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Health

Importance of Adolescent and Young Adult Health

Without community change agents, women empowerment cannot happen
Without community change agents, women empowerment cannot happen

The journey from adolescence to young adulthood is a transformative one, marked by physical, emotional, and social changes. This crucial phase lays the foundation for future well-being, making adolescent and young adult health a matter of paramount importance.

Adolescence and young adulthood serve as the building blocks for a healthy and productive adulthood. The habits formed during this period, both in terms of physical health and lifestyle choices, often set the trajectory for the years to come. By prioritising health during these formative years, individuals lay a robust foundation for a resilient and flourishing future.

Navigating Risky Behaviors

The mental health of adolescents and young adults is a cornerstone of overall well-being. This phase is characterised by heightened emotional sensitivity, identity exploration, and the development of coping mechanisms. Addressing mental health challenges during this time is crucial to prevent long-term consequences. The stigma surrounding mental health issues needs to be dismantled, fostering an environment where seeking help is encouraged and normalised.

Adolescence often witnesses experimentation and the testing of boundaries. While this exploration is a natural part of development, it comes with inherent risks. Investing in health education and awareness programmes can empower young individuals to make informed choices, mitigating the impact of risky behaviors. Initiatives that promote safe practices, from substance abuse prevention to sexual health education, are integral to ensuring a healthier transition to adulthood.

The adolescent and young adult years are crucial for reproductive health education and services. Access to accurate information about reproductive health, contraception, and family planning empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their bodies and futures. By investing in comprehensive reproductive health programmes, societies contribute to healthier pregnancies, lower maternal mortality rates, and the overall well-being of families.

This phase is pivotal for the formation of social bonds and relationships. Promoting healthy relationships, including friendships and romantic partnerships, is vital. Education on communication skills, consent, and respect fosters an environment where individuals can build connections that contribute positively to their emotional and mental health.

Investing in adolescent and young adult health extends beyond the physical and mental domains. Ensuring access to quality education and vocational training equips individuals with the skills necessary for economic independence. This, in turn, contributes to overall societal progress by fostering a skilled and capable workforce.

A Global Imperative for Young Adult Health

On a global scale, the health of adolescents and young adults is imperative for sustainable development. The challenges faced by this demographic, from infectious diseases to the impact of societal inequities, require a concerted effort from governments, organisations, and communities. Recognising the interconnectedness of global health and prioritising the well-being of the youth is key to achieving comprehensive and sustainable development goals.

One of the foundational pillars of adolescent and young adult health is access to accurate information. Comprehensive sexual education, mental health awareness programmes, and initiatives that address prevalent health issues empower individuals to make choices that positively impact their lives. Information becomes a catalyst for informed decision-making, fostering autonomy and agency.

In essence, investing in adolescent and young adult health is an investment in the future. A healthy and empowered youth demographic contributes to the vitality and resilience of communities and nations. By addressing the unique needs and challenges of this phase, societies pave the way for a generation that is not only physically and mentally robust but also equipped to navigate the complexities of adulthood with confidence and resilience.

Conclusion

The importance of adolescent and young adult health reverberates across individual lives, societal structures, and global development agendas. Recognising the unique needs of this demographic and implementing targeted interventions can lead to a healthier, more empowered generation. As we advocate for comprehensive health initiatives, mental health support, and education, we sow the seeds for a future where the transition from adolescence to adulthood is marked by well-being, resilience, and the promise of a brighter tomorrow.

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Education

International Day for Girls and Women in Science and SWATI

International Day for Girls and Women in Science and SWATI
International Day for Girls and Women in Science and SWATI

A groundbreaking initiative marked the celebration of the International Day for Girls and Women in Science with the launch of the “Science for Women – A Technology & Innovation (SWATI)” Portal. This singular online platform is dedicated to cataloging the achievements of Indian women in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine (STEMM), aiming to contribute valuable insights for policy-making to bridge the gender gap in these fields.

This first-of-its-kind portal aims to serve as a comprehensive resource for policymakers, shedding light on the accomplishments, challenges, and contributions of women in STEMM fields. The SWATI Portal is dynamically growing, with the aspiration to make data on all women scientists in the country accessible with just a click. This initiative is a crucial move toward fostering inclusivity and recognition in the scientific community.

The inauguration ceremony, held at the Indian National Science Academy (INSA) underscored the persistent need for gender parity in all sectors, especially in the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of science and technology and emphasised the role of education as a powerful equaliser and called for increased access for women and girls across all educational streams.

In a world still grappling with gender imbalances, the SWATI Portal is a timely intervention. The event not only marked the launch of a technological platform but also symbolized a commitment to the significance of ‘Science for Women & Women in Science.’ It aimed to highlight emerging opportunities and inclusiveness for women in Science & Technology endeavors.

