In the remote village of Daharlangi in Jharkhand, Dharmi Pahadin and her husband, Vaida Pahadiya, worked hard to provide for their family. Belonging to a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG), the couple relied primarily on irregular daily wage labor to meet their household needs, and most of their earnings went toward food, medicines, and other essentials. With little opportunity to save, managing their children’s education expenses was often difficult, and during emergencies, the family frequently depended on high-interest loans from local money lenders.
Like many others in their community, Dharmi and Vaida believed that saving money was beyond the reach of families living on limited and unpredictable incomes. As Dharmi recalls, “We once believed that saving money was only possible for rich families, but now even small savings are giving us confidence and hope for the future.”
Their outlook began to change through the Ultra Poor Graduation for PVTG in Jharkhand project, supported by Whole Planet Foundation and implemented by Trickle Up. Through the project’s community-based coaching system, a trained community coach visited the family regularly, helping them explore practical ways to improve their financial well-being. Their discussions focused on savings, financial planning, and strategies for building greater economic resilience.
The family started with a simple goal: saving just INR 10–20 each day. With ongoing encouragement and mentoring, they gradually developed more consistent saving habits. What began as small daily contributions grew into a disciplined practice that now enables the family to save nearly INR 2,000 ($21 USD) every month. These savings are helping them prepare for future needs and invest in their children’s education.
The changes have extended beyond their finances. Today, Dharmi and Vaida are better equipped to manage household expenses and face unexpected challenges without relying heavily on money lenders. They have gained greater confidence in planning for the future, and Dharmi has become more actively involved in household financial decisions. Reflecting on this transformation, Dharmi says, “Earlier, we only worried about surviving each day. Now, we can think and plan for our children’s future.”
The family’s progress demonstrates how consistent support, financial awareness, and small but regular savings can create meaningful change. Their experience has inspired other families in Daharlangi village to begin saving and to think more actively about securing their own futures.
“With proper guidance and support, even poor families can gradually build a better and more secure future for their children,” said Dharmi.
Today, what once seemed impossible has become part of everyday life for Dharmi and her family. Through steady effort and a growing culture of saving, they are building greater stability and creating new opportunities for the next generation.
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