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Smile Education Health

Catering to the Education and Health Needs of Tribal Populations

Catering to the Education and Health Needs of Tribal Populations
Catering to the Education and Health Needs of Tribal Populations

India’s tribal population forms a considerably large section of the overall population in the country. However, the majority of these people live in remote and ecologically diverse regions, making basic facilities like healthcare and education difficult to reach them. Apart from these geographical issues, these populations also face other unique challenges which can only be solved through consistent government policies to ensure their cultural practices, traditions, and customs are not harmed in the process of providing them modern amenities.

At the same time, these marginalised communities also have distinct socio-economic conditions as compared to other populations and may also have different requirements. This is why it is crucial for us to understand the needs of the tribal populations in India in order to cater to them. In this article, we will look at these factors in detail.

Tribal Landscape in India and Access to Education

The tribal population in India forms a rich blend of culture, language, and local practices. They also inhabit diverse terrains – hills, forests, and plains – and often live away from the urban centres in the country. This is the reason why they are isolated from the modern facilities available mostly in the bigger cities in India. This can make the reach of education and healthcare to the tribal population a big challenge.

It is also important to understand that these people have inhabited these regions for centuries, living off the land, and preserving their cultural heritage, oral traditions, and ecological knowledge. Therefore, it can be understood that they wish to preserve their way of life and pass it on to the next generation. However, colonial policies and displacement of these people from their lands have caused massive disruption to their way of life, while also putting them in a socially and economically disadvantaged position.

Recognising the vulnerability of tribal populations, the Indian Constitution provides specific safeguards. Articles 244(1) and 275(1) empower states to create autonomous regions (Scheduled Areas) with special provisions for tribal welfare. The Fifth Schedule outlines administrative arrangements for these areas, ensuring protection of tribal rights and culture.

Areas Most Affected

The distribution of tribal populations in India is also unique as the majority of them live in the ‘central belt’ of the country stretching from Gujarat and Rajasthan in the west and covering till West Bengal in the east. Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Bihar have a significant tribal population.

However, even with such large numbers, tribal children often lack access to quality education. Schools in tribal areas are scarce, and the curriculum may not align with their cultural context. This perpetuates a cycle of disadvantage and, because of which, the dropout rates among these children remain high. Many tribal communities have their languages, distinct from mainstream languages. Lack of education in their mother tongue hinders learning and engagement. This is why efforts to incorporate tribal languages into the curriculum are essential.

There is also a need to sensitise the teachers and prepare them for specialised training, so that they can understand the cultural nuances of these children. Sensitising teachers to the challenges faced by tribal students ensures effective communication and engagement. At the same time, the curriculum should be designed keeping in mind the unique requirements of the students ensuring that it instils a sense of pride and belonging among them.

Health Disparities and Vulnerabilities

Tribal populations experience higher rates of cases like malnutrition, anaemia, and maternal mortality. Their health indicators lag behind national averages. Factors like poor sanitation, limited healthcare facilities, and cultural beliefs contribute to these disparities. The lack of awareness about preventive healthcare further increases these health risks.

A link between climate change and its impact on tribal populations has also been found. Emerging research suggests that rapid climate change increases health risks for these vulnerable populations. Pregnant women face dire consequences due to extreme weather events, food insecurity, and changing disease patterns. The vulnerability of tribal populations to climate-induced health shocks demands urgent attention.

The hospital infrastructure in India and the urban-rural disparity in availability of doctors also impacts the tribal populations, as most of them live in remote areas which are further cut-off from any form of development. Making modern healthcare facilities available in these areas is a challenge as it is for a large rural population too.

Strategies for Holistic Development

While there are a number of challenges that exist today in providing access to quality health care and education to tribal populations in India, there are also various interventions that can help in mitigating this problem.

  1. The first is that the government can focus on developing community schools for these populations providing specific curriculum support as per their unique needs. The teachers can also be trained for delivering this curriculum keeping in mind the unique requirements of the students they are engaging with. Lastly, the economic challenges can be addressed through special scholarships for tribal students and having hostel facilities specifically for them. States like Rajasthan already have such facilities for tribal students and more such initiatives can be taken to further ensure their growth and development.
  2. To address health related challenges, governments can make use of technology like telemedicine to ensure reach of basic health facilities to these geographical regions. Moving healthcare facilities and health camps can also serve an important role in this. Regular health check-ups, immunisation drives, and awareness programs can achieve a lot.  Mobile health units can reach remote areas, offering preventive and curative services. At the same time, addressing climate-related health risks through adaptive measures is also important. Early warning systems, disaster preparedness, and community-based health planning are essential.

Prioritising Tribal Populations

It cannot be denied that a huge gap exists between what the urban population receives in India in terms of education and healthcare facilities, and what reaches the rural population. Within that, the tribal population is even worse off. Therefore, it is extremely necessary to bridge this gap through policy interventions and affirmative action. The solutions discussed above need to be implemented and special budgetary allocations should be made to ensure that this is done at the fast pace.

As India strives for equitable development, prioritising tribal education and health is essential. By fostering culturally sensitive approaches, investing in infrastructure, and addressing climate-related vulnerabilities, we can uplift these resilient communities. Let us recognise their unique contributions and work collectively toward a more inclusive future.

Smile’s Work for Tribal Populations

In line with the urgent need to address the education and healthcare challenges faced by India’s tribal populations, Smile Foundation has been steadfast in its commitment to these marginalised communities. Through its various initiatives, we have been working tirelessly to bring quality education to tribal children and essential healthcare services to tribal populations, who often reside in the most remote and underserved regions of the country.

One of the foundation’s key initiatives focuses on ensuring that tribal children receive an education that respects their cultural heritage while preparing them for the future. By setting up community schools in tribal areas, Smile Foundation provides a curriculum that is both culturally relevant and academically enriching. This approach not only helps in reducing dropout rates but also instils a sense of pride and belonging among the students, empowering them to carry forward their rich traditions while stepping into the modern world.

In addition to education, we have also addressing the pressing healthcare needs of tribal populations. Through mobile health units, telemedicine, and health camps, the foundation is making strides in delivering basic healthcare services to areas where access is limited. These efforts are particularly crucial in combating health disparities such as malnutrition, maternal mortality, and the rising health risks posed by climate change. By bringing healthcare directly to these communities, we are working towards improving the overall well-being of tribal populations, ensuring that they are not left behind in India’s journey toward inclusive development.

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CSR

CSR Initiatives in Tech Leading Women Empowerment

What are Personalized Scholarships?
What are Personalized Scholarships?

India’s IT sector is advancing rapidly, with its revenue projected to exceed $300 billion by 2030. Technologies such as AI, cloud computing, and digital transactions are now part of daily life—and the industry’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes have the potential to drive substantial social impact, especially for underserved women.

By promoting digital access, skill development, and financial literacy, tech-driven CSR initiatives can support women’s economic empowerment and help bridge the digital gender divide.

