Divya Rawat: The "Mushroom Lady's" Story of Becoming a Social Entrepreneur

Divya Rawat was born and brought up in Chamoli Garhwal, Uttarakhand. She completed her Bachelor's in Social Work from Amity Noida and a Master's from IGNOU. She initially dedicated herself to human rights activism. However, a stark reality struck her- She witnessed the plight of people migrating from small towns to urban setups, toiling in suboptimal conditions. Divya recognized poverty as the root of the problem.

A Seed of Change: Mushroom Farming

Inspired by the deep-rooted agricultural heritage of Uttarakhand, Divya decided to cultivate livelihoods through farming. After meticulous research and training both domestically and internationally, she identified mushroom cultivation as a promising avenue. In 2013, she returned to Chamoli with a clear vision.

"Breathing Life into Desolate Villages"

She started with a modest investment of ₹15,000 and an unwavering determination. Divya transformed empty houses in Kandara village into mushroom cultivation centers. Her initiative brought life to these so-called "ghost villages". The unique nature of mushroom farming, an indoor process requiring specific temperature conditions, made it an ideal fit for the region.

A Model of Economic Empowerment

Recognizing the high market demand and potential for substantial returns, Divya focused on cultivating the high-value "Keedajadi" mushroom variety. With an initial investment of just Rs. 10,000 to 15,000, she has built a multi-crore enterprise in just 12 years.

Beyond personal success, Divya's vision encompasses a broader societal impact. She has created a platform for over 15,000 families, empowering them as entrepreneurs. She strongly believes that economic independence can break the cycle of poverty and exploitation.

A Catalyst for Women's Empowerment

Divya is a staunch advocate for women's empowerment. She believes women are the architects of homes and societies. By involving thousands of women in her venture, she has not only given them a stable livelihood but also fostered a sense of community and self-reliance.

Divya continues to drive positive change through her foundations, Avantam Himalayan Foundation and Soumya Foods Pvt Ltd.

Divya's Note to Aspiring Entrepreneurs: She emphasizes the importance of social responsibility and the potential for business to be a force for good. By prioritizing the well-being of the community, entrepreneurs can create a lasting impact. This will also be impactful in the growth of the nation.