Gariband, Chhattisgarh | December 10, 2024 Rural women in Chhattisgarh are embracing entrepreneurship and transforming their lives with the support of the PVTG Van Dhan Vikas Kendra in Kesodar Village. Backed by the government’s initiatives, the center combines traditional knowledge and modern branding to provide sustainable livelihoods for women in the region. With their herbal products gaining national recognition, the women are not only contributing to their households but also setting a benchmark for community-led businesses.
A Boon for Tribal Women
The Kesodar Van Dhan Vikas Kendra, under the Pradhan Mantri Janman Yojana, has been instrumental in creating a positive impact in the lives of 87 women from the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG). These women, organized into eight self-help groups, are producing 13 unique herbal products approved by the AYUSH Ministry.

Key Achievements of the Initiative
In the financial year 2023-24, these women recorded impressive sales of ₹82.5 lakh, earning a net profit of ₹15 lakh. The initiative, spearheaded by the Chhattisgarh State Minor Forest Produce Federation, focuses on modern branding and marketing strategies to take these herbal products to a national audience.
Popular Herbal Products
The women produce 13 high-quality herbal items, which are well-received across the country. The key products include:
- Bhringraj Oil: Promotes hair growth and reduces hair fall.
- Mahavishgarbh Oil: Effective for back and joint pain.
- Tulsi Powder: Known for its immunity-boosting properties.
- Ashwagandha Powder: A natural stress reliever and energy booster.
- Navayas Churna: Enhances digestion and overall health.
- Other products include Shatavari Powder, Punarnava Powder, and Vishwanar Churna.
The Bhringraj Oil, created using a traditional method of slow-cooking medicinal herbs in sesame oil for seven days, stands out for its effectiveness and is a customer favorite.
Transforming Lives Through Training and Support
The Chhattisgarh Forest Department and the Minor Forest Produce Federation have conducted multiple entrepreneurship awareness programs to empower women with:
- Production Training: Improving product quality and efficiency using modern machinery.
- Marketing Skills: Teaching women to understand market demand and adopt branding techniques.
- Financial Management: Enabling them to maximize profits sustainably.
Economic Independence and Social Empowerment
The women credit their financial independence to the vision of Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai and the efforts of the Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap. They express gratitude for the government’s continuous support, which has made this transformation possible.
Preserving Tradition with Modernity
The center represents a harmonious blend of ancestral wisdom and cutting-edge technology, promoting environmentally friendly practices while ensuring rural development. The high-quality products are marketed across India, showcasing Chhattisgarh’s cultural and natural wealth.
Conclusion: A Model for Self-Reliance
The success of the Kesodar Van Dhan Vikas Kendra highlights the immense potential of rural entrepreneurship. It demonstrates how combining traditional practices with modern branding can uplift marginalized communities and drive sustainable development.
As these women continue to innovate and expand, the initiative is set to inspire similar efforts across the country, fostering economic independence and cultural preservation. With their achievements, these women have proved that when given the right opportunities, rural communities can contribute significantly to India’s growth story.

Author: This news is edited by: Abhishek Verma, (Editor, CANON TIMES)
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