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A Period of Change: |
Editors Note Namaste, Financial Inclusion and Women Empowerment: “When women are financially independent, they have the confidence to make their own decisions and influence society positively.”
~ Sudha Murty, Philanthropist
Over the past decade, India has witnessed a significant surge in women participation in the financial mainstream. However, despite these strides, many women continue to face financial exclusion, which hinders their overall empowerment and ability to contribute fully to society. Women are undeniably the strongest pillars of our community, yet financial barriers persist, limiting their potential and stifling their growth. Financial inclusion is not merely about knowledge related to finances, rather it is about having the ‘autonomy’ and ‘self-determination’ to make finance related decisions. A self empowered woman, makes firm decisions, has the autonomy and ability to challenge societal norms, thus leading her towards empowerment. The ripple effect of financially empowered women extends beyond their individual lives to their families and community, fostering economic stability and social progress. The concept of Financial inclusion in India has significantly impacted women by enhancing their access to financial services and empowering them economically. Key initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) and Self Help Groups (SHGs) have played a pivotal role in this transformation. PMJDY, launched in 2014, has enabled millions of women to open zero-balance bank accounts, ensuring their participation in the formal financial system. This scheme provides women with access to savings, credit, insurance, and pension facilities, promoting financial stability and independence. Additionally, the government’s support for SHGs has empowered women by facilitating credit linkages and promoting entrepreneurship. SHGs, which are predominantly women-led, have become a cornerstone for women’s economic activities, fostering financial literacy and self-reliance in rural and semi-urban areas. The relationship between financial inclusion and women’s empowerment is critical yet often overlooked. Moreover, it is a celebrated bond that holds the promise of a more equitable and prosperous society. As we continue to work towards providing a financially equitable society to women, we can envision a future where every woman has the opportunity to achieve financial independence, thereby reinforcing her role as a catalyst for change and development in her community. Thus, we can say that financial inclusion can be used as an effective tool for promoting women empowerment. By investing in women’s financial independence, we are not only fostering individual growth but also cultivating a brighter, more inclusive future for everyone. Thank you! |
Unlocking Women’s Potential: Empowering Women through Credit Linkage |
“Financial Independence and Self-reliance are essential for the empowerment of women and growth of a nation.” ~ Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Indian Entrepreneur Financial literacy is an important cornerstone of leading a confident and empowered life, especially for women. Recognised as the pillars of strong community, women often face significant challenges regarding financial independence. According to an annual survey conducted by CNBC, 67% of working women in India are still dependent on male members of their families to make a financial decision. Acknowledging this, Sewa International has launched an initiative to empower women in our community by providing essential support for their micro-entrepreneurial journeys. We are delighted to share that Sewa International, in collaboration with the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), has led a transformative initiative. The Alternative Livelihood Income Generation project has made a significant impact on the lives of women coming from Chamoli and Rudraprayag districts, Uttakakhand. Through this initiative, these Self-Help Groups (SHGs) have been provided with the essential training and support needed to create sustainable livelihoods. These SHGs participated in extensive training programs that covered various aspects of livelihood development, from skill-building to financial management. Armed with new knowledge and confidence, these women have embarked on their entrepreneurial journeys. This initiative aims to foster financial independence and strengthen the foundation of society by equipping women with the knowledge and resources they need to succeed. A key component of this initiative is the credit linkage provided to the 27 SHGs. With continuous support, these women gained access to the necessary funds required to start their own businesses. From purchasing raw material to investing in infrastructure for their business, this credit linkage has proved to become vital in turning their aspirations into reality. |  |
The impact of this initiative goes beyond economic empowerment. By enabling women to become self-reliant entrepreneurs, we are leading towards generating a social transformation. These women are not just participants; they are agents of change within their communities. Their newfound confidence and financial independence uplift their lives, as well as their family independence and inspire others to pursue a better future. As we celebrate this achievement, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting initiatives that promote gender equality and economic empowerment. Together, we can create a world where every woman has the opportunity to reach her full potential and contribute meaningfully to society. |
Believing in the power of STEAM Education: A camp to promote STEAM Learning in students |
 | At Sewa International, we firmly believe in the transformative power of education. Our initiatives are designed to promote education at the grassroots level, focusing on enhancing the overall learning experience for students. One such initiative is the Sponsor a Child program, which recently conducted the Anubhuti Camp 2024 from May 6th to May 10th at the Agastya International Foundation campus. The camp aimed to ignite curiosity and enhance students' creative problem-solving abilities while simultaneously boosting their confidence and improving their interpersonal communication and collaboration skills. Held on a sprawling 172-acre campus in Agastya International Foundation campus in Kuppum, Andhra Pradesh, the six-day immersive workshop was designed to provide hands-on experiential learning in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) to 14-year-old school children. This year, the camp anticipated the participation of 51 students from class 10, representing six states of India, further comprising 24 girls and 27 boys. The camp followed a meticulously planned daily schedule to ensure a balanced blend of learning, physical activity, and relaxation, starting early in the morning at 5:30 am till 10 pm at night. To enhance students' critical thinking skills, the program included courses specifically designed to foster critical learning and scientific temperament in students. All these activities combined together, focused towards the holistic development of students, while simultaneously inculcating creativity and learning of STEAM in students. |
