Bhubaneswar : The Radha Rani Self-Help Group (SHG), based in Ureidadar Village in Jharbandh, Odisha, comprises women who had long been involved in activities such as daily wage work, road cleaning, and seasonal farming to support their households. In late 2023, the group came across the Jaadu Ginni Ka (JGK) financial literacy program run by Vi Foundation. The programme helped them in understanding essential financial concepts and practical business insights. Through training modules and guidance from the JGK trainers, the women were introduced to financial planning, banking, and government schemes, opening their eyes to the possibility of establishing a more stable, profitable venture. Inspired by the knowledge and with a clear understanding of pisciculture—a skill familiar to them due to their proximity to coastal regions—they decided to pursue fish farming.
Securing a lease for a pond from the Ureidadar Village Panchayat, the women launched their fish farming business in early 2024. They secured government support through schemes they had learned about during the program. Today, Radha Rani SHG has created a thriving business, generating consistent profits, which has uplifted the livelihoods of all 10 members.
Beyond financial gains, thanks to Vi Foundation, these women have gained confidence and financial independence, with many now actively managing family finances and planning for their children’s education.
