EXECUTIVE SUMMARY :

The Ahilyanagar Zilla Parishad conducted a transformative survey between September and December 2023, marking a pioneering effort in Maharashtra to systematically address the challenges faced by single women in rural areas. This initiative identified 95,960 single women across the district, categorized as widows, abandoned, divorced, or unmarried. These women were found to face severe socio-economic challenges, including financial instability, inadequate housing, lack of social support, and minimal access to government welfare schemes. The survey revealed that 67,759 women owned houses and 9,820 women did not possess ration cards. Additionally, 93,706 women had not received any skill-based training, highlighting significant gaps in opportunities for economic empowerment.

To address these challenges, the Zilla Parishad developed a data-driven action plan focusing on economic empowerment and social inclusion. Vocational training programs were launched in key areas such as tailoring, beauty parlors, farming, and poultry, aimed at equipping women with employable skills. To date, 357 women have successfully completed such training programs, leading to increased daily incomes ranging from ₹350 to ₹550. Financial support was also extended through Self-Help Groups (SHGs), with 27,439 women actively participating, facilitating their access to credit and business opportunities. Welfare programs, including the Sanjay Gandhi Niradhar Yojana and health insurance schemes, were prioritized for these women, ensuring improved access to essential services.

This initiative underscores the critical importance of empowering single women to achieve financial independence and social dignity. By addressing their unique challenges, the project aims to integrate them into sustainable livelihoods while fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.

PROBLEMS ADDRESSED:

1.    Economic Instability: Over 61% of women earned less than ₹25,000 annually, highlighting insufficient income to meet basic needs.

2.   Limited Access to Resources: Many women lacked essential personal identification documents like ration cards (9,820).

3.  Social Marginalization: Single women faced stigma, limited social support, and exclusion from community initiatives which leads to depression and health challenges.

4.   Unemployment and Skill Gaps: 93,706 women had not received any vocational training, restricting opportunities for sustainable livelihoods.

5.   Inadequate Welfare Access: A significant portion was excluded from key government welfare schemes, including pensions and health insurance.

6.    Age Group: Most of the government schemes have a age limit of 18-45

NEW OPPORTUNITIES ADDRESSED:

1.      Skill Development: Offering vocational training in tailoring, beauty services, livestock training, farming, and other sectors to enhance employability and economic independence.

2.      Entrepreneurship: Facilitating access to financial resources through Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to enable women to start and scale their businesses.

3.      Inclusion in Welfare Programs: Prioritizing single women in government schemes like the Sanjay Gandhi Niradhar Yojana, housing benefits, PMJJY, SBY and health insurance programs.

4.      Social Empowerment: Promoting dignity and reducing stigma by integrating women into community initiatives and fostering collective participation through social get-together and meet up.

5.      Sustainable Livelihoods: Creating long-term income opportunities by connecting women to markets and industries aligned with their skills and existing business.

6.      Counselling and Rehabilitation: Supporting single women through emotional guidance, skill-building, and resources to foster independence and re-establish into society

IMPORTANCE OF THE INITIATIVE:

Solving the challenges faced by single women in Ahilyanagar is vital for fostering socio-economic growth and reducing inequalities. Nearly 61% of single women earn less than ₹25,000 annually, making them vulnerable to poverty and unable to meet basic living expenses. Providing vocational training and access to financial resources can create sustainable livelihood opportunities for over 95,000 women. Despite their eligibility, 77,225 women remain excluded from welfare programs like the Sanjay Gandhi Niradhar Yojana due to inadequate documentation and awareness. Ensuring equitable access to welfare schemes will improve their social security and reduce economic disparities. Systemic discrimination and isolation further marginalize single women, perpetuating stigma and exclusion from community participation. Addressing these social challenges will restore their dignity, enhance mental well-being, and enable them to contribute actively to societal development. With only 2.3% of single women having received vocational training, the lack of marketable skills leaves 93,706 women unprepared for employment or entrepreneurship. Equipping this untapped workforce with skills-based training will boost rural economic growth and reduce aid dependency.

BENEFICIARIES OF THE PROJECT:

No. of Internal Beneficiaries: 1375

 No. of External Beneficiaries: 37439

DETAILED OVERVIEW AND TIMELINE OF KEY EVENTS:

 1. Identification of the Issue (Pre-September 2023)

            •          Ahilyanagar Zilla Parishad identified single women as a marginalized group requiring targeted interventions.

            •          Preliminary data indicated over 1 lakh single women, prompting the need for a structured survey to understand their challenges.

            •          A decision was made to focus on financial instability, skill development, housing, social inclusion, and access to welfare schemes.

