A decade ago, when Khimuli Devi, a participant in Waste Warrior’s Paryavaran Sakhi program from Jim Corbett, received her first wage, it gave her a taste of financial empowerment. Sitting outside the waste bank in Ringora, she recalled her first purchase— a dozen colourful bangles that she had always desired, but couldn’t ask her husband for.
“I have been able to do anything that pleases me with my own money and nobody can question me about it. That is the power your own money gives you,” Khimuli said while sipping on tea.
Khimuli is just one of the 21 financially independent Sakhis who provide waste management solutions to the community in Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve, a national park renowned for its incredible biodiversity and a popular tourist destination. The Paryavaran Sakhi Model has promoted local entrepreneurship through women’s self-help groups ensuring a constant flow of income.
Another sakhi, Vimla, shares “Who can take care of someone forever? This work keeps my pride intact.” She wanted continued financial independence after her husband passed away and didn’t want to rely on her children alone.
Waste Warriors’ Corbett chapter has completed 10 years of setting systemic and sustainable waste management solutions, breaking gender barriers and generating a dignified livelihood as of October 2, 2023.
Through these programs, Waste Warriors actively cultivates local entrepreneurship in order to ensure that the value stemming from systemic solutions remains rooted within the community. Waste Warriors also empowers individuals to establish businesses in waste management – creating a dynamic network of environmentally-conscious entrepreneurs who contribute to waste reduction while fostering community prosperity. This approach emphasizes that local entrepreneurs are not only responsible for their ventures but also accountable to the community they serve.