CSR in the Tech Sector: A Strategic Shift

Since the Companies Act of 2013 made CSR mandatory, companies meeting specific financial thresholds are required to allocate at least 2% of their average net profits to CSR activities. This legal mandate has led many IT companies to invest in programmes focused on women’s empowerment, inclusive growth, and workforce diversity.

Leading firms such as TCS, Infosys, and Wipro have launched initiatives aimed at enhancing career readiness and re-entry support for women. For example, TCS’s Rebegin programme supports women returning to the workforce, promoting diversity and reducing the gender gap in tech roles.

Key Focus Areas for Tech CSR Empowerment

Digital Education for Girls

Access to digital education can transform the lives of young girls in underserved areas. Tech companies can partner with NGOs and schools to provide STEM scholarships, host coding workshops, and offer learning apps to prepare girls for careers in science and technology.

Smile Foundation’s Mission Education initiative supports quality education for children from disadvantaged communities. In alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the programme integrates STEM learning into school curricula. Additionally, scholarships for girls pursuing engineering ensure that financial challenges do not hold them back from achieving their academic and career aspirations.

Skilling Women Entrepreneurs in Digital Tools

Many women entrepreneurs face barriers in leveraging digital platforms for business growth. CSR efforts in tech can bridge this gap through training in e-commerce, social media marketing, and data analytics. These skills are vital for improving business operations and expanding reach, especially in rural areas.

Promoting Digital Financial Literacy

CSR projects can also improve digital financial literacy among underserved women by teaching them how to manage money using online banking, budgeting tools, and mobile wallets. Financial knowledge empowers women to make informed decisions and gain greater control over their personal and family finances.

Ensuring Accessible Technology

Tech companies should prioritise inclusive product design, ensuring that digital tools and platforms are accessible to all women, including those with disabilities. This includes assistive devices, adaptive software, and accessible web interfaces to remove barriers to digital access.

A Scalable Model for Women Empowerment

Through focused CSR action, IT companies have the tools to advance gender equality and economic inclusion. These efforts support long-term development and self-reliance.

Smile Foundation’s Swabhiman programme is an example of such an effort. It empowers women across eight states with digital literacy, entrepreneurship skills, and financial education. In 2023 alone, over 150,000 women were trained, helping them integrate technology into small businesses and improve livelihoods.

By supporting skilling, financial independence, and digital access, technology-driven CSR programmes are transforming the lives of women and girls across India. The IT sector’s contribution is not only strengthening communities but also building a more equitable and empowered workforce for the future.

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Girl Child

India Opens Up Paris Olympics Tally with a Woman

India Opens Up Paris Olympics Tally with a Woman
India Opens Up Paris Olympics Tally with a Woman

The Historic Win

India’s Paris Olympics 2024 medal count began with Manu Bhaker’s winning the third place in the women’s 10m Air pistol. Then, she and Sarabjot Singh secured a bronze medal in the 10m air pistol joint team event. Manu Bhaker became the first Indian shooter to win two medals at the Paris Olympics and the most successful Indian female shooter in history. 

She and many women achievers in sports are setting examples and advocating for equality. In a country dealing with gender-based discrimination, these women are breaking male-dominated standards.

Current Status of Girls in India

Numerous girls are still unable to realise their full potential due to poverty and social inequalities. The Indian Constitution, legal system, and government policies all incorporate the principle of gender equality. Nevertheless, the truth of the status of women in several communities throughout India remains significantly different from these principles.

Many girls and women are still limited by outdated social norms and practices that hinder their educational opportunities. However, investing in their education is important for the future of society. Moreover, for decades, the positive impact of sports on empowering young girls and women has been acknowledged. 

Challenges Faced In The Journey To Empower Girls

Most of the challenges that girls encounter are directly linked to the economic, political, social and cultural disadvantages they deal with in their daily lives. Here are some:

  • Gender Inequality: Economic, political, social, and cultural disadvantages pose hazards to girls. Gender discrimination places girls at risk of child marriage, adolescent pregnancy, and violence. Gender inequality also comes in the form of poor health, education, and exploitation.
  • Lack of Safety: The safety of girls in certain areas is of utmost importance. Parents often express fear regarding the distances their daughters have to go to access education. Particularly in remote regions where there is a lack of both road infrastructure and dependable transport options
  • Lack of Access to Education: Millions of females are denied access to education due to poverty, child marriage, and cultural norms.
  • Inadequate Health Facilities: In India, girls are often deprived of access to basic amenities, including healthcare services, sanitation and clean water. Girls drop out of school due to lack of separate toilets. Their physical health, overall well-being and quality of life are adversely affected by the absence of these fundamental amenities.
  • Gender-based Violence: In India, girls are vulnerable to several forms of abuse, such as physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. Girls are frequently subjected to substantial risks to their physical and psychological health, including domestic violence and sexual exploitation, which frequently result in severe and enduring repercussions. 
  • Child Marriages: Child marriage perpetuates gender inequality and impedes the advancement of girls. Despite a general decline, it remains prevalent in certain communities.

Why we should empower girls?

Education guarantees that girls can learn and feel secure while in school, have the opportunity to complete education and acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to compete in the labour market and take informed decisions in all spheres of life. 

  • Education Empowers: The likelihood of females participating in decision-making processes within their families and communities is higher when they are educated. Empower girls to drive change in their nations and communities.
  • Reduces Poverty: Girls who receive an education are more likely to secure higher-paying employment, thereby contributing to their family’s income. Women with education are more likely to invest in their children’s education and well-being.
  • Better Health and Nutrition: Girls who are healthy are more likely to attend school consistently and achieve academic success. Education on health and hygiene enables females to make informed decisions regarding their health. In the long term, investing in the health of females results in a healthier population and a reduction in healthcare costs.
  • Workforce Participation: Girls with a formal education are more inclined to participate in the labour force, making a valuable contribution to economic growth and promoting diversity. Women in the workforce contribute distinctive skills and perspectives that improve creativity and problem-solving in a variety of industries.
  • Economic Growth: It is essential to address the disparity in educational and job opportunities between genders, as doing so can have a significant positive impact on a nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Allocating resources to the education and empowerment of girls leads to substantial economic benefits for society as a whole.

Sports as a Catalyst for Change

The UN Charter advocates for the recognition of sport as a human right, with access that is unimpeded by any form of discrimination. Increasing the number of women in the administrative system, mentorship programmes, and coaching positions will facilitate the establishment of a more inclusive environment and establish a secure environment for women to engage in sports. 

To empower girls and women is the most effective method of levelling the playing field and helping tackle their challenges. We must enrol them in schools, where they will learn, develop and transform their communities for the betterment of all. Click here to empower India’s girls for Smile Foundation‘s She Can Fly campaign:  https://donate.smilefoundationindia.org/donate-for-girl-child

Categories
Women Empowerment

More women enter the workforce; few make it to the top

More women enter the workforce; few make it to the top
More women enter the workforce; few make it to the top

Savitha* (name changed) felt elated when she landed a job with a prestigious IT company during a campus interview. In the subsequent years, she did brilliant work and got offered an opportunity for an offshore assignment.

