Author: Smile Editorial Team

How Nutrition Shapes a Child’s Future?

Post author By Smile Editorial Team
Post date March 16, 2025
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Smile Foundation recognizes that nutrition is the cornerstone of a child’s health, academic performance, and overall future.

149.2 million children aged below five years are stunted (short for their age) and 45.4 million are wasted (underweight for their height) across the globe. The World Health Organization (WHO) reveals that over three-quarters of children suffering from wasting live in Asia. WHO also estimates that over 47% of children below five years are anemic, and 38.9 million children are overweight across the world. About 45% of deaths among children below five years are linked to undernutrition. Not just the deaths, stunt, wasted, anemia, and other issues are also closely related to nutrition deficiencies. Before we go on to discuss its causes and ways to overcome it, let’s understand the importance of a healthy diet and WHO’s recommendations on maintaining a healthy diet.

Importance of a healthy diet

A healthy diet is incredibly important for children as it lays the foundation for their growth, development, and overall health. Proper nutrition ensures that children get the essential vitamins, minerals, protein, fats, and carbohydrates needed to support their physical, cognitive, and emotional development. Below is a breakdown of why a healthy diet is so crucial for children.

1. Physical growth and development: A balanced diet with nutrients like calcium, protein, and vitamin D helps in the proper formation of bones, muscles, and organs, ensuring children grow at a healthy rate. Also, it provides the necessary energy for children to stay active throughout the day, supporting both physical activity and cognitive function. Carbohydrates are a key source of energy for children, fueling everything from running and playing to concentrating in school.

2. Building immune system: A healthy diet helps children in building a strong immune system, reducing the risk of illnesses and infections. Nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin C, and zinc support the body’s ability to fight off sickness and maintain overall health.

3. Reduced risk of chronic diseases: A balanced diet with limited processed foods and high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can lower the risk of developing chronic health issues later in life, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.

4. Regulation of sleep: A balanced diet helps maintain healthy sleep patterns. Foods rich in magnesium, tryptophan, and serotonin-boosting amino acids can promote restful sleep, which is essential for growth, learning, and mood regulation.

WHO recommendation on maintaining a healthy diet

One of the significant factors of a healthy diet is its diversity. For it helps to meet essential nutrients’ requirements of individuals. For children aged between 6 and 23 months, the WHO has set up a set of guidelines to include minimum dietary diversity in their meals. It is the consumption of four or more food groups from the seven recommended food groups. The recommended food groups are-

grains, roots, and tubers
legumes and nuts
dairy products
flesh foods (meat, fish, poultry, and organ meats)
eggs
vitamin-A-rich fruits and vegetables
fruits and vegetables

It means that a child is most likely to consume at least one animal-source food and at least one fruit or vegetable in addition to a staple food in a day. By consuming adequately diversified food, one can improve intake of nutrients. It in turn will lead to better nutritional status. In addition, below are some of the recommendations on maintaining a healthy diet.

1. Fruits and vegetables: WHO recommends an intake of at least 400 g or five portions of fruits and vegetables in a day. It will help to ensure an adequate daily intake of dietary fiber. Intake of vegetables and fruits can be improved by

a. Including vegetables in all meals.

b. Consuming raw vegetables and fruits as snacks.

c. Consuming a variety of fruits and vegetables, especially seasonal fruits.

2. Fats: It is advisable to limit total fat intake to less than 30% of total energy. This will prevent unhealthy weight gain. In order to reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases, one needs to reduce saturated fats to less than 10% of total energy intake and trans fats to less than 1% of total energy intake. WHO recommends replacing both saturated and trans fats with polyunsaturated fats. Consumption of fats can be improved by

a. Switching to boiling and steaming instead of deep frying.

b. Replacing butter, ghee, and lard with oils rich in polyunsaturated fats like soybean, corn, safflower, and sunflower oils.

c. Consuming lean meats and reduced-fat dairy foods.

d. Removing visible fat from meat.

e. Limiting consumption of baked, fried, and other processed foods.

3. Salt, sodium, and potassium: According to research, reducing salt intake to less than 5 grams per day could prevent at least 1.7 million deaths in a year. In general, people consume too much sodium through salt and a lesser amount of potassium. This is one of the reasons for high blood pressure, which in turn increases the risk of stroke and heart diseases. Salt intake can be reduced by

a. Limiting consumption of salty snacks.

b. Choosing edible items with lower sodium content.

c. Limiting the amount of salt and other sodium condiments while preparing foods.

Similarly, potassium—which is capable of mitigating negative effects of increased sodium consumption on blood pressure—can be increased by consuming fresh fruits and vegetables.

4. Sugars: The recommended level of sugar intake in a day is less than 10% of total energy intake. Reducing it further to less than 5% of total energy intake would provide additional health benefits, according to experts. Increased sugar consumption leads to dental caries, unhealthy weight gain leading to overweight and obesity, and cardiovascular diseases. Sugar intake can be reduced by

a. Consuming fresh fruits and raw vegetables.

b. Avoiding consumption of foods and drinks with high amounts of sugars.

Link between healthy diet and academic performance

Over a period of time, multiple studies have established the direct connection between diet and academic performance of students. The diet of a person can have a direct impact on their cognitive function, energy levels, mental health, and overall well-being.

1. Improved cognitive function: A diet that is rich with complex carbohydrates like whole grains, vegetables, and legumes releases glucose steadily into the bloodstream, fueling the brain for a long period. This steady supply of glucose is vital for maintaining focus, memory, and mental performance of students. In contrast, diets high in refined sugars and simple carbohydrates can cause blood sugar spikes and crashes. It in turn will negatively affect the cognitive performance, mood, and attention of students.

Inclusion of antioxidants like berries is associated with improved memory and learning abilities. These antioxidants will protect the brain from oxidative stress. Similarly, inclusion of healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids supports cognitive functions like memory, concentration, and problem-solving abilities, and improves brain plasticity. Polyphenols, commonly found in tea, dark chocolate, and red grapes, are found to enhance memory and learning by stimulating the growth of brain cells in the hippocampus.

Certain amino acids found in protein-rich foods like lean meats, nuts, and eggs are utilized by the brain to produce neurotransmitters that regulate mood, cognition, and memory.

Nutrients like iron and zinc are vital for maintaining brain function. While iron helps to carry oxygen to the brain, zinc supports neurotransmitter function and protects the brain from oxidative damage. These minerals ensure that the brain gets the oxygen and nutrients it needs to operate efficiently.

2. Improved mood regulation: A healthy diet supports mood regulation because of their influence on multiple neurotransmitters. A diet rich in tryptophan helps to maintain optimal serotonin levels—the feel-good neurotransmitter—regulating mood, appetite, and sleep. Similarly, diets rich in tyrosine and phenylalanine support dopamine production, helping to boost motivation and improve mood. Diets rich in tyrosine help with the synthesis of norepinephrine, supporting mood regulation and stress management.

Deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals can negatively affect mood and mental health. B vitamins, especially B6, B12, and B9, are crucial for the production and function of neurotransmitters. Deficiencies in these vitamins are associated with symptoms of depression, irritability, and anxiety. Foods like leafy greens, beans, eggs, and fortified cereals are rich in B vitamins and help maintain mental stability.

Magnesium is known for its role in regulating mood and stress levels. It has a calming effect on the nervous system and helps reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Magnesium-rich foods include dark leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.

Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to mood disorders like depression. Vitamin D helps regulate serotonin levels, and sunlight exposure or foods like fortified dairy and fatty fish can boost vitamin D levels, improving mood.

When students consume a nutritious diet, their cognitive ability will improve and their mood will stabilize in addition to their physical well-being. This in turn will ensure that students attend their classes regularly without taking leaves. Reduction in absenteeism will ensure significant improvement in their academic performance.

