Proud Jorhat village showcases its young entrepreneurial talent

The Naobishi village in Assam's Jorhat District has acquired fame in the northeast region for its young entrepreneurial talent.ere, the safety of government jobs is looked down upon, as dynamic youngsters are very keen to start their own ventures.

Take the example of 29-year-old Ankur Saikia. He started a paddy collection and distribution center nine years ago.

The collection was initially limited to farmers in the village, but today, Ankur collects paddy from neighbouring villages and stores at his private warehouse. He later distributes the paddy in cities and towns like Jorhat, Majuli, Sivasagar and Dibrugarh.

Ankur now wants to set up a small rice mill, provided the government gives him financial assistance.

"I earn between Rs.30, 000 and Rs.40, 000 every month. This helps me to look after my family. I am now trying for a loan from the government to expand my business. In my opinion, youth should work instead of sitting home. They should also focus on development of the village so that others can also grow with them," said Saikia.

His venture provides employment to eleven other people in the village.

"I have been working with Ankur for the past eight years. I am now able to feed my family well and educate my children. I earn Rs.7000 per month and I am very happy," said Mridula Saikia, an employee.

Mahipal Majhi adds: "I get a good salary from Ankur. And with his help I am able to educate my children."

The handloom and textiles sector in Assam provides employment to many.

Twenty-one-year-old Nevidita Das from Naobaishya village has successfully taken up weaving as a profession to support her education.

She earns Rs.5000 every month and believes that youth should engage themselves in constructive work.

Das said: "I weave clothes with the help of my family members and other fellow villagers. I sell them to local tailor and earn good money. I use the money to buy books."

Many youngsters have taken up handicrafts as full-time profession.

Twenty-five-year-old Pankaj Borah has been engaged in woodcarving for his livelihood since 2004 after he completed his graduation. Today he earns Rs.10, 000 a month.

Borah said: "I want to buy a machine to expand my work that will help me bring down the cost of my products."

Naobaishya has about 600 people who are primarily engaged in agriculture. The village is going through a transformation of sorts with young entrepreneurs showing the way. (ANI)