Hailing from Nari, Maharashtra, Godavari Satpute runs her own paper lamp-making business, which she founded in 2009. At 38, she runs her own manufacturing unit in Nari, while also offering employment opportunities to the women in her village.
Although her husband lost his job and the family did not have the income to feed their children and keep themselves afloat, Godavari remained determined. But when she spotted a paper lamp at a local market, she knew what she had to do.
Faced with difficulties to invest in her paper lamp making business, she borrowed money from her relatives without interest as banks had turned her away. Eventually the Bharatiya Yuva Shakti Trust came forward to financially aid the business and offered entrepreneurial guidance to develop her business further.
The company called ‘Godavari Akashkandil’ registered a revenue of Rs 30 lakh in 2013, and Godavari Satpute was awarded Woman Entrepreneur of the year award at the Youth International Business Awards in the same year.
Employing many women from her village, Godavari aims to ensure that every woman employed is financially independent and does not feel the burden of choice among at least basic necessities. She also provides creche and educational facilities for the children of her women employees to help them get a better life. Godavar has also appointed a doctor whom one can approach in case of medical emergencies.
Content Team
Himanshu
