India’s villages are not just homes to millions; rural villages are also the foundation of the nation’s growth. Yet, challenges such as poor infrastructure, low literacy, and limited health facilities continue to hold back rural life. Addressing the needs for village development requires a holistic approach that builds on local leadership, community ownership, and sustainable practices.

The story of Khursi village in Barabanki, Uttar Pradesh, illustrates how transformation is possible when communities take charge themselves with a little help. Backed by the HDFC Bank Parivartan Project in collaboration with S M Sehgal Foundation, Khursi demonstrates what true village development looks like.

What is Village Development?

Village development is the process of improving living standards in rural areas through better education, healthcare, agriculture, and livelihoods. This goes beyond infrastructure to empower people to make decisions about their own future. A village development officer (VDO) plays a formal role in implementing government programs, but local participation makes the real difference.

Khursi’s example highlights this. When a village development committee (VDC) was formed, residents began to plan their priorities: clean drinking water, improved farming, and women’s education. A blend of official support and community-led action shows how transformation becomes sustainable.

What are the Goals of Sustainable Development in Villages

The goals of sustainable development in villages include:

Khursi worked on each of these goals in a collective effort. For example, women took the lead in promoting kitchen gardens and nutrition games and activities that promote better family diets.

A Community-led Development Model

Community-led development means villagers identify problems, design solutions, and implement change. This model builds ownership, ensuring progress does not fade when outside support ends.

In Khursi, villagers decided together on their priorities. They demanded hand pumps for safe water, pushed for soil health training, and initiated a campaign against early marriage. The idea of participatory development was not new, but it came alive here because everyone had a voice.

Such community-based organizations ensure accountability. Unlike top-down approaches, local people are encouraged to see themselves not as beneficiaries but as changemakers.

Participatory Development and Empowerment of Women

One of the strongest lessons from Khursi is about the role of women. When women are empowered, entire communities change. Their involvement in village development committees shifted how decisions were made in her village.

These participatory methods align with the global push for women in leadership. In methods such as farmer field schools, women participated and helped bridge knowledge gaps. Women became trainers and motivators, demonstrating why women’s participation is critical for achieving rural development.

Agriculture and Traditional Practices in Transformation

Agriculture is the backbone of village life. Development cannot be imagined without strengthening farming. At Khursi, farmers returned to the valuable traditional agricultural practices, such as composting and crop rotation, and combined them with modern agriculture tools and techniques to produce better yields.

Through farmer field schools, they learned about soil testing, pest management, and water-saving irrigation. Practical sessions, such as using a board game about water to explain distribution and conservation, made learning easier. Farmers could see how blending old and new knowledge creates resilience against climate change. Such initiatives represent sustainable agriculture development, ensuring both productivity and environmental care.

Lessons from Capacity Development and Local Leadership

True village development depends on building skills, not just improved infrastructure. Capacity development had been a major step in Khursi. But training sessions in bookkeeping, sanitation, and nutrition turned local residents into problem-solvers.

Local leadership flourished. When men saw women confidently addressing meetings, their own perceptions shifted. Villagers began to respect decisions taken collectively. Community-based organizations anchored this momentum to ensure accountability and transparency.

The emergence of leaders from within—farmers, teachers, and women—proved that development is not imported, but nurtured.

Case study: Khursi’s transformation

Khursi’s journey is about people.

Consider Rukhsana, a mother of three. Earlier, she had little say in village matters. But as part of the Village Development Committee, she learned about clean water and sanitation. She became a motivator for other women, introducing nutrition games for adults in self-help groups to discuss balanced diets.

Farmers like Nafees also benefited. At farmer field schools, he learned to use agriculture tools for crop planning. He now grows vegetables using less water, and his income has doubled.

The children were not left behind either. Using education games and management puzzle games in school made learning interactive. Teachers noticed that attendance rose as students found joy in classrooms.

Each story painted a bigger picture: when villagers lead, change lasts.

What are the Major Challenges in Rural Development?

Rural development is vital for balanced growth, yet rural villages across India continue to face deep-rooted challenges that slow their progress. These challenges are not only about poverty but also about access, awareness, and opportunities. Some major issues include:

The Way Forward

The future of sustainable rural development lies in community-led models. Lessons from Khursi illustrate that when people unite, even small steps create large impact. Strengthening farmer field schools, building stronger women’s networks, and promoting participatory development helps to scale successes.

Technology plays a helpful role. Mobile-based advisory services, digital learning platforms, and even innovative crop games make knowledge sharing more effective. With youth involvement, villages move faster toward achieving sustainable goals.

The Bottom Line

Village development is the empowerment of people to create their future with dignity and sustainability. This empowerment is not just about better roads and buildings, but about building confidence, skills, and unity.

The story of Khursi proves that villages can become self-reliant when communities lead. From women in leadership to farmer field schools, every step built greater strength. The lesson is clear: with local leadership, participatory planning, and sustained effort, rural India can create their own transformations.

Priya Chaudhary
Social Impact, CSR, and Gender & Development

Priya Chaudhary is an expert in Social Impact, CSR, and Gender & Development with a focus on gender equity, social inclusion, and evidence-based change. With extensive experience in project management, storytelling, and qualitative research, she has worked on various NGO marketing and development projects.

The post Village Development Lessons from a Community-Led Transformation appeared first on S M Sehgal Foundation.

Picture a village buzzing with energy where every adult has a say in building their community’s future. Gram sabha presents the village community with the opportunity of local participation in various matters of local importance. But does it have the ability to change the destiny of India and transform it? The article tries to draw upon the questions of gram sabha’s potential and whether it is living up to it.

Is the gram sabha living up to its potential?

Gram sabha is the village’s ultimate democratic stage, where every adult voter (18 and above) in a village or group of villages under a gram panchayat gets a voice. No elections are needed, and if you’re a registered voter, you will get to participate in the process.

The gram sabha consists of this vibrant and diverse crowd, making it the heartbeat of local self-participation. But is it living up to its hype? How does gram sabha work? It empowers communities to tackle local issues, approve development plans, hold leaders accountable, and make need-based plans for the village.

Gram sabha vs gram panchayat: breaking it down

Both bodies are the result of the bifurcation of local administration, mentioned in Article 243(b), 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992. Gram sabha is a decision-making body that helps adult voters to brainstorm ideas to tackle problems and work for development. The gram panchayat is the elected body responsible for turning those ideas into reality.