Smile Foundation’s work in Child Nutrition and Education

Smile Foundation recognizes that nutrition is the cornerstone of a child’s health, academic performance, and overall future. Through its nutrition-focused initiatives integrated with education programs, the foundation ensures that children from underserved communities receive both quality learning opportunities and proper nourishment—two essential pillars for holistic development.

Through its Mission Education program, Smile Foundation provides mid-day meals and nutritional support to children, ensuring they receive adequate vitamins, proteins, and essential micronutrients necessary for cognitive function, physical growth, and immunity. By addressing malnutrition alongside education, the foundation helps children stay attentive in classrooms, develop better memory and learning abilities, and reduce absenteeism due to illness. These efforts directly align with global recommendations, including those by the World Health Organization (WHO), advocating for balanced diets, diverse food groups, and sustainable nutrition practices.

Moreover, Smile Foundation’s healthcare initiative, Smile on Wheels, extends preventive healthcare and nutritional awareness programs to marginalized communities. Through regular health camps, anemia screening, and dietary education for families, the foundation promotes long-term nutritional well-being. By ensuring that children not only learn in school but also thrive physically and mentally, Smile Foundation plays a vital role in shaping healthier, more resilient generations, breaking the cycle of poverty, malnutrition, and academic underperformance.

Healthy diets play a significant role in shaping the future of children. For it not only helps in maintaining physical well-being but also enormously supports the mental well-being of students. When a child is fit both physically and mentally, improved academic performance becomes inevitable. This in turn ensures a prosperous life for children.

Tags #NutritionOfAChild

Smile

Social Innovation: Technology revolutionizing development work

Post author By Smile Editorial Team
Post date March 14, 2025
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With its omnipresence, technology has become an inevitable part of everyone’s life. People, from children to nonagenarians, are using technology in one form or another. It has touched and impacted our lives in more ways than one. Just as it has revolutionized our personal lives, technology has also immensely impacted non-profit organizations in recent years, and no doubt, it will continue to benefit those who use it in the right way. Research has proven that technological advancements have enabled these organizations to serve communities better by increasing the efficiency of their work. Organizations are using sophisticated tools and platforms to reach wider audiences, raise more funds, and coordinate services precisely.

Understanding non-profits

A non-profit is a legal entity that works to fulfill social, charitable, religious, educational, and other community-focused purposes. It works for public welfare and doesn’t aim to make a profit. It relies on grants, donations, and volunteers to carry out its activities.

Non-profit work refers to activities aimed at promoting a social cause. Its primary focus is to help people by addressing community needs, not to obtain financial benefits. These activities often focus on providing services, resources, or support without the intention of earning money for personal gain or shareholders. Any profits made are reinvested into their mission rather than being distributed among members.

Understanding Social Innovation

Social innovation, according to the Stanford Graduate School of Business, “is the process of developing and deploying effective solutions to challenging and often systemic social and environmental issues in support of social progress.” It involves providing solutions in innovative and sustainable ways through active collaboration with multiple stakeholders like governments, businesses, and non-profit organizations. It can also involve adapting existing methods in more effective ways.

The primary goal of social innovation is to create positive and long-lasting change by addressing unmet needs or improving the well-being of communities. It also fosters inclusion and ensures that solutions are accessible to everyone, particularly those who have been underserved or excluded.

Reasons to embrace technology for social innovation

Among the numerous compelling reasons why technology is a key driver of social innovation, some of them are discussed below:

By utilizing technologies for data collection and analysis, non-profit organizations can identify their needs accurately and target donor engagement opportunities more effectively. This also enables better decision-making and impact measurement.
Technology allows organizations to reach larger and more diverse populations without geographic boundaries. It also facilitates collaboration among different stakeholders through digital platforms.
By using the right technological solutions, operations can be streamlined, helping organizations focus on delivering efficient results and maximizing resources.
Automation of laborious tasks, such as creating reports and managing inventory, can make things easier, allowing employees to spend more time on important work and improving organizational efficiency.
Technology promotes transparency in decision-making, improving accountability, especially in public services and funding.
Digital communication and real-time data enable fast and coordinated responses during crises.

Technology revolutionizing non-Profit work

Data-Driven Decision Making and Impact Measurement:
With tools that collect, analyze, and interpret data, organizations can make more informed and effective decisions that ensure better outcomes for their beneficiaries. The market offers numerous tools and software for the automated collection of data from multiple sources, such as surveys, social media, field reports, and donor platforms. These tools integrate the data to provide a comprehensive view of operations and impact. Real-time data allows non-profits to quickly adjust their strategies or operations based on emerging trends, donor behavior, or immediate community needs.
Monitoring and evaluation tools allow individuals to track programs continuously, helping them assess whether initiatives are achieving the desired impact. Data visualization tools can help create dashboards to showcase key performance indicators (KPIs), providing a clear understanding of mission success or areas needing improvement. Mobile apps, surveys, or online platforms can gather real-time feedback, enabling non-profits to adapt programs or services quickly.

Increased Transparency:
Transparency and efficiency are vital for building trust with stakeholders, donors, and communities while ensuring that resources are used properly. Open data platforms enable non-profits to share key information about their activities, budgets, and outcomes in an easily accessible and transparent manner. Technology enables automation of reporting processes, allowing consistent and easy generation of reports on finances, activities, and outcomes.

Tools like QuickBooks, Wave, or Xero automate accounting and financial tracking. Some non-profits use blockchain technology to provide immutable records of transactions, making it easier to track donations, expenses, and program activities. Blockchain offers an additional layer of security and verifiability, assuring donors that their money is being used appropriately. These tools reduce delays and human error while ensuring stakeholders have up-to-date information at all times.

Online platforms like GoFundMe, Kickstarter, or JustGiving provide transparency in fundraising campaigns by showing how much has been raised, the progress toward goals, and the impact of donations. Technology also allows for digital audits accessible by donors and other stakeholders, ensuring that all financial and operational activities are regularly reviewed for transparency, reducing the likelihood of misuse of funds.
Technology enables non-profits to manage grants more effectively by tracking deadlines, expenditures, and compliance requirements, ensuring that funds are used as specified by donors or funding bodies.

Innovative Fundraising:
Technology opens new opportunities for raising funds, engaging donors, and managing resources more effectively than ever before. Crowdfunding platforms like Indiegogo, Kickstarter, and GoFundMe help organizations tap into a global donor base by creating compelling campaigns—written, audio, and visual. Sharing these campaigns with a vast online community increases reach and funding potential.

Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn allow nonprofits to share their campaigns, events, and appeals directly with their audience. Peer-to-peer fundraising platforms like GiveLively, Classy, and FirstGiving enable individuals to create their own fundraising pages, empowering them to mobilize resources and raise funds on behalf of the organization. These platforms can host live fundraising events, share stories, and provide updates, building a sense of urgency.

With secure online donation platforms such as PayPal, Stripe, DonorBox, or Network for Good, nonprofits can accept donations from anywhere in the world. These platforms simplify the donation process for donors and provide transparency for non-profits to track contributions. Many online platforms offer features for recurring donations, ensuring a steady flow of funds and long-term sustainability.

Conclusion

Technology is like a double-edged sword. While it offers incredible opportunities, it also leaves nonprofits vulnerable to data breaches and hacks. It is a proven fact that technological advancements have enabled nonprofits like us to reach wider audiences, raise more funds, and coordinate services more effectively, allowing them to serve communities better. However, there have been instances where nonprofits have fallen victim to hackers, losing both data and funds. Therefore, it is essential to embrace technology while understanding the potential risks it may bring. The balance between adopting technology and managing its potential harms can be achieved through a cautious and thoughtful approach.

Tags #SocialInnovation

Education Girl Child

No child brides mean less maternal and child mortality rates

Post author By Smile Editorial Team
Post date March 14, 2025
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No child brides mean less maternal and child mortality rates

Child marriage has been a pressing social issue in India since decades. Even though there has been incredible progress in reducing such cases, the practice still persists in some parts of the country, especially those areas which struggle with issues of poverty, poor education, social divides, etc. Child marriage, in turn, perpetuate this cycle of poverty and inequality because it stops young girls from accessing education and takes away their agency.

