In many low-income households, the financial empowerment of women directly shapes the well-being of children. When mothers have stable incomes, it transforms the choices they can make for their children, from nutritious meals and school supplies to timely medical care and a safe environment. Financial independence gives a woman a stronger voice in household decisions, especially regarding education and health. This is the vision behind the Khushaal Bachpan program by Caritas India, supported by Caritas Australia: that by uplifting women, you nurture an entire generation.

Now, step into the village of Kewradhih in Chhattisgarh, where this vision is unfolding with hope and determination.

In Kewradhih, five courageous women, Ms. Radhika Bhardwaj, Ms. Jamuna Bhardwaj, Ms. Ranjana Kurre, Ms. Surekha Dahriya, and Ms. Rajkumari Gendre embarked on a transformative journey. Traditionally confined to household chores and sporadic stitching work for meager wages, these women aspired for more for themselves and their children.

You witness their reality: limited income, rising prices, and children full of potential yet at risk of dropping out. These women, caregivers to children enrolled in the Khushaal Bachpan program, realized that change had to begin with them. They had the skill, stitching garments in demand, but not the tools or independence to make it count.

They reached out to the Khushaal Bachpan team with a shared dream: starting their own stitching enterprise. Through the program’s timely support, they received modern sewing machines and essential training. With this boost, they moved from earning ₹2000 to ₹3000 a month to ₹4500 to ₹6000. Their orders increased, their confidence soared, and their children’s futures looked brighter.

And they didn’t stop there.

Each woman opened a Recurring Deposit account, saving ₹500 every month. With financial literacy sessions provided by the program, they began budgeting for school fees, health checkups, and emergency expenses. More than just income, they had gained control over decision-making in their households.

This shift directly impacted their children. School attendance improved. Meals became more nutritious, with vegetables, pulses, and milk replacing low-cost fillers. The women now access health services without delay and are active participants in Anganwadi and school management committees, ensuring better monitoring and quality of care.

What started with five women is now inspiring many others. Their success has created a ripple effect, as more women are stepping forward to form Self-Help Groups and small enterprises. The Khushaal Bachpan program has not only empowered women but also created a more enabling, protective, and enriching environment for children.