In Rajasthan’s Sheo Constituency, change is not arriving overnight—it is unfolding steadily, week by week, through learning, practice, and growing confidence among women in rural communities.
As of February 5, 2026, meaningful progress has been observed across Harsani and Girabh, where women are strengthening skills, financial awareness, and self-belief—laying the foundation for long-term independence and resilience.
In Girabh, recent SMART Self-Help Group (SHG) sessions focused on savings habits, financial planning, and personal goal-setting. These discussions sparked thoughtful participation and encouraged several women to join the SHG, reflecting a growing interest in collective learning and financial empowerment.
Meanwhile, in Harsani, women enrolled in tailoring training reached a significant milestone. Trainees progressed from basic hand stitching to confident use of sewing machines, learning drafting and cutting techniques and completing their first doormats. For many participants, this achievement represents more than a skill—it marks a tangible step toward livelihood opportunities and self-reliance.
Building on years of community-centered engagement, AMMACHI Labs and the Center for Women’s Empowerment & Gender Equality continue to expand access to skills training, education, and livelihood pathways for women across India. The progress witnessed this week reinforces an important truth: sustainable change is often driven by small, consistent steps taken over time.
This local momentum aligns with national trends. According to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (Government of India), India’s female labour force participation rate increased from 23.3% in 2017–18 to 41.7% in 2023–24, with rural women contributing significantly to this rise. Research further shows that participation in Self-Help Groups enhances financial independence, decision-making capacity, and confidence—strengthening households and communities alike.
When women gain access to opportunity, knowledge, and supportive networks, the impact extends far beyond individual livelihoods. Families grow stronger, communities become more resilient, and local economies begin to thrive.
| SDG | Goal | Relevance to the Initiative |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 5 | Gender Equality | Empowers women through skills training, financial literacy, and Self-Help Group participation, strengthening agency, confidence, and decision-making. |
| SDG 4 | Quality Education | Provides practical, community-based learning through tailoring, financial planning, and capacity-building sessions. |
| SDG 8 | Decent Work & Economic Growth | Enhances employability and livelihood opportunities by equipping women with income-generating skills and financial awareness. |
| SDG 10 | Reduced Inequalities | Focuses on rural and marginalized women, helping bridge economic and social gaps through inclusive development initiatives. |
| SDG 11 | Sustainable Cities & Communities | Strengthens community resilience by fostering collective action, local skills, and sustainable livelihood pathways. |
| SDG 17 | Partnerships for the Goals | Implemented through collaboration between academic institutions, community groups, and partners to scale impact. |