According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), India has made strides in reducing child marriage, yet approximately 23% of women aged 20-24 were married before the age of 18. For someone living in urban India, child marriage may seem like a problem of the past. However, it is an extremely sad reality for those girls who have to bear its brunt. Therefore, it is crucial that we talk about the problem of child brides in India and its relationship with the maternal and child mortality rates.

Child brides and maternal mortality in India

As India has grown in the last few years and decades, it has managed to bring down its child and maternal mortality rates. According to the Sample Registration System (SRS) 2020 report, the under-five mortality rate (U5MR) in India declined to 32 deaths per 1,000 live births, while the infant mortality rate (IMR) dropped to 28 deaths per 1,000 live births. At the same time, maternal mortality ratio (MMR) has also seen a decline from 398 deaths per 100,000 live births in 1997-98 to 103 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2017-19.

These are positive numbers and worth celebrating, but the challenge is that India is still behind in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of reducing under-five mortality rate to 25 and maternal mortality rate to 70 by the year 2030. In a fast-growing economy like India, it is fair to expect that the problem of child mortality and maternal mortality is brought down to a level that becomes almost negligible or is completely eliminated.

Link between child brides and mortality rates

Now that we understand where India stands when it comes to maternal mortality rate and child mortality rate, it is important that we look at the link between these and the problem of child brides. First of all, child marriage is not the sole or the biggest reason for high mortality rates. There are several factors that contribute to it, like poor access to nutrition and healthcare facilities, lack of awareness, etc.

However, child marriage does play a role in contributing to high child and maternal mortality rates in India. Girls who marry before the age of 18 are more likely to experience early pregnancies, which pose significant health risks for both the mother and the child. Early pregnancies are associated with complications such as preeclampsia, obstructed labour, and low birth weight, all of which increase the risk of maternal and neonatal mortality.

According to a study in the BMJ, the children who are born to mothers who were married when they were minors are at a higher risk of stunting, malnutrition, etc. As mentioned above, the problem is exacerbated because of lack of access to education, nutrition, and proper healthcare. Child brides are more likely to have poorer access to these facilities.

Ending child marriage in India

Now that we understand the link between child marriage and maternal and child mortality rates, we must talk about the solutions. Here are some key strategies that can be adopted:

Education access – The first and most important change agent is access to good quality education to children, irrespective of their gender. When children, especially girls, get access to education, they are less likely to be married off at an early age. In India, initiatives like the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign aim to promote girls’ education and empower them to make informed decisions about their lives.
Economic empowerment – The second important step is to improve the economic status of people in India as lack of resources is one of the biggest reasons why poor parents decide to marry off their daughters. Therefore, it is important that investment is made in the area of providing employment opportunities, skilling, and supporting grassroots entrepreneurs.
Community engagement – While child marriage is an issue that is rooted in problems of poverty and lack of education, it is also a social ill that disguises as a tradition. Therefore, it is important that community leaders at local level, religious figures, and youth are engaged to change the perceptions of people around this issue.
Legal framework – Strengthening and enforcing laws against child marriage is essential. The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (PCMA) 2006 sets the legal age of marriage at 18 for girls and 21 for boys. However, gaps in enforcement and lack of awareness about the law remain challenges. Efforts to raise the legal age of marriage for girls to 21 are currently underway, which could further deter the practice.

Initiatives in India

The country has taken many initiatives over the years to deal with this problem, including policy frameworks, awareness campaigns, and even television shows. Let’s look at some of the initiatives taken to erase the problems of child and maternal mortality in India:

Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (PCMA) 2006: It criminalizes child marriage and provides penalties for those who facilitate or participate in the practice.

Kishori Shakti Yojana: This scheme aims to empower adolescent girls through education, nutrition, and life skills training, reducing their vulnerability to child marriage.

Childline 1098: The helpline provides a platform for reporting cases of child marriage and rescuing at-risk children.

National Health Mission (NHM): The NHM includes programs like Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) and Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA), which focus on improving maternal and child health through financial incentives and free healthcare services.

Apart from these, various initiatives have been taken by international organizations like UNICEF, NGOs including Smile Foundation, and corporations through their CSR initiatives.

Conclusion

Elimination of child marriage in India is not just about reducing child and maternal mortality rates, but it is also a moral imperative and a step towards reducing the inequalities that exist in our society. What we need is to begin by addressing the root cause of the problem and then employ targeted interventions. Education, economic empowerment, community engagement, and strong legal frameworks are key to achieving this goal. In this journey, the role played by the government, NGOs, and private sector is equally important. Therefore, we must join our hands together and support any initiative that aims to fight this problem.

Tags #ChildBrides

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What India can learn from Other Countries in Social Development?

Post author By Smile Editorial Team
Post date March 13, 2025
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What India can learn from Other Countries in Social Development?

How does a country grow? There are many cornerstones of this progress, like economic development and social development. When we talk about social development, it includes education, equality, healthcare, poverty alleviation, and overall well-being of people. India, over the decades, has made exceptional progress in these areas, coming from exploitation of being a British colony to surpassing the economy of the United Kingdom in size. Now, as we enter a new era, India needs to adopt best practices unique to the context of the country and accelerate its journey of progress. Having said that, there is a lot that India can learn from other countries to achieve this. In this article, we will explore the lessons that the country can draw from global examples.

Education: The Finland and Singapore Models

One of the most important foundation stones of social progress for any country is the quality of education that is provided to its citizens irrespective of their economic and social backgrounds. Many countries around the world have done great work in the field of education. However, Finland stands out in this area because of the innovations it has introduced in its education system. Singapore is another example from which India can learn.

If we look at Finland first, we can see that its education system puts greater emphasis on student well-being, equity and the quality of teachers. It ensures free and universal access to education, including transportation and meals. At the same time, Finland has shunned focusing on standardized examinations or testing of students, and its focus on holistic development. Teachers are provided regular training, and their professional development is supported through high investment initiatives.

Now, looking at Singapore, we can learn that they have focused heavily on skill development and learning as a lifelong process. It is especially important for countries like India that are emerging economies with large employable populations. If India puts a special emphasis on skilling of students, it can create a productive workforce that may attract global businesses to run their operations in the country.

Healthcare Initiatives in United Kingdom

The second most important element, although not in a chronological order, is a robust healthcare system that ensures access to good quality medical treatment to everyone. By having a good healthcare infrastructure, countries can save a lot of money that gets wasted because of illnesses that can be avoided, and also support families who are likely to go bankrupt in the event of a serious illness of any member.

There are many initiatives globally that India can learn from. We will look at the National Health Services (NHS) in the United Kingdom where universal healthcare is funded through taxes and it is made accessible to all citizens. India has already started on this path by providing a universal health insurance scheme funded by the government. At the same time, state governments have also been investing in this area.

Learning Gender Equality Interventions from Iceland and Rwanda

First of all, we must remember that these are examples chosen for the ease of understanding what India can learn. There are, obviously, many more initiatives in this area and others globally that can be highlighted. However, we are focusing on Iceland here because it has consistently been ranked as the most gender-equal country in the world and that is because of the many initiatives it has taken, like mandatory parental leave for both mothers and fathers, equal pay and wage transparency, and a significant presence of women in political and leadership roles. Similarly, Rwanda has also done a lot in the area of women empowerment as the country has the highest percentage of women in its parliament.

Poverty Alleviation Programmes in Bangladesh and Brazil

Recently, India has done a wonderful job of uplifting lakhs of people out of poverty. However, the country still has a long way to go. Poverty alleviation is also key to social development because it supports the people in many ways as they can take care of the basic needs, consume nutritional food, and spend money on education of their children. Here, India can learn from Brazil which has the Bolsa Familia Program that is a conditional cash transfer program. Under this, the government provides financial assistance to low-income families if they commit to meeting education and health requirements as set by the government.