Anubhuti Camp 2024 was highly successful in meeting its goals of nurturing curiosity, creativity, critic cal thinking, and social responsibility among young learners. This immersive and comprehensive experience has undeniably provided the students with crucial skills and the inspiration needed to excel in their future educational pursuits and beyond. Continuing this journey, Sewa International remains dedicated to pursuing such initiatives, contributing towards shaping the future of Bharat through the transformative power of education. |
Educating Girls: Empowerment through Education |
In our concerted effort to uplift the communities residing in the aspirational districts of Bharat identified by Sewa International, the SHE team has pledged to focus on Jammu & Kashmir and Jharkhand for next 3 months. The interventions zero in on crucial aspects of development: Sanitation, Menstrual Health and Yoga & self defence training in schools across these aspiring districts. After garnering support from the local volunteers, the education department and partner organisations, the SIB team has embarked on a transformative journey. In Ranchi, Udhampur and Khag districts with the most acute need, 10 schools have been identified who are in dire need of sanitation facilities. Under this developing initiative, new toilets will be constructed, complemented by comprehensive menstrual awareness sessions aimed at enhancing the existing knowledge of the beneficiaries. Moreover, students are also being equipped with invaluable life skills through personality development courses, yoga sessions and self defence trainings. The impact of these interventions cannot be understated. By upgrading sanitation facilities in 5 schools in Jammu & Kashmir, we are not just improving hygiene, rather also restoring dignity and enhancing access to education in these underserved regions. This initiative is a step towards fostering stability and empowerment, particularly for girl children. |  |
Similarly, in Jharkhand, our focus on remote schools serving tribal and backward communities is strategically addressed towards critical socio-economic challenges. Through these efforts, we aim to create better opportunities and foster holistic well-being in communities that often grapple with limited resources and opportunities for growth. The journey ahead is challenging, but our SHE team remains steadfast in their commitment to creating lasting change in the lives of those they serve. Together, let's continue to support and uplift these communities, empowering them to realise their full potential and aspirations. |
An Ode to our Mothers
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This Mother’s Day, our Sewa family orchestrated heartwarming activities to spread joy among our beneficiaries and their children. Across our centers in Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh, women came together to prepare traditional festive delicacies using farm-fresh vegetables and natural resources, setting a vibrant and celebratory atmosphere. Mother's Day is a special occasion for women and their children to bond with our Sewa team, sharing laughter and love. In Phulia, West Bengal, children expressed their gratitude by crafting heartfelt greeting cards for their mothers, a touching gesture that filled the day with warmth and appreciation. Meanwhile, in Tangta, West Bengal, women showcased their culinary skills in a friendly cooking competition, adding a flavorful twist to the festivities. These engaging activities not only brought smiles but also strengthened the bonds within our community. Through such initiatives, our Sewa SHE team remains committed to uplifting and supporting women from diverse backgrounds, paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for all. |  |
Promoting a tobacco free future:
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 | As World No Tobacco Day was observed on May 31st, our Adolescent Girls Group from Uttarakhand were engaged in passionately raising awareness about the dangers of tobacco use. Through engaging sessions, significance of tobacco control for personal health and community well-being was highly emphasised. The theme, ‘Say No to Tobacco: Moving towards a tobacco-free lifestyle,’ focuses on educating adolescents about the harmful effects of tobacco, preventing measures and available assistance through government programs. Sewa International’s goal is to empower the young minds to make informed choices and decisions, and further lead healthier lives. To reinforce our stance against tobacco, the organisation has implemented activities such as the Wheel of Tobacco Refusal, encouraging adolescents to develop strategies to resist tobacco use. Roleplaying scenarios have also been organised to explore various perspectives on tobacco consumption within our community, promoting accountability and personal responsibility. Additionally, in our quest to foster cultural understanding, we delved into the life of Bachendri Pal, the renowned Indian mountaineer from Uttarakhand. Through our ‘5 Point Game,’ we celebrated her achievements and contributions, gaining valuable insights into her inspiring journey. |
Moreover, in celebration of ‘World No Tobacco Day’, a webinar titled "Say No to Tobacco: From Prevention to Treatment," facilitated by Dr. B.P. Purohit was organised. The session provided insights into the dangers of tobacco use, effective prevention strategies, and various treatment approaches. It highlighted resources and support systems for those seeking help, targeting both adolescents and the wider community. The webinar aimed to raise awareness and equip participants with the knowledge and tools to combat tobacco use effectively Sewa International can proudly say that together, we are taking significant steps towards a healthier, tobacco-free future, empowering our adolescents to make positive choices for themselves and their communities. |
Addressing Malnutrition
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Malnutrition has always been a greater threat as well as challenge in India. According to the Global Hunger Index 2022, India ranks 107 out of 121 countries. With a score of 29.1, India has a level of hunger that is considered to be serious. Recognizing the urgency of addressing this crisis, Sewa International recently spearheaded an awareness and information dissemination campaign in Tripura. In a concerted effort to combat malnutrition, the Sewa International Tripura team organised an enlightening awareness camp in Dangachra ADC village, Kanchanpur. Under the guidance of Dr. Baidya, the event was dedicated towards educating villagers on preventive measures against malnutrition and the importance of incorporating essential food items into their daily diet. With the active participation of around 55 individuals, the awareness camp proved to be a significant initiative for the community. Villagers expressed heartfelt appreciation for Sewa International's efforts in organising such a beneficial event in their village for the first time. Together, we embark on a journey to foster healthier and more resilient communities, making strides in combating malnutrition at the grassroots level. |  |
Together, we've sketched stories of change, etching hope into |
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