Here is a simple breakdown of gram sabha vs gram panchayat:

Your Voice, Your Village: The Power of Gram Sabha

Gram Swaraj, as an idea of the self-reliant village, is a unique concept of rural reconstruction proposed by Mahatma Gandhi much before India’s independence that he developed over time.

To envision the power of Gram Swaraj, the gram sabha becomes the instrument to realize the power of people. The change that it brings to the whole community, if the people decide that collectively they can affect their local conditions. Gram sabha becomes the voice of the marginalized section of society, like women and “backward” classes, and breathes life into the vision of gram swaraj.

From prioritizing schools to auditing funds, the gram sabha has the potential to transform villages through community participation, but it needs active voices to shine.

Why gram sabha meetings spark change in society

What is the role of gram sabha in village administration? It’s the backbone of local self-participation, empowering villagers to shape their future.

The potential of gram sabha is immense; from being the harbinger of transparency as well as the voice of the community, it is also the point of contact for rural community participation.

Gram Sabha in Action: A Real Story from India

Organizations such as S M Sehgal Foundation help educate at the grassroots level about the awareness of various government stakeholders in rural development.

One such example, “Community Connect: Catalyzing Women Leaders for Collective Action at the Local Level” in Maharashtra and Bihar. The program trains 25 women per month in each village, focusing on building leadership skills, confidence, and knowledge of local participation systems like gram sabha.

The program also facilitates exposure visits to other villages, spreading awareness and inspiring replication. By fostering collective action, the initiative empowers women to challenge systemic barriers and lead sustainable community development, with plans to expand its reach to more villages.

From all these stories, we can see that, if utilized with proper channels, gram sabha can be a game changer that empowers and improves the living conditions of local people who don’t otherwise have the resources to move to big cities and prefer to stay close to their roots

Organization and community participation, and taking an active voice in local matters, create a quiet change that will benefit coming generations.

About the Author

Ms. Pooja O. Murada
Principal lead, Outreach for Development, S M Sehgal Foundation

Mass communications master’s; English honors; bridge marketing program (Tuck School of Business); over twenty years in brand management, marketing, and development communications in the corporate and development sector. Spearheaded a community radio in an aspirational district; former chairperson of the gender committee at Sehgal Foundation, invited ICC member, Volvo India, and former governing board member of Community Radio Association.

The post Gram Sabha Unlocked: How local Participation Is Transforming Rural India appeared first on S M Sehgal Foundation.

In rural India, awareness is nurtured through connection, communication, and context. Participatory rural games designed to educate while entertain are emerging as powerful tools to spread awareness and build capacities. These tools transform traditional board games into hands-on learning tools, addressing topics such as agriculture, health, nutrition, and community leadership.

These games are part of a broader movement in community-led development that values voice, inclusion, and adaptability. Engaging IEC (Information, Education, and Communication) materials helps bring complex issues to life, one dice roll at a time.

What is IEC Material and Why Does It Matter?

IEC stands for Information, Education, and Communication tools used to raise awareness, promote behavioral change, and build skills in rural communities. Printed leaflets, street plays, and now interactive games continue to evolve to match changing attention spans and technology habits.

Why games work better:

In a fast-paced, media-saturated world, participatory rural games stand out for their ability to engage and educate at once.

2. How to use Participative Games in rural India

2.1 What Types of Games Are Used?

The games are usually modeled on traditional board games (Ludo, Snakes and Ladders, Memory Match), and tailored for specific educational themes. Each action within the game aligns with a real-life concept, such as an agricultural practice or a nutritional fact.

Popular themes:

Participatory games for educational purposes are often backed by training facilitators and paired with storytelling for maximum impact.

2.2 Where Do These Games Fit in Broader Learning Ecosystems?

Education games are not replacements for schoolbooks, but they serve as learning tools in many venues.

Used alongside IEC materials, such as pamphlets, videos, and charts, a layered learning approach is effective. Plus, they are easily replicable and scalable.

2.3 Top-performing themes That Work Best in Participatory Rural Games:

Some subjects lend themselves particularly well to game-based learning.

These games simplify complex systems and help people practice decision-making in safe environments.

2.4 Why Are Games So Effective?

The secret lies in game mechanics. When rules are clear, rewards are instant, and play is social, engagement is the result.

The mechanics:

The combination of visuals, movement, laughter, and storytelling ensures that people understand better, remember more, and feel empowered.

3. Why Participatory Games Are Transformative in Rural India

3.1 What Changes in Rural Communities?

Participatory games address information gaps as well a long-standing taboos and silence. When education becomes a shared experience through games, the transformation runs deep.

The power of participatory education is not just about what is taught, but what is retained and acted upon.

3.2 How Does This Support Community-Led Development?

Games are more than learning aids; they are tools of empowerment that align perfectly with the principles of community-led development especially participation, adaptability, and inclusiveness.

Why the community must lead:

Information, Education, and Communication is about dialogue, creativity, and accountability, which are all naturally promoted in the games.

From Passive to Participatory: Shifting the Learning Paradigm

In traditional IEC models, people listen. In participatory game models, people play, speak, question, and reflect. That is the shift we need.

These smart IEC tools also offer a chance to integrate digital gamification in the future, using AR or app-based board games for the same rural audiences.

By blending board games, IEC material, and community insight, this model offers a scalable solution to grassroots education and behavior change.

Traditional IEC tools such as posters or leaflets often fail to meaningfully engage rural populations. When adapted around local culture and needs, participatory board games and education games serve as trust-building, skill-enhancing tools.

Benefits:

Management puzzle games that teach crop planning, and gardening board games that illustrate nutrition cycles, serve as engaging formats to help local people connect learnings with daily life.

Real Voices, Real Impact

Comments from those whose lives changed through these games:

Looking Ahead: How Can NGOs, Panchayats, and CSR Use This?

Every rural development stakeholder from NGOs to local panchayats can adopt this model with minimal investment. Many organisations are already collaborating to create sustainable, gamified IEC material based on region-specific needs.

How to implement:

These games not only educate, but also unite. They foster group thinking, leadership, and a shared sense of progress.

Final Thoughts: More Than Just Games

Participatory rural games are not child’s play. They are purpose-driven tools to spark curiosity, bridge information gaps, and bring about real social change.