The objectives of the portal go beyond being a repository of information; it seeks to scale up efforts exponentially. The goal is to include every Indian woman in science, covering various career stages and subjects, spanning both academia and industry. This ambitious initiative sets the stage for reliable, statistically significant, and long-term research on issues of equality, diversity, and inclusivity in the Indian scientific landscape.

This event also calls for the remembrance of exemplary women in Science

  1. Dr. Tessy Thomas: Known as the ‘Missile Woman of India,’ she played a pivotal role in India’s ballistic missile program.
  2. Dr. Indira Hinduja: A gynecologist and infertility specialist, she is credited with India’s first test-tube baby born in 1986.
  3. Dr. Asha Rao: A microbiologist who has contributed significantly to the understanding of tuberculosis and leprosy.
  4. Dr. Asima Chatterjee: Renowned for her work in the fields of organic chemistry and phytomedicine, she was the first woman to receive a Doctorate of Science from an Indian university.

As we celebrate the International Day for Girls and Women in Science, the SWATI Portal emerges as a flag of progress and inclusiveness. It’s not just a technological tool- it is paving the way for a future where women stand as equals in the scientific realm. This launch signifies a collective stride towards breaking barriers, fostering talent, and recognising the invaluable contributions of women in shaping the scientific narrative.

SWATI is a symbol of empowerment and a testament to the unwavering spirit of women in STEMM. The journey toward gender equality in science is a long road, but initiatives like SWATI illuminate the path ahead, inspiring generations to come and ensuring that the narrative of science is enriched by diverse voices and perspectives.

At Smile Foundation, with the escalating importance of STEM, activity-based and technology-driven learning, a plethora of creative and innovative educational programmes has been ushered in through collaborative efforts with like-minded corporate entities, educational institutions, and nonprofit partners. This collaborative approach aims to instill a robust scientific temperament in students, fostering critical thinking, and problem-solving skills through inquiry and logic, encouraging creative ideation, and nurturing a lifelong learning mindset – all vital skills for the youth and workforce of tomorrow.

Over the past year, there has been a deliberate push for vocational exposure among students, a strategic move designed to facilitate holistic learning and development. This initiative goes beyond the confines of regular curriculum subjects, providing students with a unique space to forge connections between diverse areas of learning. The objective is to empower children and youth to draw meaningful links between different aspects of their education.

Noteworthy initiatives have been undertaken, ranging from orientation sessions on organic farming techniques to innovative projects such as recycling used clean clothes to create socially useful products. Additionally, efforts have been directed towards teaching organic production methods for essential oils and other daily-use items, as well as imparting skills related to small-scale domestic repair and maintenance. More and more girls and women in science is a dream that will turn into reality soon with many women leading tech giants in the near future. That’s the big and honestly, the most equal dream.

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Smile

Individual Giving: A Win-Win for Goodness and Your Tax Savings

Turning a simple passion into affirmative action
Turning a simple passion into affirmative action

In a world where social responsibility and personal philanthropy are gaining momentum, the power of individual giving is emerging as a force for positive change. Many organisations recognise the value of creating avenues for their employees to contribute to social causes, fostering a culture of empathy and community engagement. Individual giving can have a profound impact on social causes and employees can leverage this opportunity to make a difference while enjoying tax benefits.

The Philosophy of Individual Giving

Individual giving goes beyond financial contributions; it’s a philosophy rooted in the belief that small, consistent efforts from many can create significant positive change. Organizations often act as facilitators, providing employees with platforms to contribute to various social causes aligned with their values. This philosophy taps into the collective power of individuals working towards a shared goal, amplifying the impact on communities in need.

The Impact on Social Causes:

When employees embrace the philosophy of individual giving, the impact on social causes can be profound. Whether it’s supporting education, healthcare, environmental conservation, or humanitarian aid, the collective contributions of individuals add up to create a substantial resource pool. These contributions enable development organisations to implement sustainable projects, address pressing issues, and make a lasting impact on the lives of those they serve.

Tax Benefits of Individual Giving

One of the significant perks of individual giving is the opportunity for employees to make a positive impact on society while enjoying tax benefits. Many countries, including India, offer tax deductions to individuals who contribute to registered charitable organizations. Employees can contribute a portion of their income to eligible nonprofits or causes and claim deductions under relevant sections of the tax code.

How Employees Can Donate and Save Taxes

  1. Payroll Giving

Many organisations like ours who is building/facilitating payroll-giving programmes, allowing employees to make regular donations directly from their salaries. This convenient method not only ensures a steady flow of contributions to social causes but also simplifies the process for employees.