On the other hand, Bangladesh has done a great job of promoting micro entrepreneurship in the country through its microfinance institution called Grameen Bank which provides non-collateral small loans to those who need it. Using this money, people get into new ways of earning their livelihood, and in some cases employing others as well. This way, poverty alleviation becomes a structural process with everyone participating in it.

Bhutan and New Zealand’s Community Engagement

Lastly, we will look at how India can take lessons in community engagement from countries like New Zealand and Bhutan. Community engagement means ensuring that there is social cohesion in the country and all population groups thrive together. In New Zealand, the Maori community has been assimilated with the population through emphasis on indigenous rights and cultural heritage. Maori people also have a strong presence in the New Zealand parliament which makes them feel included. Similarly, in Bhutan, the government measures Gross National Happiness (GNH) which prioritizes well-being over economic growth. Bhutan has also shown that it is dedicated towards environment conservation and supporting equitable development. This means, no social groups are excluded from the growth and everyone’s happiness or well-being is taken into consideration.

India’s Challenges

While all of these are great examples that India can learn from, we must also remember that the country has unique circumstances and challenges too. Therefore, it cannot straight away copy the initiatives from other countries. These need to be contextualized and modified as per Indian requirements. For example, India’s diversity is its strength but also a great challenge because it means that the country needs to invest in unique initiatives to promote social cohesion addressing specific needs of religions, communities, and demographics.

Additionally, the large population of India means that programs must be designed in a way that they can be scaled to that level. Lastly, collaboration within different government agencies, political groups, private sector, and non government organizations is also essential for implementation of these initiatives in India because of the complexity of its demographics.

Conclusion

India stands at a crossroads in its journey toward social development. By learning from the successes and challenges of other countries, India can adopt innovative approaches to education, healthcare, gender equality, skilling the youth, and involving children for the welfare of underserved children. These lessons, when adapted to India’s context, have the potential to create a more inclusive and equitable society.

Smile

The Promise of a World where We Root for One Another

Post author By Smile Editorial Team
Post date March 12, 2025
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The Promise of a World where We Root for One Another

Imagine you are starting to learn a new skill or make a career pivot at an age where many people consider the move rather irrational. You have realised that you no longer enjoy the work you have been doing for close to a decade and want to go back to college. How would people around you react to this decision? Will they support you? Or will they criticize you for putting your career in jeopardy? Lastly, what would you prefer for yourself – people who root for you at every step of the way or those who find faults in your decisions?

A world where every person, regardless of their background, circumstances, talent, is supported and championed by others is the world where everyone can thrive to become a better version of themselves. A world where communities are built on mutual encouragement, and successes are shared as collective victories. Today, we are living in an age of division, conflict, polarization, and this makes it even more important to strive for creating a world where everyone roots for each other. This is because through collaboration, empathy, and the celebration of collective growth, humanity can achieve extraordinary progress.

Why do rooting for each other matters?

Yes, it is a gesture of goodwill. It shows that we are part of a shared humanity, and we appreciate each other. But it is also much more than that – it is the foundation of a thriving society. When individuals and societies support each other, they create a domino effect of positivity, inclusion and growth. It has the power to foster collective progress. For instance, mentorship in professional settings enables individuals to grow, innovate, and contribute to the betterment of their fields. Studies show that organizations with strong mentorship programs have higher employee retention and satisfaction rates.

At the same time, an empathetic society will look at its marginalized population and will root for their success. It can be achieved through advocacy, empowerment, sharing of resources, etc. And lastly, this can also go a long way in building strong social bonds, which means people will be more likely to reciprocate and help each other, rather than always trying to one-up themselves. Acts of encouragement build resilience against division and discontent, fostering a sense of belonging that benefits mental health and well-being.

Social movements exemplifying support for each other

There are initiatives around the world, including in India, which exemplify what rooting for each other looks like. One of the biggest examples is the global climate movement where several organizations, individuals, student groups, etc., are coming together to create a meaningful change. Many of these stakeholders have a strong voice because they come from affluent social groups and countries, while the communities that are most affected by climate change are the marginalized ones.

Similarly, there are various social entrepreneurship initiatives like India’s SEWA (Self-Employed Women’s Association) that focus on rooting for underserved communities by providing resources, opportunities, and platforms for growth. Then, in the digital world, we see support for each other in the form of open-source collaboration and sharing of resources to make education accessible to everyone. These are just a few of the many initiatives that are going around the world on an everyday basis. It can be as small as someone making a change at a hyperlocal level by helping another person, like providing free tuition to someone in need – or it can be as big as countries coming together to support those who are living in conflict zones.

Kerala’s Kudumbashree Mission is a wonderful example of this. It is a community-led poverty eradication initiative where self-help groups and women in rural areas collaborate to create livelihoods, access microfinance, and advocate for social change. Their success has inspired similar initiatives globally. In the field of education, we can look at what Finland is doing. Finland’s education system emphasizes collaboration over competition, with teachers, parents, and policymakers working collectively to ensure every child succeeds. The emphasis on inclusive classrooms and tailored support helps students thrive academically and emotionally.

Looking at competition in a new way

While we live in society where it is easy to see each other as a competitor, whether it is in a school classroom or job market – we must also understand the benefits of rooting for each other. It is true that healthy competition drives excellence and innovation, but excessive obsession with competition can also easily take a negative shape where others’ failures are also celebrated. Instead, we must create a world where excelling in one’s domain is followed by helping those who are left behind. We can foster a sense of cooperation within competitive environments so that it also continues to motivate everyone to do better, while also pushing them to help others. In fact, the act of helping others should be embedded in the culture of competition itself as a quality that sets you apart from others.

Thus, supporting each other can create a multiple ripple effect which can be beneficial at an extraordinary scale. It can lead to economic growth because societies that support marginalized groups experience higher economic productivity. A World Bank report states that closing gender gaps in the workforce could add $12 trillion to global GDP by 2025. It can also lead to social stability, eliminating conflict and resistance. Cooperation can begin at a local level and reach a global level. We saw an example of this during the Covid pandemic where people not only helped their neighbours but also contributed to helping those living in countries that were worse affected. At the same time, countries also extended support to each other by sharing vaccines, resources, knowledge, etc.

Rooting for one another is not just an idealistic notion—it is a practical approach to building stronger, more resilient societies. By fostering a culture of collaboration and empathy, we can address systemic challenges, uplift marginalized voices, and create opportunities for all. At the global stage, we have institutions like the United Nations, World Health Organization, and many more that continue to serve this initiative of global cooperation and rooting for each other.

Smile Foundation exemplifies the spirit of rooting for one another through its wide-ranging welfare initiatives in education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment across India. By prioritizing access to quality education, the foundation enables children from underserved communities to build brighter futures, breaking generational cycles of poverty. Through Smile on Wheels, its mobile healthcare initiative, the organization ensures that marginalized populations receive essential medical care, reinforcing the idea that no one should be left behind due to their circumstances.

Additionally, Smile Foundation’s livelihood and women’s empowerment programs equip individuals with vocational skills, financial literacy, and entrepreneurial support, fostering economic independence and self-reliance. These initiatives align closely with the blog’s vision of a society where success is not a solitary journey but a shared, collective achievement. By empowering communities with resources and opportunities, the Smile Foundation is actively contributing to a culture of encouragement, resilience, and sustainable growth—a world where individuals and communities lift each other up, rather than compete to pull one another down.

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Health

Mobile Health Solutions and Telemedicine for Rural Healthcare Accessibility

Post author By Smile Editorial Team
Post date March 10, 2025
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Mobile Health Solutions and Telemedicine for Rural Healthcare Accessibility

Quality healthcare access in rural India has always remained a challenge as rural areas are often disadvantaged due to their geographical isolation, shortage of medical professionals, and lack of improved infrastructure. Improved access to quality healthcare for rural populations is a pressing issue, with disparities in health outcomes and service availability compared to urban areas. These limitations often give rise to substantial delays in prompt care; people in rural areas are at greater risk of suffering premature death from heart disease, cancer, respiratory illnesses, and stroke.

