Shanti Singh Mura, 60 , married to Ambuj Sing Murat at the age of 16. She hails from Bhumij tribal group, Matha Forest which extends around the Borders of West Bengal, Orissa and Jharkhand. She migrated back to her land as her husband was affected by the devastating flood. She was gifted a small farm by her father. Shanti’s severe economic crisis forced her to sell liquor before the Literacy India’s intervention. Literacy India, along with IIT Kharagpur support, installed a Pattal making machine in the village and provided training for Shaal Leaf plate making from design to marketing. Shanti would collect Shaal Leaf from the forest without any legal hassle, and her skill of preparing leaf plate and bowl led to community business.

Beacon of Change

Within a few days, she became a leader of Pattal making Group ( Shaal Leaf Plate Making). She was able to mobilise more women into the business.She also proved her versatility in farming, kitchen gardening, & mobilising women into sustainable earning. She not only left the liquor selling but also forced the other women to stop as well. Literacy India bestowed her with a Life Time award for being the Role Model for the Tribal Women. Shanti has five children among whom one joined the Police force and posted in Birbhum, West Bengal. She and her family were educated and empowered with the support of Literacy-India, she now empowers others. Support More of these women with your contribution. https://www.literacyindia.org/relief-fund-for-poorest-of-the-poor/