PM Modi Praises Ghaziabad Vendor Babita Sharma in 'Mann Ki Baat'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently dedicated a portion of his popular radio broadcast, "Mann Ki Baat," to highlight the inspiring journey of Babita Sharma, a resilient street vendor from Ghaziabad. Overcoming immense personal hardships and financial struggles, Babita utilized government micro-loans to transform a modest roadside stall into a thriving shop. Her journey from selling puja items on the sidewalk to successfully educating her children has captured the nation's attention, serving as a powerful testament to women's empowerment and grassroots self-reliance.

How PM Svanidhi Yojana Transformed Babita's Business

Babita Sharma’s entrepreneurial turning point arrived when she connected with the Pradhan Mantri Street Vendor's AtmaNidhi (PM Svanidhi) scheme through the District Urban Development Agency (DUDA). Initially, Babita contributed to her household income by selling essential worship materials—such as flowers, diyas, incense sticks, and coconuts—on the roadside.

When she needed capital to expand, the PM Svanidhi scheme provided crucial financial backing:

• First Installment: A loan of ₹10,000, repayable within 12 months.

• Second Installment: Following timely repayment, she accessed a subsequent loan of ₹20,000.

• Third Installment: Through continued financial discipline, she secured a ₹50,000 loan, which must be repaid within 36 months.

By systematically leveraging these funds, Babita expanded her inventory, attracted more customers, and eventually transitioned from a roadside setup to renting a permanent shop near Mother Dairy in Nandgram.

Overcoming Personal Adversity to Raise Three Children

Babita’s path to success was paved with profound personal challenges. Married in Ballabhgarh in 1997, she faced marital discord and harassment after the birth of her three sons, eventually returning to her parents' home with the support of her family. Undeterred by adversity, she established a street stall to carve out an independent livelihood.

Even when the COVID-19 lockdown temporarily halted her business, she refused to surrender to circumstances, resuming her work with renewed vigor. Through sheer grit and earnings from her shop, she successfully educated her eldest son and secured his employment, while her two younger children continue their studies.

PM Modi's Praise and the Impact of Grassroots Schemes

During "Mann Ki Baat," Prime Minister Modi emphasized that Babita's story is a living example of how a small financial push, combined with relentless hard work, can alter the trajectory of a family's life. The Prime Minister's recognition has brought immense pride to Ghaziabad, highlighting the vital role that targeted central schemes play in uplifting street vendors, fostering financial inclusion, and driving grassroots economic growth across India.