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Author: Smile Editorial Team

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Women Empowerment

Digital India Should Do More for Women

Envisioning a World Where Women Truly Lead
Envisioning a World Where Women Truly Lead

In today’s world, where digital transformation is happening at a breakneck pace, there is a glaring issue that cannot be ignored – the gender digital divide, especially in India. While the Digital India initiative has brought about significant progress, it has not been as inclusive as it should be. The digital gender gap is a persistent issue that undermines women empowerment.

The Promise and Reality of Digital India

The Digital India initiative aimed to overhaul public services through information technology, promising easy access to essential services by enhancing internet connectivity and digital empowerment. Despite its successes, the benefits have not reached everyone equally. Women, especially those in rural areas and with less education, often find themselves on the wrong side of this digital divide.

Why the Digital Divide Matters

This divide is not just about internet access – it is about the inequalities in digital literacy and access to technology. For women, this means fewer job opportunities, less access to educational resources, healthcare information and essential government services that are increasingly moving online.

Take the COVID-19 pandemic, for example. Education shifted online, but girls and women, especially from economically weaker sections, struggled to keep up due to a lack of digital devices and reliable internet. Similarly, women entrepreneurs could not digitise their businesses, hampering their operations during lockdowns.

Barriers to Bridging the Digital Divide Gap

Several barriers contribute to this widening gap. Cultural norms and socio-economic factors play significant roles. In many parts of India, there is still a strong bias against educating girls and giving them equal access to technology. When resources are limited, families often prioritise male members for access to technology and higher education.

Financial constraints are another major barrier. Digital devices and data plans are often too expensive for many women, especially in rural areas. The lack of digital literacy among women exacerbates the issue, as they are less likely to see the value in investing in digital tools and services.

Expanding Digital Infrastructure for Equal Access

To truly support women in the digital age, we need to expand and upgrade the infrastructure of the Digital India initiative, especially in rural areas. Many areas still suffer from poor electricity supply and internet connectivity, which disproportionately affects the ability of women to leverage digital technologies. Prioritising infrastructure development in underserved regions can help bridge this gap, ensuring that women in these areas are not left behind in the digital revolution.

Integrating Gender Sensitivity into Digital Policy

We also need gender-sensitive policies to ensure that digital services cater to women’s needs and address gender-specific barriers. Government services delivered through digital platforms should consider factors such as local languages and literacy levels, which can differ significantly between genders. Additionally, data protection measures should be enforced to keep women’s data safe, increasing their confidence in using digital services.

Promoting Women in Tech

Encouraging women’s participation in the tech sector is another crucial step. The tech industry is overwhelmingly male-dominated, which influences the kinds of products and services developed and the markets they target. Encouraging more women to pursue STEM education and careers in technology through scholarships, mentorships, and supportive workplace policies can change this landscape. Successful women tech leaders can also serve as powerful role models, inspiring more young girls to enter this field.

Supporting Women Entrepreneurs

Digital platforms provide a unique opportunity for women entrepreneurs to scale businesses from local to global. Initiatives like the “Digital Women Awards,” which recognise and support women leveraging the internet for business ventures, can be great motivators. E-commerce platforms should prominently feature products and services offered by women-led businesses, providing them with a broader market reach.

Tailored Financial Services

Access to finance is another significant hurdle for women wishing to enter the digital economy. Digital financial services tailored to the needs of women, including micro-financing and easy-to-use mobile banking services, can help overcome this. Ensuring that women can access these services safely and conveniently can dramatically increase their participation in the economy.

Creating Awareness and Changing Perceptions towards Digital Divide

Changing societal attitudes towards women using technology is perhaps the toughest challenge. Intensive awareness campaigns are necessary to shift perceptions. Men and boys must be included in these conversations to understand and support the importance of women’s digital empowerment. Regular workshops and interactive sessions that include both genders can foster a more inclusive understanding of the digital world.

Monitoring Progress and Ensuring Accountability

To ensure that efforts to reduce the digital gender gap are effective, continuous monitoring and evaluation are necessary. Setting up a dedicated body to oversee gender parity in the digital domain, along with regular reporting and accountability mechanisms, can help ensure that goals are met and that policies effectively address women’s needs.

Digital India has the potential to transform lives—not just economically but also in terms of social justice and equality. By focusing on women’s digital empowerment like we do in our women empowerment programme, Swabhiman India can ensure its journey towards becoming a digitally advanced nation is inclusive and equitable.

Empowering women digitally empowers the entire nation, paving the way for a balanced and progressive digital future. The path is long and filled with challenges, but the potential benefits for half of the population—and indeed for the entire nation—are too significant to be overlooked. Smile Foundation will do everything in its power to create equity between gender wherever possible.

Categories
Women Empowerment

Are there Components to Women Empowerment?

Are there Components to Women Empowerment?
Are there Components to Women Empowerment?

India has a rich history of the movement for women’s empowerment. Like many other nations, we have seen a long struggle by the women, showcasing their resilience and achieving progress. While a lot has been achieved over decades and centuries, there is still a long way to go when it comes to women empowerment. Therefore, today we are going to look at this topic and understand it in-depth. What exactly is women empowerment and are there any components to it?

Historical Perspective

While we speak of the struggle for gender equality and women’s empowerment, there have been significant milestones in the past. Whether it is the abolition of Sati or the participation of women leaders in the Indian Independence movement, it all created a fertile ground for a larger social change.

Leaders like Sarojini Naidu and Annie Besant not just fought for the political rights of all Indians, but also represented the women and their interests at a bigger stage. In 1930, the Indian National Congress demanded universal suffrage, recognising that women’s voices were essential for a free India. This was a major step towards recognising the political and social equality of women in India of the future.

Apart from this, Rukmini Devi Arundale, a dancer and activist, challenged societal norms by promoting classical arts and education for women. Dr. Muthulakshmi Reddi, India’s first female legislator, championed healthcare, education, and women’s rights. The Indian Constitution guaranteed equal rights to women. However, challenges persisted due to cultural norms and economic disparities. The National Commission for Women (NCW) was established in 1992 to address gender-based issues.

Later, legal changes, such as the Dowry Prohibition Act (1961) and the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (2005), aimed to protect women’s rights. Grassroots movements, like the Self-Employed Women’s Association (SEWA), empowered women economically. However, even today India faces persistent challenges, including gender-based violence, unequal pay, and limited representation. Initiatives like Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao (Save the Girl Child, Educate the Girl Child) continue to strive for change. Along with these major events, the journey of gender equality and achievement of women empowerment has also been about smaller and less visible changes.

Significance of Women Empowerment

Gender equality is not a mere slogan- it is a fundamental human right. Denying women equal opportunities perpetuates injustice.

Whether it is Phoolan Devi who fought against adversity and discrimination to reach Indian Parliament, Malala Yousafzai who was targeted by terrorists in Pakistan for demanding basic rights of women, or Mamata Devi of Dharamshala in India who has shattered many glass ceilings in her lifetime – all these women and their stories remind us why we need to continue fighting for women’s empowerment.

Why does it matter?

