Subala Roy

Subala Roy, a dweller of Niz-Saldah village, Bajali, Assam, was leading a life of a rural homemaker with an aspiration to create her self-identity someday. Life was not easy during those days as her husband was a daily wage earner who used to work at a silk yarn manufacturing unit.

Subala was determined to make her own mark to sustain her family's livelihood. However, she had to stay home, as she had a son to look after. She was conversant with the prospects of the cottage industry and decided to weave Assamese handloom fabrics as her husband gained some knowledge and expertise in the industry.

She gathered all her belongings and lifelong saving, but it was still insufficient to start a business. Her dream turned into reality seven years back when she obtained her first microfinance loan from the Pathsala branch of VFS Capital. She purchased a handloom and silk yarns to embark on her new venture.

At present, she has two handlooms in her possession. She made her husband her partner to support the growing business. Together they weave handloom fabrics such as Assamese mekhela chador and gamchas and supply those in the local market. Due to her quality work, she gets orders from several renowned stores in Nalbari. Her business is operational throughout the year, although October to February is the peak season for her business.

VFS Capital lends its support to materialize her dream. She can now offer financial stability and a decent life to her family. Subala is an inspiration to many women in her community to start their entrepreneurial journey.