“But my wedding was fixed and as my father-in-law was sick, my husband didn’t want to relocate, and I turned down the assignment,” says the 40-year-old resident of Pune, who continued working after delivering her first child. “After my second child, I had to take a five-year break. When I tried getting back into the workforce, most employers were hesitant or offered low pay though I have kept abreast of all the technological advances in my field. I went back to work three years ago but am not considered for prestigious assignments, as they feel I have domestic responsibilities.”

Female representation in the workplace

Savitha’s situation is not unique but the plight of many women employees in India. Several studies have shown that while there are more women joining the workforce, it’s more challenging for women to make it to leadership positions.

According to a recent LinkedIn and The Quantum Hub report highlighting Gender Disparities in Corporate Leadership in India, there has been an overall increase in female representation in the workforce over the years — from 23.9% in 2016 to 26.8% in 2024. However, there were slight fluctuations between 2022 and 2024, with a decline of 0.5 percentage points.

The report also revealed that the percentage of women in senior leadership roles increased from 16.6% in 2016 to 18.7% in 2023 but dipped slightly to 18.3% in 2024. 

As women advanced to managerial positions, there was a significant drop (18.59%), followed by a continuous decline in female representation in leadership positions — 20.1% at director roles, 17.4% at Vice President roles and at 15.3% at C-suite positions, says the report.

Women fare better in some sectors

It’s not as though there are no women at the top. The State of Women Leadership Hiring in India, a report by LONGHOUSE Consulting, shows that 39% of the companies surveyed employed women in CXO positions. The year-on-year women’s representation in executive boards also increased by 2% in 2023. 

But women are better in certain industries. Industries such as education (30%) and government administration (29%) have the highest representation of women in leadership roles. Then comes administrative and support services and hospitals and healthcare, at 23% each.

There is moderate female representation (19%) in sectors like technology, information, and media and financial services. The lowest representation (11%) is in construction, oil, gas, and mining, and utilities.

Hurdles preventing growth of women in leadership roles

There are various reasons why women are not able to climb the corporate ladder. These include inherent biases, societal norms and other structural barriers.

About 80% of working women in India have taken career breaks — 45% cited childcare and personal commitments in homemaking as the primary reasons. The challenges they faced included resume gaps, skills obsolescence, lack of confidence, bias, stereotypes and lack of support.

“According to governmental observatory studies on women’s careers, 44.5% of all women who are not part of the Indian workforce, take a break for child-care and personal commitments,” says Saundarya Rajesh, founder-president, Avtar Group. “Other reasons include societal conditioning and familial expectations on women being responsible for the 3 Cs – cooking, cleaning and caring, absence of economic need to work and non-availability of women-friendly employment opportunities in the area they reside in.”

Women in India Inc (WIIn) reports that 34% of women as opposed to 4% men, exit firms for striking a work-life balance.

It’s not just one data point; but many

“The correlation between fewer women in leadership positions and women taking career breaks is undeniable. According to Avtar’s research, while women’s representation is 26% at entry level roles in corporate India, this drops to less than 12% at executive levels,” says Saundarya. “The lack of gender representation at the C-suite level can be attributed to the absence of conducive work structures across. Discriminatory work culture limits women’s opportunities to advance.”

Sunita Suresh, co-founder of Red Consulting, a Chennai-based PR firm, says that career women feel torn between home and children, and their career. “You feel guilty for not giving 100% to your home and children and that can affect your career trajectory,” says Sunita, who worked as a consultant for years before establishing her own firm.

The TUF report suggested that companies should start bringing about changes from the hiring stage. For instance, a job listing should be written in a way that it did not favour any gender. Firms should also avoid using gender-coded words, such as ‘aggressive’ (often associated with male stereotypes) or ‘supportive’ (often associated with female stereotypes), and use inclusive language to ensure that the job appeals to all candidates, regardless of their gender, said the report.

Leading the change

However, some companies are striving to make a change. “As per data emerging from Avtar & Seramount Best Companies for Women in India study, women’s representation in the Best Companies is at 37%. At leadership levels, this touched 20% in 2023, because of robust frameworks of support these organisations have towards ensuring equitable career pathways for women,” says Saundarya. “While all best companies in 2023 offered structured mentoring, 76% of them offered career sponsorship – a programme to give greater visibility to women’s work and their aspiration for advancement.”

Sunita says gaps in a female candidate’s resume do not prevent her from hiring the skilled candidate. “Since the PR business is a niche segment, I would see the temperament of the person and if they would suit the role,” she says, adding that she may have a probation period for the candidate. “It would depend on how long the break was as many changes would have happened in the industry during that time, and the person may need to upskill herself.”

Smile working to create more women in leadership positions

NGOs have been working to create women leaders at the grassroot level. Smile Foundation’s women empowerment programme, Swabhiman, launched in 2005, reaches out to marginalised and socially excluded women with interventions in nutrition, healthcare and livelihood. 

The programme empowers women to seek healthcare and bring sustainable changes in the community. And supports them to become aware, skilled and financially independent.

As the struggle for gender equality in the workplace continues, it’s essential to recognise the role of grassroots initiatives in empowering women from marginalised communities to rise above societal and economic challenges. Swabhiman has been instrumental in creating women leaders at the grassroots level. By focusing on nutrition, healthcare, and livelihood, Swabhiman goes beyond addressing immediate needs empowering women to become change-makers in their communities.

Through comprehensive interventions, the programme equips women with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to achieve financial independence and secure their rightful place in society. It empowers them to seek better healthcare, make informed decisions, and advocate for sustainable changes within their communities. These women, otherwise overlooked, are becoming leaders and role models, showing that with the right support, they can overcome barriers, and contribute meaningfully to their families and society.

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Smile

Building Sustainability into NGO Initiatives

Building sustainability into NGO initiatives
Building sustainability into NGO initiatives

It is said that innovation and invention are the children of necessity. But how often have we noticed that inventions always give birth to new challenges in the ever-evolving landscape? Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) work hand-in-hand with the government in tackling the issues, be they economic, environmental, or social. Their role becomes vital since, most of the time, they come up with a solution or another in resolving the issues.

One can certainly not question their effectiveness, and many times they end up making visible short-term impacts. The actual struggle for NGOs is ensuring long-term impact and resilience. No longer building sustainability into NGO initiatives is a choice. In recent times, it has become an essential and fundamental necessity to create enduring positive changes in society.

Understanding sustainability

According to the Cambridge dictionary, sustainability is the quality of being able to continue over a period of time. In detail, it is the ability to meet present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs independently. In simple terms, it is nothing but the ability to maintain a process continuously in the long run without compromising on natural or physical resources.

