A decade-long period of unemployment has transformed into a journey of entrepreneurship and financial independence for Smt. Sunithamol P.S. of Mararikulam in Alappuzha district, Kerala, whose determination and access to financial assistance helped her establish a successful bakery business.
Having completed her education up to the 12th standard, Sunithamol remained unemployed for nearly ten years while raising her two children and managing household responsibilities. Despite the challenges, she continued to aspire to become financially independent and contribute to her family’s well-being.
In 2023, she received a loan of ₹2.85 lakh under the National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation’s (NSFDC) Mahila Aajeevika Yojana (MAY), facilitated through the Kerala State Women’s Development Corporation (KSWDC).
Sunithamol used the financial assistance to purchase materials required for a bakery and rented a shop in her town. With dedication and sustained effort, she gradually developed the venture into a successful business and a reliable source of income.
Today, after fulfilling her loan repayment obligations, Sunithamol earns approximately ₹20,000 per month from her bakery. The enterprise has strengthened her financial independence while enabling her to make a meaningful contribution to her family’s livelihood.
Her journey demonstrates how access to credit, coupled with determination and entrepreneurial spirit, can create opportunities for women to overcome economic challenges and build sustainable livelihoods.
Sunithamol’s experience highlights the role of targeted financial assistance in promoting women’s entrepreneurship and economic empowerment. Her transformation from prolonged unemployment to a confident entrepreneur stands as an example of how livelihood support can pave the way towards self-reliance and a more secure future.