Jhalakathi: Kalpana Rani, an ordinary housewife from Jhalakathi, demonstrates how a woman from a rural background can transform into a successful entrepreneur against all odds. Her story is a testament to determination and resilience, as she built a thriving business from a modest start.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Kalpana initiated her entrepreneurial venture with a mere Taka 10,000, and today, her business boasts a value exceeding Taka 10 million. Her journey underscores the increasing economic participation of women in Bangladesh, where many are overcoming social and familial challenges to establish themselves as entrepreneurs.
Kalpana’s enterprise, ‘Swarna Packaging,’ not only empowers her but also provides employment opportunities for other women. During a recent visit to Jhalakathi, Kalpana recounted her story while at her factory, describing how she embarked on this path 20 years ago to alleviate her family’s poverty, despite lacking substantial capital or business experience.
She began by taking a loan from a local NGO and started making paper packets from home. Though initially met with skepticism, Kalpana’s relentless pursuit of her goals drove her success. Her husband, Bimal Debnath, played a crucial supportive role, bolstering her journey.
Currently, Swarna Packaging operates from a rented facility in Jhalakathi, producing paper packets for food packaging, including biryani and sweets. The business supplies products to surrounding districts such as Barguna and Pirojpur. Kalpana’s husband shared that the factory’s packet production involves several steps, with raw materials sourced from Barisal and Dhaka.
The factory employs six women directly, with five more working from home. Many of these women were previously unemployed or faced personal challenges, but now earn about Taka 500 daily, contributing significantly to their families. Kalpana takes pride in providing opportunities for these women, helping them achieve financial independence.
Despite her success, Kalpana faces challenges, including inadequate factory conditions and space constraints. The rented facility is prone to flooding, threatening raw materials, and finding suitable premises has been difficult. She hopes for better facilities to enhance production and working conditions.
Jhalakathi District Women Affairs Officer Dilara Khanam noted that women are increasingly participating in various fields, aided by government training and support programs. Entrepreneurs like Kalpana are pivotal in this progress. Jhalakathi BSCIC Deputy Director Md. Al Amin mentioned opportunities for plot allocations for small and medium entrepreneurs, highlighting the support available for advancing women entrepreneurs.