Empowered women are catalysts for economic prosperity. When barriers crumble, women contribute significantly to workforce productivity. Their entrepreneurial ventures, leadership roles and innovations fuel growth. According to the World Bank, closing gender gaps in labor force participation could boost global GDP by $160 trillion by 2030. Imagine the ripple effect — an empowered woman’s income uplifts her family, her community and the entire economy.

Secondly, gender equality is not a mere slogan- it is a fundamental human right. Denying women equal opportunities perpetuates injustice. Empowerment dismantles discriminatory structures, allowing women to access education, healthcare and legal protection. When women thrive, society thrives. It is a ripple effect of justice, echoing through generations.

Lastly, our progress hinges on empowering all members of society. The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) recognise this truth. Goal 5—achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls—anchors the global agenda. When women participate in decision-making, environmental stewardship and community development, sustainable change takes root. From clean water to climate action, women’s empowerment is woven into the fabric of progress.

Components of Women Empowerment

This brings us to the central argument of this piece. Are there any components to women empowerment? And, if yes, what are those? To understand this, we must realise that women empowerment is not a monolithic concept. It is multifaceted and dynamic. There are many aspects to it that are complex in nature. If we truly want to achieve what we desire, we need to investigate these aspects in detail.

  1. Self-worth: Self-worth refers to how women perceive their intrinsic value, capabilities and right to assert themselves. It transcends mere confidence — it is about recognising one’s worthiness to participate fully in all aspects of life. Story of Jyoti Kumari of Bihar, who pedalled her bicycle 1200 km carrying her injured father from Delhi to Darbhanga, is an example of her unwavering determination and deep sense of self-worth. Jyoti believed she deserved a chance to save her family, defying societal norms that often limit girls’ mobility.
  2. Decision-making: It encompasses the freedom to make decisions about one’s life, whether related to education, career, marriage or reproductive health. It is about autonomy and agency. Various initiatives like self-help groups and entrepreneurship cells support marginalised women to skill themselves and start their own businesses which provides them economic independence. This allows the women to make decisions for themselves which is not possible for them when they are dependent on male members of their families.
  3. Access: It refers to equitable opportunities — be it education, healthcare, or economic resources. It’s the bridge between potential and realisation. For example, in India, KGBVs provide residential education to girls from marginalised communities. These schools ensure access to quality education, nutrition and life skills. By breaking down barriers, KGBVs empower girls to dream beyond societal limitations.
  4. Control: It involves decision-making power within and outside the home. It is about dismantling patriarchal structures that limit women’s autonomy. Like, Rwanda’s progressive land laws grant equal inheritance rights to men and women. As a result, women own and control land—an essential asset for economic stability. This shift transforms gender dynamics, empowering women to shape their destinies.
  5. Influence: Influence extends beyond personal agency — it is about shaping societal norms, policies and attitudes. Empowered women become change agents. For example, the #MeToo movement provided women the necessary strength and influence that they needed to highlight the problem of sexual harassment they faced in their everyday lives. It would not have been possible if they did not come together to use social media as a platform to raise their voices.

Empowerment for Tomorrow

As we discuss the components of women empowerment, we must understand that there is so much that is yet to be achieved. Therefore, it is important to continue discussing the ways of achieving gender equality and women empowerment. It is only through a collective effort that we can achieve this. Every woman’s voice matters.

Whether whispered in a rural classroom or echoed through social media, these voices shape our collective destiny. Let us amplify stories like Jyoti Kumari and Mamta Devi’s — their journeys remind us that empowerment begins within, fuelled by unwavering self-worth. Support women when they practise their agency and try to gain influence over a situation that empowers them through Smile Foundation‘s gender equity initiative. Let us become allies in this journey of empowerment for tomorrow.

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Women Empowerment Girl Child

International Women in Engineering Day

International Women in Engineering Day
International Women in Engineering Day

What do Ayyalasomayajula Lalitha, Sudhira Das and Rajeshwari Chatterjee have in common? All three women were engineers, pioneers who successfully battled social norms and gender biases to become literal trailblazers in a male-dominated field. These women continue to serve as an inspiration for younger generations.

Widowed at the age of 18, Lalitha studied electrical engineering at the College of Engineering, Guindy. The first woman electrical engineer in India, she went on to be a consultant to the UN on engineering projects. 

The first female engineer from Karnataka, Rajeshwari was a professor at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru. She is known for the work she did on passive microwave devices. Sudhira, the first woman engineer from Odisha, is known for establishing the Women’s Polytechnic at Bhubaneswar in 1978.

Why are we remembering the contributions of these women today? On June 23, 2024, the world celebrates International Women in Engineering Day (INWED). The Women’s Engineering Society in the UK launched the National Women in Engineering Day in 2014. It was observed globally in 2017 and aims to celebrate women in engineering. This year, the theme is #Enhancedbyengineering, which recognises the contributions of women to various engineering disciplines.

Data Points

In India, more women are taking up engineering as a career. According to a survey conducted by Coursera from 2019 to 2024, 35% of all course enrollments were women as compared to 25% five years ago. In STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) courses, 32% were women learners, when compared to 22% five years ago.

An article on All Together, the blog of the Society of Women Engineers, says, “India has the highest number of female STEM graduates in the world — about 40%…. But ironically, we find only 14% of them in the workforce!”

The article gives data from the Union Ministry of Human Resource Development in 2020’s report for the academic year 2019-2020. The percentage of girls admitted in core engineering disciplines was: 5.9% for mechanical engineering, 22.5% for civil engineering, 22.7% for metallurgical engineering, 23.2% for chemical engineering, and 27.3% for electrical engineering. In disciplines such as mechanical engineering, the enrollment of women is the least.

There are several reasons why women do not opt for some core engineering disciplines or why they don’t join the workforce. These include lack of awareness about the sector, lack of role models, gender discrimination, hesitation to join male dominated disciplines and organisations, and family responsibilities.

A Business Insider article says, “40% of India’s women engineers don’t have jobs because of ‘rampant’ sexism at the workplace”.  It showcases statistics from a survey conducted by the Society of Women Engineers and the Center for WorkLife Law at the University of California, Hastings College of the Law.

The survey, which interviewed 423 women and 270 men, says the employment rate of women engineers dropped from 35% in 2005 to 26% in 2018. One of the major reasons for the decrease was “gender discrimination during hiring decisions and bias faced at the workplace”.

Our Work

Various organisations across the world have been working to bridge the gender gap where women in STEM are concerned. Smile Foundation has been working in the field of education, healthcare, livelihood and women’s empowerment, launched a pan-Indian scholarship programme. The aim is to give aspiring engineers, with a special focus on women, the tools they need to make a mark in the field.

We have partnered with Deutsche Bank, Quantiphi, Quest Global and Siemens to conduct scholarship programmes. The six active projects benefit more than 2,000 students. 

The scholarship covers the tuition fees for the four-year courses. Each student gets a laptop and access to other essential resources. They receive training in employability and communication, provided internship opportunities. We also help the students gauge industry needs by organising visits to sites, offices and various departments of potential employers. Based on the industry needs, they get relevant domain/ technical skills. Mock tests, aptitude tests and mock interviews help students prepare to face interviews. Placement assistance is provided in the final year of the course.

