Our Story

“Ek Murgi – Ek Mauka”

Rajkumari Dhanwar lives in Bhothai village, located 25 km from Kasdol. She has never attended school, while her husband, Gurbar Singh, studied up to the 10th standard. The couple resides in a modest mud-and-brick house. Despite 25 years of marriage, they do not have children. Both work as agricultural and seasonal laborers to sustain their livelihood.
Gurbar Singh is gifted with versatile artistic skills—he paints, carves wooden statues, mimics bird calls, and participates in local religious dramas. However, these talents have not translated into stable income, leaving the family vulnerable to financial shocks.

Intervention

When Kalp’s Livelihood Support Program (LSP) visited Bhothai to identify farmers for a new poultry model, Rajkumari was selected as a beneficiary. During the orientation, the team discussed the importance of the Public Distribution System (PDS) and its economic relevance.

Rajkumari was provided with five chicks (four female and one male). Over time, her flock gradually increased in number, marking the beginning of a small but sustainable livelihood activity.

Outcome

One day, a forest department official noticed one of Rajkumari’s chicks and expressed interest in purchasing it. After discussions, he bought the 1.6 kg chick for ₹2000—a significant amount for the family.

This income proved crucial, as it helped cover medical expenses during Gurbar Singh’s illness and supported other household needs. The sale demonstrated the potential of poultry rearing as a viable livelihood option for marginalized families.

Conclusion

Rajkumari and Gurbar Singh remain deeply grateful to Kalp and Shivia for their timely support. The intervention not only improved their household resilience but also showcased how targeted livelihood programs can empower rural families to build sustainable futures.