Unnati Self Help Group in Rohtak creates 300 jobs

Rohtak (The Uttam Hindu): The women of Rohtak have established their own identity through their work, earning praise from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Unnati Self Help Group, known for its hand block printing on textiles, has made history as the first group in Haryana to introduce this craft following their training.

Founded in 2016 by Mamta, the group initially included 35 women, although only 10 began working together. To kickstart their operations, Mamta secured a loan of ₹40,000, which she used to launch the business. As demand grew, she expanded the group, providing work to other women from home. The finished products are showcased at fairs and exhibitions, and they have also started selling online. During the Mann Ki Baat program on July 28, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the achievements of the Unnati Self Help Group, praising the handloom sector and acknowledging how these women are achieving financial independence. In his address, PM Modi remarked on how over 250 women in Rohtak have filled their lives with happiness through their crafts. Previously, many of these women relied on small shops or minor jobs for their livelihoods, but they aspired to improve their circumstances, prompting them to join the Unnati Self Help Group.

By participating in the group, they received training in block printing and dyeing, enabling them to earn substantial incomes. The bed covers, sarees, and dupattas they produce are in high demand. Mamta noted that she has pioneered hand block printing across Haryana, making the Unnati Self Help Group the sole entity in the state to offer this service, although similar styles can be found in Rajasthan. The women involved earn around ₹8,000 to ₹10,000 monthly, and the organization generates sales of ₹6-7 lakh each month. Following PM Modi's mention of their work during Mann Ki Baat, the group gained significant recognition. Now, they are commonly referred to as the women praised by the Prime Minister, leading to increased business opportunities. Additionally, CM Nayab Saini entrusted them with making Kothalia, and orders are arriving from places like Delhi.

In hand block printing, a wooden block is carved with the desired design, which is then stamped onto the fabric. The group focuses on printing on sarees, suits, dupattas, and bedsheets, along with dyeing the materials. Currently, Mamta stated that approximately 250-300 women have found employment through the group, with 20-25 involved in block printing and tie-dyeing, while over 250 engage in sewing. Women who previously stayed at home are now earning money from home, contributing to household expenses and fostering self-reliance. Members of the group come from 10 villages in the Lakhan Majra block, and they set up their first stall at Pragati Maidan in Delhi.