Women's Day: How Education & Employment Empowered these 3 Young Girls from Rural MP

By: Ayushi Dutta, Correspondent

In light of International Women's Day 2025, the Women Entrepreneurs Review team spoke to Rimple Gond, Darshika Bhurkur and Khushi Girsar, three young girls from Madhya Pradesh. Undeterred by the unfortunate hand dealt to them by fate, these young girls turned to employment to alter the course of their lives. Marked by determination and courage, this is their story.

Women and responsibilities go hand in hand. For women in Indian society, fulfilling their duties and responsibilities at a young age is often overlooked, as it is ingrained in cultural expectations and is not acknowledged as a significant challenge.

From managing household chores to contributing financially, these young girls silently bear the weight of responsibilities without much recognition or support.

On Women's Day 2025, Rimple Gond, Darshika Bhurkur and Khushi Girsar, three young girls from Madhya Pradesh share their journey of resilience with us. While one had to step up to support her family after she lost her father, another had to give up her education as her brother’s education was prioritized. Undeterred by the unfortunate hand dealt to them by fate, these young girls aren’t characters in a sob story. Instead, they are inspiring protagonists in their story. Not only are they supporting their families by earning a living but they are also focusing on their dreams and careers.

All they needed was an opportunity, and it altered the course of their lives.

Building a Better Future for Her Family & Herself

As Rimple Gond, born in a quiet village where traditions often define destinies, rewrote her destiny by pursuing independence and work. Born into a family where sons were prioritized over daughters, she was expected to follow the conventional path - marriage and domestic responsibilities. Despite financial struggles, Rimple chose to sacrifice her studies for her younger brother's education, prioritizing her family's needs over her own desires, despite her desire for books and learning.

Overlooking initial family disapproval, Rimple entered the specialized field of aramid-reinforced plastic rods, telecom-grade FRP, and ARP rods three years ago, showcasing her resilience and hard work.

Women's sacrifices and duties are frequently dismissed as part of tradition, overshadowing their dreams and aspirations. While Rimple finds solace in her work, saving for her family, and fulfilling her dreams, she dreams of visiting Kedarnath and experiencing freedom in the mountains. Rimple finds peace in small joys, relishes Pani Puri and reads moral stories. Showcasing courage and self-belief, her journey is not just survival but a silent rebellion.

Rimple says "Women are no less than men, they can handle every task successfully as men do. Others might not support them, but women should stand up for themselves."

Going Above & Beyond to Support Family’s Needs

Young girls in the rural Indian society need opportunities to break the cycle of hardship and turn their dreams into reality. Along with supporting their families to lead fruitful lives and reduce the excessive burden, access to education, skill development, and mentorship guidance is a necessity to transform their lives and uplift families.

Darshika Bhurkur's journey is one of resilience and determination. A first-year college student, she juggles academics while working in the rewinding line of the telecom-grade FRP and ARP rods business. Unlike many of her peers, her days are not just filled with lectures and assignments but also with the responsibilities of a professional life. Due to hardships, Darshika stepped up and became the backbone of her family, and recognizing her dedication, her family stood by her side.

Darshika finds solace in nature and pens down her imagination on paper. Her story is about hope, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of a better life, proving determination and passion can lead to success.

Challenges May Persist, but these Girls are Stronger

Every young girl deserves the right to chase her dreams without being held back by circumstances. By giving them the opportunities they deserve, we are not just uplifting individuals - we are shaping a stronger, more equitable future for all. At just 20 years old, Khushi Girsar embodies the spirit of perseverance and determination. A third-year B. Com student, she has shouldered responsibilities far beyond her years. Losing her father at an early age, she became the pillar of strength for her family. Today, she balances her studies with work as a junior operator at Runaya.

Despite challenges, Khushi has not adversely deterred her ambitions. She supports her mother, pays for her college education, and ensures her younger brother's school fees are covered. She dreams of pursuing an MBA after graduation, hoping to secure better opportunities for her family. She finds peace in music, a companion that helps her cope with the absence of her father. On her days off, she makes it a point to take her mother and brother out for ice cream - a small but cherished tradition that allows them to share laughter and warmth.

Khushi believes that a single opportunity can change a woman's life and hopes for a future where women receive the freedom and equality they deserve within their families and society.

In light of International Women's Day 2025, the Women Entrepreneurs Review team got the opportunity to talk with these three young girls who are supporting their families by earning a living along with focusing on their dreams and careers. All they wanted was a chance and support from their loved ones.