From Farm Labourer to Entrepreneur
Meenakshi Fad transformed her hardships into opportunities. Meenakshi’s journey has been marked by many challenges, from managing household responsibilities to earning a livelihood with limited resources. With her husband working in Gujarat, she was left to care for their two children. Managing with just half an acre of land, she worked as a daily wage farm labourer to support her family.
At a time when work opportunities were scarce, Meenakshi continued working in the fields while her older child helped at home. At a crucial time, her father gifted her sewing machine, marking the beginning of a small tailoring business. Within two years, she began earning ₹4,000–₹5,000 per month, steadily improving her family’s situation.
In July 2024, through Swayam Shikshan Prayog’s initiative supported by Avendus Capital Pvt. Ltd., Meenakshi was selected as a Sakhi and trained in entrepreneurship. She enrolled eight other women and actively participated in training sessions on business, marketing, and communication. Though shy in the beginning, her confidence steadily grew.
After the training, she improved her packaging and reached out to local shops, schools, and government offices with free samples. A past order of 300 laddus, which once felt impossible, now seemed within reach.
Encouraged to join an entrepreneurship fair, she prepared 50 laddus—all sold out quickly. Today, her laddus are available in 12 villages. She now employs two women twice a week and has a monthly turnover of ₹35,000, saving around ₹11,000–₹12,000.
With her husband now supporting her in marketing and order collection, Meenakshi has completed all food safety requirements, including labeling and branding.
She proudly says, “I believe any work done with dedication leads to success.”
Swayam Shikshan Prayog
25th June, 2025