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Divya Rawat: The "Mushroom Lady's" Story of Becoming a Social Entrepreneur

Rawat the "Mushroom Lady", is not just a successful entrepreneur; she is a visionary who has transformed lives and redefined the concept of rural development. Her venture has provided a viable livelihood for about 15000 families in Uttarakhand.

Sarbani Bhattacharjee
Divya Rawat is called the "Mushroom Lady" of India
Divya Rawat is called the "Mushroom Lady" of India

Divya Rawat was born and brought up in Chamoli Garhwal, Uttarakhand. She completed her Bachelor's in Social Work from Amity Noida and a Master's from IGNOU. She initially dedicated herself to human rights activism. However, a stark reality struck her- She witnessed the plight of people migrating from small towns to urban setups, toiling in suboptimal conditions. Divya recognized poverty as the root of the problem.

A Seed of Change: Mushroom Farming

Inspired by the deep-rooted agricultural heritage of Uttarakhand, Divya decided to cultivate livelihoods through farming. After meticulous research and training both domestically and internationally, she identified mushroom cultivation as a promising avenue. In 2013, she returned to Chamoli with a clear vision.

"Breathing Life into Desolate Villages"

She started with a modest investment of ₹15,000 and an unwavering determination. Divya transformed empty houses in Kandara village into mushroom cultivation centers. Her initiative brought life to these so-called "ghost villages". The unique nature of mushroom farming, an indoor process requiring specific temperature conditions, made it an ideal fit for the region.

Nari Shakti Award presented by Former President Pranab Mukherjee
Nari Shakti Award presented by Former President Pranab Mukherjee

A Model of Economic Empowerment

Recognizing the high market demand and potential for substantial returns, Divya focused on cultivating the high-value "Keedajadi" mushroom variety. With an initial investment of just Rs. 10,000 to 15,000, she has built a multi-crore enterprise in just 12 years.

Beyond personal success, Divya's vision encompasses a broader societal impact. She has created a platform for over 15,000 families, empowering them as entrepreneurs. She strongly believes that economic independence can break the cycle of poverty and exploitation.

Divya Rawat empowering Women Farmers
Divya Rawat empowering Women Farmers

A Catalyst for Women's Empowerment

Divya is a staunch advocate for women's empowerment. She believes women are the architects of homes and societies. By involving thousands of women in her venture, she has not only given them a stable livelihood but also fostered a sense of community and self-reliance.

Divya continues to drive positive change through her foundations, Avantam Himalayan Foundation and Soumya Foods Pvt Ltd.

Divya's Note to Aspiring Entrepreneurs: She emphasizes the importance of social responsibility and the potential for business to be a force for good. By prioritizing the well-being of the community, entrepreneurs can create a lasting impact. This will also be impactful in the growth of the nation.

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