In the heart of Nandurbar, a remarkable story of transformation unfolds. ImpactLens recently sat down with Gaurav Nikam to capture the inspiring journey of Gangaram, who defied convention to trade goat herding for sustainable employment. With the support of ASK Foundation, Gangaram’s life was forever changed. This powerful narrative showcases the impact of access to guidance and training, highlighting ASK Foundation’s commitment to rural development and its profound effect on the lives of Nandurbar’s youth.
Life is often shaped by the choices we make, and sometimes, the biggest transformations come from the hardest decisions. The story of Gangaram Sukhalal Shemade is a testimony to the power of determination and the impact of timely intervention. From taking care of goats in the remote village of Chirade in Maharashtra’s Nandurbar district to securing a stable job in the industrial sector, his journey is a remarkable live example of overcoming adversity through resilience and opportunity.
A Life Defined by Hardship
At just 25 years old, Gangaram had already faced more challenges than many do in a lifetime. After completing his 12th grade, his aspirations for higher education were cut short due to financial constraints. His family’s economic condition forced him to abandon his dreams and take up goat herding to support them. Day after day, he wandered the rough terrain of Chirade, his mind clouded with thoughts of an uncertain future.
“I used to see my future as a dead-end,” Gangaram reflects, his voice marked with the silent frustration of lost opportunities. He worked hard and did his job well, but he could not shake the feeling that he was meant for something more.
A Window to a New World
Everything changed when Gangaram attended a career guidance camp organized by the Centre for Youth Development and Activities under the Samruddha Kisan Prakalp initiative. The Career Guidance Course helped him explore career options, develop essential skills, and plan for a stable future. It covered self-assessment, career exploration, skill development, resume writing, interview preparation, job search strategies, and financial planning. The course equipped Gangaram with the knowledge to make informed career choices and achieve professional growth. He realized that learning new skills could help him build a stable future, and that thought filled him with fresh determination.
The camp was a turning point in his life. Surrounded by inspiring success stories and exposed to new opportunities, he realized that his life did not have to be confined to his small village. “It was like CYDA opened a window to a brighter world,” he recalls.
The Leap of Faith
Determined to change his fate, Gangaram took a bold step—he enrolled in the Tool and Die Maker course at CIE India, a prestigious vocational training institute in Pune. Leaving his village was a difficult decision for him. He had grown up surrounded by its familiar sights—the narrow paths, the small houses, and the open fields. The gentle bleats of his goats, which had been a constant part of his daily life, brought him comfort and a sense of belonging. Walking away from it all meant stepping into the unknown, leaving behind not just a place but the memories and warmth of home.
“The thought of leaving home scared me, but I knew that staying meant letting go of my dreams,” he admits.
Life in Pune was very different from his village. The tough training sessions pushed him to his limits, both physically and mentally. There were times when he felt unsure and tired, but Gangaram did not give up. The organized training and helpful mentors kept him going through the hardest days. Slowly, his confidence grew, and with every lesson, he got closer to a future he had once thought was out of reach.
The Sweet Taste of Success
Upon completing his training, Gangaram’s hard work bore fruit—he secured a job in Ahmednagar, earning Rs.16,500/- per month along with additional benefits.The young man who once saw no future beyond goat herding is now a skilled professional, standing on his own feet and shaping his destiny.
“It felt like I had not just earned money, but dignity and pride for myself and my family,” he says with pride – Reflects Gangaram
Gangaram’s Journey Inspires a Wave of Change
Gangaram’s success did not stop with his personal growth. His journey became an inspiration for others in his village. Encouraged by his achievements, a young man from Chirade joined the same training program, followed by three more youths from the village and four from neighbouring areas. The impact was undeniable—his transformation had sparked a chain reaction of hope and progress.
Changing Lives, One Step at a Time
The Samruddha Kisan Prakalp initiative, through CYDA, played a crucial role in creating sustainable change. To date, 13 students from the region have enrolled in industrial courses paving the way for financial independence and social mobility. By providing access to career guidance, skill development, and employment opportunities, CYDA has proven that with the right support, even the most challenging circumstances can be overcome.
Today, Gangaram stands as a beacon of hope for his community. His journey from a humble goatherd to a skilled professional is a testament to resilience, determination, and the willingness to seize opportunities.
“Now, I see a path full of opportunities—not just for me but for everyone willing to take the first step,” he says.
Gangaram’s transformation is an inspiring example of how skill-based education and unwavering determination can break the cycle of poverty, unlocking a brighter future for generations to come.
