Name: Lakshmi
Husband: Shiromani (deceased)
Village: Vaddanakera

Family Background: Mrs. Lakshmi is a resident of Vaddanakerra village and is illiterate. She is a landless daily wage laborer from a family below the poverty line. She has three children one daughter is married, and the other two are of marriageable age.

Root of the Problem: Being a landless laborer and a widow, Mrs. Lakshmi faced extreme difficulties in sustaining her family. After the death of her husband, she lost her primary source of income and was dependent on the support of her parents. With no other means of livelihood, managing the household was very challenging.

Support from ORBIT: Under the guidance of ORBIT, Mrs. Lakshmi became an active member of the Sarojini Self-Help Group. She participated regularly in group meetings and learned about various self-employment opportunities such as dairy farming, sheep rearing, and running a grocery shop. She also learned to sign her name and handle basic documentation. She gained knowledge about village meetings, government schemes, and other developmental activities.

Changed Situation: With continuous guidance and support from ORBIT staff and coordinators, she took a loan of ₹10,000 from the Sarojini SHG to purchase a goat. Gradually, she increased her livestock from one goat to ten, achieving financial independence. Today, she is able to manage her children’s education, health, and household efficiently. Along with raising goats and chickens, she continues to work as a wage laborer to support her family.

Beneficiary’s Opinion: She expressed her happiness, stating that due to the training, guidance, and support provided by ORBIT through the Sarojini SHG, she has become financially empowered by raising goats and poultry. She extended heartfelt thanks to ORBIT staff and coordinators for providing proper guidance and showing her a better path during difficult times.