Rural populations also tend to have a higher proportion of older adults, pregnant mothers, and newborns, who may require more frequent medical services, further exacerbating the demand for healthcare providers.

Telemedicine and mobile health solutions have become promising tools for closing the gap in healthcare access by using digital platforms to connect patients in remote areas with medical professionals. They are revolutionising the way healthcare services are provided in rural India. Through telemedicine, digital tools connect patients with doctors remotely, while mobile health services ensure that quality healthcare services reach the remotest corner on the wheels. This eliminates the need for in-person travel and allows for prompt medical intervention.

With the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for telemedicine and mobile health solutions has spiked, with government and private initiatives expanding access to primary care to rural areas where nearly 70 per cent of the population lives.

Telemedicine: A promising tool for rural healthcare

More than a tool for providing patient care, telemedicine provides solutions for bridging the primary healthcare gap in rural India. It enables important healthcare treatments to reach even the most remote places, where traditional healthcare infrastructure is frequently inadequate.

Telemedicine can transform the rural healthcare system and help solve transport issues, which are one of the primary causes of a lack of appropriate healthcare in rural areas. Telemedicine contributes to the region’s economic stability by reducing conveyance charges. Technology and advanced communication equipment promise to significantly improve the diagnosis and treatment of critical and chronic diseases. Further, since there is no need for physical appearance inside a clinic, telemedicine reduces waiting time, which increases doctor-patient interaction and consultation frequency. Other benefits include the immediate reviewing of test reports and imaging data by radiologists and doctors, which increases the likelihood of receiving prompt medical care. This includes a patient’s vital metrics, such as blood pressure, sugar levels, and blood oxygen levels, which can be monitored at regular intervals from the comfort of his home and recorded in the patient’s electronic files for prompt consideration.

When the rural population uses more technology and is aware of its benefits, access to quality healthcare worldwide grows exponentially, as do the options for receiving second and third opinions.

MMU: Delivering last-mile healthcare

On the other hand, Mobile medical units (MMUs) are specialised vehicles equipped with medical facilities and staffed by healthcare professionals designed to deliver essential medical services directly to underserved rural populations. Since their introduction, MMUs have been a revelation to the public. They have provided a definitive solution to many issues about whether high-quality healthcare can be made available directly to persons living in remote areas deprived of quality health services during an emergency. MMUs provide medical centre services to communities with limited access to healthcare. These clinics can take the form of buses, vans, or trailers that operate independently or as extensions of established healthcare organisations.

They enhance accessibility by reaching remote areas lacking adequate healthcare infrastructure addressing geographical, financial, cultural, and psychological barriers to care. MMUs offer cost-effective solutions by reducing the need for emergency hospital visits and associated expenses, as evidenced by cost savings observed in similar models globally. These units, equipped with advanced technology, including electronic health records and telemedicine capabilities, facilitate comprehensive care encompassing primary, preventive, emergency, and speciality services. By bringing healthcare services directly to patients, MMUs are crucial in improving health outcomes and bridging the healthcare gap in rural communities.

The gaps in between

However, several impediments prevent individuals from adopting telemedicine or expanding the services of MMUs. Limited smartphone access and dependable internet connectivity are major challenges, particularly in remote and rural communities. Many patients in these places may not have the necessary technology or expertise with telemedicine. Socio-cultural considerations also play a role, as many patients prefer face-to-face consultations and rely on traditional healthcare techniques. Privacy concerns, particularly in shared living circumstances, deter patients from properly utilising telehealth and MMU services.

Smile’s promise to accessible rural healthcare

With a population of over 1.4 billion, last-mile healthcare delivery in our country remains a significant concern. More than 65% of the population lives in rural areas with a lesser share of overall healthcare infrastructure, and urban slum dwellers emphasise daily survival over healthcare. Unequal distribution and a lack of information also hinder utilising available healthcare services. Addressing these gaps is critical to meeting Universal Health Coverage goals and supporting the Government of India’s aim of Ayushman Bharat.

Smile Foundation’s Smile on Wheels (SoW) initiative attempts to reach rural communities through professional healthcare services. These mobile Vans operate nationwide, treating approximately thousands of patients every year. It provided free medicines to individuals. A national-level multi-centric project, the project offers a comprehensive spectrum of healthcare services to poor people in remote rural areas and slums via an equipped mobile medical van. The program aims to provide the impoverished with various rudimentary, preventative, and curative health treatments.

Furthermore, the Smile Foundation focuses on improving telemedicine access by establishing telemedicine clinics in Primary Health Centres (PHCs) to boost primary healthcare access and minimise the burden at the primary healthcare level, utilising the public-private partnership model.

Livelihood

Impact of Technological Advancement on Rural Employment

Post author By Smile Editorial Team
Post date March 9, 2025
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Impact of Technology and Innovation on Rural Employment

“The soul of India lives in its villages” – Mahatma Gandhi

India’s rural population forms most of its society and is integral to all its development policies. Working towards developing rural areas and villages is essential for driving inclusive and sustainable growth and helping restrict rural-urban migration, primarily due to rural poverty coupled with basic infrastructural needs. Rural communities are typically impoverished, with limited access to infrastructure development. Although several small firms are growing in and around these areas, only a few big organisations and industries can generate employment. As a result, modernised processes and technological advances have limited influence and adoption due to the lack of necessary infrastructure to support technological efficiency.

Further, the COVID-19 epidemic, along with persistently high levels of poverty and inequality, threatened the progress of the world’s rural people. However, the epidemic has also demonstrated that modern technologies can allow rural communities to thrive, bridging the rural-urban gap.

Technological advancement is a key development factor in rural India. They can result in higher and improved production, socioeconomic equality, the integration of contemporary technologies, and long-term growth, all considered cornerstones of a country’s success.

Impact of technology and innovation on rural livelihood

With a vision to strengthen rural India, several efforts to incorporate digital learning, technology-based labour work, healthcare apps, and so on have boosted the labour market and impacted agricultural activities. Enhanced innovation has improved rural areas’ growth prospects, with policymakers diving deeper into bringing about technology to sector-specific measures.

Technology in facilitating agricultural growth

Technology has a critical role in expediting rural development by addressing inefficiencies. Precision in agriculture tools, such as remote sensing, drones, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices, help farmers maximise resource utilisation, reduce waste, and boost yields. Further, real-time weather information, soil health monitoring, and crop disease detection via mobile applications enable farmers to make informed decisions and take preventive steps, ultimately improving agricultural outcomes. As a result, farmers’ incomes can increase dramatically.

Maintaining transparency with information

Openness and effective information exchange are critical for formalising the rural economy and creating a favourable investment climate. Technology fosters the transparent sharing of information and allows for efficient resource monitoring. Digital platforms can be designed to help farmers get market information, connect them with buyers and suppliers, and ensure fair prices. Furthermore, blockchain technology can promote transparency in supply networks, trace the origin of agricultural produce, and combat fraud. By leveraging technology to create transparent and efficient procedures, stakeholders can gain trust, attract more investment, and support equitable growth.

Healthcare, education, and financial inclusion

Technology can also help with other aspects of rural development, such as healthcare, education, and financial inclusion. Telemedicine systems connect remote people with healthcare professionals, ensuring rapid access to medical advice and treatments. This helps to alleviate healthcare-related issues and enhances overall well-being. Furthermore, e-learning systems can deliver high-quality education to remote locations, providing rural kids with information and skills for the future. Technology-enabled financial services, such as digital banking and mobile payments, give rural areas more accessible and secure access to financial products and services.

