In March 2023, Mithilesh Singh’s life took a remarkable turn. Along with 19 other women from Amretha village in Unnao, she joined the Annapoorna Prerna Mahila Laghu Udyog workshop, a government-run initiative that produces wall paint and distemper from cow dung. This unique project, named ‘Prakritik Paint,’ not only provides economic opportunities for these women but also promotes eco-friendly and affordable paint options.
Painting a brighter future
The initiative was set up under the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) earlier this year, with financial support from the NRLM and the Khadi and Village Industries Commission. A total of Rs 902,900 was granted for constructing the workshop, and a loan of Rs 2,000,000 with a 35% subsidy facilitated the procurement of necessary machinery and equipment.
The process behind ‘Prakritik Paint’
The 20 women operate six machines at the factory. The process starts by cleaning cow dung and transforming it into a uniform paste-like liquid.
This liquid is then heated and bleached before adding natural colors to create the eco-friendly paint. The result is a high-quality paint that is non-toxic, cheaper than chemical alternatives, and readily available, as cow dung is abundant in the villages.
Training for success
To ensure the success of this initiative, three women from the Nawabganj Block were trained at the Kumarappa National Handmade Paper Institute in Jaipur. Rashmi Singh, Sheela Devi, and Neelam returned as skilled trainers, passing on their knowledge to the other women in the group. Sheela Devi, overwhelmed with joy, shared how this opportunity gave her economic freedom and earned her respect in her community.
A growing market and future prospects
The ‘Prakritik Paint’ has gained popularity, with approximately 1200 kgs of paint and emulsion already sold in the market. Priced at Rs 80 per kg for paint and Rs 120 per kg for emulsion, this eco-friendly option competes favorably against leading manufacturers’ offerings priced at Rs 250 per kg.
The administration is considering using this paint on government buildings, further enhancing the project’s reach and impact. Moreover, the team plans to make ‘Prakritik Paint’ available on popular e-commerce platforms like Amazon, expanding its consumer base and promoting sustainable living.
Sustainable supply of cow dung
To ensure a steady supply of cow dung, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying in the district has pledged to provide the workshop with cow dung free of cost for the next five years.
Conclusion
The Annapoorna Prerna Mahila Laghu Udyog workshop stands as a symbol of empowerment, transforming the lives of rural women in Unnao. With their determination and the support of government initiatives, these women have brought eco-friendly ‘Prakritik Paint’ to the market, painting a brighter and more sustainable future for themselves and their communities.
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