Shakila Jacket - Oat/Multi

Ramsati Chauhan: Embroidery Artisan, Shramik Cooperative (SMM)

Describing her background, Ramsati explains, “I come from a conservative family with no formal education. I could not go out on my own, even for simple tasks like going to the market. Someone always had to accompany me.” She joined SMM and found that her world and her world view changed: “I no longer need assistance to go around my neighborhood.”

One of the places she goes now is the bank. All cooperative members are required to have their own bank accounts. “I had little knowledge of such financial matters. The group manager explained and guided me through the process, even pushing me to learn how to sign my name. It took several attempts to get the letters just right, but now every time I sign my name, I feel an immense sense of accomplishment and happiness.”