Digital literacy among farmers

Digital literacy is rising in rural India, providing more people with technological skills and offering new business opportunities. Growing awareness of digital technology and solutions among the younger generation of farmers and Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) has resulted in the rise of novel business models throughout the agriculture value chain. These models have several steps, including inputs, harvesting, processing, and distribution. As a result, this transformation reduces rural migration and draws national and international investors, promoting agro-industry development.

Technology-enabled rural development schemes

In recent years, the Indian government has implemented schemes and policies ranging from education to financial literacy, agritech, and skill development that effectively provide basic social infrastructure to rural people.

Technological Advancement for Rural Areas (TARA): This scheme under the Skill Enhancement Education & Development Program (SEED) is critical in providing long-term support to science-based voluntary organisations and field institutions in rural and other disadvantaged areas and helping with technological solutions and effective delivery of technologies for livelihood generation.

Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission: The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) seeks to build the infrastructure required to enable India’s integrated digital healthcare network. It will employ digital highways to connect different actors in the healthcare industry.

Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA): ABHA is the driving force behind safer and more efficient digital health records. A digitally secure ABHA enables health data access and sharing with participating healthcare providers and payers. Anyone wanting to join ABDM with digital health records must establish ABHA first. People are recognised and authenticated, and their health records are linked across several systems and stakeholders (with informed consent).

Digital India Programme: Digital India is India’s flagship initiative to transform the country into a knowledge-based economy and a digitally empowered society. Digital India focuses on three key areas: digital infrastructure as a utility for all citizens, governance and on-demand services, and citizen empowerment through digital technology.

Digital India Land Records Modernisation Programme (DILRMP): A central sector scheme to build a digital repository for modernising land records in rural India, essentially creating a transparent and accessible system for managing land ownership information across the country. The initiative has sanctioned over 1,000 Watershed Development Components of Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana projects to 28 States and 2 UTs of J&K and Ladakh.

Smile Foundation’s work

To bring technology into education and help impact rural livelihoods and students in underprivileged areas, Smile Foundation is improving its learning centres by adding smart classrooms, solar panels, and digital tools like learning software and educational tablets. We also run scholarship programs with partners like Deutsche Bank, Quantiphi, Quest Global, and Siemens. Through these programs, thousands of students receive laptops and other essential resources for online learning.

As part of our Mission Education program, we set up Tab Labs in rural schools. These tablets come with videos, reading materials, quizzes, and lessons designed for each grade level, making learning fun and accessible for young children.

We aim to ensure that no child is left behind and that every student is prepared for a brighter future.

Livelihood Women Empowerment

More Women in Business Might Mean Less Gender-based Violence

Post author By Smile Editorial Team
Post date March 8, 2025
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More Women in Business Might Mean Less Gender-based Violence

Sunita, a domestic violence survivor from a small village in Rajasthan, decided to take charge of her life and reached out to a local women’s self-help group to seek their support. With the help of the group, she got access to microfinance and guidance to start her own tailoring business from home. She started her journey as the first woman entrepreneur from her village and, in turn, motivated many other women from her community to pursue independence.

Over time, Sunita became financially independent and also expanded her business as the demand grew. In the process, she employed two more women from her village who were also survivors of domestic abuse. The newfound financial independence and collective strength of women created a shift in societal attitudes, fostering respect and reducing instances of gender-based violence. The women acted as each other’s support and defended anyone who faced instances of violence or abuse.

This example shows the power that women can hold when they are financially independent and running their own businesses. Not just that, they also empower other women in the process, become more aware and confident about their rights, and are able to band together and fight against the injustices.

Gender-based Violence: A Global and Indian Perspective

To an urban Indian, it may feel like gender-based violence is now a thing of the past. We do not see advertisements like ‘ghanti bajao campaign’ on television anymore asking people to intervene when they come across instances of domestic abuse in their neighbourhood. However, the problem is far from over. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1 in 3 women globally have experienced physical or sexual violence in their lifetime, most often by an intimate partner.

In India, we saw a rather grim picture especially during the COVID-19 induced lockdown when an increase in the cases of domestic violence was reported. According to the National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB) data, there was a 12.9% increase in crimes against women between 2018 and 2022, with domestic violence, sexual assault, and harassment being the most common forms. Gender-based violence is not just about physical assault but it also acts as a way of restricting the women from achieving autonomy.

It has far-reaching consequences on women’s physical and mental health, economic productivity, and social well-being. While there are strong legal frameworks in place to deal with this problem, many cases still go unreported or are solved at a local level to avoid any shame and embarrassment for the parties involved. The women who are victims of gender-based violence are also subjected to scrutiny from the society on various levels, making it even more difficult for them to speak up and take a stand.

How More Women in Business Can Translate to Less Gender-based Violence

This is where entrepreneurship among women can play a pivotal role. Here’s how it can help in reducing gender-based violence:

Financial independence – As we saw above in the case of Sunita, financial independence gave her the opportunity to create a healthy life for herself and also help other women in the process. Being independent financially is the key to taking a stand for yourself when you are in trouble. When women are dependent on others financially, they also lack the power to stand up against mental or physical violence.
Challenging patriarchy – Women in business challenge traditional gender roles and stereotypes, fostering a culture of equality and respect. As women gain visibility and influence in the economic sphere, societal attitudes towards gender roles begin to shift.
Community progress – When women enter into businesses, they not only create a path for self-progress but also support other women in their community. At the same time, it has been observed that educated and independent women are also able to ensure better health and education for their children as well.
Creating role models – Successful women become strong role models in society and those women who are suffering from gender-based violence can turn to them in times of distress.
Workplace equality – Women in leadership positions are more likely to implement policies that address gender-based violence, such as anti-harassment measures and support systems for survivors. This creates safer and more inclusive workplaces.

Apart from these, there are many other ways in which women in businesses can have a direct impact on reducing gender-based violence. For example, it was found in a study in Uganda that women who participated in economic empowerment programs experienced a 50% reduction in intimate partner violence. Similarly, companies with women in leadership roles have shown to adopt more inclusive and equitable workplace practices, contributing to a decline in workplace harassment.

Bringing More Women into Businesses

Now that we understand the positive impact of women in businesses, the question is how we can ensure that more and more women have the opportunity to take this path. Here are some of the solutions:

Access to finance – The most basic and also the most important aspect of starting a business is to have enough money for making an initial investment and setting up the business. While finance is easily accessible to people who already possess wealth, it may also be easier for men to get access to it because of the availability of collateral. Therefore, it is crucial that women are provided access to collateral-free loans, especially at subsidized interest rates, to enable them to take the risk and start a business.
Skill development – Secondly, it is essential that women who have never had the chance to develop necessary skills to run a business are provided the support to learn this through capacity building workshops and peer support. Both government and non-government organizations have been working in this area in India.
Mentorship – Mentorship programs and networking opportunities can provide women with guidance, resources, and connections to succeed in business. Platforms like Udyam Sakhi and TiE Women are fostering such ecosystems.
Policy support – Another important step is to create policy interventions that support women entrepreneurs, especially those coming from lesser privileged backgrounds and regions. This way, more and more women will find the motivation to start their own businesses.

There are many other ways through which women can be encouraged to start businesses. These include awareness campaigns by the media, social change, and even creating a safe work environment for them. In the end, all these initiatives can come together to create an opportunity for women to become successful business owners.

Smile’s Work

Smile Foundation’s Swabhiman initiative focuses on empowering underserved women through education, health, and livelihood programs.

Smile Foundation’s Swabhiman initiative is a comprehensive women’s empowerment program aimed at bringing pride and dignity to marginalized and socially excluded women and girls. Launched in 2005, Swabhiman, meaning ‘self-respect’ in English, seeks to enable women to realize their self-esteem and optimum potential in every sphere of life through innovative community engagement strategies.

