Mr. Vishnu Bhosale, District Coordinator, Solapur
Supported By – SBIMF
CYDA has been implementing the Comprehensive Village Development Programme (CVDP) with the vision of transforming rural communities into model villages through a wide range of thematic interventions. One of the key pillars of this programme is Livelihoods and Skill Development, through which CYDA strives to create sustainable economic opportunities and enhance employability among rural households.
Beyond providing skills, CYDA focuses on nurturing confidence, building market linkages, and promoting entrepreneurship so that women and youth can become self-reliant and future ready. This story showcases how the programme is shaping local entrepreneurs, empowering women to step into leadership roles, and inspiring young people to build dignified and resilient livelihoods within their own villages.
Shital Mahadev Mandlik, a 25-year-old woman from Manegaon village, Taluka Sangola District, Solapur, always dreamed of supporting her family. But with education only till the 7th class and very low confidence, she never believed she could start a business. Living with her husband and in-laws, the family depended mainly on two acres of rain-fed land and her husband’s uncertain income as a truck driver. Managing monthly expenses was always a challenge.
Like many women in rural areas, Shital had ideas but did not know how to begin. She feared that her low education would stop her from running a business. She wanted to help her family but lacked confidence and guidance.
This is where CYDA’s three-days Entrepreneurship Development Programme (EDP) made a difference. When the training was announced in the village, Shital gathered courage and decided to attend. The sessions were simple, practical, and filled with real-life examples. The trainers encouraged women to speak, share ideas, and participate in small activities. For the first time, Shital felt confident and realised that starting a business was possible for her too.
Shital shared, “I wanted to start a business, but I did not have confidence. This training gave me confidence that I can do business well, so I started a cloth shop.”
Inspired by what she learned, Shital decided to start a small cloth shop & Stationery from her home. She chose this business because it required less investment and had steady demand in the village. The training helped her understand how to calculate costs, set prices, talk to customers, and earn a profit.
Within a few months, Shital started earning Rs. 5,000 to 8,000 per month. This income became a big support for her family. More importantly, it changed how she saw herself. She became confident, independent, and motivated.
Shital is now planning to expand her shop by adding more items based on what villagers need. She regularly observes customer demand and thinks about new products she can introduce.
Shital’s story shows how a small push and proper guidance can transform a woman’s life. From being shy and unsure, she has grown into a confident entrepreneur who supports her family and inspires other women in the village.
CYDA’s EDP training played a key role in unlocking her potential and helping her take her first step towards financial independence. Her journey proves that with the right support, women in rural communities can build stronger, brighter futures for themselves and their families.