The first batch of 30 female students from Mumbai and Bengaluru selected for the Quantiphi’s Women Engineering Education Network (QWEEN) Scholarship programme, are pursuing engineering programmes in recognised universities. The programme, jointly conducted by Quantiphi, a leading data and analytics solutions company and Smile Foundation, got launched in January 2022. The aim is to promote gender diversity in engineering and financially support underserved girls. Another 15 girls from pan-Indian locations were selected for the scholarship programme in 2022.

The same year, we tied up with Deutsche Bank to provide engineering scholarships to 200 young women from underprivileged backgrounds. The selected students received scholarship letters and laptops at events held at Deutsche Bank offices in Bengaluru, Mumbai, Pune, and Jaipur. 

Smile Foundation and International Women in Engineering Day

As we celebrate International Women in Engineering Day, let us recognise and support the incredible contributions of women in this field. By empowering and encouraging more women to pursue engineering, we pave the way for a more diverse and innovative future. At Smile Foundation, we remain committed to an inclusive environment where women engineers can thrive and make a lasting impact. Together, we can build a world where opportunities in engineering are accessible to all.

Categories
Girl Child Education

Single Girl Child Scholarships Quota Not Enough

Girls’ Education Changes Entire Economies
Girls’ Education Changes Entire Economies

In recent years, progressive initiatives like the single girl-child quota in higher education institutions (HEIs) have been lauded as significant steps towards achieving gender equality in education. These measures, while undoubtedly beneficial, fall short of ensuring true equality and empowerment for women. Let’s delve into the effectiveness of these quotas and scholarships, examine their impact and explore the broader changes required to make a meaningful difference in the lives of single girl children in India.

The Current Landscape of Educational Quotas

Delhi University, a trailblazer in this initiative, has introduced a single girl child quota across all its programmes starting from the 2024-25 academic session. This policy reserves supernumerary seats specifically for single girl children, aiming to encourage the education of daughters in families where there is only one girl child. By addressing both the symptoms and root causes of gender disparity, the quota promotes higher education among a segment of society that is often marginalised.

This initiative is an important step in recognising the unique challenges faced by single girl children, who often bear the brunt of gender discrimination and societal expectations. In a culture where sons are traditionally favoured, daughters frequently face obstacles in accessing the same educational opportunities. The introduction of such quotas is a proactive measure to counter these deep-seated biases and encourage families to invest in the education of their daughters.

The Impact of UGC Scholarships and Fellowships

In addition to the quotas, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has implemented various scholarships and fellowships to support single girl children. Notable among these is the Savitribai Jyotirao Phule Fellowship for Single Girl Child, which provides financial assistance to PhD students. This fellowship, named after a pioneering female educator and social reformer, symbolises the commitment to fostering educational opportunities for women.

While these programmes have benefited a significant number of recipients, they still cover only a fraction of potential candidates. From 2018 to 2023, the number of single girl children who have availed themselves of these opportunities has been limited, suggesting a gap between the availability of such initiatives and the actual needs of the demographic. This disparity highlights the need for more comprehensive outreach and support mechanisms to ensure that all eligible candidates can benefit from these programmes.

Challenges Beyond Financial Support

Although girl child scholarships and quotas are critical, they alone are insufficient to combat the deep-seated societal biases and structural barriers that limit educational opportunities for women. Issues such as safety concerns, societal prejudice, and economic barriers continue to impede the educational journey of many women. For instance, the concern for the safety of women studying away from home or living in hostels significantly affects the decisions families make regarding higher education for their daughters.

Safety concerns are a major factor deterring families from sending their daughters to distant educational institutions. Instances of harassment and violence against women in educational settings have created an environment of fear and apprehension. This not only limits the mobility of female students but also constrains their educational choices and opportunities.

Societal prejudices and stereotypes about the role of women further compound these challenges. Traditional views that prioritise marriage and domestic responsibilities over education for women persist in many parts of India. These attitudes often result in early marriage and discontinuation of education for many girls, thwarting their aspirations and potential.

Economic barriers also play a significant role in limiting educational opportunities for single girl children. Despite the availability of gitrl child scholarships, the overall cost of education, including tuition fees, accommodation, and other associated expenses, can be prohibitive for many families. This economic strain forces families to make difficult choices, often prioritising the education of sons over daughters.

Holistic Solutions for a Deeper Impact: Girl Child Scholarships and Beyond

To truly empower single girl children through education, a more comprehensive approach is required—one that goes beyond financial aid. This includes creating safer educational environments, promoting societal change, and improving the accessibility and affordability of education.

Creating Safer Educational Environments

Enhancing security measures in and around educational institutions can reassure families about the safety of their daughters. This includes improved campus security, safe transportation options, and robust mechanisms to address and prevent harassment and violence. Institutions should also foster a culture of respect and equality, where female students feel valued and supported.

Promoting Societal Change

Educational campaigns aimed at changing societal attitudes towards the education of girls are crucial. These should focus on altering perceptions and encouraging families to invest in their daughters’ education as they would for their sons. Community-based initiatives, involving local leaders and influencers, can play a pivotal role in shifting mindsets and breaking down gender stereotypes.

Improving Accessibility and Affordability of Education

Making education more accessible and affordable can help overcome economic barriers. This could involve expanding the scope of girl child scholarships, increasing the number of seats available under such quotas, and providing additional financial support for associated expenses like accommodation and study materials. Government and private sector partnerships can also play a role in funding and sustaining these initiatives.

Support Systems and Mentorship

Establishing support systems and mentorship programmes for single girl children can significantly enhance their educational experiences. Mentorship can provide guidance, encouragement, and role models for young women, helping them navigate the challenges of higher education. Support systems, including counselling services and peer networks, can also address the emotional and psychological needs of students.

Policy Innovation and Implementation

Effective policy implementation is key to the success of these initiatives. This involves regular monitoring and evaluation of programmes to ensure they are meeting their objectives and making necessary adjustments based on feedback and outcomes. Policymakers should also consider innovative approaches to address emerging challenges and create a more inclusive educational environment.

The Road Ahead: Girl Child Scholarships

The introduction of the single-girl child quota is a commendable step towards promoting gender equality. However, for these efforts to be genuinely transformative, they must be part of a broader, more strategic approach that addresses the myriad challenges faced by women in society. This includes not only enhancing their educational opportunities but also ensuring that once educated, these women can lead secure, empowered lives without the constraints imposed by prevailing gender biases.

To achieve this, a concerted effort from all stakeholders is required. Governments, educational institutions, non-governmental organisations, and communities must work together to create an enabling environment for the education of single girl children. Collaboration and partnership are essential to mobilise resources, share best practices, and drive sustainable change.

Smile Foundation is making a significant impact by providing scholarships to girl children, ensuring their access to quality education from school through higher education. These girl child scholarships aim to empower girls from underserved backgrounds, enabling them to overcome financial barriers and pursue their academic dreams. By supporting their education, we aim to foster gender equality, encouraging personal and professional growth, and contributing to the creation of a more equitable society. 