  1. Donor Advised Funds (DAFs)

Employees can set up a Donor Advised Fund, a philanthropic vehicle that allows them to make a charitable contribution, receive an immediate tax deduction, and recommend grants from the fund over time. This approach provides flexibility and strategic planning in individual giving.

  1. Matching Gift Programs

Some organisations like oursencourage individual giving by implementing matching gift programmes. In such programmes, employers match their employees’ contributions to eligible charities, effectively doubling the impact of individual donations.

Embracing the philosophy of individual giving empowers employees to contribute to social causes that resonate with their values. As we witness the rise of conscious capitalism, organisations and individuals alike recognise the symbiotic relationship between personal well-being, corporate social responsibility, and societal progress. By enabling employees to donate to social causes and save taxes simultaneously, organisations play a pivotal role in fostering a culture of compassion and positive change. The power of individual philanthropy transcends financial transactions- it transforms lives, communities, and the collective consciousness toward a better, more compassionate world.

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Women Empowerment

Women from Gurugram Villages Adopt Safe Motherhood Practices

In the heart of Gurugram, the women empowerment programme of Smile Foundation, Swabhiman is making a far-reaching impact on the lives of over 3500 women and adolescent girls. From daily wage workers and homemakers to small business owners and expectant mothers, these beneficiaries are receiving comprehensive support aimed at fostering self-reliance. Swabhiman strives to provide equal opportunities through quality education, reproductive health awareness, and entrepreneurship development.

A key focus of the Swabhiman programme is to create awareness about safe motherhood practices. The initiative employs various interventions such as follow-ups with Antenatal Care (ANC) and Postnatal Care (PNC), peer learning group meetings with pregnant and lactating mothers, health fairs, ANC sessions, and engaging street plays on nutrition, breastfeeding, immunization, and vaccination. The project also helps women connect with government initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Mantra Vandan Yojana.

The dedicated efforts of the team have resulted in remarkable outcomes during the reporting period in Sarhaul and Dundahera. Notably, 104 safe institutional deliveries, immunization of 460 infants, and vaccinations for 85 pregnant women were successfully achieved. Additionally, 15 pregnant women were enrolled in government programmes, enhancing the reach and impact of Swabhiman.

Multi-Specialty Health Camps: Periodic mega multi-specialty health camps further extend the project’s reach in these villages. These camps offer free healthcare services, including doctor consultations, counseling sessions, and various health check-ups such as blood pressure, hemoglobin, eye tests, and sugar tests. Over time, local stakeholders from the community have taken ownership of these camps, collaborating with physicians, lab technicians, dentists, pharmacists, and the Swabhiman team to ensure maximum benefits to the community.

The success of the project is not just in the numbers but also in the sense of ownership and engagement it has fostered within the community. Local stakeholders actively participate in health camps, ensuring that the benefits reach those who need them the most. This collaborative approach has turned these health camps into powerful platforms for community well-being.

Beyond the immediate health outcomes, Swabhiman is contributing to a broader narrative of women empowerment. By ensuring better health and reproductive care, the project is opening up avenues for women to pursue education, entrepreneurship, and various opportunities that were previously hindered by health challenges.

Initiatives like these not only address immediate health concerns but also empower women by connecting them to government schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Mantra Vandan Yojana. The collaboration with local stakeholders demonstrates the ownership of the community for healthcare initiatives, fostering a sense of collective responsibility.

Recognizing the importance of women status in India is not just a social obligation- it is an investment in the holistic well-being and progress of the nation. Smile Foundation through Swabhiman stands as a testament to the transformative power of empowering women through healthcare, ultimately creating a more vibrant and equitable society.

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Health

Reaching the Unreached through Healthcare in Indalawadi Village

Primary Healthcare Strengthening Community Mental Health


Nestled in the serene landscapes of the Anekal block, on the border of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, lies Indalawadi village— a community that has long grappled with the formidable challenge of accessing healthcare services. Situated 12 kilometers away from Anekal City and lacking robust public transportation options, the villagers faced significant barriers to reaching essential medical care.

This quaint village, home to approximately 1,230 residents across 230 households, primarily consists of farmers and daily wage workers grappling with limited financial resources. The distance to Anekal Government Hospital, coupled with the high transportation costs, presented a formidable obstacle for the community, hampering their ability to access timely and crucial healthcare services. Consequently, many residents found themselves dealing with exacerbated health issues due to the lack of timely medical attention.

The introduction of the Smile on Wheels (SoW) project, however, has started a transformative shift for the villagers of Indalawadi. This mobile healthcare service brings medical facilities directly to underserved communities, effectively bridging the gap in healthcare accessibility. Through the SoW project, villagers now enjoy access to primary healthcare services at their doorsteps, eliminating the need for arduous and costly journeys to distant medical facilities.

