- svd-prms
- / INM
- / JPIC / Lay Partners
79 Tribal Women, Eight Villages, One Goal: Taking Charge of Their Future
John Singarayar, SVD
Held at the Janseva Community Hall in Tala, the programme began early as women arrived from different villages, some having travelled since dawn. Many of them were already active in SHGs—saving regularly, supporting one another, and running small income-generating initiatives—but they sought deeper knowledge in leadership, financial management, and sustainable livelihoods.
Resource persons from Janseva Society facilitated interactive sessions throughout the day. They emphasized teamwork, transparent decision-making, proper record-keeping, and financial literacy. A key focus was building confidence so that women could see themselves not only as group members but as leaders capable of making meaningful decisions in their communities and households.
The livelihood training was practical and context-based. Trainers introduced locally feasible income-generating activities requiring minimal investment, drawing both on traditional skills and new opportunities. Discussions centered on enterprise planning, market understanding, quality control, and profitability—helping participants envision realistic pathways to economic independence.
Equally important was the space for sharing experiences. Women from different villages spoke openly about common challenges such as limited market access, credit difficulties, and lack of information. At the same time, they celebrated success stories of savings, mutual support, and growing respect within their families and communities. These exchanges strengthened solidarity and created an informal support network beyond the training itself.
Representatives of Janseva Society reaffirmed their commitment to long-term engagement with tribal communities, particularly in women’s empowerment. They stressed that sustainable change requires continuous accompaniment rather than one-time interventions.
By the end of the programme, participants expressed renewed motivation, greater confidence, and a strong interest in follow-up sessions. Janseva Society pledged to continue supporting the groups through mentoring, linkage to government schemes, and access to broader economic opportunities.
The initiative marked another meaningful step in empowering tribal women to strengthen their self-help groups, enhance their livelihoods, and take charge of their own development.