'Plating' success

Poverty Alleviation through livelihood creation is one of the stated goals of microfinance. To make the livelihood activity a sustainable one, a holistic intervention mechanism is essential. Areca Nut trees are found in abundance in Chitradurga district in Karnataka. It was but natural to find livelihood option built in and around this natural resource.

Activity

NABARD sanctioned an LEDP project for 100 Women SHG members from HD Pura, Ramgiri and Hireguntnur villages of Chitradurga Taluk to SKDRDP for an outlay of Rs.2.61 lakh. 

Nature of Intervention

Resource persons from Shri Dharmasthala Siri Gramodyoga Samsthe trained the members in selecting areca leaf, tying, bundling, moistening, drying and making the plates. Input on various types of machines available, use of dye for particular kind of plates/bowls, etc. were provided. Exposure programme for experience on hydraulic machines and hand machines was given. The members were introduced to the local farmers/progressive farmers/panchayat members who assured to give them the areca leaves on regular basis. There is a good demand for areca leaf plates and bowls in the market. The members are given the orders much in advance and the SKDRDP coordinators help them in packing the plates neatly. The plates are picked up by the vehicle by SKDRDP themselves, which saves time and effort of the womenfolk.

Marketing is done through market outlet viz., Sri Dharmasthala SIRI Institute which has helped them in both forward and backward linkages. As on date 51 members have availed Rs.35 lakh loan from Canara Bank for purchasing and installing the machines.

The Impact

A profit of Rs.24.19 lakh has been recorded.

Three members have purchased hydraulic machines, 48 members have purchased hand machines while remaining 49 members are helping them in collection of areca leaves, production, packing, arranging for transport, etc. 03 members attended the exhibition held by Karnataka Regional Office and fetched an income of Rs.3 lakh on the spot and orders worth Rs.12 lakh.

Critical Determinants 

• Continuous handholding by SIRI Dharmasthala
• Provision of machines by the dealer at a discounted rate without additional delivery charge
• 25% subsidy for the machines from Department of Industries and Commerce

Source : Creating Livelihoods, Changing Lives