The journey towards true gender equality in education is long and complex, but with sustained effort and commitment, it is achievable. By empowering single-girl children through education and addressing the structural barriers they face, we can pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future for all women in India.

Categories
Education Health Women Empowerment

Low Education Affecting the Health of Indian Women 

Low Education Affecting the Health of Indian Women 
Low Education Affecting the Health of Indian Women 

The intricate relationship between education and health is well-documented worldwide. In India, where gender disparities in education persist, this connection highlights stark inequalities, especially affecting women.

Education provides individuals with the knowledge to make informed decisions about health, nutrition, and family planning. Unfortunately, many Indian women, deprived of adequate educational opportunities, face severe health challenges. Let’s understand better how low education levels among Indian women impact their health and what potential interventions are needed to address these issues. 

The Landscape of Education and Its Direct Impact on Health 

Education is a crucial pathway to better health outcomes. For Indian women, the journey through education is often interrupted by socioeconomic constraints and cultural norms that favour male education over female. These disparities limit the access of women to health information and services and restrict their ability to make autonomous decisions in various life aspects, including health. 

Health Literacy and Awareness 

Educated women are better equipped to understand health-related information, significantly improving their health outcomes and those of their families. They possess a better understanding of nutritional needs, hygiene importance, and sexual and reproductive health, enabling them to make informed decisions. Conversely, women with lower educational levels often lack basic health literacy, a vital component in managing personal and child health, understanding medication instructions and navigating health systems. 

Delayed Marriages and Reduced Fertility 

Education also influences social and reproductive behaviours. Educated women are more likely to marry later and have fewer children, directly benefiting their health. Early marriages, often linked to lower education levels, result in early pregnancies, increasing the risk of maternal and infant mortality. 

Health Challenges Faced by Less Educated Women 

Women with lower education levels in India face numerous health issues:

1. Reproductive Health: Limited knowledge of reproductive health leads to higher incidences of teenage pregnancies, higher fertility rates and complications during childbirth. These women are less likely to receive prenatal and postnatal care, increasing health risks for both mother and child. 

2. Nutritional Deficiency: Many women without proper educational backgrounds are unaware of their nutritional needs. This ignorance can lead to malnutrition, particularly harmful during pregnancy and breastfeeding, affecting both maternal health and children’s developmental health. 

3. Chronic Diseases: Chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular diseases are often poorly managed by less educated women due to a lack of health literacy. This results in higher morbidity and mortality rates within this demographic. 

The Economic Implications: Labour Force Participation 

Women’s participation in the labour force is closely linked to their education levels. Educated women are more likely to join the workforce and secure employment that offers health benefits and economic stability. In contrast, women with lower education levels are often limited to unskilled labour, which is precarious and provides little in terms of health insurance or job security. 

Policy and Practical Solutions 

Addressing the health disparities caused by low educational attainment requires a multifaceted approach: 

1. Enhancing Educational Access: Ensuring that girls have access to quality education is fundamental to improving health outcomes. This involves enroling more girls in schools and ensuring they complete their education up to at least the secondary level. 

2. Integrating Health into Education: Health education should be a core part of the school curriculum from an early age. Topics should include nutrition, personal hygiene, sexual and reproductive health and basic information about common diseases. 

3. Empowering Women Economically: Vocational training and skill development programs can empower women, enhance their job prospects, and provide them with better economic and health outcomes. 

4. Strengthening Health Services: Governments and NGOs should collaborate to improve the availability, accessibility and affordability of healthcare services, particularly in rural and underserved areas. This includes investing in healthcare infrastructure, training healthcare providers and implementing outreach programmes focused on women’s health.

The health of Indian women is intricately linked to their educational attainment. By bridging the educational gap, enhancing health literacy and supporting women’s economic empowerment, significant improvements in health outcomes can be achieved. A concerted effort from the government, civil society and local communities is essential to ensure that the benefits of education and health are accessible to all women across India, paving the way for a healthier and more equitable society. 

In conclusion, tackling the issue of low education among Indian women is paramount for their health and well-being. Through comprehensive strategies that address educational access, health literacy, economic empowerment and strengthened healthcare services, we can create a future where every woman has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to the prosperity of her community and nation.

Invest in Girl Child Education: A Healthier Future for Indian Women

Low education levels significantly impact the health and well-being of Indian women. Educated girls grow into empowered women who make informed decisions about their health, nutrition and family planning, leading to healthier communities. By investing in girl child education, you contribute to breaking the cycle of poor health, creating a generation of strong, healthy girls and women.

Make a Difference Today

Support girl child education here and help build a healthier, brighter future for Indian women. Your donation can change lives and uplift entire communities. You can catalyse real positive change.

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Livelihood

Workings of a Livelihood Project in India

College Education: What Happens After That?
College Education: What Happens After That?

Asha’s husband passed away a few years ago because of an undiagnosed illness. Asha lives in a small house with her parents-in-law and three kids – two boys and a girl. All of them are of school-going age. However, Asha needs help with household chores while she goes out to work as a daily wager and provide whatever she can for her family. She receives a government pension and ration support, but that was not enough to lead a life of even basic needs.

This means that her 12-year-old daughter, Salony, has to drop out of school to take care of the chores while Asha goes out to find some work during the day. She is not a skilled worker, so she has to take up whatever task that is offered. On some days, she finds work but mostly, she comes back empty handed. This has made life difficult for all the members in her family. This also meant that her 14-year-old son might have to drop out of school and work as a construction worker to make money for the family.

Asha’s story is the story of innumerable people living in the less fortunate parts of the country. Due to a lack of livelihood opportunities in their communities, these people sometimes have to migrate to urban areas, or engage in menial work at extremely low compensation because they don’t have a better alternative. This is where the need for a well-functioning livelihood project arises.

With the help of such projects, these communities and people in need can be engaged in sustainable and respectful livelihoods so that they can make money and live a life of dignity.

Essence of a Livelihood Project

While it may be an easy assumption, the purpose of a livelihood project is not just to provide immediate financial support. Instead, they are designed to provide long-term support in building self-reliance and resilience. These projects focus on capacity building of the people, equipping them with skills in a way that does not only improve their economic situation but also prepares them for opportunities in the future.

At the core of sustainable development in India lies the concept of livelihood projects—initiatives meticulously crafted to enhance the living standards of individuals by equipping them with the necessary skills, resources and opportunities to earn a sustainable income. These projects are not mere stopgap measures; they are transformative processes that empower communities to break free from the cycle of poverty.

Operational Model

Livelihood projects and implemented after meticulous planning and follow a strong operational model like one followed at Smile Foundation:

  1. The projects are tailored as per the unique needs of a community and this is achieved through stakeholder engagement, where the planners collaborate directly with community members to understand their needs and aspirations.
  2. Following this, resource allocation is carried out, wherein financial, human and material resources are distributed according to the project’s requirements. This phase is critical as it sets the foundation for all subsequent activities.
  3. After that, many livelihood projects introduce training modules which is an integral part of the whole process. With the help of these modules, the planners and execution team provide practical knowledge and hands-on experience to the beneficiaries based on the market demand.
  4. Lastly, the most important aspect of these projects is outcome measurement because it is extremely essential to gauge the true impact of these projects and to ascertain whether they are achieving the goal of creating sustainable income opportunities for the beneficiaries while preparing them for long-term self-reliance.

