Archive · 5 Nov 2025
Former Dependent Woman Becomes Leader, Inspiring 2000 Farmers
Rashmi Durvey used to feel like she had no control over her life and had to borrow money for everything.
She joined a women's group where she learned to save a little money each week.
It was hard at first, but she kept trying.
Later, she learned new ways to farm that were better for the land and could make more money.
Many people didn't believe her at first because she was a woman, but she kept going.
She taught over 2,000 farmers how to grow vegetables locally and sell them, helping them earn more.
She also became a social auditor, making sure projects were fair.
Even after a personal tragedy, she found strength in her work and helping others.
Now, she inspires many women to be independent and strong.
Rashmi Durvey, a 33-year-old from Madhya Pradesh, transformed her life from financial dependence to becoming a leader for over 2,000 farmers.
She joined a Self-Help Group (SHG) in 2015, learning the importance of saving and community participation.
Through PRADAN, she was trained in regenerative agriculture and community mobilization, initially facing skepticism as a woman leader.
Durvey implemented successful local market strategies for vegetables and promoted sustainable practices like vermicompost production.
She also excelled as a social auditor, promoting transparency and earning respect for her integrity and competence.
- Who
- Rashmi Durvey, a 33-year-old woman from Senguda village in Madhya Pradesh
- What
- Transformed from a dependent housewife to a leader inspiring over 2000 farmers through sustainable agriculture practices and community mobilization.
- When
- Since 2015, with significant progress since joining PRADAN in 2018.
- Where
- Senguda village, Dindori district, Madhya Pradesh.
- Why
- To overcome financial dependence, empower herself and other women, and improve livelihoods through sustainable farming and community cooperation.
- Name
- Rashmi Durvey
- Age
- 33
- Village
- Senguda, Dindori district, Madhya Pradesh
- Current Roles
- PESA mobiliser, master trainer, social auditor, farmer
- Farmers Led
- Over 2000
- Key Initiatives
- Regenerative farming, local market development, vermicompost production
- Monthly Income (as Social Auditor)
- ~Rs 10,000