In the span of just one year, SoW has made a monumental impact on the health landscape of Indalawadi. The mobile clinic has conducted a total of 1,881 consultations, addressing the diverse healthcare needs of the villagers. Notably, 76% of these consultations were dedicated to females and children, underscoring the significance of the project in providing accessible healthcare to vulnerable populations.

Amid these consultations, approximately 18% of patients were diagnosed with conditions such as Hypertension and Diabetes Mellitus II, requiring ongoing check-ups and medication. The SoW mobile medical unit has emerged as a crucial player in monitoring the blood pressure and sugar levels of these patients, ensuring they receive the necessary care and support. Through timely treatment and regular monitoring, the initiative has remarkably enhanced the health outcomes of community members grappling with these chronic conditions.

The success of SoW in Indalawadi showcases the transformative potential of mobile healthcare services in addressing healthcare disparities in remote communities. By bringing medical expertise directly to the doorstep of those in need, initiatives like SoW exemplify the power of innovative solutions in ensuring equitable access to healthcare, fostering community well-being, and creating a ripple effect of positive change.

As we celebrate the success of the Smile on Wheels initiative in Indalawadi, we invite you to join hands with us in making healthcare accessible to more communities. Your support can help Smile Foundation expand its healthcare programmes, reach more underserved areas, and bring about positive changes in the lives of countless individuals. Consider making a small donation here and become a part of the movement to ensure health and well-being for all. Together, we can make a lasting impact, one smile at a time.

Categories
Education

Education Powering Change in Tribal Children of Sambalpur

Education Powering Change for a Tribal Community in Sambalpur, Odisha

The transformative power of education is not just about empowering individual children; it has the potential to reshape entire communities. This impact is evident in the story of the tribal community living on the banks of the Malti River in Sambalpur, Odisha. With parents struggling as daily wage earners, education was not a priority for this community. The journey towards change began over two decades ago with the establishment of an educational center, which faced numerous challenges and ultimately evolved into a legacy of sorts.

In the nascent stages of the centre, months were dedicated to spreading awareness and sensitising the community about the pivotal role of education. Persistent door-to-door visits and mobilisation drives bore fruit when the first batch of students was successfully enrolled. However, this initial success was only the beginning of a journey marked by substantial challenges. The community was isolated, accessible only through the river, and devoid of roads and electricity. Navigating the river during the rainy season posed dangers that the community had to confront.

Undeterred, the dedicated teachers and the team at the centre worked collaboratively with the community, initiating gradual changes to enhance the quality of life. Simultaneously, the centre fostered a child-friendly atmosphere, emphasising the holistic development of each child. Interactive and activity-based learning sessions were introduced, ensuring regular attendance and retention in school. The curriculum was enriched with co-curricular activities such as music, yoga, sports, and art, promoting the overall well-being of the children. Health camps, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), and nutrition awareness sessions were conducted regularly to instill health-seeking behavior in both tribal children of Sambalpur and their families.

From its modest inception, the school has grown into a fully-fledged educational institution with facilities for residential students and modern amenities. Over the years, hundreds of students have received education, with many advancing to pursue higher studies and secure government jobs. The transformation has been holistic, positively impacting not just the educational status of children but also fostering better economic stability, health, and overall well-being throughout the entire community.

This journey exemplifies the resilience of a community determined to overcome obstacles in their pursuit of education. The story goes beyond the mere provision of academic knowledge; it underscores the importance of community engagement, health initiatives, and holistic development. The center, once faced with challenges of inaccessibility, has become a symbol of progress, offering hope and opportunity to generations. The impact reverberates not only in the lives of the tribal children of Sambalpur but also in the broader social fabric, showcasing the lasting influence of education on communities.

The flagship programme of Smile Foundation- Mission Education (ME) focuses on the holistic development of children, especially those for whom quality education is not easily accessible and where education is not prioritised. We have reached 15,00,000 children and their families through all our initiatives in more than two decades and hope to bring millions more into the fold of positive change in the future.

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Girl Child

Girl Child Education for Economic Growth and Equality

Are Report Cards relevant anymore?
Are Report Cards relevant anymore?


The educational journey of girl children in India has undergone a remarkable transformation, navigating persistent challenges and making progressive strides. Hindered historically by socio-cultural norms and gender disparities, the narrative has gradually shifted towards empowerment, thanks to dedicated efforts from various stakeholders. Government initiatives, non-governmental organizations, and grassroots movements have played pivotal roles in breaking down barriers and providing educational opportunities for millions of girls.