Impact and Significant of Livelihood Projects

Livelihood projects is one of the biggest rural employment guarantee programmes in the world that has been running in India – the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MNREGA). In 2006-07, the programme engaged 21 million households and this number reached 55 million in 2010-11. Not just that, it has contributed significantly to rural income, with more than Rs 200000 crore spent as wages till 2014-15.

However, as mentioned previously, the impact of such projects is not limited to financial assistance. They also help in overall increase in income, employment opportunities and entrepreneurial ventures.

A study by the World Bank on a government-run rural livelihoods programme in India revealed significant increases in median income, highlighting the direct impact of such initiatives on economic well-being. These programmes are crucial in addressing the stark reality that over 296 million people in India still live in poverty, despite substantial poverty reduction efforts over the years.

These projects also help in providing dignity to individuals, especially those living in socially and economically disadvantaged communities. They provide employment opportunities to those typically ignored by the traditional job market, lead to empowerment of women by addressing the gender gap in the labour market and ensure self-respect for the marginalized population. 

Integration with Larger Solutions

The livelihood projects, across the world, are woven with the larger Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by the United Nations. They particularly align with SDGs like eliminating poverty, creating gender equality and ensuring decent work and economic growth. The two things central to these projects are sustainability and scalability. Environmental considerations are integrated into project designs to ensure that economic gains do not come at the cost of ecological balance.

Community ownership is emphasised to ensure that projects are not only accepted but also cherished by those they serve, enhancing their longevity. Lastly, these projects are designed and redesigned as per the evolving economic conditions making them relevant and effective in the long run.

More than one Asha

Now, let’s look at Asha’s story from the perspective of what we have discussed so far about livelihood projects and their working mechanisms. If after school education, her children are inducted into a well-planned livelihood project, they are most likely to be educated and skilled as per the needs of the market and the unique requirements of the community they belong to.

Further, the children will be provided with necessary support to perform well in the work that they choose. It will not only open-up opportunities for them but also Asha, who can enrole in women empowerment programme like Swabhiman.

The project will also empower her and provide sustenance to her entire family, allowing her children to get education and have a chance at a better life that poverty often deprives one of. These projects are especially important today because of the economic hardship that a large section of our population is facing due to the widespread negative effects of covid pandemic and subsequent lockdowns.

If we want to promote rural growth, increase consumption, and accelerate the economic growth of India, we must implement more than large scale livelihood project across the country with the help of both government and non-government organisations.

Smile Foundation’s Livelihood Programme STeP

Smile Foundation’s Smile Twin e-Learning Programme (STeP) is a pioneering initiative aimed at transforming the lives of underserved youth by equipping them with essential skills for the modern job market. STeP offers training in areas such as retail management, hospitality, customer relations, digital literacy, and more, bridging the gap between education and employability.

By focusing on skill development, the programme empowers young individuals to secure meaningful employment, thereby fostering economic independence and a better quality of life for their families. More than 10,000 young students have been trained under our livelihood initiative with more than 65% placement.

Support Our Mission

Help us continue to create brighter futures for underprivileged youth. Your donation can make a significant impact by providing these young individuals with the skills they need to succeed.

Donate here and become a part of this transformative journey.

Categories
Education

NEP Addressing Poor Learning Outcomes 

NEP Addressing Poor Learning Outcomes 
NEP Addressing Poor Learning Outcomes 

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 heralds a groundbreaking era in the Indian educational landscape. Designed to overhaul a system long troubled by disparities in quality and accessibility, this comprehensive policy aligns the Indian education with global standards and prepares the future workforce with 21st-century skills while addressing the low learning outcomes in the students.

With a bold vision for inclusivity, modernisation, and holistic development, NEP 2020 aims to reshape the foundation of Indian education, fostering a generation of innovative and responsible citizens.

Foundational Reforms: Early Education 

One of the most significant aspects of NEP 2020 is its focus on Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE). Recognising the critical role early years play in cognitive, emotional and social development, the policy proposes an integrated approach that combines education with healthcare.

This holistic framework ensures that every child has a nurturing environment conducive to all-round development. By emphasising play-based and activity-based learning, the policy aims to make early education enjoyable and impactful, setting a strong foundation for lifelong learning. 

Restructuring Curriculum and Instruction 

NEP 2020 introduces a revolutionary 5+3+3+4 curricular structure designed to align with the developmental stages of a child’s brain. This system replaces the old 10+2 structure and is divided into foundational, preparatory, middle and secondary stages. Each stage is tailored to address the specific needs of children, ensuring a smooth transition and continuity in learning. 

The policy advocates for a pedagogical shift towards experiential learning, where critical thinking and problem-solving take centre stage. This approach makes learning more engaging and relevant to real-life situations. Instead of rote learning, students might engage in projects that require them to apply subject concepts solving practical problems. This hands-on method not only deepens understanding but also cultivates a love for learning. 

Teacher Empowerment and Training 

Teachers are the backbone of any educational reform, and NEP 2020 places them at the heart of its vision. Recognising the need for highly skilled educators, the policy outlines comprehensive strategies for attracting and retaining the best talent in teaching. This includes substantial improvements in teacher training programmes, ongoing professional development and a clear career progression path with ample opportunities for leadership and growth. 

The policy also calls for a reform of teacher training institutions, ensuring they meet stringent accreditation standards. By continuously updating their skills and knowledge, teachers can stay abreast of the latest educational methodologies and technologies, enhancing their effectiveness in the classroom. This, in turn, creates a more dynamic and engaging learning environment for students. 

Technology Integration Across the Spectrum to increase Learning Outcomes

In an era where technology plays an integral role in every aspect of life, NEP 2020 emphasises the importance of integrating technology into education. The policy envisions a future where we weave digital tools seamlessly into the fabric of learning, making education more accessible and equitable. To bridge the digital divide, substantial investments in digital infrastructure are planned, promoting online resources and virtual classrooms that can reach even the most remote areas. 

The use of technology in education is both about providing access to information and enhancing the learning experience. For example, interactive e-books, educational apps and virtual laboratories can make complex concepts more understandable and engaging. Additionally, technology can facilitate personalised learning, allowing students to learn at their own pace and in their own style. 

Assessment Reforms for Holistic Evaluation 

Traditional assessment methods that rely heavily on rote memorisation are often criticised for failing to capture a student’s true potential. NEP 2020 addresses this by introducing significant reforms in assessment methodologies. The policy advocates for continuous and comprehensive evaluation (CCE). Here students are assessed on their understanding, application of knowledge and skills throughout the academic year. 