Whether it is a water board game in a drought-hit village or a nutrition game for adults in an anganwadi, each game session becomes a gateway to transformation. As India embraces smarter rural development strategies, such low-cost, high-impact innovations will play a central role.

Vikas Jha
Principal Lead, Local Participation and Sustainability

Vikas Jha, Principal Lead, Local Participation and Sustainability at S M Sehgal Foundation has 20 years of professional experience in the development sector, especially in the areas related to strategy development, CSR project management, public policy analysis, capacity building (project team, community leaders & local institutions at grassroots) & social inclusion.

The post Beyond Games: Educating Rural India via Participatory Tools appeared first on S M Sehgal Foundation.

Early childhood, a critical phase in human development, demands adequate support, education, and healthcare for children. During the first five years, children undergo rapid growth, forming essential neural pathways crucial for cognitive development. This period also shapes their physical well-being, influenced by factors like nutrition and environment.

However, children are vulnerable to negative impacts, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds. To address this, the Indian government launched the Anganwadi program in 1975. According to a recent article by Hindustan Times, as of March 2025, there are 13.99 lakh operational Anganwadi Centers (AWCs), aimed at providing child and maternal care and combating hunger and malnutrition.

What is Anganwadi?

Anganwadi centers primarily cater to children aged 0–6 years, serving as vital components of India’s public healthcare system. Beyond healthcare, they significantly contribute to early education and holistic child development.

These centers play a pivotal role in various child development activities, offering accessible and affordable healthcare services. Anganwadi health workers possess valuable insights into local health issues and effectively communicate community programs due to their strong community connections.

Furthermore, Anganwadis play a crucial role in combating malnutrition nationwide, ensuring equitable access to government programs addressing malnutrition, infant mortality, community health concerns, lack of child education, and preventable diseases across India.

THE ROLE OF ANGANWADI WORKERS IN ICDS

Anganwadi centres operate under the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme, one of the world’s largest and most comprehensive early childhood care programs launched by the Government of India in 1975. The primary goal of ICDS is to address the interrelated needs of young children, pregnant and lactating mothers, and adolescent girls in rural and underserved areas by delivering a package of essential services.

These services include:

At the heart of this program are the Anganwadi workers, grassroots-level functionaries responsible for implementing ICDS services in their communities. As trusted local figures, they act as a vital link between the government and rural households, especially women and children. Their ability to build rapport with families makes them effective in raising awareness about nutrition, immunisation, early education, and maternal healthcare.

Anganwadi workers are also trained to identify early signs of malnutrition and health issues, maintain detailed growth monitoring records, and ensure that every eligible child or woman receives the right support. Their multi-faceted role is instrumental in meeting the health, nutrition, and learning needs of rural communities and in furthering the developmental goals envisioned by the ICDS.

WHY ANGANWADI CENTERS ARE NEEDED FOR RURAL DEVELOPMENT?

Anganwadi centers play a crucial role in early schooling for rural children, aligning with the National Education Policy’s focus on early childhood care and education. Various challenges hinder effective education delivery. Limited attention to pre-primary education results from factors such as inadequate training, lack of proper infrastructure, and overwhelming duties for Anganwadi workers.

Anganwadi centers offer:

Preschool Education: Anganwadi centers offer a variety of educational activities to prepare children for school. They prioritize learning through playful engagement, which supports the development of children across various dimensions, including social, emotional, cognitive, physical, and aesthetic domains.

Optimal Nutrition: Anganwadi centers provide supplementary food, offering hot meals consisting of mixed pulses, cereals, oil, sugar, and iodized salt. Additionally, they may provide take-home rations. These centers diligently monitor children’s physical growth, including height and weight. Moreover, they extend their services to women ages 15 to 45, ensuring their nutritional and health needs are met to effectively care for their children.

Health Check-ups & Immunization: Anganwadi centers provide basic health services like immunization, primary healthcare, and referral help. Anganwadi workers work with healthcare staff to keep records, talk to parents, and arrange immunization sessions for children. These sessions include vaccines for diseases like polio, DTP, measles, and TB. Anganwadi workers cover the population in their area and also make monthly visits to check on families. Every month, anganwadi workers cover the area under them to make sure children get vaccinated for diseases like polio, DTP, measles, and TB.

Anganwadi centers are essential in meeting rural children’s learning and health requirements in India and supporting government programs. Therefore, the government, local communities, and rural development NGOs in India need to extend their assistance to enhance the effectiveness of these centers and to advance the larger aim of the national development.

NGOs Role in Supporting Anganwadi Centers

S M Sehgal Foundation has been working toward supporting Anganwadi centers and contributing to the educational, nutritional, and general growth and development of women and children in the rural areas of the country. Since 1999, S M Sehgal Foundation (Sehgal Foundation) has dedicated its efforts to enhancing the quality of life in rural Indian communities. As a rural development NGO established as a public charitable trust, Sehgal Foundation boasts a skilled and committed team focused on crafting sustainable programs to tackle the most urgent needs of rural India.

HOW RENOVATED ANGANWADI CENTERS EMPOWER WOMEN AND CHILDREN?

In the village of Rigarh, Ferozepur Jhirka block, Nuh, Haryana, a newly renovated Anganwadi center stands as a beacon of support for its community. With a population of approximately 2,500 across 350 households, Rigarh relies on two Anganwadi centers for essential services under the government’s ICDS program. The revitalization of this center is thanks to a CSR initiative backed by HDFC Parivartan and implemented by S M Sehgal Foundation since 2021.

A dedicated Village Development Committee (VDC) of 20–25 members, trained monthly on various government topics, spearheaded the initiative. Concerned about the center’s dilapidated state, the VDC advocated for its renovation to better serve the community. Now with its refurbished infrastructure, the Anganwadi center provides enhanced services to children and women, ensuring improved service delivery at the grassroots level.

Conclusion

Anganwadi centers are steppingstone of India’s public health and education systems, especially in rural areas. Rooted in the ICDS scheme, they provide essential services such as nutrition, early childhood education, and primary healthcare to millions of children and women. These centers not only combat malnutrition and reduce infant mortality but also lay the foundation for lifelong learning and development. Despite facing challenges like inadequate infrastructure and heavy workloads, Anganwadi workers continue to serve with dedication. Collaborative efforts from the government, corporate and NGOs like CSR initiative backed by HDFC Parivartan and implemented by S M Sehgal Foundation, Strengthening Anganwadi infrastructure.

