During my visit to Morab village in the Belgaum district of Karnataka, I was able to meet Roopa, an independent business owner and a Milaap borrower. 30-year-old Roopa lives with her husband, mother-in-law, brother-in-law and his wife.
“This is not just a source of income for me. My business makes me feel independent and secure,” she says. A few months ago she took a Milaap loan of Rs. 10,000 and was able to buy an additional cow. She is able to sell around 2 litres of milk daily for Rs. 18/litre.
Roopa is a former Devadasi. After being exploited and shunned for several years, the respect she has earned through sheer determination is remarkable. Her positiveness and impeccable decision making also paid well, and she is happy that she started this business.
Roopa and her cow
