In the heart of remote tribal areas, traditional Ragi processing was an arduous and exhausting task. Women devoted up to 8 hours daily to manually operate Trikai machines, facing severe physical strain and health issues. Frequent electricity outages, due to low voltage or extended rain, left these communities without power for up to 15 days, compounding their difficulties.
Adding to their burden, transporting Ragi flour from these isolated villages—8 to 15 kilometers from the nearest towns—posed a significant financial strain. The cost of transportation and daily food processing made it even harder for these communities to sustain their traditional practices.
However, a transformative solution has arrived: solar-powered pulverizers. This innovative technology has significantly simplified Ragi processing, alleviating the labor-intensive work and improving the health of the women involved.
In Erode, the solar-powered systems have been a game-changer in villages such as Katharimalai, Ramaranai, Kalithampam, and Sundapur. These communities, once burdened by manual grinding and unreliable electricity, now enjoy enhanced efficiency and health benefits. The time required for processing has been drastically reduced, allowing women to focus on other important aspects of their lives
In Coimbatore, the success of the project extends to Top Sleep, Kumadi, Perukupagthi, and two additional areas. Here, the introduction of solar technology has transformed Ragi processing, providing a sustainable and health-focused solution that mitigates the challenges of traditional methods.
With solar-powered systems installed across these 12 villages, the initiative processes 12 tons of Ragi flour annually, highlighting the significant impact of sustainable energy solutions. This project not only improves the efficiency of food processing but also enhances the overall quality of life for tribal communities. The success stories from these villages exemplify how innovative technology can bring lasting and meaningful change to even the most remote areas.