To build sustainability, one needs to encompass a wide set of concepts and practices. These practices should aim at both maintaining and improving the health and stability of the environment, economy, and society in the long run. It is usually explained with the concept of Triple Bottom Line (TBL), which encompasses three core dimensions – environmental (planet), social (people), and economic (revenue) sustainability. 

To build environmental sustainability, one needs to ensure that natural resources are used in such a way that they can be replenished and support both the ecosystem and human needs. Individuals need to ensure that people have access to basic needs and opportunities to attain social sustainability. The third and important thing to remember is building economic sustainability by developing economic systems that provide prosperity even while ensuring endurable stability and resilience. One needs to be cautious enough not to deplete resources or create disparities in communities while trying to attain economic growth.

The goal is to achieve a balance where each of these three dimensions is addressed harmoniously, leading to overall sustainable development. Only then can one ensure long-term visibility in the projects that they take up and also protect the environment, ensure economic stability, and promote equality in society. Only by ensuring sustainability can one keep the project alive in the long run.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

In 2015, the United Nations set a set of 17 global objectives as the sustainable development goals as a part of its 2040 agenda for sustainable development. Following the visible success of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), including improving global health and reducing extreme poverty, the UN developed the SDGs both to address MDG shortcomings and to include broader integrated goals. These goals were aimed at addressing a broad spectrum of complex global issues. It is designed in such a way to guide international efforts to create an equitable, sustainable, and resilient world for all.

The SDGs provide a clear and actionable framework for governments, individuals, and organisations to follow while trying to tackle one of the global issues. The SDGs offer targets and indicators to measure progress, ensuring accountability apart from providing a roadmap for implementation. Some of the SDGs are no poverty, zero hunger, quality education, gender equality, affordable and clean energy, reducing inequality, and good health and well-being.

Strategies for building sustainability

Now that we know what sustainability is and how important it is to integrate sustainability into projects, we should also figure out how to integrate sustainability. There are a few key strategies for integrating sustainability in all the projects that NGOs take up so as to ensure that they remain alive for a long time.

Goal setting

NGOs should do a detailed field study that covers multiple aspects before attempting to find a solution for one of the existing issues. It is always wiser to use the local language of the community not just to get acquittal with the people but also to understand their requirements clearly. Setting measurable and achievable goals is important. But understanding the pressing demand of the community before setting goals is even more important. Only then will the goal remain sustainable. It is always better if the goals are set in collaboration with the people from the community. Making use of the local resources and local language has become a must while taking up initiatives.

Strategic planning

To achieve those goals, strategic and detailed planning is a must. NGOs should also consider cultural, social, religious, and gender aspects of the community while making plans. Without a proper plan and attainable goal, the project might either have no kick-off or become fragile. Organisations can use various frameworks, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations, to guide their moves and broaden their knowledge on issues.

Community engagement

For an initiative to be effective, relevant, and long-lasting, it should need at least minimum support and involvement from the community. Only by engaging with people, a volunteer organisation can gain insight into the specific needs, priorities, and cultural contexts of that particular community. It will come in handy in the long run to tailor the initiatives based on their requirements. Thereby, it reduces the risk of being irrelevant or ineffective. When people are actively involved in the planning and implementation of initiatives, they tend to feel a sense of ownership and responsibility. It in turn helps in integrating sustainability into projects. Not just that, community engagement will also strengthen the trust between the organisation and the community, facilitate adaptation and resilience, provide accountability and transparency, and promote inclusivity and equity.

Partnerships and collaborations

Collaborating with government, businesses, or other organisations is equally important, mainly because of their ability to enhance effectiveness, amplify the reach and impact, and leverage resources. At times, it will also help us gain additional funding sources in terms of grants, donations, or even investments. Roping in different partners into an initiative means bringing in diversified experts and skills. For instance, by collaborating with a tech company, an NGO can get access to innovative and modernised equipment. Collaborative environments will not just let you share resources, including manpower and infrastructure, but also help you to generate creative solutions to complex problems.

Monitoring and evaluation

Continuous monitoring and evaluating the implementation of the projects are basic to integrating sustainability. Not just that, they also need to assess the outcomes and impact on the community. For which, NGOs should develop robust systems to track progress, measure outcomes, and even identify areas for improvement. With the help of the obtained data, the NGOs can tune their strategies to address emerging challenges even as they ensure that initiatives are relevant and effective.

Integrating sustainability into NGOs initiatives is one of the best ways to create long-lasting impact in the community. So, no longer it is an option for the organisations to dwell upon the idea of building sustainability. It has become the basic necessity to achieve meaningful impact. The notion to address immediate needs and to contribute to long-term positive change should begin from the beginning. For which, strategies to build sustainability should be incorporated right from the planning stage. As NGOs continue to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges, a commitment to sustainability will be essential in driving effective, thriving and transformative solutions.

What about Smile Foundation integrating SDGs into its work areas?

The areas that Smile Foundation works on align closely with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations. Here’s how each area contributes to specific SDGs:

Education

SDG 4: Quality Education

Smile Foundation’s focus on providing quality education to children from low-income families directly supports this goal. By ensuring inclusive and equitable education, the foundation is helping to promote lifelong learning opportunities for all through its Mission Education programme.

Health

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being

The healthcare services provided by Smile Foundation align with this goal, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for people of all ages. Our health initiatives like Smile on Wheels, telemedicine, dental care, health camps etc. contribute to reducing mortality rates, improving maternal and child health, and combating diseases.

Women Empowerment

SDG 5: Gender Equality

Our women empowerment programme Swabhiman are in line with SDG 5, which seeks to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls. By promoting equal opportunities and financial independence for women, Smile Foundation supports this goal.

Skilling (STeP: Smile Twin e-Learning Programme)

SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

The skilling and livelihood programe STeP contributes to this goal by promoting sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all. By equipping youth with vocational skills, Smile Foundation is helping to reduce youth unemployment and foster economic opportunities.

These areas collectively support a broader agenda of sustainable development, ensuring that low-income communities have the resources, opportunities, and support they need to thrive.

Categories
Women Empowerment

More Working Women, Companies Improve Gender Diversity

⁠Is Self-Employment a Curse for Indian Women? 
More Working Women, Companies Improve Gender Diversity

Every morning, Sundari Ammal gets up at 5am, cooks for her daughters, drops them off at school and then takes a share auto to a garment factory nearby. The money she earns every month is not fancy but enough to keep her daughters in school and meet the basic needs of her family. 

As the manufacturing sector grows in India, companies are now looking to hire more women on shop floors that were once dominated by men. 

Changing face of the workforce: More women in manufacturing sector

According to a Economic Times report, a recent Quess Corp survey has revealed that women constitute approximately 20% of the manufacturing workforce in India, with around 80% representation in electronics manufacturing. 

