TN SC/ST Fund Fuels Tribal Women’s Startup Success Story
In a heartening move towards empowerment, the Tamil Nadu Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribe Startup Fund has extended a helping hand to the tribal women of Kanyakumari. A loan of Rs 25 lakh without interest has been granted to a startup company run by Kani tribal women, showcasing immense promise through their organic products sourced directly from their community.
Nanjil Kani Women Creators Pvt Ltd, nestled in Pechiparai within Kanyakumari district, stands as a beacon of opportunity for Kani tribal women to showcase and market their organic treasures. The company sells three types of honey, pepper, turmeric and gingelly oil, showing the diverse nature and customs of the tribal community.
The startup was initiated with the support of the Association for Women’s Education and Development group. Director D Vincent explained how Kani tribes were treated unfairly by middlemen when selling their products. So, they decided to create a group for the tribes to sell directly.
With the assistance of the Khadi and Village Industries Commission, training in beekeeping was provided, while NABARD aided in the development of value-added honey products. Nowadays, many tourists and locals love visiting the Kani women’s shop in Pechiparai. They are attracted to the shop because it offers pure and natural organic products.
S Bindhu, a 40-year-old Kani tribal woman and an integral part of the venture, expressed gratitude for the support received from the district collector, forest officer and the Tamil Nadu SC/ST Startup Fund. With the addition of Rs 25 lakh, the company can now expand its business. They plan to launch an online store to reach customers outside of Kanyakumari district.
As Nanjil Kani Women Creators Pvt Ltd grows, it brings hope for better finances.
