Women have always played a vital role in agriculture, yet their efforts frequently go unrecognized. Today, let's honor the women who are transforming their lives and communities. On this special day, we highlight five inspiring women whose stories of resilience and innovation are driving lasting, positive change in agriculture.
Their journeys demonstrate the power of community, revealing the significant impact of equipping women with the tools they need to succeed. Coca-Cola India’s #SheTheDifference campaign, supported by Anandana, The Coca-Cola India Foundation, amplifies this spirit, empowering women to lead meaningful progress within their communities.
P. Regina: Empowering a Community in Tamil Nadu
At 62, P. Regina from Theni district, Tamil Nadu, is leading a movement of empowerment through the "Vahin" self-help group. Comprising 12 women, the group produces organic products like Carrot Malt, Beetroot Malt, and Amla Candy. Under Regina's leadership, the group earns INR 30,000 per month, improving not only their financial situation but also fostering a strong sense of sisterhood and mutual support.
Rani HP: Coffee Farming Resilience in Coorg
Rani HP’s story from Kodagu’s Heravanadu is one of remarkable perseverance. After losing her husband, she spent two decades transforming barren land into a thriving coffee plantation. Through local NGO support and training from Anandana on sustainable practices, Rani refined her methods, leading to a steady income. Her dedication earned her a position as a board director of the Madikeri Highlands Farmers Producers Company Limited, an initiative by ISWAR in Coorg.
Suvarna: Turning Waste into Wealth through Vermicomposting
In Gondoli village, Maharashtra, Suvarna embraced vermicomposting to improve soil fertility and reduce chemical fertilizer dependency. With expert guidance, she produced 450 kg of vermicompost, boosting both her sugarcane crop and vegetable garden. This shift provided her family with both economic and nutritional benefits, turning Suvarna into a successful farmer-entrepreneur since her journey began in 2022.
Preethi Krishna Kumar: A Young Mother’s Path to Farming Success
At 24, balancing motherhood and limited resources, Preethi Krishna Kumar from Theni joined a women’s horticulture empowerment program. After nearly 50 training sessions, she began cultivating grapes and chilies, creating products like banana powder and millet snacks. Her income increased by 53%, now earning INR 10,000 per month. Preethi’s journey to farming success has given her pride and independence in supporting her family.
Basanti: Thriving in Uttarakhand's Apple Orchards
Basanti from Uttarakhand's mountainous region saw her farming fortune change with modern techniques and support from Anandana’s Project Unnati Apple. After adopting drip irrigation and organic practices, her apple yields surged, raising her earnings from Rs. 20,000 from potatoes to Rs. 3 lakhs from apples. With this success, Basanti now dreams of building a homestay on her farm, showcasing how modern farming can transform lives.
