Saving more for the future of her child

49-year-old Shantava is a first-time borrower who took a loan to start a small home-based dairy farm in Kungatori village, Belgaum. The vast grasslands of Karnataka and its favorable climate provide a sustainable base for rearing livestock in general and dairy farming in particular. When I met her, I was pleasantly surprised to learn of how meticulously she went about setting up her small business. Before buying the cow, Shantavva carefully studied the loan application process and even tried applying for a loan at a local bank which was eventually rejected. She later sought our help and was able to receive a livelihood initiating the loan. Not one to rush into anything, Shantavva visited the nearest veterinary department and enquired about which breed would be the most suitable to the rear. Since it is warmer in the area where she lives, she learned that the best kind would be Jersey cows. Unlike many of her neighbors who rear desi cows, Shantavva bought the recommended breed and provided it with a nourishing diet. The animal gives around 3 Litres of milk every day which sells for Rs.30 per kilolitre. Shantavva mostly sells milk to the village cooperative as it offers a minimum support price irrespective of market fluctuations. She hopes to run a large dairy of her own someday and is encouraged to pursue this dream by her husband, an NGO worker, who is very supportive of her endeavors. The couple grows wheat and other staple crops on a small plot of land that they own. The produce they get is mostly for household use while the remainder is sold. Crop yields are low in these parts as the hilly terrain is mostly rocky in nature and the land is converted into fields by the owners so that they can be used for cultivation. Shantavva is glad she earns her own living and can save more for her children’s’ future expenses. For women who have no prior source of income, small loans give them an opportunity to contribute to the financial well-being of their households.