A family facing financial hardship
For years, life was a daily struggle for Pramila Devi, a 50-year-old resident of Khudwatari village in Gawan Block, Giridih district, Jharkhand. Living with her husband, Maho Singh, and their three children, the family relied largely on agriculture and dhibra (mica scrap) picking to meet their basic needs.
Their income was irregular and often barely sufficient to cover household expenses, leaving little room for healthcare or education. The situation became even more difficult when Pramila’s husband developed serious health problems. With limited resources to pay for medical treatment, healthcare costs placed additional pressure on the family.
Their financial difficulties also affected their children’s education, including their two daughters, studying in classes IX and X (high school).
A new livelihood opportunity through RMI Community Empowerment Program
An opportunity for change emerged when Pramila became involved in the Community Empowerment Program, supported by the Responsible Mica Initiative (RMI) and its partner Abhivyakti Foundation.
The Village Development Committee (VDC), together with the project team, recognized Pramila’s determination to improve her family’s situation and identified small business development as a potential sustainable income-generating opportunity.
Following the VDC’s recommendation, Pramila received project support in December 2025 to establish a grocery shop in her village.
Turning a small shop into a reliable source of income
What began as a modest microenterprise has become the family’s most reliable source of income.
Today, the grocery shop records monthly sales of approximately ₹13,000–₹15,000 (approximately 137 to 158 USD), generating a monthly profit of around ₹3,000–₹3,500 (approximately 31 to 37 USD).
While modest, this regular income has brought greater stability to the household and reduced its dependence on uncertain daily wage activities.
Strengthening household resilience and women’s empowerment
The income generated by the shop is helping Pramila meet essential household expenses more consistently and contribute to her husband’s medical treatment.
With a more predictable source of income, Pramila can plan her household finances with greater confidence. Her role in household decision-making has also strengthened, while running the shop has increased her self-confidence as an entrepreneur.
Her experience illustrates how livelihood diversification can help vulnerable households build greater resilience when traditional income sources are insufficient or unpredictable.
From livelihood support to community inspiration
Pramila’s journey is also having an impact beyond her own household.
Her determination and entrepreneurial spirit have made her an example of resilience within her community. Her experience shows how access to appropriate livelihood opportunities can help women strengthen their families’ financial security while building confidence and inspiring others facing similar challenges.
“After receiving the grocery shop, I now earn a regular income and can better support my family. The shop has given me confidence and hope for the future. I am very happy with the positive change it has brought to our lives.” Pramila Devi
By supporting vulnerable households to develop alternative and more sustainable sources of income, RMI’s Community Empowerment Program is helping strengthen economic resilience while creating opportunities for women to take a more active role in their families and communities.
Today, Pramila’s grocery shop is a symbol of dignity, self-reliance, confidence, and renewed hope for the future.
