From Training To Success: The Story Of Miktoksi And USHA Silai School

Nestled in the serene Garo hills of Meghalaya, the town of Tura is a beacon of hope for marginalized communities. More than 2,000 kilometers from Kashmir, this region has witnessed a transformative tale of women empowerment. Central to this success story is the partnership between USHA and Galaxy Enterprise, which has been crafting a path for rural women to achieve financial independence and personal growth.

Balsitha G. Sangma, a 32-year-old woman from Tura's Burny hills, begins her day with household chores but soon becomes part of a community of women transforming female entrepreneurship in this matrilineal society. In 2021, Galaxy Enterprise, in partnership with USHA Silai School, launched a Training cum Production Centre (TCPC) in Tura to support rural, marginalized women, many of whom were previously daily wage laborers. The initiative aimed to help them acquire skills and resources for more stable and rewarding livelihoods.

The centre has become a launchpad for women-led enterprises. Today, these women have not only gained the ability to stitch garments but have also developed their own brand, Miktoksi, named after a flower indigenous to the Garo hills, symbolizing grace, modesty, and simplicity. They now sell their creations in a dedicated store, showcasing their work and the impact of their newfound skills.

The story of Miktoksi began with a rigorous training program conducted by USHA Silai School, where 30 women were trained in the art of garment-making. The comprehensive curriculum covered various techniques, including sewing, pattern making, cutting, stitching, and finishing. This training enabled the women to produce high-quality, marketable products, giving them the tools to thrive in a competitive marketplace.

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Balsitha G. Sangma, a graduate of the program, shared her experience,

“We used to do a little bit of sewing at home. But now that we've been called here, it's been very beneficial for us. Earlier, we didn't earn much, but now we're working because we're earning more.”

With the skills they acquired, these women transitioned from daily wage laborers to skilled artisans, receiving job orders for their sewn products, which were then sold in the local market. This consistent work not only improved their financial stability but also brought dignity to their work, empowering them to dream bigger.

In 2023, Galaxy Enterprise and USHA Silai School decided to expand their efforts, envisioning a broader scope for their operations. Beyond fulfilling job orders, the aim was to establish a dedicated retail space to showcase and sell the women's creations. This vision materialized in 2024, with the opening of Miktoksi, a store that now proudly displays the products made by the women of Tura.

As the project grew, more rural women began seeking training at the TCPC, hoping to follow in the footsteps of those who had already tasted success.

Noschilla R. Marak, a trainee at the USHA Silai School, expressed her future aspirations,

“My goal in life is to get a machine and start a small shop at home. This is where I will start, and this is where I will end.”

The impact of this initiative on the women of Tura has been transformative. Today, these women earn approximately Rs.10,000 each per month, a significant improvement over their previous incomes. This economic empowerment has instilled a sense of pride and accomplishment in their work, turning them into role models for others in their community.

Amrita Meheruna Ch. Marak, another trainee shared,

“It felt very good to complete the training because now I can open my own shop. I will also have to teach other girls. That's why I took this training.”

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With a growing customer base and expanding production capacity, Miktoksi has not only uplifted these women's lives but has also become a beacon of hope for others in the region. The store stands as a testament to the power of skill development and entrepreneurial support in transforming the lives of marginalized women.

The success of Miktoksi has ignited a new wave of ambition among the women involved in the project. A new batch of trainees is currently undergoing training, and soon they will be part of the design, production, and management teams at the store. This will help cement Miktoksi as a truly ‘Made in Meghalaya' brand, proudly showcasing the region's rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship.

The collaboration between USHA and Galaxy Enterprise has not only empowered these women but has also created a road map for sustainable growth.

Together, USHA and Galaxy Enterprise have crafted a powerful and inspiring story of success in Meghalaya, one that serves as a shining example of how skill development and entrepreneurial support can unlock the potential of marginalized communities.