Priya Chaudhary
Social Impact, CSR, and Gender & Development

Priya Chaudhary is an expert in Social Impact, CSR, and Gender & Development with a focus on gender equity, social inclusion, and evidence-based change. With extensive experience in project management, storytelling, and qualitative research, she has worked on various NGO marketing and development projects.

The post The role of Anganwadi in the growth and rural development in India appeared first on S M Sehgal Foundation.

The World Health Organization defines healthcare as “a health system that consists of all organizations, people, and actions whose primary intent is to promote, restore, or maintain health. This includes efforts to influence determinants of health as well as more direct health-improving activities. A health system is, therefore, more than the pyramid of publicly owned facilities that deliver personal health services. It includes, for example, a mother caring for a sick child at home; private providers; behavior change programs; vector-control campaigns; health insurance organizations; occupational health and safety legislation.”

Healthcare is delivered in India through frameworks where each healthcare organization operates according to certain standards and with no interconnectivity to other healthcare services. Healthcare is often misconstrued to include primary medical care in the Indian rural context. Primary hospitals and other healthcare providers are only one part of an interrelated system that must work together to improve societal health.

An effective healthcare system includes the use of a “systems thinking” approach where interconnectivity with standardization completes the system. In a vast and populous country such as India, efforts of the state are found wanting due to inadequate human resources, shortage of funds, and an inability to reach the masses. The systems approach adopts a route that includes and promotes “efforts to influence determinants of health as well as more direct health-improving activities” through direct intervention and partners in progress.

Digital healthcare and telemedicine in rural India

Technology has emerged as a game-changer in bridging healthcare gaps in rural India. Telemedicine, mobile health (mHealth), and digital health records have made healthcare more accessible, especially in remote areas where specialist doctors are unavailable. Government initiatives like eSanjeevani have enabled thousands of rural patients to consult doctors virtually, reducing travel time and costs. Additionally, AI-driven diagnostics and mobile-based health monitoring solutions are helping to detect and manage diseases early, improving overall health outcomes.

Some key healthcare initiatives: A systems approach to healthcare

National Rural Health Mission (NRHM). Realizing the need to adopt an integrated systems approach, the government launched the NHRM to address the needs of the large Indian rural population. The long-term goal of the NHRM is to assure a fully functional and decentralized health delivery system. It also aims to provide intersectional coordination among the determinants of health, such as education, nutrition, sanitation, water, social equality, and others.

These goals are set with a broad perspective that goes beyond mere healthcare to a system that includes a host of interventions, such as convergence of health and related programs at the village level and community interventions and others. The key features and benefits of the NHRM could be summarized as follows:

Mental health challenges in rural India

Mental health is an often-overlooked aspect of rural healthcare. In many villages, mental illness remains a stigma, and access to professional help is minimal. Depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders are common due to financial burdens, lack of social support, and uncertainty about the future. The government has launched initiatives such as the National Mental Health Programme (NMHP) to integrate mental health services into primary healthcare. NGOs and grassroots organizations are also playing a crucial role in spreading awareness and offering counseling services, ensuring rural communities receive mental health support.

Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS)

The population of children up through age six years as per the 2011 census was 158 million and growing. This human capital of the country needs to be nurtured, especially in rural areas, to make them productive for the times to come. As part of the government’s commitment to capacity building for this vulnerable section of the population, the ICDS Scheme was launched in 1975 with a focus on children (0–6 years), pregnant women, and lactating mothers. The scheme looks to address the challenges of malnutrition, morbidity, and mortality besides providing preschool nonformal education.

As part of the implementation process of ICDS, the government started anganwadis: rural child care centers. A rural anganwadi center extends beyond the beneficiaries of ICDS and provides basic healthcare in a village and is an integral part of the public health care system. Anganwadis are managed by trained workers who are paid a monthly honorarium by the government. These workers are drawn from the local communities and further the government’s goal of increased social participation for enhanced self-care and self-reliance in health.

Several positive benefits of the ICDS program have been noticed. There has been a significant improvement in the mental and social development of all children irrespective of their gender. Studies have also documented improvements in birth weight and infant mortality of Indian children along with improved immunization and nutrition.

The role of community-based health insurance

One way to reduce the financial burden of healthcare on rural households is through community-based health insurance (CBHI). These programs allow communities to pool resources and provide financial coverage for medical expenses, preventing high out-of-pocket costs. Schemes such as Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY) and Ayushman Bharat have already made significant progress in providing health coverage to millions of families. Expanding such initiatives and ensuring better awareness can safeguard vulnerable populations from falling into poverty due to medical expenses.

Data statistic: Burden of out-of-pocket expenditure

According to the National Health Accounts Report 2021, over 39% of India’s total health expenditure is paid out-of-pocket by individuals. This financial burden is particularly high in rural areas, where people often sell assets or take loans to afford medical care. Addressing this issue through improved public healthcare services and insurance schemes is critical to breaking the poverty-healthcare cycle.

Poverty and Healthcare: Cause and Effect

India’s rural health system is characterized by the absence of an efficient public health system. Public health facilities, provided by the central and state governments, deliver low-cost care, and are generally overcrowded. Poor households incur high health spending and bear a higher burden of diseases in the absence of resources and proper guidance. This results in rising spending on health and leads to high out-of-pocket expenditure, and catastrophic health spending, thereby increasing poverty. Being unable to access and afford healthcare as it exists, the effects lead to a vicious circle of poverty. The vision of the government is to adopt a systems approach where healthcare initiatives derive synergy from prevention and cure. This would include comprehensive integrated health services that integrate primary care as well as public health; policies and actions to address the link between health, external conditions, education, etc. This can be achieved by engaging and empowering communities through social participation that leads to enhanced self-care and self-reliance in health. For universal health coverage to be achieved, a shift is needed from health systems designed around diseases and institutions to health systems designed for the people, with people, and by the people. Thus, primary healthcare interventions designed with a systemic approach can result in better outcomes for rural communities and relieve them from the vicious cycle of poverty.

S M Sehgal Foundation: Promoting Local Participation and Sustainability

S M Sehgal Foundation (Sehgal Foundation), a rural development NGO in India, has been working to improve the health outcomes of rural communities of the country. One of its five main program areas focuses on Local Participation and Sustainability through which it creates awareness among the communities about important issues.

