like many women around her, financial independence felt distant.
Yet, she quietly held on to a desire for something more.
Her journey began when she connected with Swayam Shikshan Prayog (SSP) through the Clean Energy and Women Led Climate Resilient Farming (WCRF) programme implemented under the Misereor supported project. With each step, her confidence began to grow.
She started her journey with a clean energy enterprise. The path was not easy in the beginning, as people were unsure, but her determination slowly earned their trust. As her work progressed, her vision expanded.
Today, Pratima has built an integrated livelihood model around a biogas plant, bringing together poultry, fish farming, and a nursery enterprise. What started as a small step has grown into a sustainable system that supports both income and the environment.
Her journey has created ripples across her community. She has mentored 24 women as clean energy entrepreneurs and supported 150 women farmers to adopt climate resilient practices. Inspired by her, many households have taken up nursery businesses, biogas units, and poultry farming.
Earning ₹25,000 to ₹30,000 per month, she is now the highest earning member of her family and supports her parents with pride.
More than her income, it is her confidence and leadership that stand out today.
Pratima dreams of a future where more women lead sustainable livelihoods, strengthening their families and building climate resilient communities.
“SSP gave me the confidence to begin. I know I can go much further.”
Swayam Shikshan Prayog
04 April, 2026
