Binda Devi: Madhubani’s WASH Warrior

Binda Devi’s WASH enterprise lighting up her village.
Here is a story of Binda Devi, a resilient resident of Jamaila village in Jalsain Gram Panchyat, Madhubani district, she grappled with economic challenges in a predominantly Scheduled Caste community. Limited landownership forced her family to depend on labour-intensive work, including Binda, her two sons, husband, daughter, and father-in-law. Daily wage labour became their lifeline amid financial constraints.
The turning point in Binda Devi's life occurred when she joined the Ambedkar Self Help Group. Again, the ray of hope brightened with WaterAid India's intervention, where a dedicated field team played a pivotal role in transforming her circumstances. In a courageous move inspired by dialogues initiated by the field team, Binda Devi decided to establish a small shop in her village. Taking a loan of INR 50,000 under Satat Jeevikoparjan Yojana marked the beginning of her entrepreneurial journey. Starting with a grocery shop, Binda showcased notable progress, demonstrating resilience and determination.
During community interactions, WaterAid India recognised Binda Devi's entrepreneurial potential and selected her to expand her enterprise into a WASH Enterprise Mini Store. This initiative aimed to integrate a variety of WASH products into her business, aligning with the vision of "earning while serving" the community’s needs.
With customised guidance from the WaterAid India team, Binda successfully scaled her business. Her enterprise now provides essential water, sanitation and hygiene products to the community, earning her a steady monthly income of approximately INR 3,000. This income not only supports her family but also plays a crucial role in promoting better hygiene practices within her community.
Binda Devi’s journey is a testament to the transformative impact of community-driven initiatives, strategic interventions, and her determination. As a successful WASH entrepreneur, she embodies the ideals of economic sustainability and community well-being. Demonstrating her adaptability, Binda has embraced digital tools, now accepting online payments, further enhancing her business’s accessibility and efficiency.