From Witch to Businesswoman: Sanitary Pad Pioneer

Shanti Rathwa, a tribal woman from Limkheda taluka, has overcome immense adversity to become a respected entrepreneur. Twelve years ago, she was branded a witch, assaulted, and banished from her village by her own family and community, forcing her to live on the streets. Her life took a turn when she met Swati Bedekar, an advocate for women's financial independence through sanitary pad manufacturing.

Initially facing resistance and even vandalism from villagers, Rathwa eventually found a sanctuary for her pad-making unit within the premises of the Hanuman Temple. Supported by a government scheme, she acquired a machine and persisted despite further harassment. The unit now employs 20 women and produces approximately 2,000 sanitary pads daily, supplying primary health centers, anganwadis, and families in surrounding villages.

Rathwa has not only achieved personal success but has also become a vocal activist. She travels to various villages, sharing her story to challenge the harmful superstition of witch-branding that has ruined many women's lives in her region. Her unit's products are now sold in 15 villages, with plans for future expansion.