The significance of girl child education extends beyond individual development; it acts as a catalyst for broader societal and economic changes. Recognized not only as a means to impart knowledge and skills, education emerges as a powerful force challenging stereotypes, promoting gender equality, and reshaping societal attitudes. As policy changes and community engagement initiatives gain momentum, the educational landscape is witnessing a positive transformation.

From grassroots efforts empowering local communities to national campaigns aimed at bridging gender gaps, the evolving narrative reflects a commitment to inclusivity, enlightenment, and empowerment. The resilience displayed by girls pursuing education in the face of adversity highlights the profound impact of education on individual lives and the collective progress of the nation.

Acknowledging the pivotal role education plays in shaping the destiny of individuals and communities, the Indian government has instituted various financial incentive schemes tailored to encourage the enrolment, retention, and successful completion of education by the girl child. These financial incentives are not just monetary transactions; they represent strategic investments in the future of the nation.

Cash incentive programs have notably shifted parental attitudes towards marriage and education, making girls less burdensome in the eyes of parents. Economic incentives for girls have accelerated positive change at both the family and community levels, demonstrating their potential as catalysts for transformative change.

The relationship between girl-child education and socio-economic development stands as a cornerstone in India’s pursuit of progress and equality. A substantial body of evidence demonstrates the positive correlation between girl-child education and economic growth, as educated girls contribute significantly to productivity and innovation. Increasing female labour force participation is associated with higher Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and improved economic outcomes for the nation.

The nexus between education and entrepreneurship further underscores the economic benefits, making the case for empowering girls through education as a potent catalyst for dismantling ingrained gender disparities. Educated girl children in India, beyond empowerment, are more likely to participate in decision-making processes, contributing to a more equitable distribution of power.

Girl-child education emerges as a critical tool in breaking the shackles of poverty, with economic upliftment positively influencing the overall well-being of communities. Educated mothers make informed decisions regarding healthcare, leading to better health outcomes and reduced healthcare expenses for families. Additionally, educated women play key roles in improving maternal and child health outcomes, contributing to reduced mortality rates.

An intriguing aspect lies in the connection between girl-child education and population control. Educated girls tend to marry later and delay childbirth, contributing to efforts aimed at demographic stabilisation. This demographic transition has far-reaching implications for sustainable development and resource management. Education acts as an impetus for cultural shifts, challenging discriminatory practices, and fostering a more inclusive and tolerant society.

Investing in the education of girls emerges not only as an ethical right but as an indispensable strategy for fostering a more prosperous, equitable, and empowered nation. The evidence highlights the transformative impact of education in fostering gender equality and societal well-being, making a compelling case for continued and intensified efforts in advancing girl-child education in India.

Learn more about Smile Foundation!

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Girl Child Education

Project Manzil: Going Beyond the Traditional Professions

Reach for the Moon: A project in Rajasthan shows India’s skilling sector that girls can go beyond ‘feminine’ professions like beauty and tailoring and excel at Science, Tech and Finance
Reach for the Moon: A project in Rajasthan shows India’s skilling sector that girls can go beyond ‘feminine’ professions like beauty and tailoring and excel at Science, Tech and Finance

Reach for the Moon: A project in Rajasthan shows India’s skilling sector that girls can go beyond ‘feminine’ professions like beauty and tailoring and excel at Science, Tech and Finance

Twenty-two year old Seema from a remote village in Udaipur district joined a short course in beautician training. With the pressures of marriage mounting upon her, this was a hasty decision in an attempt to delay her marriage without much thought given to her interest or aptitude. She dropped out within a few days as she didn’t enjoy the course. But when Bhagwati Joshi, project Manzil’s Community Motivator, got involved, she encouraged Seema to look at other courses outside the gamut of ‘acceptable’ courses for women. That is when Seema chose the Office Assistant Course offered at a Skill Development Centre in her vicinity. Having completed the course, Seema started working in Udaipur city. “Just because you are a girl, it is not necessary that a course on beautician or even tailoring will appeal to you,” she recalls.

Days after the 2023 Nobel Prizes in Physics and Economics were awarded to women, and weeks after Chandrayaan-3’s celebratory images of ISRO’s women scientists went viral, Seema’s words couldn’t ring truer.

Courses like tailoring, beauty, and wellness are integral to India’s skilling sector, and need to be acknowledged in giving scores of women — especially from rural areas — an income. There is, however, a flip side to the blind, unquestioned way in which certain professions have become synonymous with girls and women, and others — such as Science, IT, and Banking— have not.

Project Manzil has been working with girls in rural Rajasthan since 2019 and has been instrumental in facilitating skill-based training and job placements. During this period, there has been a rise in the number of girls showing interest beyond traditionally ‘feminine’ professions. Sneha Chaudhury, Manzil’s Coordinator for the Dungarpur district, highlights how the number of girls opting for courses like IT and Retail has doubled since 2019.

