In the hilly terrain of Upper Fagu, Gorubathan, recurring power cuts disrupt daily life, education, and community safety. Against this backdrop, 27-year-old Gitanjali Mangar transformed her family shop into a hub for solar energy solutions, addressing a critical local need while building a sustainable business.
Inspired by the potential of solar products, she began showcasing seven demonstration units in her shop to raise awareness and generate interest. Beyond the store, Gitanjali conducted door-to-door visits, engaged self-help groups, society and spoke at community gatherings, earning trust and credibility. Her firsthand use of solar lights at home further strengthened her advocacy.
Early challenges included social reluctance and the high cost of solar products, particularly among low-income tea garden workers. Support from SwitchON Foundation in terms of training, market linkage, and manufacturer on boarding, enabled Gitanjali to overcome these barriers.
Her persistence has yielded tangible results: community members increasingly adopt solar solutions, generating positive referrals and increasing her shop income by 1.5 times. Beyond personal gains, Gitanjali inspired other women entrepreneurs to enter the solar market, creating a ripple effect of clean energy adoption.
With determination and vision, she aims to expand her venture further, ensuring every household in Upper Fagu benefits from reliable solar energy, embodying resilience, innovation, and community impact.
Inspired by the potential of solar products, she began showcasing seven demonstration units in her shop to raise awareness and generate interest. Beyond the store, Gitanjali conducted door-to-door visits, engaged self-help groups, society and spoke at community gatherings, earning trust and credibility. Her firsthand use of solar lights at home further strengthened her advocacy.
Early challenges included social reluctance and the high cost of solar products, particularly among low-income tea garden workers. Support from SwitchON Foundation in terms of training, market linkage, and manufacturer on boarding, enabled Gitanjali to overcome these barriers.
Her persistence has yielded tangible results: community members increasingly adopt solar solutions, generating positive referrals and increasing her shop income by 1.5 times. Beyond personal gains, Gitanjali inspired other women entrepreneurs to enter the solar market, creating a ripple effect of clean energy adoption.
With determination and vision, she aims to expand her venture further, ensuring every household in Upper Fagu benefits from reliable solar energy, embodying resilience, innovation, and community impact.