UP women craft eco-friendly lamps from cow dung | Fusion - WeRIndia

In the heart of Banda, Uttar Pradesh, a transformative initiative led by IAS officer Durga Shakti Nagpal is empowering village women to turn cow dung into a source of income.

This innovative venture involves crafting eco-friendly lamps, providing both economic and environmental benefits to the community.

Durga Shakti Nagpal, the District Magistrate of Banda, played a pivotal role in introducing the concept of making lamps from cow dung.

This visionary idea has contributed to women’s earnings. At the same time, it also has proven to be a sustainable solution during the Diwali festive season.

As part of a broader livelihood mission in the village, Officer Nagpal and her team embarked on training sessions for numerous women, equipping them with the skills to create these multi-purpose lamps.

The eco-friendly aspect of the lamps extends beyond income generation, as they serve as effective deterrents against harmful insects.

The simplicity of the method employed in making these cow dung diyas is a testament to the ingenuity of the initiative.

The lamps, made from cow dung, not only illuminate homes during Diwali but also play a role in repelling insects, offering a dual benefit to the villagers.

The women in the remote village of Banda attribute the success of this endeavour entirely to the guidance and efforts of the IAS officer and her dedicated team.

Their innovative approach not only transforms waste into wealth but also promotes sustainability by utilizing cow dung, which eventually turns into ash and becomes a valuable form of manure.

This transformative project showcases the power of grassroots initiatives led by passionate individuals like Durga Shakti Nagpal.

The eco-friendly lamps not only enhance the economic well-being of the village women but also contribute to the larger goal of sustainable living.

As these lamps continue to light up homes, they symbolize a beacon of hope and empowerment for the community in Banda, Uttar Pradesh.

Photo by Charl Durand: https://www.pexels.com/photo/white-cow-with-horns-15444709/ (CC)

Image Reference: https://www.pexels.com/photo/white-cow-with-horns-15444709/