Another Randstad report shows that there is a growing demand for women in traditionally male-dominated sectors like manufacturing. According to it, apart from Bengaluru and Mumbai, cities such as Chennai, Hyderabad and Pune are emerging as key locations for hiring women employees. 

Feminisation of the workforce

Why are more women entering the manufacturing sector?  “Feminisation of the workforce in the textile sector began more than a decade ago. There was a demand for more women as they are considered docile, are trained to follow instructions, and will not unionise,” says Meera Sundararajan, team leader, Gender and Policy Lab, Greater Chennai Corporation. “In fact, diversity and inclusion actually makes business sense as women are sincere, come on time, and there is less absenteeism.”

Manufacturing jobs move from China to India

As a New York Times report pointed out, international brands are trying to limit their dependence on China by shifting some manufacturing work to India. This means that more manufacturing jobs are generated, especially for women who have largely been excluded from the ranks of formal employment.

Less women in paid jobs

Yet in India, less than 33% of women are engaged in paid work in jobs. According to the World Bank’s Gender Data Portal, India was 165th out of 187 countries in terms of female labour force participation rate (LFPR) in 2023.  The country’s female LFPR was only 32.7%.

The challenges to put women in manufacturing sector and beyond

The demands of physical labour, safety concerns, fear of sexual harassment are limiting factors where women are concerned. There is also the issue of “time poverty”. Since women are expected to take care of all the household chores, and care for children and elders, many are unable to step out of the house and go to work.

“The dropout rate is high. But if the employers were to provide childcare facilities, at least in smaller towns where workers live in clusters, it would make a huge difference,” says Sundararajan.

R Geetha, president, National Federation of Unorganised and Migrant Workers, says, “In many manufacturing units, women are employed, most of them unmarried, inter-district migrants. They stay in hostels and are made to work for over eight hours. In Tirupur, women in the textile sector are made to work for 12 hrs and more a day.” 

Technology ushers in change

But with technological advances, more companies are looking at hiring women, especially when dexterity is an integral part of the production process.

“An electronics company in Hosur employed a huge number of women for watch assembly as women have nimble fingers,” says Sundararajan. “The work was outsourced, and many self-help groups benefited.”

Government initiatives to boost women’s participation in the workforce

The government has been making efforts to encourage participation of women in the workforce. While presenting the Union Budget 2024-25, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman said that more than ₹3 lakh crore has been allotted for schemes directed towards women and girls and fostering women-led development.  To foster the participation of women in the workforce, the government will collaborate with industry to establish working women hostels and creche-facilities, she added.

The Finance Minister also allocated ₹500 crore for Namo Drone Didi, an  initiative that aims to provide 15,000 selected women self-help groups (SHGs) with drones from 2023-24 to 2025-2026 for rental services to farmers.

The government has also increased budget allocation for schemes under Mission Shakti (Mission for Protection and Empowerment for Women ) from ₹2,325 crore to ₹3,146 crore. It includes schemes like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Nari Adalat, Mahila Police, etc.

Smile Foundation has also been working for women empowerment and to increase the participation of women in the workforce. We have adopted a lifecycle approach, supporting child education, family health, livelihood, and women empowerment. This is because ensuring the education of children cannot be done in isolation.

Companies follow suit

According to an article on SHRM, a member-driven catalyst for creating better workplaces where people and businesses thrive together, a few companies have been working to increase gender-diversity in the workforce. They have been seeing to it that some of their assembly lines are run only by women. For instance, at Elgi Equipments, a maker of air compressors, three of the assembly lines in Coimbatore are now being run by women.

Empower women, empower the nation  

The promotion of gender equality and women empowerment is a key aspect of UNDP’s Sustainable Development Goals. It is believed that a community, society, and country prosper when women are empowered. 

Smile Foundation’s women empowerment programme, Swabhiman, which was launched in 2005, reaches out to marginalised and socially excluded women with interventions in nutrition, healthcare and livelihood. 

We also provide entrepreneurship and skill development training to women from urban slums and rural areas with limited means owning low scale businesses. This gives them access to opportunities for economic empowerment, independence, and leadership.

More women in manufacturing sector and the workforce at large with pay equalling men is the near future we should all look forward to. The future is everyone, only when females forefront it.

Categories
Health

How Travelling Doctors are Changing the Health Status of India?

How Travelling Doctors are Changing the Health Status of India?
How Travelling Doctors are Changing the Health Status of India?

India’s healthcare system, with its vast and varied landscape, faces significant challenges in delivering quality medical services to its 1.4 billion inhabitants. Despite various progressive initiatives, the country still struggles with inadequate infrastructure, a shortage of healthcare professionals and urban-rural disparities. 

In such a context, travelling doctors offer a promising solution. These healthcare professionals equipped with their mobile medical units (MMUs) provide essential healthcare services directly to remote and underserved communities, bridging gaps in accessibility and delivering specialised services where they are most needed.

Why are travelling doctors necessary?

The Indian healthcare system, encompassing both public and private sectors, offers a broad range of services. Government initiatives like the National Health Mission enhance the availability of medical equipment and supplies while also encouraging community involvement and participation in healthcare decision-making and service delivery. The Ayushman Bharat scheme provides health insurance coverage per family for hospitalisation. 

Despite these improvements, the system encounters major obstacles such as insufficient infrastructure, a lack of healthcare professionals, disparities between urban and rural areas, limited insurance coverage and inadequate public funding. Fragmented healthcare services and poor transportation further exacerbate these issues. To address these challenges and improve service delivery, more robust healthcare delivery methods are needed. Evidence shows Outreach health practitioners and MMUs can offer a viable solution in areas with inadequate local healthcare.

How Travelling Doctors Impact the Health Scenario of India?

Enhancing Accessibility

Rural areas, home to 69% of the population, have only 26% of hospital beds and a third of healthcare professionals. With over 65% of rural Indians lacking access to essential medicines and many forced to travel over 30 kilometers for primary healthcare, the disparity is stark. 

The challenges of uneven terrain, infrequent transportation and financial constraints further limit access to basic health services, often driving individuals to seek care from the unorganised, informal and expensive private healthcare sector. By offering both primary health services and specialised treatments right at the doorstep, mobile healthcare delivery is transforming healthcare accessibility in rural India. 

Improving Affordability

Travelling to a healthcare facility often means taking time off work resulting in a loss of daily wages. This financial burden compounded by the potential out-of-pocket expenses for medical treatment, can be catastrophic for those with limited resources. As a result, many choose to forgo medical care altogether, leading to worsened health outcomes and a vicious cycle of poverty and illness. 

Travelling doctors are breaking these barriers by bringing healthcare directly to economically and geographically disadvantaged communities. These units eliminate the need for arduous travel, providing high-quality, low-cost care at the doorstep.

Strengthening Public Health System

Preventive care is essential for reducing disease burden and traveling doctors can play a key role in this. MMUs help deliver vaccines to remote areas, preventing outbreaks and engaging in health education, enhancing hygiene, nutrition and disease prevention to improve overall health.

