Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 25 Jun: This is the story of a transformational journey which has taken place through the Safalta Swatantra Sahakarita (Cluster Level Federation) in Doiwala block. With support from REAP Dehradun and the vision of empowering women economically, a Community-Based Organisation (CBO) was established to help them become financially independent. One of the key initiatives launched was the Spice Unit, which brought new hope and opportunities to the women of Doodhli village.
Initially, only five women stepped forward to be part of this venture. With proper training and guidance provided by REAP Dehradun, they mastered the art of cleaning, grinding, and packaging spices such as turmeric, red chili, coriander, and garam masala using scientific methods. They ensured that hygiene and quality remained top priorities in their production process.
As their unit gained momentum, their spices started receiving attention in the local markets. Branded under the name “Swachh aur Shuddh Masale” (Clean and Pure Spices), their products became popular at the Panchayat-level exhibitions, boosting their sales and visibility. With the support of CBO, they obtained an FSSAI license, packaging machines, and marketing tools to expand their business further.
The Spice Unit’s success has been made possible with crucial financial assistance. REAP provided support of Rs 6 lakhs to help establish and scale operations. A bank loan of Rs 3 lakhs was secured on behalf of the CLF. CLF itself contributed Rs 1 lakh towards the venture, demonstrating strong internal commitment.
Currently, the enterprise has 8 household women working voluntarily. As business growth continues, these women will soon be hired on a salary basis, ensuring long-term employment sustainability.
More than 582 members hold stakes in the federation. The CLF has 715 members working collaboratively. A network of 60 SHGs actively participates in the initiative. Eight village organisations contribute to the federation’s overall success.
Today, this women-led spice unit is not just profitable but also creating employment opportunities for other women in the community. The journey of these entrepreneurs stands as a testament to how dedication, proper direction, and perseverance can lead to extraordinary success even with limited resources.
The CBO-level enterprise has become an example of inspiration for other groups, proving that local businesses led by women can thrive and make a significant impact on the community.
This success story showcases the power of self-reliance and collective effort, proving that when women are given the right opportunities, they don’t just transform their own lives but uplift the entire community.
