Ambika Mhetre of Solapur Inspires Women Across Maharashtra
PUNE : Despite limited education and resources, many women are carving their own paths to success by starting businesses and generating employment. In Solapur, Maharashtra, one such inspiring story is that of Ambika Bhimashankar Mhetre from Shingangaon in South Solapur tehsil. She has turned a traditional food item, Kadak Bhakri, into a thriving business, earning her the title of “Lakhpati Didi” and becoming a role model for countless women.
What is Kadak Bhakri?
Kadak Bhakri is a dry, crispy flatbread made from millet and sorghum, known for its unique taste that lasts up to six months. Traditionally eaten with curd and chutney, it holds cultural significance, especially among Kannada-speaking communities in the region. Its popularity spans grocery stores, malls, hotels, roadside eateries, and breakfast centers in Solapur and neighboring districts.
From Farm Laborer to Entrepreneur
Ambika comes from a farming background and worked as a laborer on other farms to make ends meet. Her journey into entrepreneurship began when agricultural assistant Jayshree Taktode introduced her to the business potential of Kadak Bhakri. With financial assistance of ₹3.37 lakh from the Prime Minister Anna Suraksha and Process Industry Scheme, Ambika set up her enterprise. Agriculture officer Ramchandra Mali also supported her efforts.
In just two and a half years, her business has flourished, with her products now widely available in malls, hotels, and other outlets. Ambika’s hard work has not only made her financially independent but also an inspiration for others in the community.
Recognized for Excellence
Ambika’s achievements have earned her the Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Award from the Women and Child Welfare Department of the state government. She was also selected for the Central Government’s Lakhpati Didi scheme, which supports rural women entrepreneurs.
Reviving Jowar’s Significance
Jowar (sorghum) is integral to Solapur’s identity. However, in recent years, its cultivation has declined as farmers shifted to crops like sugarcane. Ambika and many others are working to restore the importance of jowar through innovative ventures like Kadak Bhakri.
This processed food business highlights how value addition can transform agricultural produce. While raw jowar sells for ₹35-40 per kilogram, its processed form as Kadak Bhakri generates a profit of at least ₹150 per kilogram, providing a sustainable source of income for women entrepreneurs.
Empowering Self-Help Groups
More than 100 women self-help groups in Solapur have embraced this business with support from state government schemes and organizations like ATMA. These efforts have increased employment opportunities and boosted jowar production in the region.
Transforming Lives
Sarika Dudre, another resident of Shingadgaon, is a testament to the transformative power of this initiative. Once shy and reserved, Sarika now runs a successful Kadak Bhakri business, supplying 2,000 flatbreads daily to Swami Samarth Trust.
Agriculture assistant Jayshree Taktode notes that the area under jowar cultivation in South Solapur tehsil has risen from 60% to over 71% in just three years, reflecting the growing demand for Kadak Bhakri.
A Model of Dedication
“Ambika’s journey from a laborer to a successful entrepreneur has been extraordinary,” said Taktode. “When I first met her, I saw her potential and helped her secure a roti-making machine despite challenges with the bank. Her dedication has turned her business into a model of success.”
The story of Kadak Bhakri is not just about a regional delicacy; it’s about empowerment, resilience, and the ability of women to transform their lives and communities through innovation and hard work.
