Growing up in Beldih Gram Panchayat alongside her brother Mahendra, Jaleswari Kumari faced a series of losses that would have overwhelmed many families. Around the age of 10 to 12, both siblings gradually lost their vision. Their parents tried to seek treatment, but financial hardship stood in the way. Within a few years, tragedy deepened when they lost both parents as well.
For a time, the siblings stayed with their uncle, but eventually they had to find a way to survive on their own. Looking back on those years, Jaleswari recalls, “After our parents passed away, our childhood was filled with hardship. We even lost our sight. But when my brother and I decided to live independently, everything started to feel possible.” That decision became the foundation of their resilience. They learned to navigate familiar paths, manage daily tasks independently, and support each other through uncertainty, even as stable livelihoods remained difficult to secure.
Their turning point came through Trickle Up’s UPRP initiative in Beldih Panchayat. Identified by the community and Panchayat as highly vulnerable, the siblings began receiving more structured support. Although they already had access to some entitlements such as pension and PDS benefits, the Gram Panchayat Help Desk helped them secure important documentation and apply for housing schemes and other essential services.
As project teams spent more time with them, a clearer understanding of their determination emerged. Mahendra earned a small income by herding cattle, while Jaleswari worked as a farm laborer despite their visual impairment. Speaking about their everyday life, Mahendra says, “Even without sight, my sister and I do what we can, working hard each day to live with dignity and independence.” Their commitment to self-reliance inspired the development of a tailored livelihood plan centered on backyard poultry.
With support from the Krishi Vigyan Kendra and the Panchayat, the siblings received chicks, initial feed, and regular technical guidance from the Samuday Sathi. Slowly, they built confidence in managing the poultry unit. Within a few months, the chickens began laying eggs, creating a simple but sustainable system: one-third of the eggs were sold, one-third consumed at home, and one-third retained for hatching. Over the past year, the enterprise has helped them earn approximately INR 10,000–12,000 ($104-125 USD) while maintaining a steady flock.
Today, Jaleswari and Mahendra take pride in running their backyard poultry enterprise independently. The steady income has improved not only their financial situation, but their confidence in shaping their own future. Encouraged by this progress, Jaleswari joined a savings group and began saving regularly with support from the Samuday Sathi. Being part of the group has strengthened her financial discipline while increasing her participation and recognition within the community.
Their journey reflects what becomes possible when determination is met with consistent support. From navigating loss and uncertainty to building a sustainable livelihood together, Jaleswari and Mahendra have created a life rooted in confidence and greater stability.
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