Regular formative assessments, such as quizzes, projects and presentations, provide ongoing feedback and support student learning are all going to address low learning outcomes. This approach helps identify areas where students need improvement and allows for timely interventions. Moreover, the policy emphasises the importance of developing higher-order thinking skills, such as critical analysis and creative problem-solving, which are essential for success in the 21st century. 

Higher Education: Flexibility and Research 

NEP 2020 brings a breath of fresh air to higher education in India by introducing flexibility in course choices and curricular structure. Students can now tailor their education according to their interests and career goals. Fostering a more personalised and meaningful learning experience are the key themes of NEP. The policy encourages the creation of multidisciplinary institutions that integrate arts, sciences, and professional studies. These steps can prepare students to think broadly and solve complex problems. 

Research and innovation are also key focus areas of NEP 2020. The policy aims to cultivate a robust research culture by promoting research-oriented teaching and providing adequate funding for research projects. By encouraging collaboration between academic institutions, industry and government, NEP 2020 seeks to create a vibrant ecosystem that drives innovation and contributes to national development.

Inclusive Education for All 

Inclusivity is a core tenet of NEP 2020, reflecting a commitment to providing equitable educational opportunities for all, regardless of socioeconomic background or physical abilities. The policy details mechanisms for scholarships, teacher deployments and infrastructure enhancements, particularly in rural and marginalised areas. This ensures that education is not just a privilege for the few but a fundamental right for every child. 

Special attention for children with disabilities, with provisions for creating inclusive classrooms that cater to their specific needs. This includes training teachers in special education, providing assistive devices, and ensuring accessible school infrastructure. By fostering an inclusive educational environment, NEP 2020 aims to break down barriers. This, in turn, will create a more just and equitable society. 

Implementation: The Challenge Ahead to Address Low Learning Outcomes

While NEP 2020’s vision is ambitious, the real challenge lies in its implementation and addressing low learning outcomes. This requires coordinated efforts from federal to local levels, substantial financial investments and a cultural shift in how education is perceived and valued. The policy outlines a phased implementation strategy, with clear goals set for the next decade. Regular monitoring and evaluation are crucial to ensure the policy’s adaptability and effectiveness. 

For successful implementation, it is essential to build strong partnerships between government, educational institutions, nonprofits and civil society. Engaging stakeholders at all levels, from policymakers to teachers and parents, is key to fostering a collective commitment to educational reform. Additionally, leveraging technology for efficient administration and data management can help streamline the implementation process and track progress. 

Our Mission Education (ME) programme aligns well with NEP and its dynamic undertakings. This flagship programme provides basic education to underserved children and runs over 260 education projects across India, ensuring that thousands of children receive quality education and a chance for a better future.

A Leap Towards a Knowledge Economy 

NEP 2020 has the potential to dramatically transform India’s educational landscape, positioning the country as a global knowledge superpower. By focusing on quality, equity and modernisation, the policy aims to enhance educational outcomes and foster a generation of well-rounded, responsible citizens. These individuals will be equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to drive future innovations and contribute to national and global development. 

As India embarks on this transformative journey, the success of NEP 2020 will depend on our collective commitment to its vision. By embracing the principles of inclusivity, flexibility and continuous improvement, we can create an educational system that not only meets the needs of today but also anticipates the challenges of tomorrow. Together, we can build a brighter future for our children and our nation.

Your Support Matters

Your donation can help Smile Foundation continue its mission to provide quality education and holistic development to thousands of children. By contributing, you enable us to improve learning environments and ensure that every child has the opportunity to succeed.

Join us in our journey to educate and empower children who need our help. By making a generous donation here, you can bring a smile to a child’s face and pave the way for a brighter future.

Categories
Health

Addressing Low Health-Seeking Behaviour in India

Addressing Low Health-Seeking Behaviour in India
Addressing Low Health-Seeking Behaviour in India

India is often seen as a hub for medical tourism, attracting patients from across the globe who seek quality healthcare at affordable costs. Yet, paradoxically, many Indians themselves exhibit a striking reluctance to seek medical help until their health conditions become severe. This delay in health-seeking behaviour can lead to worsened outcomes and, in many cases, preventable deaths, particularly among the youth.

The Reluctance of Indians to Seek Medical Help

Despite the advanced medical facilities available, many Indians tend to ignore their health issues until the pain becomes unbearable or there is visible evidence of something seriously wrong. This tendency is often due to a combination of cultural factors, lack of awareness and economic constraints. According to studies published less than 35% of rural Indians seek medical help when needed. The numbers are better for urban areas. This disparity underscores the urgent need for increasing health awareness and improving access to healthcare across the country.

Rising Incidence of Young Deaths

India has seen a worrying trend of young adults succumbing to heart attacks and other lifestyle-related diseases. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of mortality in India, accounting for over 27% of all deaths.

Alarmingly, a significant portion of these deaths occur in individuals under the age of 50. This trend is not unique to India; worldwide, the incidence of young deaths due to heart attacks is rising. The American Heart Association reports that heart attacks in people aged 35-54 have been increasing steadily over the past decade.

Promoting Health-Seeking Behaviour in Children and Women

To combat these alarming statistics, it is important to instill health-seeking behaviour from a young age. Schools can play a pivotal role in this regard. By incorporating health education into the curriculum, children can learn about the importance of regular check-ups, a balanced diet, physical activity and early detection of health issues. Health camps and regular screenings in schools can ensure that health issues are identified and addressed early.

For women, especially those in rural areas, Anganwadi centers can be instrumental. These centers, which are part of the Indian public health system, can provide not only maternal and child health services but also educate women about the importance of seeking timely medical help. By leveraging these existing structures, we can promote a culture of health-seeking behaviour among some of the most vulnerable populations.

The Link Between Healthcare and Economic Health

Good healthcare infrastructure is a hallmark of a healthy economy. When people are healthy, they are more productive, which contributes to economic growth. The WHO emphasizes that investments in health can yield significant economic returns- India with its dream of surpassing the second largest economy in the world by 2048 has to care about the purchasing power parity (PPP) of its citizens. A factor deeply dependent on the good health of Indians.

For every dollar invested in health, there is a return of up to $4 in terms of increased productivity and reduced healthcare costs. Thus, improving healthcare infrastructure and promoting health-seeking behaviour are not just moral imperatives but also economic necessities.

Smile Foundation’s Healthcare Initiatives

Smile Foundation is actively working towards bridging the healthcare gap in India through various innovative programmes.

  1. Mobile Medical Units: These units smartly names Smile on Wheels (SoW) travel to remote and underserved areas, providing essential medical services to those who have little or no access to healthcare facilities. They offer a range of services including general free health check-ups, diagnostic tests and distribution of medicines.
  2. Telemedicine: Leveraging technology, our telemedicine initiative connects patients in remote areas with specialist doctors. This service ensures that even those in the most inaccessible regions can receive expert medical advice and care.
  3. Health Camps: Regular health camps are organised in urban slums and rural areas, focusing on preventive healthcare. These camps offer screenings for various diseases, vaccinations and health education.
  4. Dental Care: Recognising the importance of oral health, Smile Foundation conducts dental camps where free check-ups and treatments are provided.
  5. Physiotherapy for Truck Drivers: This unique initiative addresses the health needs of truck drivers, who often suffer from musculoskeletal problems due to long hours of driving. Through physiotherapy camps, drivers receive the care they need to remain healthy and productive.