Outreach doctors and mobile health units help enhance public health systems by providing services where government facilities are limited. They improve the reach and effectiveness of health programmes, especially in maternal and child health, thereby supporting underserved communities and strengthening overall healthcare delivery.

Travelling Doctors vs. Telemedicine: Can One Replace the Other?

Telemedicine offers a cost-effective and sustainable way to deliver healthcare, especially in urban areas with good connectivity. However, in rural areas, it faces significant limitations like poor networks and slow response times. In India, patients are accustomed to physically visiting the hospital and consulting with the doctor directly for their treatment needs. Thus, the unavailability of doctors for real-time consultation might lead to patient frustration. In addition, even a minor communication error during a telemedicine session could have serious consequences.

Moreover, people from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may lack access to smartphones or struggle with digital literacy, reducing the effectiveness of telemedicine. On the other hand, traveling doctors address these challenges by providing direct, in-person care, building trust and ensuring accurate diagnosis and treatment. Therefore, while telemedicine has its merits, travelling doctors are often a more practical and effective solution in rural and underserved regions. 

Smile On Wheels: Delivering Healthcare to the Last Mile

Smile Foundation’s Health Cannot Wait initiative is bringing healthcare directly to those who need it most. Our Smile on Wheels programme uses mobile healthcare units to reach underserved and remote areas, where accessibility is limited. These mobile clinics equipped with medical facilities and staffed by healthcare professionals, deliver essential services like check-ups, vaccinations and health education right to people’s thresholds. By offering both preventive and curative care in these hard-to-reach areas, Smile on Wheels helps bridge healthcare gaps, encourages health-seeking behaviour and ultimately improves overall well-being among very low-income populations.

Identifying the Barriers 

Despite their benefits, outreach doctors and MMUs face several challenges. Limited resources and funding can affect their sustainability and effectiveness. Ensuring that mobile units are well-equipped and adequately staffed requires significant investment. Additionally, logistical issues such as maintaining the functionality of vehicles and managing supplies in remote areas can be challenging. There are also cultural and communication barriers that can affect the acceptance and effectiveness of mobile health services. Addressing these shortcomings is fundamental to maximising the impact of travelling doctors.

Way Forward

In a developing country like India, with vast geospatial diversity, utilising innovative methods of healthcare delivery is integral. Travelling doctors providing medical services on wheels represents a significant advancement in addressing India’s healthcare challenges, particularly in rural and underserved areas. 

While challenges remain, a focused effort to strengthen and expand mobile healthcare services can lead to a more equitable and effective healthcare system. Training local health workers to operate and manage MMUs can enhance their effectiveness and acceptance in communities. In addition, collaboration between the government and non-governmental organisations can help improve logistical coordination and further optimise mobile healthcare delivery, ensuring that all Indians, regardless of their location, have access to the care they need.

Categories
Partners In Change

Atmanirbhar Bharat: Making Community-based Organisations self-reliable

Atmanirbhar Bharat: Making Community-based Organisations self-reliable
Atmanirbhar Bharat: Making Community-based Organisations self-reliable

India, with its vast and diverse population, faces significant socio-economic challenges, including extreme poverty affecting 34.4 million people. Many struggle with limited access to education, healthcare and livelihood opportunities. In this context, community-based organisations (CBOs) become indispensable allies. They operate at the grassroots level, bridging gaps and empowering marginalised communities to build self-sufficient and sustainable progress. 

Atmanirbhar Bharat envisions strengthening these grassroots efforts to help advance local development. This article explores how CBOs, supported by organisations like the Smile Foundation, can become self-reliable agents of change in the pursuit of a self-sufficient India.

Understanding Atmanirbhar Bharat

Atmanirbhar Bharat, translated as “Self-Reliant India”, is an ambitious initiative launched by the government of India to transform India into a self-sufficient and resilient nation. Announced on May 12, 2020, this vision emphasises the need for economic self-reliance and local empowerment. Atmanirbhar Bharat is a comprehensive strategy aimed at enhancing India’s self-sufficiency across various sectors. 

The initiative revolves around five key pillars: Economy, Infrastructure, System, Vibrant Demography and Demand. These pillars are designed to build a robust economic framework, enhance infrastructure, streamline systems, leverage India’s demographic advantage and stimulate domestic demand. The core objective is to reduce dependency on imports and bolster domestic production, which in turn will boost economic growth.

By supporting small and medium enterprises, investing in infrastructure, and fostering skill development, Atmanirbhar Bharat aims to build a robust, self-sustaining economy and ensure viable, equitable growth for all communities. For community-based organisations, this vision provides an opportunity to align their efforts with national goals. By focusing on local empowerment and resourcefulness, these organisations can contribute significantly to achieving the broader objectives of Atmanirbhar Bharat.

Role of Community-based Organisations in Atmanirbhar Bharat

Community-based organisations (CBOs) are grassroots entities that operate at the local level to address specific needs and challenges within their neighborhoods, facilitating engagement and collaboration. They ensure that government welfare programmes and policies effectively reach the most underserved communities. They work to improve quality of life by providing resources, support and advocacy tailored to their community’s unique context. These organisations, often founded and run by local visionaries, possess an innate understanding of community needs. 

Community-based Organisations support Atmanirbhar Bharat by

  • Empowering Local Communities: Through various initiatives, CBOs enhance local capacities and skills, enabling communities to become independent and economically stable.
  • Promoting Indigenous Solutions: They offer tailored solutions that address the unique needs of their communities, thereby reducing dependency on external resources.
  • Driving Economic Development: By supporting local businesses and entrepreneurship, CBOs stimulate economic activity and create job opportunities.

However, despite their crucial role, community-based organisations often face significant challenges, such as,

  • Funding Constraints: Many CBOs struggle with securing consistent and adequate funding, which hampers their ability to expand and maintain their programmes.
  • Capacity Building: Limited resources and expertise can hinder the ability of CBOs to build their organisational capacity and implement effective solutions.
  • Bureaucratic Hurdles: Navigating complex regulatory environments and bureaucratic processes can be challenging for grassroots organizations.

How does Smile Foundation play its part for community-based organisations?

Smile Foundation, rooted in the ethos of social justice and inclusivity, champions the cause of Atmanirbhar Bharat through its unwavering support to community-based organisations. Our approach goes beyond providing financial aid and includes skill development, mentorship and advocacy to equip these organisations with the tools they need to succeed independently.

By cultivating autonomy among CBOs, we catalyse positive change at the grassroots level. At the core of this movement lies the belief that local solutions yield lasting results. By leveraging indigenous knowledge and solidarity among community members, these local organisations drive significant change, tackling deep-rooted inequalities and promoting inclusive growth.

