“Earlier, we had a difficult life. But things have now changed for the better after the Poverty Alleviation Fund provided us loan at a minimal interest rate,” said Mukhiya.
Ashlani Devi had taken Rs 10,000 from PAF at six percent interest to purchase a sewing machine. She now runs a tailoring shop.
As her business grew she collected enough money to pay off her debts and purchase a buffalo worth Rs 52, 000. “Earlier, we didn´t even have enough to eat. But I have now earned enough to purchase a buffalo,” said elated Ashlani Devi.
Unlike the past, her children have also started going to school.
Ashlani Devi´s family is not the only family to be benefitted by the financial support provided by PAF. The financial condition of Kabita Yadav´s family in Jaynagar of the district has also changed for good.
“We had limited means and we always struggled to meet our basic needs,” said Kavita, who was house-wife then. After PAF provided her a loan of Rs 15,000 to set up a business, she started vegetable farming. “I now earn enough to support a family by selling vegetables,” she said.
After PAF started providing loan to locals from poor financial background in the district, their economic conditions improved remarkably. Many locals who worked as waged laborers are now on their way to self-dependence.
Arbind Yadav, coordinator of the loan program launched by PAF in the district said poverty can be eradicated if the government introduces self-employment programs. He said self-employment would not only eradicate poverty but also illiteracy.
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