|
|
 While Indian women today are able to achieve an education, professional careers and political power, in small villages throughout India, women are still expected to be meek, subservient housewives. But 15 women in the Gabanikilo village in Orissa have taken the big step of starting their own dairy farm.
After five years of saving money through a World Vision self-help group, the women invested more than $2,000 in land and a shed to house their animals. World Vision helped them get started by donating five Jersey cows and calves.
Already the farm is producing 10 liters of milk – and a profit of $6 – each day. Not only are these women benefiting from the monetary profits, but they also are empowered by the sense of accomplishment and success this venture has afforded them.
Government officials even attended the inauguration of the farm and congratulated the women for their hard work.
Santilata Mallik, the group’s secretary said, “We feel so glad and proud to receive this praise. It feels wonderful to come out of our shells and become involved in this venture.”
|  |
|
