The Ankuran Program focuses on gender inequality, violence against women, and awareness of constitutional rights among women and girls in Dalit and Adivasi communities.

Within the guidance of Satyakam Jan Kalyan Samiti, work was done with Bharia community women on issues like: gender discrimination, education, health, low wages, unpaid work, violence, and decision-making power. The program also addressed problems caused by land disputes and social practices like superstition and lack of education. Solutions focused on digital education, equal pay, social security, and preventing violence, as highlighted in various reports.

“Status of Bharia Community Women and Grassroots Work on Gender Equality and Discrimination”

Socio-Economic Situation of Bharia Community in the Project Area:

The Bharia tribal and other tribal communities live in Tamiya and Harrai blocks of Chhindwara district. Within the Ankuran Program led by Satyakam Jan Kalyan Samiti, a study was conducted in 30 villages of Tamiya and 30 villages of Harrai to understand their social and economic conditions.The study found that women in the Bharia and other tribal communities were not aware of their rights and had limited legal knowledge. Economically, they are underdeveloped, and education levels are low, resulting in high dropout rates. Their language, food, and clothing are very different from other communities. Most families do not have government jobs, and women rarely use communication tools, mobile phones, or motorcycles. Many still depend on forest resources for herbs and agricultural labor for income.Because they live in remote areas, these communities have little contact with outside development programs. Despite government policies, they remain socially and economically weak and have limited understanding of gender equality and violence against women.The organization provided capacity-building training to help women understand their rights, gender equality, and freedom, and to promote social and human values. Following this vision, women from these marginalized communities have been encouraged to take on leadership roles.

Main Areas/Objectives of the Program:

• Focus Areas: Block Tamia and Harrai

• Program Objectives:

3, Give advice and information on women’s legal matters.

4, Help women and girls understand their rights, fight injustice and violence, learn constitutional values,    and develop leadership skills at the local level.

5, Mobilize and organize women and girls from marginalized and disadvantaged

Planned Activities of the Program

Program Planning and Review

• Leadership among women from marginalized communities is being promoted in line with Satyakam’s vision and mission.

• Women leaders are encouraged to understand social issues so they can know their own values and rights.

• Training is provided on women’s rights, gender equality, gender discrimination, freedom, and constitutional values.

• Community meetings are held in 60 villages to motivate women leaders to work in agriculture, traditional food grains, and livelihood opportunities.

• A maize (corn) based small scale industry will be initiated.

2. Leadership Development:

In 60 villages of Tamia and Harrai blocks, 180 women were trained in leadership. Women leaders and adolescent girls were given leadership training through the Ankuran program. This helped them understand gender justice and build their confidence. They learned to take part strongly in social, economic, political, and community decisions. Now, they are working together with Satyakam on different issues affecting women and girls in society.

3. Training on Gender, Equality, Constitutional Values, and Violence Against Women:

60 villages – in Community meetings and group formation

• Different local stakeholders are involved as members, including village leaders (Sarpanch), PRI members, Anganwadi workers, school teachers, and ASHA workers.

• Women are encouraged to work on livelihood opportunities, such as agriculture and traditional food production.

Targets of the Program for 2024–2025:

Project Goal:

Specific Objectives:

Building Capacity for Gender Equality:

Livelihood Promotion:

General Awareness:

• Raise awareness in the community about gender equality and women’s rights.

• Involve men and boys as partners in promoting gender equality.

• Work with local authorities and organizations to support gender-sensitive policies.

Key Findings

Education: Low girl child enrollment; high dropout due to poverty, traditional practices, and superstition.

Health: Poor healthcare access and maternal health issues.

Economic Status: Low wages in agriculture/daily work; unpaid domestic labor; land scarcity.

Gender Discrimination and Violence: Domestic violence, sexual harassment, and social evils.

Decision-Making Power: Women have minimal participation in household and community decisions.

Challenges:

• Traditional patriarchal norms

• Poverty and lack of access to resources

• Low awareness about government schemes

Interventions and Actions Taken

Government Schemes: It promoted education, health, and livelihood programs (e.g., MGNREGA, Right to Education).

Community Initiatives: Women self-help groups (SHGs), awareness campaigns, skills training.

Suggestions:

Education: Digital learning and vocational training for girls.

Economic Empowerment: Equal pay for equal work, financial inclusion, and secure land rights.

Health and Safety: Better health services by community health workers and women’s help desks.

Awareness: Community campaigns on gender equality and against violence.

7. Conclusion:

For improving the condition of Indian women we needs a complete approach, focusing on education, economic opportunities, and social security, so that they can become strong and independent.