Empowering Grassroots

Empowering Grassroots, a programme by Smile Foundation, supports the Government of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. This programme helps grassroots social entrepreneurs become self-sustaining and less reliant on external resources. It enhances the efficiency of their welfare operations and encourages the use of local resources. We assists CBOs in two main ways:

1. Matching Grants: We provide critical investments to support the sustainability of social initiatives and encourages local fundraising.

2. Support and Capacity Building: We enhance CBOs’ organisational planning and local fundraising capabilities through effective communication, monitoring and reporting systems. Training covers areas such as good governance, leadership, project management, communication, local action and resource mobilisation.

Unlike traditional grant-making, this approach builds partner capacity throughout the project. It goes beyond one-time training sessions by helping partners apply and uphold their new skills. Matching grants also increase the social return on investment by doubling donor contributions and enhancing community ownership.

Success Stories

BMV Education Trust, a primary school in Bhakthrahalli, Karnataka, founded by Kalappa Lakshmaiah and friends, aimed to provide quality education within the village. When this school risked closure in 2008, Smile Foundation intervened by offering essential facilities like transportation, computer labs, libraries, nutritious meals, sports and extracurricular activities. Today, BMV continues to thrive as a fully operational school.

The Way Forward

As India navigates the complexities of development, the role of CBOs becomes increasingly pivotal. They are the architects of change, advocating for sustainable practices, preserving cultural heritage and promoting inclusive policies. Smile Foundation stands shoulder to shoulder with these organisations, offering financial aid, capacity building and other necessary support.

In conclusion, the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat through CBOs, captures the essence of empowerment and resilience. It highlights the lasting impact of community-driven efforts and the significant role of grassroots leadership. With strong commitment and continuous support, we are working towards a fairer and more sustainable future where each community can flourish independently. Together, we embark on a journey towards an Atmanirbhar Bharat, where self-reliance is a reality nurtured by the collective strength of empowered communities and organisations like ours.

To learn more about forging a partnership with Smile on Empowering Grassroots, write to us at eg@smilefoundationindia.org

Categories
Education

The ASMITA Project: A Leap Towards Inclusive Higher Education

The ASMITA Project: A Leap Towards Inclusive Higher Education
The ASMITA Project: A Leap Towards Inclusive Higher Education

In a pioneering move set to reshape the landscape of higher education in India, the Ministry of Education and the University Grants Commission (UGC) have announced the ASMITA project. This ambitious initiative aims to develop 22,000 higher education books in various Indian languages over the next five years.

A Vision for Inclusive Education

Bridging the Language Gap

India is a linguistically diverse nation with over 1,600 spoken languages. For many students, learning in their native language can significantly enhance understanding and academic performance. The ASMITA project recognises this and aims to make higher education more accessible by providing textbooks in regional languages.

Empowering Regional Languages

By translating and creating educational content in multiple Indian languages, ASMITA not only makes higher education more inclusive but also supports the preservation and promotion of regional languages. This is crucial in a country where language is deeply intertwined with cultural identity.

How ASMITA Will Transform Education

Wide-Ranging Impact

Over the next five years, ASMITA will focus on producing textbooks across a broad spectrum of subjects. This ensures that students pursuing diverse fields of study will have access to quality educational materials in their preferred languages.

Enhanced Comprehension

Studies show that students learn better and retain information more effectively when taught in their native language. According to research, students taught in their mother tongue are 30-50% more likely to understand and retain information. ASMITA aims to leverage this by providing resources catering to the linguistic preferences of students. This will lead to improved educational outcomes.

Increased Accessibility

Many students in rural and semi-urban areas face barriers to higher education due to language differences. By making textbooks available in local languages, ASMITA will help quality education reach more learners.

The Broader Impact

ASMITA is set to democratise higher education by making resources available to a much wider audience. It’s a significant step towards reducing educational disparities and promoting fairness in academic opportunities. By embracing this inclusive approach, ASMITA is also contributing to cultural enrichment as well. As regional languages gain prominence in academic settings, students and educators alike will engage with educational materials that reflect their cultural contexts and traditions. This, in turn, nurtures a sense of pride and connection to one’s roots, even as students prepare to take on the global stage.

StatisticsValue
Number of textbooks to be developed22,000
Project duration5 years
Number of Indian languages to be included22 major languages
Increase in comprehension and retention rates30-50%
Potential reach (students)200 million
Annual budget₹500 crores (approx. $67M)
Number of subjects covered100+
Estimated increase in higher education enrollment15%
Projected job creation in publishing sector10,000+
Key Statistics of the ASMITA Project

Looking Ahead

The ASMITA project is a forward-thinking initiative that addresses one of the core challenges in Indian education—language diversity. By making higher education more accessible and equitable, the project promises to bring significant improvements in learning experiences and educational outcomes for students throughout the country.

As ASMITA unfolds, it will be exciting to see how this initiative transforms the educational landscape and empowers students to reach their full potential in an environment that respects and reflects their linguistic and cultural backgrounds.

While the ASMITA project is set to revolutionise higher education in India, it’s important to recognise the role of organisations like ours in laying the groundwork for such inclusive educational initiatives. For over two decades, Smile Foundation has been at the forefront of providing quality education to underserved children across India. Through our Mission Education programme, we have reached out to millions of children, ensuring they have access to basic education, healthcare and a nurturing environment that promotes holistic development.

In addition to foundational education, we are also deeply committed to vocational training through our education programme. This initiative bridges the gap between education and employment by equipping young people with the skills needed to secure jobs. By focusing on skill development, we help individuals achieve economic independence. This also contributes to the overall socio-economic development of communities that we work with.

Our ongoing efforts in primary education and vocational training serve as a vital support system, ensuring that all children, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to pursue their dreams and aspirations.

Categories
Health Nutrition

Making Healthcare Easy for Pregnant Women

Making Healthcare Easy for Pregnant Women
Making Healthcare Easy for Pregnant Women

Pregnancy can be a transformative and rewarding journey for women. However, at the same time, it can be a big challenge because it requires optimal health management for both the expectant mother and her unborn child. During the entire pregnancy period, it becomes extremely important that the expecting mothers have access to good quality healthcare facilities because of the many complications that may arise in that time.

In India, where maternal health indicators have improved significantly, these challenges persist. Innovative solutions are vital to simplify healthcare access for pregnant women, ensuring safety, convenience and empowerment. Also, the rural-urban divide when it comes to healthcare is stark in India where a large population is still deprived of basic health infrastructure. In such cases, women mostly have to rely on traditional remedies or midwives who may not be skilled enough to deal with complex medical issues.

Therefore, in this article, we are going to look at the ways in which healthcare can be made easy and accessible for pregnant women in India and around the world:

Community-Based Antenatal Clinics: Bringing Care Closer for Pregnant Women

One of the best ways to ensure last-mile delivery of optimal healthcare facilities for expecting mothers is to ensure establishment of highly localised and community-based antenatal clinics. These facilities should be specifically designed and dedicated to the needs of pregnant women. Community-based antenatal clinics serve as vital touchpoints for pregnant women. These localised centres offer essential services, including regular check-ups, nutritional counselling and health education. By bringing care closer to home, these clinics ensure that pregnant women can access quality services without travelling long distances.