Project Manzil, which is being implemented in collaboration with the Rajasthan State Livelihoods Development Corporation (RSLDC) with the support of Children’s Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF), is currently being run in 10 districts of Rajasthan. The project actively promotes greater female participation in skill training programmes, breaking away from traditional choices. With the RSLDC sanctioning more and more non-traditional courses, it has helped create a ripple effect in the state.

Beauty, Nursing Tailoring: The Holy Trinity of ‘Women’s Jobs

Girls and women are traditionally considered caregivers, and each of these roles — is an extension of their care duties often performed at home. Girls from impoverished families are often compelled to discontinue their studies to perform care duties at home – like caring for younger siblings or tending to an ailing parent.

In certain instances, secondary schools in rural areas do not offer Science, leading girls who manage to defy societal expectations to pursue higher education to opt for other subjects despite their interest in Science. One such girl, Monika of Kotputli, Jaipur district, always had a keen interest in Science & Technology, and had to take up humanities in Grade 11. She recalls how the school offering Science was too far from her village and, being private, was unaffordable for her family. For safety, security, and financial purposes, it was not feasible for her to travel to that school every day.

Lastly, many of the ‘feminine’ jobs — especially beauty and tailoring —are also location-agnostic, mostly in the indoor domain, and don’t necessarily require women to go outdoors to work. It is common in many parts of the country for women to run tailoring businesses from their homes. Given the nature of traditional societies and the restrictions they place on girls and women, earning while staying indoors is a perfect fit for the stringent social norms in many areas.

‘Masculine’ Jobs & the Fear of the Great Outdoors

Ranveer Singh, Manzil’s Coordinator in Jaipur district, says that many of the families they have been in contact with are accepting of their girls working in beauty and tailoring. The girls on their part, too, like Seema, often opt for these sectors with little thought to their interest or aptitude. Archana, who belongs to the Chomu sub-district, had done an online beautician course before she realised her interests lay in the banking sector. Jyoti, from a village in Jaipur district, remembers the stiff resistance from her parents at the suggestion that she would go out to work. “Girls don’t go outside the villages, and any kind of job must be strictly home-based or female-centric, such as tailoring or beautician,” she recalls.

There are, however, limitations to confining girls within these conventional sectors, and many of Manzil’s Community Motivators staunchly champion and encourage girls to look outside the box. Babita, the Community Motivator of Kotputli, takes great pride in the fact that she has never admitted a girl in traditionally ‘feminine’ trades. “In my first month itself, I gave 8 admissions —and not a single one of them was tailoring or beautician,” she says proudly. “These sectors don’t offer much in terms of career development — other professions give more exposure. They prepare you for the world. There is something about going out into the world. Every girl must learn, and only then can she teach her village,” she adds. These ideas have had a cascading impact on the psyche of girls who are increasingly showing the courage to persuade their families to chase their dreams and not regret them. Archana, now nine months into her job, commands a different position within her own home. She supports her younger brother’s education, is a critical decision-maker in matters of the household and has just recently convinced her older sister’s husband to let her work in banking as well. Thanks to Archana, her older sister now also works in a bank.

In a world where women are striding ahead in fields like physics and economics and where India’s Chandrayaan-3 mission proudly showcase its women scientists, Project Manzil stands as an exemplar of how young girls through skill training can excel in Science, Tech and Finance.

(Last names of the girls have been withheld to protect their identity.)

Originally published in The Times of India. Link here.

Categories
Education

Republic Day 2024: 75 Years Into The Birth of Constitution of India

Republic Day 2023: 74 Years Into The Birth of Constitution of India
Republic Day 2023: 74 Years Into The Birth of Constitution of India

The first Prime Minister of India, the late Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru in his famous speech ‘Tryst with Destiny’ delivered to the Indian Constituent Assembly on the eve of India’s independence had said, “The service of India means the service of the millions who suffer. It means the ending of poverty and ignorance and disease and inequality of opportunity.”

This is an interesting remark that captures not only the essence of the vision of the framers of the Indian constitution but also reveals the key to building a truly great nation.

Republic Day 2024

Every year we observe Republic Day on 26th January to celebrate the occasion of the adoption of the Indian constitution, which gave India its identity as the largest democracy in the world. As India gears up to welcome its 75th Republic Day, let us pause and ponder how far we have achieved the vision of the Indian constitution, how far we still have to go, and how citizens can collectively contribute towards the development of the nation.

Free Others This 75th Republic Day: We Tell You ‘Why’?

