Meena Agaria’s husband did not like the idea of her joining a Self Help Group when she first told him about it two years back. Today he tells her never to quit. This change in approach is an interesting story.

Meena lives in Jarhadi village of Balrampur district. Through the SHG, she is associated with the Bihan Scheme of Chhattisgarh Government that aims to provide livelihood support under the National Rural Livelihood Mission.

Meena did not belong to an affluent background. Her husband was a poor farmer and the family with three children always faced acute financial crisis. There were times when they even did not get to eat properly. Therefore, when Meena met the women who came to her village to spread awareness on Bihan, She saw a ray of hope.

“When I first heard of Bihan I wanted to get involved but was my husband was against it. He said, ‘You don’t need to join any SHG. What will you get out if it?’ But I was determined to join.” Says Meena. Despite her husband’s opposition she did not give up. She speaks about how she dealt with the issue. “I told him when we need money we don’t get it.We have to be worried about money and our children’s future all the time. No one knows what can happen in life and when we might need money. So if something good comes out of it why not give it a try.” Seeing her determination her husband finally relented and said if she thinks she can do it she should get involved in the scheme.

After getting associated with Bihan, Meena started to see a new world. She took up sewing work apart from farming and it gradually started improving her condition. With time she gained more confidence and learnt new skills. Now she does not need to ask her husband for money. She is not only financially independent now but has been able to contribute to the family as well.  

“We don’t need to starve. We don’t need to worry about treatment when someone falls ill. Life has changed. We are not facing problems that we had faced earlier. Bihan has totally changed my life.” She says.

The turn around in Meena’s life has not only changed her financial condition. It has also brought about changes in her personal life. Her husband, who was against the idea of her joining Bihan in the initial stage is now very supportive. “He has told me never to quit. His approach has changed. He now sees the benefit of being associated with Bihan. ”She says. Meena also encourages other women to come forward to join Bihan for the sake of themselves and their families. She believes that women can do anything provided they get a chance.

Meena is among the thousands of women who have changed their lives through the Bihan scheme in Chhattisgarh. Apart from empowering these women, the Scheme has also helped thousands of people to improve their economic conditions and lift themselves up out of poverty.