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From a Small Patch to a Blooming Future: Guliben’s Journey of Growth, Grit, and Change
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From a Small Patch to a Blooming Future: Guliben’s Journey of Growth, Grit, and Change
In the heart of Modhva village in the tribal belt of Dahod’s Dhanpur Taluka lives Guliben Hirabhai Patel, a woman whose quiet determination transformed hardship into harvest. At 51, she lived with her extended family of eight. Her husband worked tirelessly on their 1.5-acre land, but the soil yielded little. Their annual income was ?38,750—barely enough to survive. After meeting basic needs, only a small amount remained, leaving little room for hope. As the years passed, family members began migrating in search of work, and the land was left behind, along with the rhythm of home.
When Utthan, through the WDF NABARD Watershed Programme, arrived in Modhva, they saw what others had missed—Guliben’s quiet resilience. A household income survey revealed her family’s fragile finances but also opened the door to a new possibility. The team suggested she try creating a kitchen garden. At first, she hesitated, unsure if such a small initiative could make a difference. After thoughtful discussion with her husband, she decided to give it a chance. In January 2019, she received 150 saplings of tomato, brinjal, and chilli along with hands-on guidance on soil preparation, planting, and pest management. With care and patience, Guliben transformed her backyard into a flourishing garden.
Within just five months, her kitchen garden produced vegetables worth rupee 33,600 at a cost of only rupee 2,700—earning her a profit of rupee 30,900 without leaving home or losing time with her children. Beyond the income, she nurtured dignity, nourishment, and self-reliance. Her family’s diet improved, and migration stopped. Inspired by her success, women from nearby households began visiting to learn and start their own gardens. Today, Guliben continues to cultivate both her land and the confidence of others. Her story stands as a reminder that change can begin with something as small as a seed—and a woman courageous enough to plant it.
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