Jashpur district is brimming with entrepreneurial spirit, especially among the women's self-help groups (SHGs) known for their delicious local products. However, limited production capacity and lack of processing techniques restricted their reach beyond local markets. The "Manthan" Food Lab, launched in June 2022, is revolutionizing this scenario.

From Local to Global: A Multi-Pronged Approach

Manthan empowers SHGs by transforming their food production into sustainable livelihoods. This is achieved through a strategic approach:

• Upgrading Infrastructure and Skills: High-tech equipment for processing, packaging, and finishing replaced older machinery. Women underwent training on processing techniques for a variety of products, from ragi biscuits to flavored cashews and blended teas.

• Enhancing Product Value and Market Reach: Local products received a makeover through value addition, branding, and marketing. The "Jashpure" brand creates a distinct identity, and participation in state-level exhibitions expands market reach. A dedicated website (www.jashpure.com) further widens their customer base. The initiative's marketing efforts have been recognized as the best in Chhattisgarh by PwC.

• Promoting Transparency and Efficiency: A Farmer Producer Company (FPO) named "Maa Khudiyarani" manages the lab's operations. A digital system tracks sales, stock, and purchases, ensuring transparency. Training on basic digital skills equips women to handle this system effectively.

Success Stories Speak Volumes

The impact of Manthan is undeniable:

• Increased Production and Income: High-capacity machines have significantly boosted production, leading to a drastic improvement in income levels for SHG women. The lab has produced around 40 lakh products since its inception and recently supplied a significant amount for Deepawali festivities.

• Enhanced Product Quality and Market Reach: The focus on hygiene, processing techniques, and packaging has resulted in higher quality products, evident in consumer acceptance and government supplies (206 tribal hostels, AWCS, and other departments).

• Empowerment and Sustainability: Training programs have equipped women with technical skills, fostering self-reliance and entrepreneurial spirit. This, coupled with market expansion and income generation, suggests a sustainable model for empowering SHGs.

Challenges and Overcoming Strategies

We acknowledge challenges like the initial skill gap and reaching Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). Training programs are addressing the skill gap, while targeted outreach programs and collaboration with local NGOs are proving beneficial in reaching PVTGs.

Key Takeaways and Replication Potential

Manthan's success highlights valuable lessons:

• Leveraging existing resources: By utilizing existing government schemes and infrastructure, the initiative demonstrates a cost-effective approach.

• Importance of capacity building: Equipping women with essential skills empowers them and ensures long-term sustainability.

• Combining financial, human, and technical support: A holistic approach addressing multiple aspects is crucial for project success.

• Data collection for impact assessment: Quantifiable data strengthens the evaluation of the initiative's effectiveness.

The Jashpur model holds immense promise for replication in other districts. Adapting it to local contexts, market access, and community needs will be key.

Looking Ahead: A Collaborative Future

The Manthan Food Lab is a testament to the power of collaboration and community engagement. We are committed to sharing knowledge, building partnerships, and continuously improving this initiative. The future is bright for Jashpur's SHGs, empowered to take their local flavors to the world!

The Manthan Food Lab is open to all SHGs and individuals who are passionate about learning food processing, packaging, and venturing into the exciting world of food products.

By Dr. Ravi Mittal (I.A.S.)