Seema Rathore

Putholi, Textile Unit

Seema Rathore, a mother of two from Putholi, has always been passionate about stitching. She would make traditional Rajput attire at home using a simple hand-operated machine, earning around ₹5000 per month.

In 2020, Seema learned about the Sakhi Self-Help Group (SHG) and the opening of the Putholi Textile Unit. Excited about the opportunity to improve her skills, she joined the SHG and underwent a three-month rigorous training programme. This experience allowed Seema to learn many new things including how to make a variety of clothes, such as kurtis, shirts, pants, and men’s wear.

Today, Seema earns ₹7000–₹8000 per month by working at the unit on alternate days. With her earnings, she was able to buy herself a better automated sewing machine and later upgraded to an even more advanced one. She now stitches clothes for everyone in her family, balancing both her responsibilities at home and her work at the centre beautifully.

Despite her busy schedule, Seema manages it all. She wakes up at 5:30 AM, handles all the household chores, cooks, gets her children ready for school, and then comes to work. Her days are full, but Seema loves being busy and does not complain.

In addition to her work, Seema completed her 12th standard through open university while working at the center. She’s now planning to pursue a computer course, something she never dreamed of before. “Coming here has made me dream big. I have so many plans, and I want to keep learning new skills,” she says. Seema is filled with hope and excitement for the future, proud of the path she has taken.