Fr. Ricopar Royan, Provincial Economer, blessed the shop, and Mrs Emily Richard, former Mayor of Tiruchirappalli Corporation, formally inaugurated it in the presence of SHG leaders, members, local residents, and invited guests.

After years of discussion and exploring options, members agreed that a grocery business would best provide sustainable income for all. A defining feature of the project is its community-based business model. All 1,300 SHG members pledge to purchase their household groceries from “Namma Kadai,” creating a dependable customer base and ensuring the venture’s long-term sustainability. The store, which primarily serves SHG families, also welcomes the public to expand its market reach and impact in the wider community.

Twelve leaders visited successful retailers and adapted those insights to fit the SHG’s needs during three months of planning. Members invested a total of ₹12 lakh in the project, financing it entirely from their own resources. In a powerful display of collective commitment, the women chose to forgo the annual distribution of uniform sarees traditionally provided to all members and instead directed those funds into the venture. They also mobilised additional capital from the federation’s collective savings, now amounting to about ₹75 lakh.

The enterprise already provides employment opportunities by appointing four women to manage daily operations, including procurement, sales, bookkeeping, and the distribution of grocery items to members. Beyond creating jobs, the initiative reflects a transformative shift in rural women’s roles—from beneficiaries of development programmes to active entrepreneurs and business owners. The store will distribute profits annually to members, ensuring economic benefits remain in the community and contribute to the welfare of participating families.

SHG movement leaders describe the project as a symbol of ownership, self-reliance, and sustainable development. They hope their model will inspire similar community-based enterprises elsewhere. More than a grocery store, “Namma Kadai” embodies the collective aspirations of 1,300 women who chose to invest in their own future. Through unity, shared responsibility, and an entrepreneurial vision, they turned a dream into a thriving reality—one that promises lasting economic and social impact for generations to come.

Fr Selva, SDB

Source: Don Bosco South Asia

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