Stepping up to succeed: Manoj Kumari revives a family business in India

Chirgaon Dehat, India (ILO News) - For Manoj Kumari, a 30-year-old entrepreneur from Chirgaon Dehat village in Jhansi district, Uttar Pradesh, running a business was not part of her original plan. With education up to Grade 8, her family’s livelihood depended on a small electronics shop operated by her husband, which covered household needs and her children’s education.

Everything changed when her husband suffered a serious hand injury and could no longer manage the shop. As income declined and financial pressure mounted, Manoj made the decision to step in and take responsibility for sustaining the family business.

Manoj’s participation in the ILO Start and Improve Your Business (SIYB) programme helped strengthen her business management, financial planning, record keeping and marketing skills. She gradually built practical skills in customer relations, inventory management, product knowledge and basic bookkeeping. With ongoing mentoring and guidance, Manoj introduced more structure and professionalism into the shop, rebuilt customer trust and expanded her client base.

Operating in a semi-urban area with strong market access, Manoj now serves steady demand for mobile phones, accessories and repair services. Her enterprise now generates a modest but stable monthly income, contributing to improved household stability and economic self-reliance.

Looking ahead, Manoj plans to transform her shop into a multi-brand electronics showroom, offering home appliances, mobile devices and computer accessories, alongside after-sales services such as installation and repairs. Her journey shows how targeted entrepreneurship training and community-based support can empower women to overcome adversity and build sustainable livelihoods.