Name: Krishna Brahma
Husband's Name: Amar Singh Brahma
Village: Dhansripur
Helmet: 1 No. Dihira
Caste: ST (Scheduled Tribe)
Age: 45
Annual Income: 120,000.00
Family Members: 4

Background

Krishna Brahma, a 45-year-old tribal woman from Dhansripur village, has always harbored a strong desire to do something significant despite her economic challenges. With an annual family income of ₹120,000 and four family members to support, Krishna's simple lifestyle did not permit her to seek employment outside her home. Nevertheless, her determination to make a difference pushed her to actively seek opportunities within her reach.

Initial Engagement with Development Initiatives

In November 2021, Krishna came into contact with the "Gramya Vikash Mancha” through a volunteer conducting primary data collection. This encounter led her to join the pig farming group under the "Holistic Rural Development Programme," which was initiated with financial support from HDFC Bank. This project provided her with the platform to start pig farming, a venture that she pursued with great enthusiasm.

Training and Implementation

Krishna underwent extensive training in scientific pig farming methods, transitioning from traditional practices. This training was crucial in equipping her with the knowledge and skills needed to raise pigs more effectively. Despite facing several challenges initially, she adapted to the scientific methods and gradually mastered the techniques. Under the Holistic Rural Development Programme, she received support in the form of two female piglets and initial feed. Additionally, she received livestock management training organized by Gramya Vikash Mancha in collaboration with the Veterinary Department of Baksa.

Diversification and Skill Development

Beyond pig farming, Krishna diversified her activities by engaging in mushroom cultivation and eri silk spinning during her free time. This not only kept her busy but also provided additional sources of income. Her proactive approach ensured that she maximized the use of her time, making her days extremely productive.

Achievements in Pig Farming

After seven months of dedicated care, Krishna's two female pigs gave birth. One pig produced nine piglets while the other had six. Unfortunately, six piglets died shortly after birth due to unforeseen reasons. However, Krishna managed to sell eight of the remaining nine piglets, earning ₹24,400. She kept one piglet for further rearing, demonstrating her intent to expand her pig farming enterprise.

Financial Management and Future Aspirations

Krishna meticulously feeds her pigs three times a day, providing a total of 2 kg of food at each feeding, which includes pig feed mixed with molasses and leftover household food. Her commitment to proper animal care is evident in her consistent and structured feeding regimen. Additionally, Krishna raises cows, ducks, and chickens, contributing to a diversified livestock portfolio. Krishna envisions becoming self-reliant through continuous and profitable pig farming. The income from selling piglets has already begun to pave the way for a more secure financial future. She remains optimistic and determined to achieve financial independence by scaling up her pig farming operations.

Conclusion

Krishna Brahma's case exemplifies how targeted interventions and support can empower economically disadvantaged individuals to transform their lives. Her journey from traditional pig farming to adopting scientific methods, coupled with her engagement in multiple income-generating activities, highlights the potential for rural women to achieve economic self-sufficiency. Krishna's story is a testament to the impact of development initiatives and the resilience and determination of individuals to improve their livelihoods.