Viji make additional income from rearing Cow
kolpingindiaMrs. Viji, a 42-year-old resident of Pattaraivillai, a small village in Kuzhithurai, Tamil Nadu, faced significant financial struggles after the tragic death of her husband, Suresh in 2022. Suresh, a carpenter by occupation, died of an accidental fall from a multi-story building worksite. Left with no other option but to look for a job to sustain the family and education of her two daughters Asmitha and Shabiha, who were studying in 11th and 7th grade respectively. She began working as a daily wage labourer at a nearby cashew factory, earning Rs. 200 per day. However, this income was insufficient to cover the basic needs of the family.
Viji was aware of Kolping India’s livelihood support project as she was an active member of the Panimaya Annai Kolping family. She applied for the Milch (Milk) Animal Project Support and received Rs. 15,000 from Kolping India and with an additional investment of Rs. 25,000 from her brother she purchased a cow. The cow produced 10 litres of milk daily. After reserving one litre for her family, Viji sells the remaining 9 litres to her neighbours at the rate of Rs. 45 per litre, earning a monthly income of Rs. 12,000. This additional income, combined with her earnings from the cashew nut factory, has significantly improved the financial situation of her family. Viji expresses her heartfelt gratitude to the donors, Kolping International, and Kolping India for their timely support, which has empowered her with knowledge and skill to manage the family economy and plan a secure future for her daughters.
