NewKerala.com

Palash Bloom in Gujarat's Narmada Forests Boosts Tourism & Women's Livelihoods

The summer bloom of palash trees in Narmada district, Gujarat, has painted the forests saffron and become a tourist attraction near the Statue of Unity. This seasonal phenomenon has spurred an economic opportunity for local women, who now produce and sell herbal soap made from the flowers. Operating from Ekta Nursery, a women's group formed in 2022 has seen significant success, with the soap generating substantial income and providing financial independence. The initiative, supported by government training and loans, has transformed lives by replacing agricultural labor with a sustainable home-based enterprise.

Key Points: Palash Bloom in Narmada Attracts Tourists, Empowers Women

  • Palash trees in full bloom attract tourists
  • Women produce and sell herbal palash soap
  • Enterprise generates Rs 40-50k income
  • Initiative provides stable monthly earnings
2 min read

Gujarat: Palash bloom in Narmada forests spurs tourist interest, supports women's livelihoods

The vibrant palash bloom near the Statue of Unity is drawing tourists and empowering local women through a successful herbal soap-making enterprise.

"With government support, we were able to set up a shop... today we are able to stand on our own feet. - Niru Tadvi"

Narmada, March 1

The onset of summer has brought a burst of saffron to the forests of Narmada district in Gujarat, where palash trees are in full bloom, attracting visitors and supporting local livelihoods.

As the seasonal transition leads to fading greenery and falling leaves, the palash - also known locally as khakhra - stands out with its bright orange flowers.

In areas surrounding the Statue of Unity, the flowering trees have become a visual attraction for tourists, adding to the appeal of the region during the warmer months.

The bloom has also provided economic opportunities for women in nearby villages.

At Ekta Nursery in Ekta Nagar, local women operate a handicrafts and herbal products stall where soap made from palash flowers is produced and sold.

The herbal soap has seen increased demand during the summer season, generating an estimated income of Rs 40,000 to Rs 50,000.

Niru Tadvi, a resident of Kevadia village and head of the Radhe Krishna Mission Mangalam group, said the group was formed in 2022 with 10 members. "Earlier, we were engaged in household chores and agricultural labour," she said.

"With government support, we were able to set up a shop. Three members took a loan of Rs 70,000, and today we are able to stand on our own feet," she added.

She said the group now earns a steady annual income and no longer needs to seek work far from home.

Ranjan Tadvi said the women received formal training in soap-making, which enabled them to expand their product range.

"We make different types of soaps such as lemon, aloe vera and rose, and the ingredients are sourced from nearby areas. Tourists visiting the Statue of Unity buy our products, which provides us with a good income," she noted.

She added that members earn between Rs 10,000 and Rs 15,000 per month, contributing to household expenses while also saving part of their earnings.

Sumitra Tadvi, a resident of Kothi village, said the initiative had improved employment prospects.

"Earlier, we worked as labourers. Now we are getting benefits by selling kesuda (palash) soaps," she said.

Local residents said the seasonal flowering of palash has not only enhanced the district's natural landscape but also created a sustainable source of income for women in the area.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
This is the real "Make in India" and "Vocal for Local" in action. Turning a seasonal bloom into a year-round income source through skill development is brilliant. Kudos to the women of Kevadia and the supporting agencies. Hope they get online platforms to sell nationwide.
S
Sarah B
Visiting the Statue of Unity last year, the landscape was stunning. Had no idea about these local products! Next time I'm there, will definitely look for this stall. Supporting women entrepreneurs while getting authentic herbal soap is a win-win.
A
Aman W
While the story is uplifting, I hope the increased tourist footfall is managed sustainably. We've seen other places get ruined by litter and overcrowding. The forest department must ensure the palash trees and the local ecology are protected first.
N
Nisha Z
Palash (tesu) flowers are so auspicious and used in many festivals. Using them to make soap is such a smart, modern application of our traditional knowledge. ₹10-15k per month is a significant income in a village. More power to these didis!
V
Vikram M
Great to see tribal women (Tadvi community) becoming entrepreneurs. This is genuine development - not just giving subsidies but providing training and market access. The Statue of Unity project was criticised, but if it's driving such local economic activity, it's a good thing.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50