Sensitization and Awareness-Building for WASH Behavior Change

S M Sehgal Foundation, in partnership with CAWST (Centre for Affordable Water and Sanitation Technology) Canada, is working with the most-vulnerable rural population on WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) through a pilot project named “WASH for Healthy Homes” in the Vaishali district of Bihar. The project focuses on five hamlets of the poorest of the poor (daily wage laborers).

A situation analysis study among the most vulnerable 317 poorest families in Vaishali, Bihar, revealed that many do wash their hands with water or with water and soil, but not regularly. It was also observed that they often suffer from waterborne diseases such as diarrhea and typhoid. Sensitization and awareness-building sessions are thus aimed at improving WASH behavior. In every session, people are informed that most diseases occur due to not washing hands before cooking meals, before eating meals, and after the use of a toilet.

Lack of resources and knowledge are the major barriers to the poor state of handwashing practices. With the awareness-building sessions, the community understood the need for hand hygiene, and they started adopting those practices in their daily lives, however, they did not have enough money to build a proper handwashing station. Understanding this situation, the project team started promoting tippy-taps, the zero-cost solution for a handwashing station. These simple, low-cost and locally made systems for washing hands with running water with no hand touch motivate people to practice handwashing appropriately.

Positive changes are observed in the community through sensitization, awareness building, and recall. As people correct, be consistent and adopt continuous WASH behavior in their lives, better health outcomes will be achieved.

e-Poshan Kendra: Promoting A Healthy Lifestyle

S M Sehgal Foundation implemented a CSR-supported project initiative in Nuh, Haryana, in June 2021. The project included the setup of a Village Development Committee (VDC) in the project village to oversee the initiatives and sustain them for the future.

The panchayat choupal (community building) was in a dilapidated state and used as a garbage disposal site. The area was prone to the spreading of diseases like dengue, malaria, and others due to growing filth, and acted as a breeding ground for mosquitoes. In October 2021, the project team initiated the endeavor to transform this choupal into E-Poshan Kendra (E-nutrition center).

The project team mobilized the people by conducting a series of training, and door-to-door awareness sessions; the VDC and women’s group members also influenced the people. In January 2022, the choupal was transformed into E-Poshan Kendra. Solar panels were installed in the E-Poshan Kendra for a sustainable source of energy. Community women became keenly interested in the E-Poshan Kendra and started regularly attending the training sessions held there on nutrition and a balanced diet.

The project transformed the otherwise abandoned panchayat choupal into a wonderful meeting place in the village. Gradually the E-Poshan Kendra became a hub of information provision on good nutrition practices, sanitation, as well as on key government services. E-Poshan Kendra provides structured training to village women, and showcases thematic films and inspirational stories on sanitation and nutrition, and vaccination drives for village children were organized.

The post Primary Healthcare Initiatives Can Tackle Poverty In Rural India appeared first on S M Sehgal Foundation.

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“Education is the key to unlocking the golden door of freedom and empowerment for rural India.”
~ Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam

As education is increasingly driven by technology, digital libraries have emerged as a transformative tool, especially in rural areas. According to a recent report by UNESCO, over 244 million children worldwide remain out of school due to rural regions that face the brunt of the digital divide. In a country such as India, where 65 percent of the population resides in rural areas, lack of quality education significantly hampers overall progress of the country. Digital libraries play an enormous role in bridging this education gap by bringing advanced learning tools to the doorstep of rural communities, nurturing young minds with skills that empower them for a brighter tomorrow.

Along with access to knowledge, digital libraries ignite curiosity, foster creativity, and cultivate life skills among students in remote villages, for whom, this lifeline to a world of opportunity ensures that no dream is too far-fetched.

What is a digital library?

A digital library is a repository of digital learning resources accessible through digital devices like computers, tablets, and smartphones. Unlike traditional libraries, digital libraries promote e-learning by providing e-books, interactive videos on diverse subjects, general knowledge, quizzes, and simulations that make learning effective and fun.

Key features of digital libraries include:

For rural children, digital libraries are an opportunity to explore, learn, and grow beyond the constraints of their environment.

Importance of digital libraries, especially in rural areas

The role of digital libraries in rural education extends far beyond academic learning. Digital libraries address critical challenges faced by rural schools, such as the lack of trained teachers, limited access to textbooks, and outdated curricula. By introducing technology into the learning process, digital libraries:

What are some of the critical skills students develop with the help of digital libraries?

A few skills that students acquire through digital libraries are:

How a digital library helped Shalu turn her curiosity into achievement!

Shalu, a student of class 11, Government Senior Secondary School, Indergarh, Rajasthan, manages household responsibilities and three siblings with her mother in their farming family. Shalu’s educational and career aspirations seemed limited until her school introduced a digital library by partnering with a leading rural development NGO in India, S M Sehgal Foundation.

The digital library, located within the school, provided training in digital and life skills, covering essential topics such as computer usage, mobile applications, and the benefits and risks of using digital tools. Shalu, known for her curious nature, was particularly drawn to mobile applications and their development.

Her determination bore fruit in December 2024 when she participated in the Rajasthan Yuva Mahotsav, a prestigious government-organised event. Leveraging the knowledge gained from the digital library, Shalu crafted an impressive presentation on mobile applications, highlighting their advantages and limitations. Competing at the block level, her presentation earned her first place and a shield, qualifying her for the district-level competition.

Encouraged by her success, Shalu set her sights on refining her model further, aiming for victories in state and national contests. Her journey exemplifies the transformative power of digital libraries, showing how they can unlock potential and inspire achievement in young minds.

How can NGOs encourage education, skills, and training in rural India?

With decades of experience in sustainable development, NGOs such as S M Sehgal Foundation play a critical role in bringing digital libraries to rural areas. Besides introducing innovative educational tools, the foundation has ensured the tools’ effective implementation through community engagement.

The impact of these initiatives is far-reaching, resulting in…

S M Sehgal Foundation has reached more than 5.27 million people across thirteen states so far, proving that when technology meets vision, transformation is inevitable!

Conclusion

Shalu’s journey from a curious learner to an award-winning presenter is a testament to the power of digital libraries in reshaping rural education. These libraries equip children with academic knowledge and foster critical skills that prepare them for a better life. With the continued efforts of organisations such as S M Sehgal Foundation, the dream of an educated, empowered rural India can become a reality.