In some cases, where setting up community-based clinics is not desirable for any reason, an alternative solution can be mobile clinics. Mobile vans equipped with medical staff can reach even the most remote villages. These mobile clinics can provide antenatal care, vaccinations and health awareness programs. By bridging geographical gaps, they empower pregnant women in underserved regions.

Telemedicine and Virtual Consultations

One of the essential needs for pregnant women is to receive regular consultation opportunities with qualified doctors and professionals. This does not only help them manage their pregnancy better but also helps in detecting any problems at the right time and taking the necessary action before it is too late. This is where telemedicine and teleconsultation can play a pivotal role. For geographies where premium healthcare facilities cannot be provided in a short time, technology can be leveraged to establish teleconsultation and telemedicine facilities through which pregnant women can receive guidance from the best medical professionals from across the country.

Through video consultations, expectant mothers can discuss concerns, receive advice and monitor their progress—all without leaving their homes. These platforms are especially valuable for women in rural areas or those with limited mobility. Another solution can be the use of technology is mobile applications.

Considering the smartphone usage in India is increasing rapidly and internet facilities are also reaching the remotest parts of the country, these user-friendly applications can offer a wealth of important information regarding pregnancy to women. From tracking pregnancy milestones to providing nutritional tips, these apps can empower pregnant women. Some apps even feature live chats with doctors, ensuring timely answers to queries.

Skilled Birth Attendants and Midwives: A Human Touch

As mentioned in the introduction of this article, a large section of women in India, especially those in rural regions, are dependent on midwives who help them manage their pregnancy and even giving birth to the child. Skilled birth attendants and midwives play a crucial role in maternal and neonatal health. Their expertise ensures safe deliveries and postnatal care. They are also trusted by the local population because of the personal connect that they have with the communities where they operate. Therefore, this large network of birth attendants and midwives can be leveraged by providing them necessary training so that they can handle certain situations effectively or identify an issue at the early stage and alert the expecting mothers so that they can access medical support at the right time.

Apart from this, all of us can focus on initiatives engaging communities to highlight the importance of skill attendants during childbirth. By involving husbands, families, and community leaders, we create a supportive environment. Trust in skilled professionals encourages more women to choose institutional deliveries.

Maternal Health Awareness Campaigns: Knowledge Is Power

One of the biggest tools that we have at our disposal today is the reach of the media. By using local radio channels or television, governments as well as NGOs can create awareness regarding maternal health, provide education and support, and organise communities. Maternal health awareness campaigns play a pivotal role. These campaigns educate pregnant women about nutrition, hygiene, danger signs during pregnancy and the importance of regular check-ups. By disseminating knowledge, we empower women to make informed decisions.

Engaging husbands, families and community leaders is crucial. When men understand the significance of maternal health, they become advocates for their wives’ well-being. With everyone’s support and participation, we can create a supportive network encouraging timely healthcare-seeking behaviour.

Financial Support and Insurance

Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, what is needed is that necessary financial support is provided to those pregnant women who cannot afford to access expensive medical facilities. Many general health insurance schemes in India also do not include maternal health support or childbirth as part of the product. This creates a difficult situation for women as the burden of expenses falls entirely upon them in case they face any complication during this period. High hospital bills can discourage these women to access quality healthcare services and put them in a difficult situation. 

Making antenatal care, delivery and postnatal services affordable is essential. Subsidies or financial incentives encourage pregnant women to seek professional care. Maternity insurance schemes further reduce financial barriers. Promoting maternity insurance ensures that women receive comprehensive care without worrying about costs. These insurance schemes cover prenatal, delivery and postnatal expenses, fostering a sense of security.

Initiatives to Provide Support to Expecting Mothers

There are a number of initiatives both by the government and non-government sector to make necessary interventions in this area for the benefit of pregnant women. The Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA), launched by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW), Government of India, aims to provide assured, comprehensive, and quality antenatal care, free of cost, universally to all pregnant women on the 9th of every month. The programme focuses on high-risk pregnant women and those in hard-to-reach, vulnerable and socially disadvantaged communities.

Another initiative is Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK) under which every pregnant woman gets free delivery, including caesarean section, in public health institutions. The scheme also provides free transport, diagnostics, medicines, blood, other consumables and diet. Apart from these, there are startups that have launched products that help women during various phases of pregnancy and childbirth. Several NGOs have also been playing a crucial role in this area for decades.

Making healthcare easy for pregnant women involves a collaborative effort from startups, government programmes and healthcare providers. By leveraging technology, innovative solutions and targeted interventions, we can empower pregnant women, enhance maternal health and create a nurturing environment for both mothers and their unborn children.

Smile’s Nutrition Enhancement Programme (NEP) for Pregnant Women and Infants

The Nutrition Enhancement Programme (NEP) is a collaborative initiative by PepsiCo Foundation, Smile Foundation and government agencies that has made a significant impact on maternal and child nutrition in Sangrur, Punjab. Rooted in the belief that communities hold the key to their own well-being, the NEP under our Swabhiman programme promotes healthy behaviours and lifestyles for holistic health.

The programme’s approach centers on two core objectives: improving maternal and child nutrition and engaging the community in these efforts. Through a blend of awareness campaigns, capacity-building activities, health camps and infrastructure enhancements, the NEP has achieved remarkable progress.

Title 6

The Impact

The initiative has empowered communities by conducting over a thousand activities, such as community sessions and household visits, with a focus on educating adolescents about anaemia and nutrition. Eight specialised training sessions between 2021-23 for Anganwadi workers have strengthened their skills in growth monitoring and nutrition practices, while a two-day anaemia awareness workshop, conducted in collaboration with the District Administration and Education Department, equipped teachers from 21 government schools with important knowledge.

Health camps, a crucial aspect of the NEP, provided screenings and services to pregnant women, lactating mothers and children under six, with high-risk cases receiving targeted counseling. Additionally, the refurbishment of 27 Anganwadi Centers and the distribution of growth monitoring registers, furniture and learning kits have created welcoming and informative spaces for the community.

The programme also introduced innovative educational materials, including recipe booklets, audio tools and demonstration sessions, to promote nutritional diversity. The distribution of 21,231 nutrition recipes has positively impacted the nutritional status of pregnant women, lactating mothers, and young children.

During the pandemic, the NEP adapted by offering telephonic counseling and recipe videos, ensuring continued support for beneficiaries. Looking ahead, the programme’s community-driven initiatives and local ownership promise to sustain its positive impact on maternal and child nutrition in Sangrur, Punjab, for years to come.

If you’re interested in partnering with Smile Foundation on nutrition-based initiatives, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out to us at cp@smilefoundationindia.org to get started!

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