Education plays a catalytic role in the development of a nation. It holds the key to unlocking the potential of a country by improving the quality of its human resources. As quoted by the ancient Chinese philosopher, Lao Tzu, “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach him how to fish and you feed him for a lifetime”.

That is precisely how education has the potential to turn around the life of an individual. Education can truly empower an individual because:

  1. It equips one with the knowledge of science and technology relevant to their times. For example, the ability to use a mobile phone, the internet, or make online payments is possible when one has the basic literacy to identify alphabets, numbers, etc, and read and understand instructions.
  2.  It helps people realize their potential by revealing their hidden talents and guiding them to use them productively
  3. It increases the self-esteem and confidence level of an individual. Helps in shaping the personality of an individual with the right attitude and appropriate behavior.
  4. It imparts life skills and enables a person to make better decisions about their personal and professional life.
  5.  It improves the standard of living of a person by empowering them to have better opportunities for employment and earning their livelihood.

Any nation is heavily dependent on its human resources for its growth and development. The quality of human resources is an essential index of the socioeconomic development of the country.

Acknowledging Quality of Life in India on Republic Day 2024

As emphasized in the National Policy on Education 1986, “The human being is a positive asset and a valuable national resource which needs to be cherished, nurtured and developed. The catalyst action of education in this context needs to be planned and implemented meticulously”.

India has already completed 76 years of independence. While there has been a noticeable increase in terms of the number of educational institutes, the reality of the quality of education and achievement of educational policies is far below expectation. As per statistics, the overall enrollment at primary levels has seen a decline in recent years. 

The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2020 states that 5.3% of rural children in the age group of 6-10 years did not enroll in school in 2020 as against 1.8% in 2018. The report further says that dropout rates at the secondary education level have been consistently high and it is more prominent among students and girls belonging to Scheduled Tribes.

Adding to it, the recent pandemic has struck a severe blow to the status of education mainly among the poor and marginalized communities. The loss of livelihood, blow to the economy, switching to an online mode of education and other factors have led to many students dropping out of the education system and losing access to the opportunity to shape their future.

On one hand, COVID-19 induced rapid growth of Ed-tech platforms making India the world’s second largest E-learning market; on the other hand, it has caused a huge digital divide disproportionately impacting the poor and disadvantaged.

Smile Foundation and Nation Building

Children are the future of our nation and education can transform their lives for the better. We, at the Smile Foundation, believe that every child is entitled to the gift of education. Education is one of their coveted constitutional rights. Hence, we have dedicated ourselves fully to the cause of children who deserve more and their families.

Through our flagship programme, Mission Education, we have provided education to 200,000 children so far. We are children not just to gain an education but also to make efforts toward their nourishment, welfare, and holistic development.

However, we can move forward in our mission and reach out to more kids only with your support. This Republic Day 2024, let us vow to bring change to bridge the gaps existing in our education system and make education inclusive and accessible to all.

Please come forward and contribute towards nation-building. Learn more here!

Girl Child’s Status in India’s 75th Year of Republic

Equality and justice are the underlying principles of our constitution.

However, despite constitutional rights, gender disparity is still a sad reality in our country. The declining child sex ratio or the number of females per 1000 males between 0-6 years of age stands as testimony to this. According to data from National Family Health Survey (NFHS)-5, the child sex ratio at birth in India in 2019-21 was 929. This reflects both the pre and post-birth discrimination against girls in Indian society.

Despite being almost half of India’s population, women are still among the neglected sections in Indian society who do not get equal opportunities in basic education and skill development. The education of girls has positive multiplier effects on society, as an educated girl grows into an empowered woman who can make better choices and informed decisions for herself and her children. 

According to UNICEF, investing in girls’ education can transform communities, countries, and the entire world. Taking a significant step in this direction the government of India has launched the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao campaign to enable the survival, protection, and empowerment of girl children through various interventions.

Empower Our Girls

We, at the Smile Foundation, are also doing our bit to empower India’s daughters. With our initiative called ‘She Can Fly’ we try to support girl children in India to reach their fullest potential by empowering them with quality education, nutrition, healthcare, and necessary skills. 

We urge civil society to join hands with the Smile Foundation to give wings to our girls and enable them to fly. Please participate in educating and empowering them this Republic Day 2024; because in their empowerment lies the nation’s development.

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Girl Child

National Girl Child Day: Five Ways To Support Our Daughters

National Girl Child Day: Five ways to support our daughters
National Girl Child Day: Five ways to support our daughters

India observes National Girl Child Day every year on 24th January. It is an attempt to spread awareness about the discrimination faced by girls in our society. It is also crucial because the day is observed to highlight some of the burning issues like female feticide and the skewed child-sex ratio.

