Akash Ashok Betkar from Akoli village in Yavatmal once worked as a canteen helper in Pune, earning around ₹10,000 per month with limited prospects for growth. He wanted to build a livelihood closer to home, but lacked the technical skills and opportunity needed to enter the solar sector.

His turning point came through solar technical training under the ESAF Urjabandhu initiative implemented by Prachodhan Development Services. The training equipped him with practical knowledge and strengthened his confidence. He returned to his village and established Mauli Enterprises, creating a new pathway for himself as a rural service entrepreneur.

Akash now earns more than Rs.50,000 per month and has installed more than 800 solar pumps, supporting farmers to access renewable-energy solutions for agriculture. His enterprise has also created employment opportunities for 20 local young people, extending the impact of his livelihood transition.

His story demonstrates how market-relevant skills and local enterprise opportunities can turn limited employment prospects into sustainable rural livelihoods. By combining entrepreneurship with clean-energy services, Akash is strengthening his own economic security while contributing to renewable-energy adoption and employment within his community.