Empowering Women through Self-Reliance: The Inspiring Journey of Pooja Sharma

June 20, 2024

4 Minutes

Introduction

In the village of Haryana’s Gurgaon district, resides Pooja Sharma, an extraordinary woman who has triumphed over adversity to become a thriving entrepreneur and a beacon of women’s empowerment within her community. Her story exemplifies the transformative power of determination, resilience, and faith in oneself.

Early Life and Hardships

Born into a humble household in a male-dominated society, Pooja Sharma faced adversity from the outset. Her parents, disheartened by the arrival of their third daughter, instilled within her the belief that girls held less value. Despite these obstacles, Pooja remained resolute, harboring a deep-seated desire for education and a better future.

Marriage and Family Obligations

Upon completing her secondary education, Pooja entered into marriage and relocated to her in-laws’ residence in Chandu village. Her challenges escalated as her husband’s employment was precarious, rendering the family’s income insufficient. To supplement their livelihood, Pooja engaged in odd jobs, drawing upon her agricultural and animal husbandry knowledge.

A Pivotal Moment: The Village Social Worker

In the year 2001, Pooja embarked on a new chapter by joining an NGO as a social worker. Her focus centered on educating children and elevating the lives of women in her underdeveloped village. This role ignited within her a passion for empowering her community, particularly women who faced similar struggles.

Laying the Foundation: Establishing a Self-Help Group

Inspired by a sewing center operating within her village, Pooja rallied ten women together in 2013 to establish a self-help group named “Horizon.” The group members dedicated themselves to acquiring sewing skills and devising strategies for income generation.

Marketing and the Challenges of Tradition

Recognizing the need for a market for their products, Pooja boldly ventured beyond her village, attending exhibitions and engaging with potential customers. Yet, she encountered resistance from family members who questioned her decision to step outside the confines of her home.

Overcoming Resistance and Attaining Recognition

Undeterred, Pooja persevered in her marketing endeavors, leveraging government initiatives and support provided by the Haryana State Rural Livelihood Mission. Her group’s products, crafted from traditional ingredients and adhering to Ayurvedic principles, gained traction among consumers.

Awards and Accolades

Pooja Sharma’s extraordinary efforts were acknowledged by the Haryana government, which bestowed upon her several awards, including the Agri Leadership Award in 2015. Furthermore, the Governor of Haryana, the Chief Minister, and the Education Minister lauded her contributions to women’s empowerment.

Establishing a Bakery

In 2017, Pooja’s self-help group collaborated with an NGO to establish a bakery. This initiative provided women with additional training and income-generating opportunities, empowering them further.

Utilizing Indigenous Ingredients

Pooja’s bakery distinguishes itself by incorporating traditional and locally sourced ingredients such as amaranth flour, flaxseed, and coarse grains. By utilizing these nutritious and sustainable components, she promotes healthy eating practices while supporting local agricultural producers.

Continued Growth and Recognition

Pooja Sharma’s tireless efforts culminated in the prestigious Nari Shakti Samman award, presented by President Ramnath Kovind in 2023, in recognition of her exceptional contributions to women’s empowerment. Her village and community celebrate her as an exemplary figure, and she continues to inspire women and girls to pursue their aspirations and shatter societal barriers.

Conclusion

Pooja Sharma’s extraordinary journey bears witness to the transformative power of education, self-reliance, and perseverance. By challenging traditional gender roles and creating opportunities for women, she has not only improved the lives of her community members but also laid the groundwork for a more equitable and just society. Her story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all who believe in the limitless potential of women and the importance of empowering them to reach their full potential.