For these three women, their children's education is paramount

Jamuna Devi was unable to meet me due to a funeral. In her place, Bino, Shakmacha and Leisha- other members of the group- spoke. All three members practise the ancient, traditional art of Phaksaba. They used their loan to purchase the necessary raw materials that would enable them to meet the demands placed on them which would ensure their monthly income rose. They reinvested the extra profits into their children’s educational future. 

In the heart of the Thoubal district of Manipur lies a village renowned for its ancient practice of Phaksaba, known as mat-making. Three residents of this village, Bino, Shakmacha and Leisha, live in a cluster of homes on the edge of this village, almost at the border of the region where it turns into another district. They are the ones Jagdish, my translator for the day, and I are meeting today.

The three women used their loan amount acquired from YVU, a partner of Milaap, to purchase paona, a type of reed that grows in ponds all over Manipur. A bundle of these reeds costs Rs. 160 and they’re able to make 2 brooms, their specialty, per bundle. Each broom is sold for Rs. 100, ensuring they get a profit from this investment. Their profits have risen by Rs. 200 to Rs. 300 a day, allowing them to diversify their income stream. 

Bino and Shakmacha have started individual poultry centres while Leisha has wholly invested her extra profit into her three children’s education fees. The other women have young children, allowing them to pay off fees while saving for their educational future’s. They have also been able to deposit money into their savings account for their family’s future. 

They’re content with what they’re doing and hope that diversifying their income stream brings them joy. They are grateful to their supporters worldwide.