From Skill Development to Self-Reliance: Malti Inspires Rural Women

14 August 2026, Chhota Banki (Gulmuri, East Singhbhum): Twenty-one-year-old Malti Singh is emerging as an inspiring example of women’s empowerment through skill development and local livelihood opportunities.

About a year ago, she joined the Sunahari Jute Bag Production Kendra, established by Nav Bharat Jagriti Kendra (NBJK) under Model Village Project Chhota Banki with support of Cummins India Foundation, where she received training in jute bag production, along with leadership, communication and teamwork skills.

Today, Malti earns around ₹300–400 per day, supports her college education and contributes to her family’s income. She also supervises production and trains SHG members and institutions such as Tata Steel Foundation.

Her journey is inspiring other women in Chhota Banki to pursue livelihoods within the village rather than migrate for daily wage work.

Malti’s story demonstrates how skills, guidance and local livelihood opportunities can build confidence, dignity and self-reliance among rural women.