In the Majlishbag area of Malda district, West Bengal, Sampa Mahali is steadily building a stronger future for herself and her family through her bamboo handicraft enterprise. What was once a small livelihood activity rooted in traditional craftsmanship is now evolving into a growing social enterprise, supported by digital learning and entrepreneurship development under the UDYAMINI Program implemented by the Digital Empowerment Foundation.
For several years, Sampa had been creating bamboo handicraft products using skills passed down through tradition. Despite her dedication and craftsmanship, limited access to markets and a lack of digital awareness often restricted her business growth and income opportunities. Like many rural women artisans, she faced challenges in reaching wider audiences and formalising her enterprise.
Her journey began to change through the support of the Udyamini Skillbot, which introduced her to practical digital and entrepreneurial skills. Through the training, Sampa learned digital literacy, financial literacy, basics of entrepreneurship, digital marketing, citizen services, Mera Bills, and smartphone usage. These sessions helped her better understand how digital tools could support and strengthen her business.
With guidance from SBM Mallika Murmu, Sampa successfully completed her Udyam Registration and obtained a Trade License, giving formal recognition and credibility to her enterprise. This step not only boosted her confidence but also opened pathways for greater business opportunities.
Determined to improve further, Sampa also participated in advanced-level training provided by Digikargha. There, she learned essential skills related to product design, branding, packaging, stock management, and social media marketing. Applying these learnings, she improved the presentation and quality of her bamboo products and began promoting them through digital platforms, particularly Instagram.
Today, Sampa is confidently managing her enterprise by combining traditional craftsmanship with digital engagement. Her increased visibility and improved business practices have significantly contributed to the growth of her monthly income and expanded her customer reach beyond local markets.
Sampa Mahali’s story highlights how digital empowerment, entrepreneurship training, and community-based support systems can help rural women entrepreneurs strengthen local enterprises, preserve traditional crafts, and create sustainable livelihood opportunities at the grassroots level.