It’s only a woman whose presence makes a house, a HOME’, this quote is very much brought to life by Mrs. Menuka Dangal of Sajong, Central Pendam in East Sikkim no more than 11kms from the nearest town Rangpo.
The success story behind this woman would give inspiration to many that though life is a struggle but those who fight with it rather than giving up always come out successful.
The story dates back eight years ago when Mrs. Menuka’s husband had been sent to rehab centre due to illness and she was chased out of home as she was from a different caste.
It was not a new case for a country like India where caste system had such strong roots that could make a woman houseless and helpless. Having a small child on her lap, it was not an easy task for her to stand back but she stood strong towards life and decided to start her own business to earn a living.
Initially she worked at else’s farm and gradually bought a cow from her savings there. She started selling milk at the nearest town Rangpo and gradually expanded her business. She also learnt driving and bought a van to facilitate her commutation and also serve as extra income as she would carry passengers along the route.
Presently she earns ₹ 30, 000 (Thirty Thousand Rupee) from a small farm where she grows vegetables, two cows for fulfilling the milk needs and a van to serve for the extra income. She dreamt of sending her son to a private school which has been a reality due to her great efforts.
Having a good home to live in along with her husband helping her in her tasks, she thinks to further expand her business.
It is a great inspiration of a woman fighting against all the odds of the society to define the importance of a woman in the community.