The question remains: How can we collectively ensure that more children like Shalu have access to these life-changing opportunities?

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Introduction

Women in rural India face various forms of disempowerment due to cultural, social, economic, and systemic challenges. These issues are deeply rooted in traditional norms and structural inequalities that limit their opportunities and reinforce their marginalization. Cultural norms, limited access to education, and lack of awareness about their rights often keep these women out of decision-making processes. Despite these barriers, empowering women to take active roles in local institutions such as gram sabhas, gram panchayats, and school management committees can unlock transformative change for them as individuals and also for the entire rural community.

“Women’s rights are not a privilege but a fundamental aspect of human rights.”
—Savitribai Phule

S M Sehgal Foundation has taken a significant step toward realizing this vision through a Women’s Leadership School (WLS) model. This initiative bridges information gaps, polishes leadership skills, and equips women with the tools they need to become active contributors to local development.

The need for women in rural India to participate in local institutions

Active participation of women in local institutions such as gram sabhas, gram panchayats, and school management committees is vital for holistic rural development. As primary caregivers, women have a deep understanding of community issues like education, healthcare, water, and infrastructure. Their involvement ensures these concerns are addressed, resulting in policies and programs that meet the needs of families and communities.

Including women in decision-making promotes gender equality, challenges traditional norms, and empowers other women and girls to step forward. This creates a ripple effect that strengthens entire communities. Women leaders also serve as bridges between governance and local communities, creating transparency, accountability, and effective implementation of development initiatives.

Studies show that gender-diverse decision-making bodies prioritize health, education, and social welfare, which drive sustainable and inclusive growth. Empowering women in rural institutions, not only gives women a voice but also paves the way for stronger, more inclusive communities. Women’s active participation is essential for the progress and development of rural areas.

Women Leadership School (WLS) initiative for the empowerment of women in rural India

The Women’s Leadership School (WLS) model by S M Sehgal Foundation is a pivotal program designed to empower rural women to actively participate in local governance and community development. Under the Empowering Women in Local Development initiative, S M Sehgal Foundation collaborated with Crossing Borders in January 2021 for the implementation of the Women’s Leadership School (WLS) model. This is being implemented in twenty villages of Muzaffarpur, Bihar, to enhance women’s leadership at the grassroots level. This initiative emphasizes capacity building and collective action in year-long training sessions that equip women leaders with practical knowledge and skills to drive change in their communities.

The WLS model employs a “learn by doing” methodology, using participatory tools such as Snakes and Ladders and Ludo to make learning engaging and impactful. These tools help educate women on essential aspects of decision-making and leadership, making the training process accessible and relatable. The program involves monthly sessions, bringing together 25–30 women leaders from diverse roles, including elected representatives, members of self-help groups (SHGs), and frontline health workers such as ASHA and anganwadi workers.

The training focuses on three critical areas: confidence building to empower women to voice their concerns effectively, gender equality awareness to challenge and change societal norms, and active participation in local institutions, including community monitoring of government programs. By addressing these areas, the WLS initiative ensures that women are well-equipped to assume leadership roles and their voices are heard in decision-making processes that shape village development. Through this innovative approach, the WLS model creates a robust foundation for empowering women to become catalysts for positive change in rural communities.

Leadership story of a woman in rural India: Abha Kumari

In Narayanpur, Muzaffarpur district in Bihar, Abha Kumari’s journey epitomizes the transformative power of the Women Leadership School initiative. Abha and her husband, Ashok Kumar, run a small grocery store in their village. Before joining WLS, Abha’s identity was often overshadowed by her husband, reflecting the traditional gender roles prevalent in rural India. In 2021, Abha joined the WLS program and began her transformation. The training sessions equipped her with practical skills, confidence, and knowledge about governance. For the first time, she participated in gram sabha meetings and realized the importance of advocating for her community’s needs. Abha says, “Earlier, women never came out of their houses to participate. The discussions and conversations were limited to small gatherings in the neighborhood. Our husbands’ views echoed the limitations society placed on women, which held us back. Now we have started to take charge of our families, work, and identities. Things are changing, and the men have begun coming forward to support us. Earlier, I used to be addressed as the ‘wife of Ashok,’ but now I am called ‘Abha, who runs the grocery shop.’ Being acknowledged by society and in the family as individuals encourages and inspires us to improve the environment and circumstances surrounding us.” Abha is now a recognized leader in her village. She motivates other women to speak up, address pressing issues, and actively engage in village meetings. Her newfound confidence has changed not only her life but also the way women’s roles are perceived in Narayanpur.

The WLS model enabled her to challenge stereotypes and emerge as an agent of change, proving that empowering one woman can inspire an entire community.

Click on this video to hear Abha Kumari share her inspiring journey of leadership and community transformation in her own words.

The lasting impact of empowered women leaders in rural development

Empowering women in rural India creates profound ripple effects that extend beyond individuals to transform entire communities. The Women’s Leadership School (WLS) initiative has demonstrated that when women leaders are empowered, they catalyze development and create a culture of progress and inclusion.

Through their active participation in local institutions, women leaders ensure that development projects are aligned with the genuine needs of their communities. Their collective action amplifies their ability to demand accountability from local authorities, promoting governance that is transparent and inclusive. This collaborative approach ensures that community voices are heard and considered in decision-making processes, leading to meaningful and sustainable outcomes.

The presence of women in leadership roles inspires future generations by creating a culture of inclusion and possibility. As young girls witness women breaking traditional barriers, they are encouraged to dream bigger and aspire to leadership themselves. This generational impact not only sustains progress but also nurtures future leaders who will continue to advocate for equality and development in their communities. Through initiatives like WLS, the groundwork is laid for lasting, transformative change.

Conclusion

The Women’s Leadership Schools have become a beacon of hope and empowerment for women in rural India, enabling them to step into leadership roles and make meaningful contributions to their communities. Through this platform, women like Abha and her fellow trainees are not just challenging traditional gender roles but are also shaping the future of their villages. Each step they take, no matter how small, is a stride toward breaking barriers, uplifting their communities, and inspiring others to follow. These women are proving that true empowerment comes from within—and together, they’re creating change that will resonate for generations to come.

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According to Chegg, sustainability is “Balancing the requirements of today without jeopardizing the capability of forthcoming generations to fulfill their own necessities.

