(NTI): Himani Nautiyal Born in the quaint town of Rudraprayag in Uttarakhand, my early years were steeped in the world of agriculture. From the tender age of 10, I found myself immersed in the demanding realm of manual labor, a task predominantly shouldered by the women in my community. The relentless toil not only consumed my time but also hindered my academic pursuits.
A pivotal shift occurred when my family relocated to Srinagar Garhwal. The change in scenery ignited a newfound passion within me, steering me towards the study of Forestry and Wildlife. My academic journey became intertwined with the intricate tapestry of nature, flora, and fauna. It was during my PhD research, focusing on “Primate Behaviour Ecology” in Mandal Valley, that my path took an unexpected turn.
While studying the “Langur” monkeys and their perceived nuisance to the locals, I stumbled upon a far more pressing issue: the pervasive exploitation of women. These resilient women were burdened with an arduous cycle of agricultural labor and household chores, often venturing into the forests alone to gather essential resources. Their plight resonated deeply within me, mirroring the struggles I had witnessed and experienced in my own childhood.
Driven by an unwavering determination to uplift these women, I embarked on a mission to empower them through sustainable means. Upon returning to India, I meticulously explored various avenues, eventually settling on kiwi farming as a promising solution. Kiwi, with its burgeoning popularity and high market value, presented a lucrative opportunity for these women. Its minimal maintenance requirements and resilience to wildlife damage made it an ideal crop for the region, harmonizing with my commitment to environmental preservation.
However, the path to empowerment was fraught with challenges. Many women faced opposition from their families and communities, steeped in traditional gender roles. Additionally, the lack of recognition as farmers, coupled with limited access to land and resources, further compounded their struggles.
Undeterred, I harnessed my scientific knowledge and unwavering belief in their potential to spearhead this transformative initiative. I launched a crowdfunding campaign on ImpactGuru, seeking to raise ₹30 lakhs to kickstart the project. Concurrently, I actively sought additional funding sources to ensure its long-term sustainability.
This endeavor, while initially small in scale, holds the promise of exponential growth. My vision extends far beyond the immediate impact, envisioning a legacy that spans generations. By empowering these women with sustainable livelihoods and fostering a deep connection to nature, I aspire to create a ripple effect that uplifts entire communities and leaves an enduring mark on the lives of countless individuals.