Intending to increase societal awareness of the female child so that she would be valued and respected, the Indian government announced January 24 to be observed as National Girl Child Day in 2008.

Ever since then, this day has been observed every year through various events and is spearheaded by the Ministry of Women and Child Development. According to a press statement issued by the government last year, the objectives of National Girl Child Day are the following:

“To create awareness about the rights a girl owns and to give girls the opportunities like everyone else, also to support the girl child of the nation and remove gender-based biases. Another objective of celebrating this day is to promote awareness about the inequalities that a girl child faces and educate people about girl’s education. Basically to value them and to respect them like everybody else and give a new perspective towards girl child and to decrease discrimination. The main focus is on changing society’s attitude towards girls, decrease female feticide and create awareness about the decreasing sex ratio.”

Why The Girl Child?

Various initiatives have been taken to support the girl child over the years. Initiatives like Save The Girl Child have been taken to stop female feticide and infanticide.

On the other hand, Post Office’s Sukanya Samridhi Yojana allows parents of the girl child to save money on her behalf. Other policies by both state and central governments aim to improve the status of girl children in India. Subsidized education, reservation in educational institutions, and free transport are some examples.

However, even today, many people might not be aware of when is National Girl Child Day celebrated in India. It can also be confused with the International Day of the Girl Child which is celebrated on October 11 each year. 

Recent Policy Initiatives

As we saw, the Indian government has been making policy decisions to support the girl child. However, even after all the efforts, the Child Sex Ratio continued to decline over decades. In the 2011 census, the CSR reached an abysmally low number of 918 girls for every 1000 boys.

Due to these worrying trends, PM Narendra Modi launched the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao initiative in 2015. The Scheme’s first phase, which took place in 100 districts in 2014–15, was followed by a second phase in 61 more districts in 2015–16. After the program’s initial success, it was expanded on March 8th, 2018, to 640 districts around the country.

So, as we can see the government has been taking many initiatives for girl children. On National Girl Child Day 2024 in India, what are the things that you can do to contribute? Let’s take a look:

Ensuring Equality of Opportunity

The first step towards supporting a girl child is to ensure that she has an equal opportunity as boys. Even today, girls do not receive adequate nutrition because boys are given more food than them. That’s still a sad reality for many young girls in our country.

Girls are also more likely to drop out of school or not pursue higher education. This is because of the societal beliefs which give precedence to boys as potential breadwinners. Therefore, on National Girl Child Day in India 2024, we all must resolve to ensure equal opportunity for girls.

Whether it is education, career, lifestyle, freedom, or anything else; we must strive for an equal approach towards both boys and girls.

Freedom of Choice

One of the biggest challenges that girls face today is that they do not have absolute freedom to make their own decisions. We do not have to look too far to observe this. Do girls have the same freedom as boys when it comes to mobility?

Can girls choose where they want to live or whom they want to spend time with without having to negotiate through various excuses? This restriction of freedom can create a lack of confidence among individuals. This further reduces their chances of succeeding in life.

If we want to see more women as leaders, entrepreneurs, changemakers, and impact creators, then we must give them the freedom of choice that they need.

Moral Policing and Body Shaming

This is one evil that has existed in societies across the world from the beginning. Whether it is the obsession with fair skin or a slim body, or it is the opinion on how one should dress; women are the first targets.

In the age of social media, we are seeing that girls are constantly facing unpleasant comments related to their attire, body shape, or how they choose to behave socially. This is again a way of restricting the freedom of girls.

If we want to provide equal opportunity to girls, then we must create safe spaces for them online and offline where they can express themselves freely.

Hyper-Masculinity and Sexual Harassment

Another big problem is the culture of hyper-masculinity where men try to dominate women. Whether it is movies or social media, behaviour like stalking or violence is shown as a romantic approach.

All this can create an unsafe environment for women which makes it difficult for them to feel safe. This is also the genesis of sexual harassment where women are objectified constantly. This may lead to crimes against women. 

While strict laws and improved security are imperative, society also needs to introspect and ensure that the reasons for such crimes are eradicated.

Patriarchal Practices

Lastly, we must work towards completely eliminating patriarchal practices. Whether it is dowry or share in the property, men find themselves in an advantageous situation. This makes the whole experience of being a woman difficult as if one is treated like a burden.


Therefore, we must identify all the small and big patriarchal practices, the taboos, and the rituals that we can do away with in the 21st century. This is the only way to move forward in a positive direction.

Smile Foundation and Girl Child

Smile Foundation through its initiative, She Can Fly is making efforts to give wings to the dreams and reality of a girl child so that can truly fly in her life in every way. Learn more here!

She Can Fly, let’s give her the sky!

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