Vidya Narayan Ujed, Jalna, Maharashtra

Vidya’s Journey of Change: From Farm Labourer to Entrepreneur

Once a farm laborer and homemaker, Vidya transformed her life through sheer determination and support from Swayam Shikshan Prayog and the Startup Village Entrepreneurship Program (SVEP).

Starting with a small saree business in 2016, Vidya steadily grew her income. During COVID, she stitched and sold masks. Inspired by a newspaper article, she explored mushroom farming, researched online, and started with just 5 kg of seeds in 2020.

With training from SSP and support under the SVEP project, Vidya learned about business planning, packaging, and marketing. She then launched a successful amla (gooseberry) product line—making candy, juice, pickles, and more. Today, she produces 100 kg of amla candy monthly and earns ₹20,000–₹25,000, while also training other women in her village to start their own businesses.Vidya’s story is a true example of how rural women can lead change through entrepreneurship and community support.

Swayam Shikshan Prayog
11th April, 2025