The Muslim woman from Jamtara becomes a successful farmer with support from a livelihood mission and improves her income
JAMTARA — A Muslim woman from Jharkhand has changed her life through hard work and a simple but bold decision. Musarrat Khatun, a resident of Gokula village in Narayanpur block of Jamtara district, has left behind traditional farming and is now known across her area as “Strawberry Didi”.
In a region where most women remain limited to household work and traditional roles, Musarrat Khatun has shown that change is possible with the right support and determination. She moved away from growing paddy and maize and started cultivating strawberries, a crop that has brought her better income and recognition.
Speaking to the media, Musarrat Khatun said, “Earlier, we used to grow only paddy and maize. After joining the Sakhi Mandal, we received training. Now, strawberry farming is giving us a good income and we are becoming self-reliant.”
Her journey began when she joined the Jharkhand State Livelihood Promotion Society (JSLPS) and became part of a local Sakhi Mandal. Through this group, she received training and guidance, which helped her understand new farming methods and the benefits of high-value crops like strawberries.
With this support, she decided to take a risk and shift from traditional crops to strawberry farming. The results have been encouraging. Compared to paddy and maize, strawberries have brought her higher returns, helping improve her financial condition.
Locals say that her success has also changed how people look at women’s work in the village. A neighbour said, “We have seen her working day and night in the fields. Today, she is earning well and has made a name for herself. Many women here are now thinking of doing something similar.”
Her work has also had an impact on the local market. The demand for strawberries has increased, and more farmers are now showing interest in growing the fruit. Musarrat’s farm has become a point of learning for others in the area.
Another farmer from the village said, “We used to think strawberries could not grow here. But after seeing Musarrat Didi’s farm, we realised it is possible. Now, many of us are planning to try it.”Musarrat Khatun’s story also highlights the importance of government-backed livelihood programmes in supporting rural Muslim women, who often face limited opportunities. With proper training and small support systems, many such women are finding ways to improve their lives.
Despite social and economic challenges, Musarrat continued her work with patience. Today, she is not only supporting her family better but also creating a new identity for herself in the farming community.
A member of the Sakhi Mandal said, “Musarrat has shown courage. She trusted the training and worked hard. Now she is an example for all of us.”
Her success is being seen as a sign that rural women, especially from minority communities, can move forward when they get access to resources and guidance.
Musarrat Khatun’s journey from a homemaker to a successful farmer stands as a clear example of how small changes in farming choices can bring big results. Known now as “Strawberry Didi”, she continues her work with the hope that more women will step forward and take control of their livelihoods.