What can you do?

Your support can make a significant difference in the lives of many. By making a donation to our healthcare initiatives, you can help ensure that more Indians with less means have access to the medical care they need. Together, we can promote health-seeking behaviour, improve healthcare infrastructure and ultimately SAVE LIVES.

Through these efforts, Smile Foundation aims to create a healthier, more informed society where every individual has the opportunity to lead a healthy life. Your thoughtful contribution here can help turn this vision into reality.

Categories
Health

The Green Gains of Telemedicine

Telemedicine: Rural healthcare in India
The Green Gains of Telemedicine

Imagine someone living in a remote village of India, probably hundreds of kilometres away from a good-quality intensive care facility. What happens when they encounter an emergency? Since there are no intensivists in the local healthcare facility of their village, the only choice they are left with is to travel for hours, sometimes days, to reach a hospital where they can receive the necessary treatment.

However, there is a major challenge to this situation. In a severe case, this delay in receiving treatment can cause loss of life or other complications which could have been avoided by making the facility of an intensivist available in the patient’s village. Experts have pointed out the uneven distribution of healthcare professionals in rural and urban areas. Apart from this, in the absence of a live register for practicing doctors, it becomes difficult to know the accurate picture.

This is where telemedicine and tele-ICU facilities come in to bridge the gap. They enable a wider distribution of healthcare facilities by leveraging technology, lowering the burden on local facilities and providing necessary support to those living in rural and remote areas of the country.

Tele-ICUs enable an intensivist (a physician who specialises in the care and treatment of patients in intensive care) to monitor around 50-60 patients in multiple locations, compared to only 10-15 patients when the intensivist is at the bedside. This technology scales the scarce expertise of intensivists, making critical care more accessible.

What is Telemedicine?

While we have already spoken about it, let us try to understand what telemedicine is and how it functions. It is the remote delivery of medical services using technology. As discussed above, it helps in democratising the medical facilities and increasing accessibility. However, an often-overlooked aspect of telemedicine is its potential to reduce carbon footprint and helping the environment. Further, in this article, we will be focusing on this aspect of telemedicine and discuss its green gains.

Telemedicine and Carbon Footprint– A Case Study

A particular study conducted by the researchers at LY Prasad Eye Institute in Hyderabad found that 70-80 per cent of patients who were visiting the hospital for a check-up could easily receive the necessary support and guidance through teleconsultation because their problems were not as serious.

The study found that over a three-month period, teleconsultation led to 1,666 fewer kilometres of travel for patients and an average reduction of 176.6 kg of carbon dioxide emissions. These are figures the healthcare sector cannot afford to ignore. The healthcare sector in India emitted 74 million tonnes of carbon dioxide in 2014, around 3% of India’s total emissions of the gas that year. This figure is likely to have increased since then.

As we had discussed above the case of someone living in a remote part of the country, hundreds of kilometres away from a healthcare facility; for them to access support, they would have to travel the whole distance. This means carbon emissions which can be eliminated completely if telemedicine and teleconsultations are made available across the country.

It can be a gamechanger not just for these cases, but also for urban pockets where people can consult a doctor from the comforts of their home. In a country, where a huge amount of carbon emissions come from road traffic, this is a solution we cannot ignore.

Rise of Telemedicine in India and Globally

Telemedicine has proven particularly beneficial in rural areas, where access to healthcare is often limited. It has also been instrumental during the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing for continued healthcare delivery while minimizing the risk of virus transmission. The research paper, titled “Global evidence on the rapid adoption of telemedicine in primary care during the first 2 years of the COVID-19 pandemic: a scoping review protocol”, provides the evidence of rapid adoption of telemedicine in primary care facilities during the first two years of Covid-19 pandemic. The paper highlights that while the primary care was relying mostly on face-to-face consultations in the pre-pandemic era, it has now rapidly shifted to teleconsultations, making an important shift in the healthcare landscape.

One such case study is of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) in the United States which has been at the forefront of adopting telehealth programmes. It has been found that their initiative has not only improved the accessibility drastically but has also helped in significant environmental benefits.

A study found that the VHA’s telehealth programme saved millions of miles of patient travel each year. This reduction in travel corresponds to substantial carbon emissions savings. Using an Environmental Protection Agency emissions calculator, it was estimated that these savings were equivalent to removing thousands of passenger vehicles from the road for a year.

Telehealth/Telemedicine Initiatives in India

Invested individuals, nonprofits, private companies and the state have been focusing extensively on technology as a problem-solving mechanism in different areas, and healthcare is no exception to this. Over the last one decade, several initiatives have been launched to increase accessibility, invariably helping in environmental gains. 

e-Sanjeevani – Also known as the National Telemedicine Service of India facilitates quick and easy access to medical professionals and doctors through a smartphone. e-Sanjeevani operates in two modes: e-Sanjeevani AB-HWC and e-Sanjeevani OPD. The former is a provider-to-provider telemedicine system under the Ayushman Bharat Scheme, operating in a hub and spoke model. Health & Wellness Centres act as spokes linked with hubs set up in Medical Colleges/District-Level Hospitals, populated with doctors and specialists.

e-Sanjeevani OPD is a patient-to-doctor telemedicine system, enabling people to avail outpatient services from home. It aims to provide safe health services, bypassing avoidable elements such as travel, waiting time, and risk of infection. It has eased the burden on hospitals, allowing them to cater to more serious patients. In many states, eSanjeevaniOPD has enabled round-the-clock health services 365 days a year.

Challenges and Future Direction for Telemedicine in India

Despite its potential, the adoption of telemedicine faces several challenges. These include technological barriers, regulatory issues, and resistance from patients and providers. Addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts from all stakeholders, including policymakers, healthcare providers, and technology companies.

Particularly, for a country like India, where close to 70 per cent of the population lives in rural areas with minimal resources and financial support, implementing telemedicine facilities is highly-dependent on government intent and the initiatives by non-government organisations.

World Health Organization (WHO) has also come out with a comprehensive guide to assist countries in effective implementation of telemedicine services. The guide is not a stand-alone solution, but a complementary tool that works with user-cantered solutions to deliver high-quality remote care that is accountable and suitable to the context in which patients live.

It outlines practical steps countries can take through a process of planning, implementing, maintaining and budgeting a telemedicine programme to deliver equitable health outcomes. The guide also emphasises the importance of national digital health strategies underpinning all telemedicine interventions and includes leadership and governance, strategy and investment, infrastructure, legislation, policy and compliance, workforce, and services and applications.

Climate Change and Us

At the time of writing this article, data has shown that India is experiencing its longest and deadliest heatwave in a long time. Several parts of the country have been facing shortages of water, deaths of individuals due to heat-related complications, forest fires and much more.

