Inspiring Sarita
Hailing from the tribal village of Fofliya in Betul, Madhya Pradesh, Sarita Kajle’s journey is one of resilience and determination. In the heart of a tribal area, where challenges often outweigh opportunities, Sarita found solace and inspiration in her parents’ commitment to farming. Millets, the ancient and nutritious grains, weren’t just crops to them; they were a way of life. Their nutritional significance kept the family nourished even during the toughest times.
Sarita’s early exposure to farming planted the seeds of passion within her. Post her 10th grade, she decided to further this legacy by actively participating in millet cultivation. Sawa millets became her specialty, and her unwavering commitment led her to step into the world of entrepreneurship. Despite her humble beginnings, she ventured into selling whole grains, initiating her journey towards agricultural empowerment.
Sarita’s story extends far beyond her individual journey. With a heart brimming with compassion and a vision for progress, she reached out to fellow women farmers, forming an association under the umbrella of Self Help Groups (SHGs). This association aims to uplift and empower women by imparting knowledge about millet cultivation and processing. Through her leadership, more women are finding their voice and strength in the world of agriculture.
Sarita’s determination to create a lasting impact doesn’t end with her personal journey. In the year 2020, She joined forces with the “Satpudanchal Farmer Producer Company Limited,” a Farmer Producer Company (FPO) which is supported by Neer Horticulture Solutions Private Limited, a CBBO. The FPO, under Sarita’s leadership, encompasses the entire processing chain, adding value to the millets they cultivate. With the backing of NABARD, Neer Horticulture CBBO, and, Sarita envisions a future where millets not only flourish locally but also leave a global footprint.
As she continues her journey, Sarita seeks to elevate the entire community. She envisions setting up their own processing machinery, ensuring that millets reach every household, both in India and beyond. Sarita and her fellow farmers are gearing up for a future where millets stand as a beacon of nutrition and empowerment.
Her story showcases the potential of progress rooted in tradition, guiding her community towards health, prosperity, and sustainability.