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| Nafisa & Aboobaker, Kuyyadi, Punnisseri, Narikkuni, Kozhikode |
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“It was because we worked ceaselessly without wasting a single moment that buyers for our pickles and honey have increased. Today we sell goods worth Rs.5000 everyday. If one is prepared to work, then it is possible to find a job in Kerala,” so says a confident Nafisa, who together with her husband Aboobaker has been able to bring forward their life from penury of earning less than Rs.10 per day to the present status in 20 years.
The couple had initially tried to earn a meager living by cultivating tapioca and vegetables in their small landholding. When the yield reduced, they had to search for an alternative. The training that Nafisa underwent at the Food Processing Centre, Balussery, made them try their hands at pickle making and honey producing. Without thinking too much, they borrowed Rs.15000 from South Malabar Grameen Bank and started their cottage business.
“Initially we were apprehensive whether the loan could be repaid. With bottles of pickles, we went from shop to shop. On many days, not even a single unit could be sold. Undaunted, we again approached the shopkeepers and some of them agreed to buy our products. Slowly, the demand increased and we were able to start repaying the loan.
They put up their stall at the IRDP mela 18 years ago without much expectation. But the stock was sold out. Using the profit, the duo increased the production. Thus, year by year, during the last 18 IRDP melas, they have increased the volume of their sales.
“We have fully repaid the loan and have been able to provide employment to 6 families in the neighbourhood. And with the Grace of God, we hope to start a small shop on our own,” says Nafisa.
Courtesy:
Mathrubhumi, September
13, 2005
Contributed by: Administrator