Sustainability and sustainable development

Sustainability aims to preserve natural and physical resources, ensuring their availability for the future. Sustainability is vital for development as it safeguards natural resources for future generations. Careless resource usage leads to depletion, hindering a country’s development progress. Types of sustainable development include environmental sustainability, social sustainability, and economic sustainability.

What is the main goal of sustainable development?

To achieve a harmonious balance between economic advancement, social justice, and environmental stewardship for long-term prosperity.

Three pillars of sustainability for development

The concept of the Three Pillars of Sustainability offers a popular framework for understanding sustainable development. This model highlights the essential components of environmental, social, and economic factors in discussions about sustainability.

Environmental sustainability

This pillar underscores the significance of natural resources and biodiversity in sustaining life on our planet. It emphasizes the need to preserve and protect our environment for the well-being of current and future generations.

Social sustainability

This aspect focuses on fostering social structures, promoting well-being, and achieving harmony within communities, addressing challenges such as poverty, conflict, and injustice, emphasizing the importance of social equity and cohesion.

Economic sustainability

This is the capacity of an economy to grow and thrive over time. Because financing is crucial for sustainable initiatives, economic sustainability is vital. Financial viability and a strong economic foundation are both needed to support sustainable development efforts.

Why Is Sustainability Important for Development?

We’ve explored various definitions of sustainability and the tools used globally to measure our impact on the environment, societies, and economies. But what makes sustainability so crucial for development?

A few reasons:

What are sustainable development goals?

In 2015, the United Nations issued a global challenge. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), also known as the Global Goals. This ambitious agenda serves as a universal call to action, aiming to eradicate poverty, protect our planet, and ensure prosperity and peace for all by 2030.

The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are interconnected, acknowledging the ripple effect of actions across different areas. They emphasise a holistic approach to development, balancing social, economic, and environmental well-being.

Countries around the world have pledged to prioritize progress for the most disadvantaged populations. The SDGs aim to achieve a future free from poverty, hunger, diseases, and gender discrimination.

Fulfilling these goals requires the collective ingenuity, expertise, technology, and financial resources of all members of society. Only through a collaborative global effort can we achieve a sustainable future for all.

Objectives of Sustainable Development Goals

This version uses strong verbs, focuses on the positive outcomes, and emphasizes the global nature of the SDGs.

To witness sustainable development around you, in your city, country, etc., you need top rural development NGOs to intervene.
Why?

Top sustainable development NGOs bring expertise, resources, and innovation crucial for rural development. With their experience, funding from the government or corporations, and community engagement, they drive holistic initiatives tailored to rural needs, fostering sustainable growth, empowering communities, and advocating for policy changes essential for long-term development and well-being.

Which is the top sustainable rural development NGO in India?

S M Sehgal Foundation

The mission of S M Sehgal Foundation is to enhance community-driven development efforts, fostering beneficial social, economic, and environmental transformations in rural India. Our vision is to empower every individual in rural India to lead a secure, prosperous, and dignified life.

The Sustainable Approach Toward Rural Development

Despite significant funding for rural development programs in India, from government, businesses, and charities, these efforts fall short due to problems getting them to the people who need them most. A lack of information sharing and limited involvement from local communities are the main roadblocks. Village leaders often struggle to run these programs effectively because they don’t have enough information, skills, or resources. This is especially true for rural women, who face additional challenges due to limited education and lack of knowledge about health, finances, and self-confidence.

Rural women are particularly disadvantaged due to significant gender gaps in education and skill development. They often possess limited knowledge regarding health and hygiene, financial security, and generally lack confidence, which exacerbate the challenges they face in contributing to village development.

S M Sehgal Foundation’s Local Participation and Sustainability Program ensures the projects’ long-term success. Sustainability is seen as an ongoing process where communities gain skills and confidence throughout a project and beyond. The program works to make people invested in the project by showing them the advantages it brings and encouraging communities to actively participate and contribute resources to keep the improvements going. Additionally, the program helps village councils (gram panchayats) tap into government funding and subsidized programs to support the upkeep of the project’s result. The ultimate goal is for communities to take charge of their village’s development and ensure the project’s benefits continue well after its implementation.

Sihri-Singalheri Panchayat, Punhana block in the Nuh district of Haryana, had two village chaupals, one each in Sihri and Singalheri villages. Both were in a dilapidated condition so that local people were not able to utilize them. As a result, the local community had trouble organizing meetings and training to discuss matters pertaining to village development.

What Actions Were Taken?

A CSR project implemented by S M Sehgal Foundation was initiated in May 2022. One of the activities of this project was to set up resource centers in Sihri and Singalheri villages. By the end of 2022, the two unused village chaupals were upgraded into resource centers, creating a stimulating environment, particularly for women and children. A Village Development Committee (VDC) was formed in the village, involving active community members to monitor project activities and take ownership of village development. Regular capacity-building sessions on village development and government programs are held in upgraded resource centers.

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Of the many factors affecting the enrollment rate in schools in rural India, accessibility to quality education is often seen as an important step towards improving opportunities for individuals and communities. But it’s not just about getting kids into school. It’s about making sure they get a good education, stay in school, and finish it successfully. That way, they can have better jobs and a higher social and economic status, and their community can develop, too.

Education should empower individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate life’s challenges, contribute to their communities, and pursue their aspirations, thus transcending the notion of enrollment as the sole endgame.

Steps taken by the government to promote education in rural areas

The Government of India has implemented the following initiatives to promote education in rural areas, increase enrollment, and ensure the retention and completion of education.

The success of the above-mentioned initiatives in rural communities hinges on practical implementation, which makes collaboration between the government and rural development NGOs in India crucial. Each of these NGOs utilize grassroots-level understanding, local knowledge, and established networks within communities, to bridge the gap between government policies and rural needs. This partnership fosters a more responsive, sustainable, and impactful approach to uplift rural areas and enhance the well-being of their inhabitants.

So, which is the

Top sustainable rural development NGO in India?

S M Sehgal Foundation (Sehgal Foundation), a rural development NGO in India established in 1999, is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in rural areas. The foundation focuses on identifying gaps and implementing sustainable development initiatives.