Key Components of the Swabhiman Initiative:

4 S Model: The program operates through a highly effective approach known as the ‘4 S Model,’ which stands for:

Seeking Healthcare as a Behavior: Encouraging women to prioritize and seek necessary healthcare services.
Support through Education: Providing educational opportunities to empower women with knowledge and skills.
Support from Men through Male Involvement: Engaging men in the community to support women’s empowerment and challenge traditional gender roles.
Sustaining Change in the Community: Ensuring long-term positive changes through community involvement and ownership.

Healthcare and Nutrition: The initiative focuses on maternal and child healthcare, menstrual health awareness, and nutrition enhancement. For instance, in Sangrur, community-based events called ‘godh-bharai’ celebrate forthcoming motherhood, providing pregnant women with necessary information on birth preparedness, breastfeeding, and nutrition. citeturn0search6

Skill Development and Entrepreneurship: Swabhiman provides business skills training to capacitate women to start their own enterprises. This empowers them to become financially independent, improve their quality of life, and advocate for women’s rights, thereby creating sustainable and empowered communities.

Partnerships for Impact: Collaborations with organizations like Children’s International Foundation (CIF) address critical health, nutrition, education, and skill development needs for children and caregivers. This comprehensive approach impacts thousands, providing a holistic improvement in well-being and future opportunities.

Impact of the Swabhiman Initiative

Since its inception, Swabhiman has empowered over 150,000 women through various interventions. More than 1,000 women and adolescent girls trained as change agents are leading community initiatives and advocating for women’s rights. The initiative’s lifecycle approach ensures that education, healthcare, and livelihood opportunities reach the most vulnerable at every stage of their lives, fostering respect and reducing instances of gender-based violence.

The intersection of economic empowerment and gender equality offers a powerful pathway to address gender-based violence. By bringing more women into business, we can challenge the structural inequalities that perpetuate violence and create a society where women are respected and valued. While progress has been made, much work remains to be done to ensure that women have equal opportunities to thrive in the economic sphere.

Tags #WomenInBusiness #FightingGenderBasedViolence

Women Empowerment

Financing accelerates Socio-Economic Development Interventions

Post author By Smile Editorial Team
Post date March 6, 2025
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Financing accelerates Socio-Economic Development Interventions

When we think about financing, we may have a biased understanding of it. The first thing that comes to our mind is home financing, vehicle financing, or large business financing. However, it also plays a crucial role in growth and development of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). These enterprises are the backbone of many economies, providing employment, fostering innovation, and contributing significantly to GDP. Therefore, ensuring access to cheap and robust financing services to MSMEs helps them thrive and expand. It is also directly related to the socio-economic development of different sections of the society. This is because the growth of MSMEs distributes wealth among classes of people who may otherwise be left out of the economic growth story.

Important of Financing for MSMEs

MSMEs are vital for economic development, particularly in developing countries. They account for a significant portion of businesses and employment worldwide. According to the World Bank, SMEs represent about 90% of businesses and more than 50% of employment globally.

According to some reports, MSMEs in India contribute around 30 per cent to the GDP of the country and employ more than 110 million people. This number is significant and shows how big the role of MSMEs in India is. Despite their importance, many MSMEs struggle to access formal credit due to high-interest rates, strict collateral requirements, and limited financial literacy. Addressing these challenges through cheaper and efficient financing can unlock the potential of MSMEs and drive socio-economic development.

Financing on the Global Stage

To understand the critical role that financing plays in socio-economic development of people, we must look at the examples from a global perspective:

Microfinance in Bangladesh – One of the biggest innovations that happened in this region was the setting up of Grameen Bank by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus in Bangladesh. The bank provided micro loans to individuals from a poor background, especially women, without the requirement of a collateral. This opened up new doors for millions of people who, before this, did not have access to any kind of credit. The money they borrowed helped them in starting their own micro businesses or taking care of emergency expenses.
Europe’s Green Bonds – While it may not be the direct example of affordable financing, it does show how financing can bring about a change in society. The green bonds issued in Europe help the countries in the EU to finance sustainable projects, such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, and clean transportation.
Development Finance in Africa – Many African countries struggle because of poor economic growth and political instability. Therefore, African Development Bank (AfDB) has been a crucial player in providing affordable loans and grants for infrastructural development. Through this, AfDB has supported projects like road construction, bridges, power plants, and connectivity.

Financing and Socio-Economic Development in India

Affordable financing or micro-loans can play a revolutionary role in developing any country. These are especially crucial for a country like India which has a massive consumer base and a lot of untapped potential especially in the rural areas. Here’s everything that cheap financing can achieve in India:

Empowerment of MSMEs – As discussed above, MSMEs are extremely important for a democratic economic growth in India as they distribute wealth across the country and provide opportunities to people from different classes. When MSMEs get access to affordable credit, they invest in technological advancement, expansion of business, and creation of more jobs.
Supporting Agri Reforms – Even today, a large section of Indians are engaged in agriculture or agriculture related employment. Ensuring affordable financing for these people means they can invest more in increasing the yield and using more sustainable ways of growing food.
Infrastructure Development – Cheaper financing can facilitate the development of critical infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and power plants. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) and government-backed financing schemes can attract investment and accelerate infrastructure projects, boosting economic growth.
Improving Financial Inclusion – Traditionally, it has been observed that those who are already economically stable have easier access to credit as well. Therefore, providing cheap and affordable financing to all sections of the society creates financial inclusion as it takes away their dependence on informal modes of credit which are mostly exploitative.

Government and Private Sector Initiatives in India

The Indian government, both at the central and state level, has been working proactively to ensure access to cheap finance to those who need it the most. There are several initiatives like Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) launched in 2015. PMMY provides collateral-free loans to micro-enterprises under three categories. Other initiatives like Kisan Credit Card and Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana are also achieving financial inclusion in different ways.

At the same time, the private sector has also been making inroads in this area as it is also a growing opportunity for them. Several new microfinance institutions, small finance banks, and fintech companies have come up in India over the last decade which are ensuring that everyone has easy access to credit.

Growth in Financing in India

The growth of digital technologies and data analytics has transformed the financing landscape in India. Data-centric approaches have enabled financial institutions to assess creditworthiness more accurately, reduce risks, and provide tailored financial products. Some key developments include Digital Lending Platforms, UPI, account aggregators, and open credit enablement network. The widespread adoption of UPI has facilitated financial inclusion and made it easier for individuals and businesses to access financial services and other indicators have made it easier for MSMEs and individuals to access affordable financial services.

Smile Foundation’s Swabhiman initiative

We adopt a comprehensive approach to women’s empowerment, integrating microfinance components to enhance financial independence among women. Key aspects include:

Entrepreneurship Development: Swabhiman conducts workshops and training sessions to equip women with business skills, enabling them to establish and manage their own enterprises. This encourages financial self-reliance and boosts confidence.
Financial Literacy: The initiative emphasizes financial education, teaching women effective money management, savings, and investment strategies. This knowledge is crucial for sustaining businesses and personal financial stability.
Access to Microfinance Services: By collaborating with partners, Swabhiman facilitates women’s access to micro-loans and financial services, supporting the growth of their businesses and promoting economic empowerment.

Through these integrated efforts, Swabhiman ensures that women have the necessary financial tools and support to thrive, thereby contributing to broader socio-economic development.

Cheaper and easier access to financial services like credit can aid the socio-economic development of people. As people get access to formal credit, they use that money to leverage opportunities of making more income. In turn, they also generate more employment and help others. This also helps the economy grow as it adds to the overall GDP growth. As we move forward, it is essential to continue investing in affordable financing solutions and leveraging technology to enhance financial inclusion. By doing so, we can create a more equitable and prosperous society, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to the nation’s development.

Tags #CheapFinancing

Health

Role of Traditional vs Modern healthcare in Rural Women’s Health

Post author By Smile Editorial Team
Post date March 5, 2025
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How Women Empowerment Reduces Gender-Based Violence

While healthcare services have improved over the years, rural women continue to face significant barriers to accessing modern medical care. Factors like financial constraints, lack of awareness, social taboos, and limited availability of healthcare facilities make the situation challenging.

