Mon Sep 08 09:28:35 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a news article based on the text you provided:

**Summary:**

In Kolar, Karnataka, known as the mango capital, Rathnamma A.V. started a mango pickle-making unit called Sri Vaibhava Siridhanyagala Swasahaya Sangha in 2017. What began as a small, manual operation employing 10 women has blossomed into a thriving semi-automated business, “Vaibhava,” employing 50 women. They now produce over 2,000 kg of pickles per month and earn a sustainable income. Supported by the Department of Horticulture, Farmer Producer Organisations, and NGOs like United Way Bengaluru, Vaibhava empowers women from Self Help Groups, mango farmers, differently-abled women, and students. They not only provide income but also train other women in entrepreneurial skills. Vaibhava has become a recognized model for women’s empowerment and economic development in the region, inspiring countless others to pursue their own entrepreneurial ventures.

**News Article:**

**Kolar’s Mango Pickle Revolution: Women Entrepreneurs Spice Up Rural Economy**

**Bengaluru, September 8, 2025:** In Karnataka’s mango heartland, Kolar district, a group of determined women are turning a seasonal fruit into a year-round success story, one jar of pickle at a time. What started as a small initiative to preserve excess mangoes has blossomed into a thriving entrepreneurial venture, transforming the lives of women and boosting the local economy.

Sri Vaibhava Siridhanyagala Swasahaya Sangha, now known as “Vaibhava,” was founded in 2017 by Rathnamma A.V. with a team of 10 women. The unit started with a small batch production of 50 kgs a month, but, today, their semi-automated unit now produces over 2,000 kg of mango pickles monthly.

“Plenty of mangoes, of wide varieties, were getting wasted during the season. We thought of doing something small to preserve mangoes” says Ms. Rathnamma. Vaibhava ensures each member takes home ₹15,000 per month.

Vaibhava’s success story is not just about pickle-making; it’s about empowerment. The initiative involves members of Self Help Groups (SHGs), women mango farmers, differently-abled women, and students. The organization trains other women in entrepreneurial skills and now impacts over 1 lakh people directly and indirectly. The initiative was recognized as the “Best Women’s Self-Help Group” by Plan India in 2023.

With support from organizations like the Department of Horticulture, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and United Way Bengaluru (UWBe), Vaibhava is looking to expand its reach, aiming to create a well-known brand that brings local, homemade flavors to urban consumers.

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