“The Transform Lives one school at a time,” program improves access to education in rural schools by providing clean drinking water, enhanced sanitation facilities, conducive learning environments, and digital and life skills training. Efforts are made to boost enrollment and reduce dropout rates, particularly among girls, in government schools. School management committees (SMCs) receive training and support to enhance their capacity for effective and sustained school management.

Transformation Brings New Life to the School

Under the HDFC Parivartan CSR project by S M Sehgal Foundation, Pathrali Government Middle School in Ferozepur Jhirka block of Nuh district, Haryana, underwent a significant transformation. School principal Naushad Ali noted a notable increase in enrollments, with more than fifty new admissions, including students returning from private schools. The village, with a population of approximately 2,200, lacked basic facilities, discouraging attendance, particularly among girls. With the support of a proactive village development committee (VDC) and collaboration from teachers and the School Management Committee, the school underwent substantial improvements in 2022. This included the construction of separate sanitation units for boys and girls, a science lab, smart classrooms, a refurbished library, and a drinking water station. These enhancements have not only provided critical amenities but also paved the way for better education opportunities, fostering a conducive learning environment for the students.

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Diet and nutrition are pivotal in promoting and sustaining good health across the life cycle. Many factors, including income, individual preferences, cultural traditions, and environmental influences, collectively shape dietary habits and impact women’s health. A well-balanced diet, incorporating diverse food groups in adequate quantities, is crucial for individual well-being and immune system enhancement.

A dietary survey called

Health And Well-Being Of Rural Women

by A. Khetarpal and G. Kochar
was carried out with the help of a questionnaire.

Aim

This study delves into the health and well-being of rural women, focusing mainly on their dietary practices.

Methodology

The study includes 75 women, ages between 25–45 years, residing in rural areas of Yamunanagar district, Haryana. The participants were selected based on their moderate work profiles and their daily nutrient intake.

Findings

Key findings reveal a monotonous family diet marked by limited variety and diversity. Consumption across all food groups falls below the recommended allowances, highlighting potential nutritional deficiencies.

The women must improve their intake of essential components such as vegetables, fruits, and milk products. In contrast, oil, sugar, and jaggery consumption approaches adequate levels. This observation aligns with the findings of Johansson and Anderson (1998), who emphasized suboptimal intake of fruits and vegetables in their research. Interestingly, the study observes a gender-based difference, with men exhibiting a higher daily intake of fruits and vegetables than women.

Moreover, the rural women’s diet demonstrates deficiencies in crucial minerals and vitamins, emphasizing potential health risks associated with these nutritional gaps. The daily caloric intake was below the minimum requirements for adult women, indicating a possible energy deficit.

Conclusion

This analysis highlights the nutritional challenges faced by rural women. Identifying gaps in dietary practices and their impact on health provides valuable insights for targeted interventions to improve the well-being of women in rural settings.

Initiatives Taken By The Government To Improve Nutrition & Well-being Of The Rural Women

The government has implemented various initiatives to enhance nutrition and well-being in rural women. Some key initiatives:

While launching initiatives is a crucial step in addressing the challenges faced by rural communities, acknowledging that their success depends significantly on practical implementation is essential. In this regard, the collaboration between the government and rural development NGOs in India plays a pivotal role. These NGOs often possess grassroots-level understanding, local knowledge, and established networks within communities. They can bridge the gap between government policies and the actual needs of the rural population. In essence, the partnership between the government and rural development NGOs is instrumental in creating a more responsive, sustainable, and impactful approach to uplift rural areas and enhance the overall well-being of their inhabitants.

Women’s History and Empowerment Month is dedicated to commemorating the historical contributions of individuals who navigate life with the identity of “woman” in various dimensions, encompassing body, spirit, and identity across the past, present, future, and fluid states. This month serves to honor women’s achievements throughout history and emphasize an ongoing commitment to empower women and dismantle barriers hindering their progress and advancement.

Since March is designated Women’s History and Empowerment Month, let’s look at the top sustainable rural development NGOs in India working relentlessly to empower women.

S M Sehgal Foundation!

Since 1999, S M Sehgal Foundation (Sehgal Foundation) has been tirelessly dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in rural communities across India. As a prominent rural development NGO, Sehgal Foundation operates as a public charitable trust, engaging a team of skilled and devoted individuals. This team is instrumental in devising sustainable programs tailored to rural India’s most pressing needs. Backed by a proficient research team engaged in participatory research, impact assessment, and interactive dialogues, Sehgal Foundation ensures that its actions are well-informed, leading to sustainable and positive outcomes.

The impactful grassroots programs and development interventions initiated by S M Sehgal Foundation have made significant strides, reaching communities in 12 states across India. With the support of donors and partners worldwide, the foundation empowers individuals and communities in need, fostering their development and facilitating positive transformations.

Celebrating Poshan Maah to encourage behavior change on nutrition among women in rural Nuh

S M Sehgal Foundation celebrated Poshan Maah (Nutrition Month) to promote behavior change regarding nutrition among women in rural Nuh, Haryana. Poshan Maah, a nationwide initiative, focuses on improving nutrition outcomes for women and children.

S M Sehgal Foundation engaged with the community through interactive sessions, workshops, and community meetings. Key activities included disseminating crucial information on balanced nutrition and emphasizing the significance of a diverse and nutrient-rich diet. Women in the community were educated on the nutritional needs of pregnant and lactating mothers and the importance of early and exclusive breastfeeding.

The foundation employed innovative approaches to make the initiative more impactful, including street plays, community rallies, and distribution of educational materials. These efforts ensured that the information reached a wider audience and resonated with the community, encouraging them to adopt healthier dietary habits.

The foundation also collaborated with local influencers, such as anganwadi and ASHA workers, to leverage their influence in disseminating nutritional knowledge. The involvement of these community figures helped establish a more direct and relatable communication channel.

S M Sehgal Foundation showcased its commitment to creating sustainable and positive changes in the nutrition landscape of rural Nuh by combining awareness campaigns, community engagement, and collaboration with local influencers. This approach instigates behavior change that has a lasting impact on the nutritional well-being of women in the region.

About the Author

Ms. Sreeja Basu
Assistant Program Lead, Local Participation and Sustainability

Sreeja Basu did her Master’s in Economics. She has been working at the grassroots level for the last 5+ years, majorly with women around nutrition. Currently, she works as an Assistant Programme Lead at S M Sehgal Foundation in integrated village development projects at Nuh, Haryana.

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