By Bhagyashree Waghmare, Program Officer
Supported by Coforge
Every business begins with an idea, effort, and resources. Yet, many small enterprises struggle to survive. The reason is often not a lack of hard work but a lack of confidence, planning, and market understanding. Soft skills such as decision-making, communication, and customer awareness play a crucial role in shaping a business. Shraddha Khot’s journey shows how these skills can change not only a business but also a woman’s belief in herself.
Shraddha Adinath Khot lives in Jarag Nagar, Kolhapur. She lives with her husband, in-laws, and two children. She studied only up to the 12th grade. For many years, her world revolved around household responsibilities. She never imagined herself running a business or earning independently.
Her family depended mainly on a small milk business. The income was around ₹10,000 per month. This amount was not enough to manage daily household expenses, children’s needs, and future savings. Financial pressure was a constant concern in the family.
Shraddha wanted to support her family. She wanted to contribute to the household income. However, she lacked confidence and had no exposure to business practices. She did not know where to begin or how to grow an enterprise. With limited opportunities and no formal training, taking the first step felt difficult.
To increase their income, the family started a small cold drink business. They hoped it would bring additional earnings. However, due to poor planning, limited market understanding, and a lack of marketing skills, the business did not progress. The setback further affected Shraddha’s confidence.
A turning point came when Shraddha learned about a three-day entrepreneurship training programme by CYDA. She received the information through a WhatsApp group. Curious and hopeful, she decided to attend. This decision marked the beginning of a new phase in her life.
During the training, Shraddha learned essential business skills. These included:
- Choosing the right enterprise
- Conducting market surveys
- Maintaining product quality
- Understanding customer needs
- Planning stock efficiently
- Using simple marketing techniques
The training helped her build confidence. It also helped her understand how small changes could improve a business. She realised that her cold drink business had potential. She also realised that she did not have to limit herself to selling only from home.
After the training, Shraddha restarted her lemon soda and jeera soda business. She began using a soda machine at home. She paid close attention to cleanliness and quality. Shraddha improved the taste and consistency of her products and also applied the marketing techniques she had learned.
Slowly, she started approaching local vendors, wholesalers, and retailers. Over time, her products reached markets beyond her neighbourhood and even outside the city. Proper stock management and timely supply helped her gain customer trust.
Earlier, Shraddha earned between ₹10,000 and ₹15,000 per month. Today, her income has increased to ₹20,000–₹25,000 per month. She now sells around 1,500–2,000 bottles every day. This growth has brought financial stability to her family and reduced their daily worries.
Today, Shraddha is confident and self-reliant. She proudly identifies herself as an entrepreneur. She supports her family alongside her husband. Her journey has earned her respect within her community. She has also become a source of inspiration for other women who wish to start small businesses. Reflecting on her journey, Shraddha shares, “The marketing techniques taught in the CYDA training helped me enhance my knowledge and develop our business.”
