Behind the Journey - Varsha Raikwar

 

Drought is one of the biggest and worst challenges farmers in India face. Due to this, farmers often see a rapid fall in the quality of crops. Farmers also resort to chemical fertilisers, which require much water.

Amidst this is the story of Varsha Raikwar, who embodies hope, change and financial independence. Varsha Raikar hails from Niwari, a part of India where droughts are frequent. Growing up, she saw her father struggle.

This was the catalyst moment in her life when she realised that she had to step up to find a way to solve this issue while helping her family financially.

Voice of reason

An opportunity to create change for herself presented itself when Varsha's friend encouraged her to apply for a job at the radio station. Radio Bundelkhand provided her with a platform where she could use her voice to talk about the problems faced by farmers like her father.

This job at Radio Bundelkhand also helped her contribute financially. She also understood that saving money for the future is vital for financial safety and independence.

Initially, Varsha put aside Rs 500 monthly into her piggy bank. However, she soon realised that she must be able to save more systemically.

This was also the case with her job. She knew she had to do more and get the people of her and other villages involved.

Long-Term Thinking for the Future

In 2008, 'Shubh Kal' was launched. The show's premise was to get farmers involved and help them find a better alternative to chemical fertilisers, leading to efficient water use. She knew that with her show, she could increase public awareness and mitigate the impact of climate change.

She even got funding from the World Bank to do this. She says that thanks to her show, she was able to convince farmers in 150 villages to transition from chemical fertilisers to organic farming.

She knew she had to apply the same principle regarding her savings and finances. Setting aside, just Rs 500 every month, she surmised was not going to grow her savings.

This was when her colleague explained long-term investments to her. Thus began her journey towards her long-term investments.

Varsha is very clear about her financial security. She wants to be able to invest to secure her future. Her ultimate goal is to be financially independent while taking care of her and her family's needs.

Advocating Empowerment

Two things that Varsha advocates for, are saving the environment and saving for the future. Varsha is one of the 17 young United Nations India #WeTheChangeNow campaign climate leaders. Her show, Shubh Kal has over 5 lakh listeners across Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.

Varsha staunchly believes that women in India should be financially empowered and have the right to fulfil their dreams while living on their terms. She started advocating against the harmful effects of climate change and financial security the day she decided to be the first woman in her family to take up a job.

HDFC Life's "Behind the Journey" campaign salutes exceptional people such as Varsha, who work towards bringing social change while ensuring financial stability and building a secure future.

Watch Behind the Journey of Varsha Raikwar now -

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ARN: ED/11/23/6272