Globally, the discourse around climate change is becoming more complicated as the world is realising the real and serious impact of it. Therefore, what we need today is for everyone to come together and fight this problem. We must focus more and more of our attention on shifting towards green energy and on reducing our carbon footprint. The telehealth and telemedicine initiatives can play a big role in this transition.

How You Can Help

Your support will help us more people by scaling up our projects related to telemedicine in India. By making a small donation to our healthcare programme, you can help us:

  • Expand our telemedicine infrastructure to more remote and underserved areas.
  • Provide training and support to healthcare professionals on the effective use of telemedicine tools.
  • Ensure that patients, especially the elderly and the newborns, receive timely and quality medical care, regardless of their location or environmental conditions.

Together, we can build a resilient healthcare system that not only survives but thrives in the face of climate change. Your contribution can make a significant difference in the lives of countless individuals who rely on telemedicine for their healthcare needs.

Join us in this mission. Donate here today and be a part of the solution for a healthier, more resilient future. You and I this equally well that- Health Cannot Wait!

Categories
Girl Child

7 ways to empower girl child in India

Seven ways to empower girl child in India
Seven ways to empower girl child in India

“I can’t even explain how helpful this scholarship is for me,” says first year Information Technology student, Arti, while talking about the financial support she received from our scholarship support initiative to pursue her college studies. Coming from a low-income family, with both her parents working as farmers, being admitted to an IT course in a reputed college was like a dream come true for her.

However, it was not an easy path to take because her parents could not afford to pay her high fee. Without scholarship support, she may have had to drop out and give up her dreams, or her father would have had to take out a loan at high interest rate. This is when Arti learnt about the scholarship that Smile was offering and applied for it. She cleared all the processes and received the amount.

“I was overjoyed when I received the scholarship. They also gave me a laptop to support me in my long-term studies. It was really important for me as an IT branch student,” she added. Arti wants to help her aging parents after getting a job. A scholarship for her means upliftment of an entire family.

The need for empowering girl children


A 2024 research paper titled “The Importance of Educating and Empowering Girl Child in India”, written by Dr Meena Khoda and Sangita Hazarika, highlights the importance of education for the empowerment of girl children in India. The authors have emphasised that in a patriarchal society like India, it is through education that girls can be empowered. Through a secondary data research, the authors found that no state in India had a higher or equal literacy level for girls as compared to boys.

This shows that girls continue to be stuck in a vicious circle where they do not receive adequate education, which in turn affects their self-worth and leads to more societal problems like child marriage, etc. It also ensures that girls and women do not adequately participate in the economic and social growth of the country.

Mahatma Gandhi once said – “If you educate a man you educate an individual, but if you educate a woman you educate an entire family.”

This is particularly true because it has been found that educated mothers are healthier and they also have better educated and healthier children. This is because when educated women become mothers, they are aware of the needs and wants of their own bodies and the social needs of their children. They are able to influence decisions that impact the future of their children and families. Therefore, an educated woman can empower an entire family, and uplift everyone with her.

Seven ways to empower a girl child in India

Having understood the importance of empowering a girl child, now we must look at the many ways through which we can achieve this goal. Here are the seven ways to empower a girl child in India:

Understanding the role of education

We have already discussed this in detail – education is extremely important to empower the girl child. It not only makes them socially aware, but also opens new opportunities for them. Educated girls can go on to excel in different careers and leave an indelible mark. They can also become financially independent, thus giving them the agency to make their own decisions. Therefore, education is the most potent tool in liberating the women and giving them a chance to realise their true potential.

Promoting health and well-being

A strong correlation has been found in the empowerment of women and their health and wellbeing. A research paper titled “The Role of Women’s Empowerment in Enhancing Health and Wellbeing and in Ensuring Sustainable Development, and Implications for Policy in Ethiopia: A Review Paper” by Adamu Amanu Asari found that women who shoulder the majority of children’s, households’, and communities’ welfare obligations, play a vital role in the nation’s development. However, their effectiveness in these roles depends on their empowerment status.

This is true for any developing or developed country in the world, including India. Health and wellness of women ensures that they live better lives and empowered women are more likely to make better health related decisions for themselves.

Breaking gender stereotypes

This brings us to our next point, which is about breaking gender stereotypes. In a society where women face numerous stereotypes, they are more likely to remain stuck in a negative loop. There are some stereotypes like women cannot do well in STEM subjects or they cannot drive as well as men. Such stereotypes create adverse situations for women in which they face higher societal pressure while pursuing a career path not considered ‘feminine’.

These stereotypes are further perpetuated in today’s technologically advanced world as well, embedding them in our systems even strongly. A study by a team of psychology researchers revealed that gender-neutral internet searches often yield male-dominated results. This bias in search algorithms can influence users, promoting gender bias and potentially affecting hiring decisions. The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), is part of ongoing research into how artificial intelligence (AI) can shape our perceptions and actions.

Another research article found that AI systems reflect the biases of the source material, perpetuating harmful ideas about certain genders. These harmful ideas have led to systemic oppression of women and other marginalized genders for decades. And, this is why, it is important to address the problem of gender stereotypes if we want to find ways to empower girl child in India.

Fighting against early marriage

In India, each year, at least 1.5 million girls under 18 get married. While the prevalence of early marriage declined from 47% to 27% between 2005-2006 and 2015-2016, it is still too high. This practice not only affects the girl directly but also her family and community.

A girl who is married as a child is more likely to be out of school, not earn money and not contribute financially to the community. She is more likely to experience domestic violence and become infected with HIV/AIDS. She is more likely to have children when she is still a child, increasing the chances of her dying due to complications during pregnancy and childbirth. Therefore, fighting against early marriage is a crucial step in empowerment of girls and women in India.

Engaging community and stakeholders

Now that we understand the various issues that we need to tackle for empowerment of women to come true, let us look at how we can do it. One of the best ways to do this is by engaging the community and important stakeholders in the process. These stakeholders can be the teachers, local leaders, influential members of the society, or others.

Since stakeholders carry a certain authority in the societies and communities they operate in, engaging them and taking them onboard can accelerate the process of achieving positive results. Community involvement, in the same way, helps in taking everyone together to work towards a common goal. This can be a gamechanger especially in villages and smaller towns where communities play an important social role.

Making boys allies in the journey

Boys, from a young age, are conditioned to develop patriarchal ideas of the society. This puts them in an advantageous position and normalises the discrimination of girls in their eyes.

When these boys grow up to become men, they fail to fight alongside women for equal opportunity, justice and empowerment. Therefore, it is extremely important to educate the boys from an early age about these issues and to make them allies. Aware and educated boys grow into men who support the women in their life in realising their dreams and potential.

Supporting NGOs

Lastly, another way to empower girl children is to support the initiatives that are working in this direction. We started this story by highlighting how our scholarship support helped Arti in focusing on her studies, and how young Arti dreams to take care of her ageing parents when she grows up and finds a job. This is how we can create a long-lasting impact by supporting young women.

If you are someone who wants to be a part of this change, then becoming a part of our She Can Fly initiative is one of the best ways to empower girl child in India. In the end, it is only through everyone’s collective efforts that we can achieve the dream of empowering our girls. By empowering them, we can empower our country.

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