In Sallahpur village, Ambedkar Nagar, Krishnamati, a resilient farmer and labourer, has emerged as a force of transformation—not only in agriculture but also in local governance and community justice.

With limited farmland and household responsibilities, Krishnamati turned to livestock rearing to supplement her income. By selling milk from her buffaloes and goats, she sustained her family. But a family tragedy placed new demands on her—she took over the responsibility of educating her nephew after her sister-in-law passed away. With immense sacrifice, she sold two buffaloes and four goats, investing ₹90,000 in his education. Today, he serves as a Sub-Inspector in the police department.

Training That Sparked a Vision

Left with no source of income, Krishnamati sought inspiration at a women’s group meeting where a community mobiliser introduced the idea of entrepreneurship and offered training. Energised by this support from ChildFund India, Jan Shikshan Sansthan, and the European Union programme, she began goat rearing at a larger scale.

Now, with 26 goats under her care, Krishnamati proudly supports her children’s college education and stands as a symbol of self-reliance and dignity. She is currently the Board Director and Chairperson of the Jan Shikshan Women Farmer Producer Company Limited.

Lighting Up Lives—Literally

Her commitment extends far beyond farming. When her village lacked electricity, she coordinated with the local MLA to secure a transformer through the MLA fund. When installation stalled, she advocated directly with the executive engineer in Akbarpur, leading to success. Later, she brought power to two additional hamlets via another transformer through the MP fund.

Krishnamati championed land rights for 18 families, securing land deeds from the District Magistrate. When forest officials intervened, citing tree cutting as illegal, she stood firm—mobilising affected villagers and explaining the rightful ownership to police. Her advocacy ensured those families could clear their land and begin cultivation.

A Beacon for Women Farmers

Krishnamati’s work has sparked a wave of inspiration. Local women farmers now emulate her goat-rearing model, and community members rally around her leadership. Her journey is a testament to the impact of knowledge, courage and support, proving that with the right resources, a single woman can illuminate entire villages—both literally and figuratively.