Ahmedabad, March 1: As summer begins, the forests of Gujarat’s Narmada district are witnessing a vibrant bloom of Palash flowers, attracting tourists and supporting local livelihoods.
As the season changes and greenery fades, the Palash tree, locally known as Khakhra, stands out with its bright orange blossoms.
In the areas surrounding the Statue of Unity, these flowering trees have become a popular attraction for tourists, enhancing the beauty of the region during the warmer months.
The blooming flowers have also provided income opportunities for women in nearby villages.
At Ekta Nursery in Ekta Nagar, local women set up stalls selling handicrafts and herbal products, including soap made from Palash flowers.
The demand for herbal soap has surged during the summer, generating earnings of approximately 40,000 to 50,000 rupees.
Neeru Tadvi, head of the Radhe Krishna Mission Mangalam Group, which was formed in 2022 with ten members, shared, “Previously, we worked in household chores and agriculture. With government assistance, we were able to open a shop. Three members took a loan of 70,000 rupees, and today we are self-sufficient.”
She noted that the group now earns a consistent income each year, eliminating the need to seek work far from home.
Ranjan Tadvi mentioned that the women received formal training in soap-making, allowing them to expand their product range.
“We make various soaps, including lemon, aloe vera, and rose, with materials sourced from nearby areas. Tourists visiting the Statue of Unity purchase our products, providing us with good income,” she added.
Members earn between 10,000 to 15,000 rupees each month, helping with household expenses while also saving a portion of their earnings.
Sumitra Tadvi from Kothi village remarked that this initiative has improved job opportunities. “We used to work as laborers. Now, we are profiting from selling Kesuda (Palash) soap,” she stated.
Local residents noted that the seasonal Palash flowers have not only enhanced the district’s natural scenery but have also created a sustainable income source for women in the area.
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My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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