While savings still seem far-fetched, she is definitely on the right path

Shantavva was one of the women I met during my field visit to Mekhali, a small village in the state of Karnataka. All the members of Srilakshmi SHG had gathered to celebrate the 8th Anniversary of the SHG. Shantavva is one of the members of the SHG who had availed a loan recently to buy a cow and expand her animal farming business. 

Toiling hard in the fields as an agricultural laborer from 7 am to 1 pm, irrespective of how harsh the weather is, Shantavva earns a daily wage of Rs. 100. Owing to low wages, most people are forced to search for a supplementary source of income to support themselves. Many run small-scale animal husbandry businesses- mostly rearing cattle and goats. Shantavva owns and manages a cattle farming business. While most of the day is spent working in the fields, the rest of the time is utilized in taking care of her business and managing her household work. 

Shantavva stays with her husband and her two children. Her husband, Satteppa, also works as a daily-wage laborer earning a little more than what Shantavva earns-- Rs. 150 per day. Her elder son, Shri Nayik, is employed locally and brings home Rs. 2000 per month. It is very evident that the family survives on a minimal income. Any unexpected expenses always have the potential of pushing the family into debt. Shantavva wanted to better the situation at home. 

A loan of Rs. 20000 from Milaap helped her buy a cow. Selling close to 3 litres of milk per day at Rs. 20 per litre, she earns around Rs. 1800 per month. "Earnings from this investment are helping us pay our expenses", says Shantavva. While savings still seem far-fetched to Shantavva and her family, they are definitely on their way there. This small loan has given her business the necessary kickstart. She heartily thanks you for giving her this opportunity.