“It gives me a sense of freedom” | Milaap
loans added to your basket
Total : 0
Pay Now

"Success can only be achieved through hard work

Written by Deepabali Publish date 20-Jul-2016
"The first three Bihus, during summers is the best time for sale" - Maikan Boro
"The first three Bihus, during summers is the best time for sale" - Maikan Boro

Enjoying the beauty of trees, plants and mountains, I was on the way to meet my first borrower, Purnima Barman and group. Being used to bike rides on roads in a flat country, this was a new experience for me. As compared to those, the roads in the mountain areas have far more corners that are often really tight. It was scary enough as the roads were really narrow. After a point the bike stopped and I knew that it was going to be simple now as all we had to do was walk up few steps. I was so wrong! I never get tired walking up and down the stairs but climbing mountains was more like an uphill battle. For many people mountain climbing is an extreme sport but for me, it was an ultimate challenge of strength. Finally after walking about a mile, we reached her house. The view was serene, it was beautiful out there. Since Purnima knew about our visit, she was waiting for us at the door. After being introduced just when we were about to settle down a group of women came. I realized that all of them were members of the same group. They all greeted me well with lot of warmth. These were five friendly women who beautifully explained their business to me. All of them have been in this business for about 10 to 15 years. Purnima, Chanoika, Bulu, Maikan and Piru run their own business of pig farming. They earn by raising pigs and selling them in the market. All these women buy piglets for about Rs 2500 from the market, feed them mostly with grains, stale rice and waste cereals. Then the piglets are raised, usually in a dry shelter as that suits their body temperature. It takes few months for them to grow and gain enough weight. The selling price of a pig is dependent upon its weight and size. “I sold my pig for Rs. 11000 last week”, Piru said. Purnima told me “the minimum cost of a pig is Rs. 8000”. I was curious to know that what time of the year they make maximum profit. “The first three Bihus, during summers is the best time for sale”, Maikan said. The rearing takes place during winters and sale is practiced in summers. They all used the loan amount to buy piglets and materials to feed them. It helped them to make a profit of Rs. 8000 approximately on a monthly basis. Walking up the hill was a challenge for me but these women do that on a regular basis! To buy grocery, send their children to school, go to the market, etc, they all walk up and down daily. I was amazed by their physical fitness. Due to their busy schedule, they haven’t been home for the past five years. They stay away from their family, their village in temporary residences. But they seemed to be very happy and satisfied with the money they make. “It gives me a sense of freedom”, Purnima told me. “Success can only be achieved through hard work”, she added. All the five members of the group have a better life now. They have been able to earn more and make enough savings. As I was about to leave, Bulu said “I have two pigs as my pet, you must say hello to them”! I started laughing and promised her to visit them soon. Fortunately, I met all the members of the group. It was great experience. I am very appreciative of how friendly they all were.

Did this story inspire you? Share your thoughts.