Traditional medicine, which has been practiced in India for centuries, still holds a strong presence in rural areas. Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani have been used for generations and are often the first line of treatment. While modern healthcare provides scientifically validated treatment, traditional medicine offers a more holistic approach that aligns with cultural beliefs and local practices. Striking a balance between these two systems can be key to improving rural women’s health outcomes.

The Current State of Women’s Health in Rural India

Women in rural India suffer from multiple health issues, ranging from malnutrition and anemia to pregnancy-related complications and chronic diseases. According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), over 57% of women aged 15-49 in rural areas are anemic. Maternal mortality remains a significant concern, with India recording a maternal mortality ratio (MMR) of 97 per 100,000 live births in 2018-2020, with rural areas contributing disproportionately to this figure. Additionally, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like hypertension and diabetes are increasing, affecting women’s long-term health. Access to quality healthcare is hindered by poor infrastructure, lack of transportation, and deeply rooted gender discrimination that often places women’s health needs at a lower priority than those of men.

Women often face neglect when it comes to receiving medical care, as family resources are typically allocated to men first. Report suggests that women in rural households are less likely than men to seek healthcare when sick. Social norms and lack of transportation discourage women from traveling alone to healthcare facilities, and many rely on male family members. Traditional medicine, often practiced within communities by women themselves, offers an alternative where women feel more comfortable and empowered to seek care, thereby improving their health-seeking behaviour.

Where Modern Healthcare Falls Short

Despite its advancements, modern healthcare is not easily accessible to rural women. Rural areas often lack well-equipped hospitals or even basic primary healthcare centers. A 2019 report stated that 75% of India’s healthcare infrastructure is concentrated in urban areas, leaving rural populations underserved. Even with government schemes like Ayushman Bharat, out-of-pocket healthcare expenses remain high, discouraging women from seeking medical attention. Cultural and social barriers also play a significant role, as gender norms often prevent women from visiting male doctors or prioritizing their health over family responsibilities.

In many villages, women hesitate to discuss reproductive or menstrual health concerns, leading to undiagnosed and untreated conditions. Moreover, some rural communities have a deep-rooted mistrust of modern medicine, viewing it as foreign or unnatural compared to traditional practices they have relied upon for generations. Telemedicine, however, is emerging as a potential solution to bridge this gap. The expansion of digital health services and mobile healthcare units has shown promise in overcoming geographical barriers, allowing women to consult healthcare providers remotely without the need to travel long distances.

The Role of Traditional Medicine in Bridging the Gap

Traditional medicine has been an integral part of India’s healthcare system for centuries. Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani treatments are widely practiced, and herbal remedies are commonly used in rural households. Several studies have shown the effectiveness of traditional medicine in addressing specific health concerns.

Traditional medicine provides diverse remedies and therapies to support women’s reproductive health across various life stages, offering affordable and accessible solutions to those who might otherwise go untreated. For instance, ayurvedic formulations like Ashwagandha and Shatavari can enhance reproductive health and manage pregnancy-related complications. Traditional herbal treatments can help address menstrual irregularities, fertility concerns, and postpartum care, promote healing and recovery.

Chronic disease management through traditional practices such as yoga and naturopathy has also proven effective in managing hypertension, diabetes, and arthritis. Studies have indicated that a combination of Ayurveda and modern interventions can significantly improve health outcomes.

Where’s India at?

Recognizing the potential of traditional medicine, the Indian government has actively promoted its integration with modern healthcare. The Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy) was established to regulate and promote traditional healing practices. Governments are making provisions to recruit AYUSH doctors in primary healthcare centres to integrate traditional medicine with modern medical services. The National AYUSH Mission aims to strengthen AYUSH services in rural areas by establishing dedicated healthcare centers.

Several states have also trained ASHA workers to incorporate traditional medicine into their services, providing accessible and culturally acceptable healthcare to rural women. By integrating AYUSH practitioners with modern medical professionals, India is working towards a more comprehensive healthcare system that caters to the diverse needs of its rural population.

The Way Forward

Looking at the current state of women’s health in rural areas, India must adopt a healthcare model that seamlessly integrates modern and traditional medicine to enhance health holistically. Expanding access through telemedicine and mobile health services can ensure timely care, while education and awareness campaigns will help women make informed choices about their health. Traditional practices should be scientifically validated, with research refining and standardizing herbal treatments for broader acceptance. Encouraging AYUSH practitioners to collaborate with modern doctors can bridge the gap between tradition and science, creating a comprehensive system that serves rural women effectively.

Rather than debating which system is superior, India should focus on merging their strengths. Modern healthcare provides scientific rigor and life-saving interventions, while traditional medicine offers culturally familiar, community-driven solutions. A blended approach will empower rural women, respecting their beliefs while ensuring they receive the best possible care. With the right policies and infrastructure, India can build a healthcare framework where rural women no longer have to choose between tradition and modernity.

Smile Foundation has been actively addressing the health needs of rural women. Recognizing the challenges these women face—such as limited access to modern healthcare, financial constraints, and cultural barriers—the Foundation supports initiatives that bridge this gap. Through their community-based programs, Smile Foundation works to raise awareness about women’s health and provides access to modern medical services. In doing so, Smile Foundation ensures that rural women have access to comprehensive healthcare improving overall health outcomes.

Tags #Women'sHealth

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Smile Foundation

161 B/4, 3rd Floor, Gulmohar House, Yusuf Sarai Community Centre New Delhi - 110049 Delhi, India

Contact Us: Tel: +91-11-43123700 | E-mail: info@smilefoundationindia.org

Importance of a healthy diet

WHO recommendation on maintaining a healthy diet

Link between healthy diet and academic performance

Smile Foundation’s work in Child Nutrition and Education

Understanding non-profits

Understanding Social Innovation

Reasons to embrace technology for social innovation

Technology revolutionizing non-Profit work

Conclusion

Child brides and maternal mortality in India

Link between child brides and mortality rates

Ending child marriage in India

Initiatives in India

Education: The Finland and Singapore Models

Healthcare Initiatives in United Kingdom

Learning Gender Equality Interventions from Iceland and Rwanda

Poverty Alleviation Programmes in Bangladesh and Brazil

Bhutan and New Zealand’s Community Engagement

India’s Challenges

Conclusion

Why do rooting for each other matters?

Social movements exemplifying support for each other

Looking at competition in a new way

Telemedicine: A promising tool for rural healthcare

MMU: Delivering last-mile healthcare

The gaps in between

Smile’s promise to accessible rural healthcare

Impact of technology and innovation on rural livelihood

Technology in facilitating agricultural growth

Maintaining transparency with information

Healthcare, education, and financial inclusion

Digital literacy among farmers

Technology-enabled rural development schemes

Smile Foundation’s work

Gender-based Violence: A Global and Indian Perspective

How More Women in Business Can Translate to Less Gender-based Violence

Bringing More Women into Businesses

Smile’s Work

Impact of the Swabhiman Initiative

Important of Financing for MSMEs

Financing on the Global Stage

Financing and Socio-Economic Development in India

Government and Private Sector Initiatives in India

Growth in Financing in India

Smile Foundation’s Swabhiman initiative

The Current State of Women’s Health in Rural India

Where Modern Healthcare Falls Short

The Role of Traditional Medicine in Bridging the Gap

Where’s India at?

The Way Forward

ABOUT US

OUR WORK

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RESOURCE CENTRE

Smile Foundation 161 B/4, 3rd Floor, Gulmohar House, Yusuf Sarai Community Centre New Delhi - 110049 Delhi, India Contact Us: Tel: +91-11-43123700 | E-mail: info@smilefoundationindia.org

Smile Foundation

161 B/4, 3rd Floor, Gulmohar House, Yusuf Sarai Community Centre New Delhi - 110049 Delhi, India

Contact Us: Tel: +91-11-43123700 | E-mail: info@smilefoundationindia.org