The Curious Case of Cyber Fraud at the Grassroots in India
Artisans form the backbone of India’s rural non-farm economy, with handicrafts standing as the second-largest source of employment after agriculture. This industry is largely powered by women, who preserve India’s rich heritage through their craft. Among these women is Dulu Moni Kalita, a passionate social entrepreneur on a mission to amplify their voices and foster community growth. Dulu began her journey in January 2015 after completing a training programme on “Water Hyacinth Craft” at NEDFi. The eco-friendly, biodegradable, and demand-driven nature of water hyacinth products set them apart from mass-produced items, paving the way for her unique offerings. Her dedication earned her the National Entrepreneurship Award in 2018 from the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship. Over the years, Dulu has honed her expertise through numerous training programmes by government agencies and NGOs.Her work expanded to NABARD’s SHG digitisation programme, EShakti, where she supported Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in Darrang District, Assam. By generating livelihoods for over 30 SHG members and availing loans under PMEGP, she built her business and brought her products to markets across India, including expos, fairs, and social media platforms. In 2024, Dulu partnered with the Digital Empowerment Foundation (DEF), marking a transformative phase in her journey. Through her digital business service centre, she empowered over 150 rural women entrepreneurs, providing end-to-end support in training, digital literacy, packaging, marketing, and online onboarding.
With DEF’s guidance, Dulu facilitated market linkages, certifications, and business growth, creating income-generating avenues and promoting financial independence among rural women. Her unwavering dedication has not only uplifted women in her community but also showcased the potential of combining traditional craftsmanship with digital empowerment for sustainable development.
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