Role of Women in Driving the Rural Economy: HoYi's Perspective on Change

In a world increasingly dominated by AI and technology, it is time to pause and reconnect with the roots—our traditions, communities, and the people who sustain them. We are living in a world which is constantly transforming and day by day we are getting dominated by technology. For the current generation, it is high time to take a pause and reconnect with the roots – our traditions, communities and the people who can anchor us in the long term. 

Have you ever thought, when was the last time you ate a fresh plucked fruit. During our childhood days we were lucky where we used to get  pluck mangoes, guava or lichi directly from the trees and got to taste the fresh fruits because of which we now can differentiate between fresh fruits and the chemical laden fruit products. At HoYi, a name that means “Yes” in Uttarakhand, we stand for a resounding “Yes” to change. We are committed to fixing the broken food chain by delivering flavors rooted in authenticity, created through a network of small farmers who use only fresh, natural, and locally sourced ingredients.  

But HoYi’s mission is not just about food. It is about driving societal transformation, and women in rural India are at the forefront of this change. They are the changemakers and our torchbearers of sustainable development. By embracing their handmade goodness, we can bring about a shift—not just in the way we eat but in the way we empower communities.  

Women are the backbone of agriculture in Rural India

When you think of a rural landscape, it’s impossible not to picture women at work. From the crack of dawn till sunset, women are the backbone of India’s agricultural system. They sow seeds, harvest crops, manage livestock, and process food. Despite their tireless efforts, their work is often undervalued and unrecognized.  

At HoYi, we have seen firsthand how women farmers dedicate themselves to growing high-quality, natural ingredients. They bring an unparalleled level of care and traditional wisdom to their work, ensuring sustainability and authenticity. By sourcing ingredients directly from these women, we don’t just create delicious flavors but also build an ecosystem where their contributions are celebrated and rewarded.  

In rural India, women are also the driving force behind many small-scale industries. Whether it’s crafting artisanal goods, weaving textiles, or making pickles and jams. Women entrepreneurs combine skill, tradition, and creativity to sustain their families and communities.  At HoYi, we believe that women are the changemakers of rural economies. Our mission is to empower them by providing tools, training, and opportunities to thrive.  

Why Handmade Matters

In an era of mass production, handmade products symbolize care, quality, and connection. Handmade products symbolize care, quality and connection. Whenever you choose a handmade product, you can see the story of the product and the heart that has been put into the product. By investing in women entrepreneurs, we are helping them scale their businesses, access urban markets, and gain recognition for their talents. This ripple effect benefits not just the women themselves but entire communities

HoYi’s Commitment to Rural Women  

At HoYi, we are doing more than creating products. We are driving a movement powered by the incredible women of rural India. Every jar and bottle we make starts with ingredients sourced directly from women farmers who follow sustainable practices. Our mission goes far beyond sourcing. We ensure they reach a wider audience by bridging the gap between rural producers and urban consumers. By cutting out middlemen, we make sure the women who pour their heart into their work are paid fairly and treated with the respect they deserve.  

We are also proud to partner with Self-Help Groups (SHGs), a lifeline for rural women seeking financial independence and solidarity. These groups don’t just provide savings and credit—they build confidence, foster collaboration, and help women take charge of their futures. Many of the women behind our pickles and jams are part of SHGs, using their earnings to send their children to school, improve their homes, and reinvest in their businesses. Their determination is inspiring, and we are honored to support their journey.  

By supporting these women, we are not just creating authentic flavors, but we are building stronger communities and a more equitable future. At HoYi, every product is a “Yes” to change, a “Yes” to empowerment, and a “Yes” to the strength of rural women who are shaping the future.  

Women in rural India are not just contributors to the economy, but they are its lifeline. They are farmers, entrepreneurs, and innovators who drive change through sheer determination.