Rural India is home of the original gig-economy worker. Enterprising villagers hop from tilling fields to tending shops, to door-to-door selling each day. Read the latest trends in micro-enterprises, rural start-ups and the shifting livelihoods of India’s villagers.
Livelihoods
Finding a soul in Uttarakhand’s ghost village
Set in a village with seven inhabitants, Srishti Lakhera’s National Award-winning film Ek Tha Gaon showcases the issue of Uttarakhand’s ‘ghost’ villages. She tells us about the movie, its two women protagonists and more.
Nutmeg spices up income of Tamil Nadu coconut farmers
A newly formed farmer producer organisation has freed a group of nutmeg farmers in Tamil Nadu from the clutches of middlemen and exploitative buyers, boosting their income and ushering positivity.
Creative economy is empowering rural India
Creative industries are emerging as a powerful way for rural youth to explore new livelihood opportunities based on their traditional knowledge, using new ways to showcase their talents and support the community.
4 Badass rural women who made history
From changing sexual harrassment laws to growing trees at the age of 112 – these rural women have contributed to significant impact in India.
A herbal effect takes root in Uttarakhand’s hills
The terraced fields of Uttarakhand’s villages are fragrant with whiffs of rosemary, thyme and other herbs as farmers harvest the potential of these culinary ingredients to bring prosperity.
Kihim women lead coastal village’s economic revival
The women of Kihim toil every day to transform this quiet coastal village in Maharashtra into a tourist destination, keeping its beach economy thriving while securing a better future for their families.
Mayurbhanj revives traditional looms
Mayurbhanj’s handloom legacy is experiencing a remarkable resurgence, stitching together threads of tradition and innovation, painting a brighter canvas for its future, one vibrant sari at a time.
Bengaluru couple’s startup goes back to the roots
From natural kajal to desi cow milk ghee, this startup by a Bengaluru-based couple offers products made using natural ingredients in an effort to promote sustainable living and empower rural communities.
A day at a village square
As Village Square turns 7 today, we feature a village square from Punjab where elders gather during the day as they return from fields – to take a nap, play cards or just catch up on everyday life.