Uplifting Women, Uplifting the Nation

One of the main struggles faced worldwide, but particularly prevalent in India, is the lack of female empowerment. Currently, under 35% of women constitute the Indian workforce, and on average earn 21% of what their male counterparts do. It is a time when feminist movements are needed most, especially considering how female empowerment not only contributes to a greater mean household income but also indirectly influences education and health outcomes. Education can lead to increased financial and social independence, while also providing much-needed insight into nutrition and healthcare—all of which are essential for a family unit to thrive.

Evidently, the foundation of a successful household begins with knowledge, but this is hardly easy to attain for economically disadvantaged groups. That is why Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) play a critical role in providing vocational skills that individuals can carry into the workforce. However, simply sharing knowledge is insufficient in supporting families with the urgent needs brought about by deep poverty. NGOs must also invest in emotional support and financial literacy services, working toward their ultimate goal of self-sufficiency and independence for people in these demographics.

Teaching, not Giving - Dakshini Prayash’s Sustainable Self Reliance Programme

As an NGO, Dakshini Prayash addresses the issue of a lack of female empowerment through its self-reliance initiatives. Instead of simply dropping their children off at school, mothers may, through this programme, earn a living by learning how to create household items with the guidance of experienced staff. These sustainably produced items, which include table décor, gift bags, and accessories for celebrations like Rakhi and Diwali, are then sold, with the money earned being used to further improve Dakshini Prayash’s offerings. It is a testament to its mission of female empowerment, as mothers are able to contribute to their families’ finances and are encouraged to take decisions within their own households, giving them a voice.

Putul Mondol, a member of Dakshini Prayash’s self-reliance team, joined after several months of dropping her son off at school. Having had no job prior, she did so willingly, empowered not only by the increased financial stability the self-reliance team provided but also by the knowledge and insight she gained into the creativity and intricacy of arts and crafts.

Putul’s story demonstrates how the self-reliance department creates opportunities for women to learn, even when it often feels as though their lives have already been decided for them. It also reflects another core element of Dakshini Prayash’s philosophy: women form the backbone of its rich community, and their work directly sustains the longevity of the broader organisation. By focusing on teaching women skills they can employ in the workforce, rather than simply offering financial aid, self-reliance ensures a more sustainable path forward.

A Wider Scope - Government Initiatives In Place

Dakshini Prayash operates in the Madurdaha locality of Kolkata, but issues with gender equality are faced by our nation as a whole. Efforts are being taken to tackle these issues by the Indian government, examples of which include:

• Working Women Hostels: One reason for staggeringly low female representation in the workforce comes down to motherhood, especially when women stay home to take care of young children. Hostels across the country provide secure accommodation to single mothers and their families, along with day care facilities to ensure children are cared for while their mothers are at work. This allows women time to reach financial independence, after which they are no longer eligible for this programme.

• The One-Stop Centre Scheme supports all women affected by domestic or workplace violence through medical assistance, security, emotional and legal counselling, as well as shelter. This aims to protect women against discrimination and to assist them in navigating the aftermath of such issues.

Such initiatives and services, especially if free of charge, require an entire community’s effort to be successful. This comes in the form of spreading awareness, which can increase donations to these organisations and, in turn, support the continued provision of services. However, it also requires education to directly influence the community’s attitudes towards such issues and to increase the urgency with which we address them. Dakshini Prayash’s community represents just a small percentage of the millions of women affected, making wider community involvement necessary.

The Community - How You Can Help

Community involvement starts with the individual—with you. Small actions sum to a large overall outcome. Here’s how you can help:

• Donations: These provide financial security for an organisation, allowing it to sustain its operations for years to come. As an NGO that does not generate profit, Dakshini Prayash relies on donations to supply free services. Donate here.

• Other Financial Support: Dakshini Prayash’s shop features handmade products created by mothers of children attending MSV, Dakshini Prayash’s school. As a women-led initiative, this directly supports female empowerment, with their products being purchased and used in households across the community. Shop here.

• Volunteering: It goes beyond just Dakshini Prayash—volunteering your time and efforts in any initiative that bolsters female empowerment is a direct way to help those in need. Connect here.

• Garner Awareness: Educate and spread awareness about these issues. If you are unable to contribute to the capacity you would like, share what can be done with someone who can. Every effort makes a difference.

Dakshini Prayash aims to create a lasting impact that reaches beyond a single generation. Empowering women financially is a stepping stone they can use to make decisions within the household and ultimately have a voice, contributing to the fight for gender equality. When we uplift women, we uplift India and move closer to the goal of giving everyone an equal fighting chance.

- Rahul Sameer