Gojar Nemame, Aurangabad District, Maharashtra

Gojar tai, a farmer becomes a leader and works for the betterment of her village

SSP has invested in increasing the knowledge, skills, leadership, and status of women in rural communities. Enabling women to have self-esteem and be holders of knowledge and innovations in agriculture, enterprises and social services and placing high emphasis on their role in community decision making processes have been key drivers to SSP’s strategy.

ojar Nemame, from Aurangabad District, Maharashtra, used to help her husband in their farm and take care of the household.

Her mobility was restricted. After attending a meeting of women to orient them on SSP’s work and initiatives, Gojar tai was inspired to take the lead in organising the village women into SHGs and farmers groups. GIn spite of negativity from the community, Gojar tai was able to convince her husband to support her. She attended many trainings given by the SSP team on the ‘one-acre farming model’ and implemented it on her own farm. Moreover, she promoted it amongst her twelve fellow SHG members.

Looking at Gojar Nemame’s qualities – like an interest to learn, family support, literacy, leadership skills etc., she was selected as a local leader and trainer by SSP. She currently works to spread awareness on issues of nutrition, health and sanitation. She has also promoted entrepreneurship development amongst women, by guiding them in starting small businesses like food processing and tailoring. Currently over 50 women are associated with Gojar tai.

Gojar Nemame has emerged as a local leader, who advocates with government officials on implementation of schemes at the village level. She has successfully linked women to various schemes and familiarized them with local governance structures.

Gojar tai says that it is only through the support and training provided by SSP, that she has been able to develop her leadership skills and work for the betterment of her village.

Swayam Shikshan Prayog
15th February, 2022