Raipur: Kondagaon, a district in the tribal heartland of Chhattisgarh, is witnessing a positive shift in its socio-economic landscape. The NMDC Swarojgar Yojana, a joint effort by NMDC Ltd. and the Chhattisgarh government, is equipping residents with the skills and resources to build sustainable livelihoods.
 

Launched as part of NMDC’s Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, the programme aims to empower youth and women by providing them with the skills and resources to start their own businesses. With a budget of ₹1 crore, the initiative has already disbursed ₹40 lakh in its first phase, enabling over 40 individuals to embark on entrepreneurial journeys. Beneficiaries have established businesses ranging from dairy farming to tea stalls, earning sustainable monthly incomes of ₹15,000 to ₹30,000.
 

“This initiative is a game-changer for Kondagaon,” said a district official involved in the programme. “It’s not just about financial aid; it’s about empowering individuals to believe in themselves and their potential. We’re already seeing incredible success stories emerge.”
 

One such story is that of Babita Sarkar, a resident of Jugani Camp Village in Farasgaon block. With ₹1 lakh in funding, she purchased two cows and started a dairy business. Before joining the programme, Babita relied on daily wage labour, which barely covered her family’s needs. Today, her monthly income ranges between ₹20,000 and ₹25,000, enabling her to support her daughters’ higher education. “Before this programme, I didn’t know if I could even afford to send my daughters to school,” she said. “Now, I’m building a future not just for myself but for my family.”
 

Similarly, in Baderajpur village, Lakshmi Nisad’s tea and snack stall has become a local favourite. Supported by the NMDC Swarojgar Yojana, Lakshmi now earns ₹800 to ₹1,200 daily. With the aroma of freshly made pakoras drawing a steady stream of customers, she takes pride in running her business. “I never thought I could run a business, let alone one that makes me proud,” she shared. “The support I received from NMDC has changed my life and given me a sense of purpose.”
 

The programme’s impact extends further. In the same village, Tuleswar Nevra started a grocery shop that serves as a vital resource for the local community. With daily earnings of ₹700 to ₹800, his shop not only provides essential goods but also contributes to the local economy. “NMDC’s initiative gave me the push I needed to take this step,” he said, expressing gratitude for the opportunity.
 

Beyond financial aid, the NMDC Swarojgar Yojana operates through a revolving fund mechanism, ensuring that resources are reinvested to support future entrepreneurs. The programme is closely monitored by the district administration and officials from the National Rural Livelihood Mission, ensuring its benefits reach those who need them most.
 

For NMDC, this is more than just a CSR activity. It represents a commitment to sustainable development and self-reliance. Alongside the Swarojgar Yojana, NMDC has implemented various initiatives to uplift remote communities. The Balika Shiksha Yojana supports 40 tribal girls annually in pursuing professional nursing education. The Aastha Gurukul programme offers holistic education to underprivileged children, while the Saksham initiative empowers children with special needs to lead fulfilling lives.
 

The NMDC Swarojgar Yojana is a beacon of hope, proving that with targeted interventions and community support, even the most remote regions can experience transformative change. As more success stories emerge, the programme continues to light the path towards self-reliance and prosperity.
 

BI Bureau