India 26 December 2024: The Athak Bharat project, a collaboration between the Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII) and ONGC, has effectively changed the lives of people in the Dang District of Gujarat by providing opportunities and entrepreneurial skills to rural and tribal communities. The project has helped more than 300 individuals build sustainable businesses, contributing to community based economic growth and self-reliance.
Through Athak Bharat, 18 self-help groups (SHGs) were formed and strengthened, creating a foundation for community-led development. Over 300 beneficiaries received hands-on training across sectors like: agripreneurship, handicrafts, ecotourism, non-timber forest products (NTFP), and medicinal plants.
The project is a holistic approach covering institutional building (SHG formation and strengthening), capacity building (skill development and entrepreneurship development followed by handholding support for enterprise promotion), Formation of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and transforming them into self-sustaining organizations.
“This journey of tribal women transforming from individual to institution for collective strengths enables socio-economic empowerment of the bottom of the pyramid. This project is a classic example of professional support and opportunity guidance that unleash the potential of beneficiaries for their sustainable growth and societal transformation.” said Dr. Raman Gujral, Professor & Director- Dept. of Projects- Corporate, EDII
“Athak Bharat is more than just a project; it’s a movement that empowers rural communities to dream bigger and achieve lasting change. We are proud of the remarkable progress achieved and look forward to extending its impact further, equipping individuals with immediate skills for building a business and tools to thrive in the long term.”saidDr. A.L.N Prasad, Programme Director and Assistant Professor, EDII.
A Story of Transformation: The Aradhya Agripreneurship Unit
The Aradhya Agripreneurship Unit in Jamalpada village, Ahwa, is a magnificent demonstration of Athak Bharat’s accomplishments. Previously working as seasonal farm laborers, communities now produce Nagli, Bhagar, and millet-based bakery products, earning a stable income of INR 15,000–17,000 per month individually.
With EDII’s training and support, Aradhya Unit members are now self-sufficient Agripreneurs. Their participation in local fairs and bazaars has further boosted their sales, helped the group mobilize resources, build enterprises, establish markets, and tap into Ahwa’s tourist-driven demand.
Building Skills for a Sustainable Future
The project’s success lies in its innovative training approach, which includes:
- Manufacturing and Production: Teaching participants to create market-ready products.
- Digital Marketing: Helping rural entrepreneurs reach wider audiences.
- NTFP and Medicinal Plant Utilisation: Unlocking the Economic Potential of Local Natural Resources.
In addition to skill development, EDII has ensured the long-term sustainability of SHGs and enterprises through leadership development, market linkages, and continuous mentoring, enabling participants to adapt to challenges and grow their businesses.
Following the success of Athak Bharatin Ahwa Block of Dang District, EDII plans to expand the project into the Waghai block of Dang District, aiming to bring similar opportunities to more communities and enhance rural livelihoods.
