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Kutir Udyog (Cottage Industry)
A Badhte Kadam livelihood initiative: hands-on work, fair opportunity, and dignity for women close to home.
About the Project
Under Asha Welfare Foundation’s dream project Badhte Kadam, we launched a Kutir Udyog (cottage industry) in Shaidulnisha village, in the Ghazipur area of Lucknow (near Maruti Clinic). The unit was inaugurated on Mahashivratri with a traditional ceremony, symbolizing a fresh beginning for livelihood and hope.
What We Do Today
The first phase focuses on papad making — simple, skill-based production that women can learn quickly and repeat with consistency. Products are intended for local sale through a dedicated outlet and community networks, with room to grow.
- Hands-on training and supervised production
- Employment for women who need flexible, local work
- Gradual expansion as processes stabilize
Planned Next Steps
Alongside the cottage unit, we plan to introduce more livelihood and skill options under the same umbrella — including a free beauty parlor training course for girls from low-income families, so young women can access another practical pathway to independence.
- More products and programs over time
- Stronger market linkages for what women produce
- Continued mentoring through the Foundation team
Leadership & Support
The initiative is guided by Asha Welfare Foundation office bearers and local well-wishers who helped plan the launch and stay connected with beneficiaries. Press reports have highlighted Soni Verma (President), Jyoti Mehrotra (Secretary and project leadership), and youth and community representatives who attended the inauguration and ongoing activities.
Our Products
Products prepared under Kutir Udyog by women members of Asha Welfare Foundation.
Press & Recognition
Local newspapers covered the launch and purpose of the cottage industry — employment for women and community-led development under Badhte Kadam. Click an image for a larger view.
To view more, click Gallery.
Support This Work
You can help by spreading the word, volunteering time for mentoring or logistics, or connecting us with fair local buyers for papads and future products. For partnerships and enquiries, reach out anytime.