Empowered by Poppadoms: The Lijjat Co-operative's Impact on Indian Women

On a chilly December morning, women draped in vibrant saris gathered outside a bustling Delhi building, representing one of India's pioneering female-led social enterprises. The Shri Mahila Griha Udyog Lijjat Papad co-operative began in 1959 in Mumbai with just seven determined housewives making papad, a crunchy Indian snack.Today, the co-op is a thriving network of over 45,000 women across India with an impressive annual turnover of ₹16 billion ($186 million). A significant portion of their products, including papad, spices, and detergents, are also exported internationally. Ms. Lakshmi, a 70-year-old manager with 40 years of experience at the co-operative, emphasizes the life-changing support it provides. After tragically losing her husband, Lijjat transformed her life, allowing her to balance home duties while generating income for her family. "Lijjat is a temple for us," she states, highlighting its vital role in empowering countless women.In this co-operative model, members often take public transportation to collect pre-mixed lentil dough, which they use to make papad at home. While initially it took her several hours to prepare, now, with experience, Ms. Lakshmi can craft a kilogram in just thirty minutes.The organisation has come a long way since its inception in the wake of post-independence India, navigating societal challenges and advocating for women's rights to work and prosper. The founding group, who operated from their homes, needed minimal capital and received support from a social worker, Chhaganlal Karamshi Parekh, to kick-start their mission.These ambitious women didn't merely view their roles as laborers; they functioned as co-owners, gaining a voice in decisions and equitable profit sharing, which has cultivated a strong sense of community and resilience.The popular Lijjat brand emerged later, driven by a suggestion from within its ranks. Over the decades, this co-operative has enabled women to achieve financial independence, support their families, and earn respect within their communities.As Ms. Lakshmi reflects on her journey, she notes, "I have put my children through school, built a house and got them married." The Lijjat co-operative is a shining example of how simple beginnings can lead to meaningful social change for women across India.