Agartala, Sept 28: What began as a modest dream in 2019 has grown into a thriving rural enterprise for Junu Bala Roy, a member of Joy Ram Self-Help Group (SHG) under Natun Alo Cluster Level Federation (CLF) in Bamutia R.D. Block of West Tripura.

Junu started her entrepreneurial journey with a small vermicompost unit. With determination, financial support through Community-Based Organisation (CBO) loans and specialised training from RUDSETI facilitated through the Tripura Rural Livelihood Mission (TRLM), she gradually expanded her business and diversified her sources of income.

Today, Junu operates 30 vermicompost pits and has expanded beyond vermicompost production into seed trading, vegetable cultivation and fishery. 

According to TRLM, during the peak season, her monthly sales cross Rs. 5 lakh, while her monthly profit stands at around Rs. 2.5–3 lakh.

Her growing enterprise has also created livelihood opportunities for other women. Six SHG members are currently engaged in the activities associated with her enterprise, enabling Junu's journey towards financial independence to generate employment for others in her community.

The rural entrepreneur now plans to further expand her vermicompost unit and strengthen her diversified livelihood activities. Her journey highlights how access to credit, skill development, institutional support and the collective strength of SHGs can help rural women transform small beginnings into sustainable enterprises.

From a small vermicompost venture to a multi-activity enterprise, Junu's story reflects the growing opportunities for women entrepreneurs in rural Tripura and embodies the journey from a dreamer to a Lakhpati Didi.