2. Survey Planning and Launch (September 2023)

            •          A comprehensive four-month survey (September–December 2023) was designed to collect demographic, economic, health, and skill-                          based data of single women.

            •          Partnerships were established with Gram Panchayats, Anganwadi workers,CRP, ASHAs, and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) members to                                 conduct the survey at the village level.

            •          Digital tools like Google Forms were employed to streamline data collection, marking the first such initiative in Maharashtra.

3. Data Collection and Analysis (October–December 2023)

•          The survey successfully identified 95,960 single women, with detailed data on their income, housing, education, and access to welfare schemes.

            •          Key findings:

            •          77,225 women excluded from welfare schemes.

            •          93,706 women lacked vocational training.

4. Program Design and Implementation (January 2024 Onwards)

Vocational training programs began, training 357 women in areas like tailoring, beauty parlors, and organic farming.

•          By inclusion in SHG Financial aid and microloans were provided through SHGs, benefiting 27,439 women

•          Welfare enrolment drives were initiated to include excluded women in schemes like

the Sanjay Gandhi Niradhar Yojana and others

5. Monitoring and Future Planning (2024 and Beyond)

·       Continuous evaluation was integrated to monitor program outcomes, with plans to expand skill-based training and address gaps in welfare delivery. Financial stability, skill development, housing, social inclusion, and access to government welfare schemes.

 KEY OBJECTIVES, GOALS, AND TARGETS OF THE PROJECT:

1.      A comprehensive survey of 95,960 single women identified economic, social, health, and skill challenges, enabling targeted interventions to address vulnerabilities and empower their livelihoods.

2.      Economic empowerment efforts focus on providing skill-based training and financial support to 93,706 untrained women, fostering sustainable incomes and reducing economic dependency.

3.      Efforts aim to integrate 77,225 excluded women into government programs like the Sanjay Gandhi Niradhar Yojana, health insurance, and housing support, ensuring equitable welfare access.

4.      Promote dignity, awareness, and active participation of single women in community and governance activities to reduce social stigma and foster inclusion.

5.      Foster long-term sustainability by strengthening 27,439 active SHGs, promoting collective savings, entrepreneurship, and income-generating activities to empower single women and ensure lasting impact.

PROCESS FOLLOWED FOR DEPLOYMENT OF THE PROJECT:

1.                        1.      A four-month survey (Sept-Dec 2023) identified 95,960 single women across 14 talukas through efforts by Gram Panchayats, ASHA                              workers,  CRP (Community Resource Person), Anganwadi workers, and SHGs.

2.      Vocational training was provided to 357 women in tailoring, beauty parlors, livestock management, and organic farming, addressing skill gaps among 93,706 untrained women.

3.      Established 2,100 new SHGs and disbursed microloans totaling ₹18.6 crore, empowering 27,439 women to engage in sustainable income-generating activities.

4.      Enrolled 77,225 excluded women in welfare programs, including Sanjay Gandhi Niradhar Yojana, health insurance, and housing benefits, through focused outreach initiatives.

5.      Organized awareness campaigns in 1,200 villages to reduce stigma, enhance community participation, and foster respect for single women.

CHALLENGES FACED DURING IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PROJECT

1.    Of the 95,960 single women, many were unaware of government schemes, necessitating extensive outreach and education to boost participation.

2.      Societal biases against single women often resulted in their exclusion from community activities and reluctance to engage in initiatives.

3.   Limited digital connectivity in rural areas obstructed data collection through Google Forms and delayed vocational training for 93,706 untrained women.

4.  Over 77,225 women lacked essential documentation, like Aadhaar or ration cards, rendering them ineligible for welfare schemes and delaying financial assistance.

5.    Despite available vocational training, only 2,254 women participated due to limited access, awareness, and logistical challenges.

SPECIFIC SOLUTION FOR THE PROJECT

The district of Ahilyanagar has emerged as a pioneering example in addressing the socio-economic challenges faced by its significant demographic of single women. With over 95,960 single women identified, this group represents a substantial segment of the population grappling with persistent economic hardships, limited access to welfare schemes, and widespread social marginalization. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Ahilyanagar took a proactive stance, becoming the first district in the state to conduct a systematic survey aimed at addressing these pressing issues effectively. The initiative has since gained recognition as a transformative effort to empower single women and improve their quality of life.

The cornerstone of Ahilyanagar’s approach was its comprehensive survey, which sought to provide detailed insights into the financial, health, family, and skill-based conditions of single women across the district. Conducted with meticulous planning and execution, the survey involved key stakeholders such as Gram Panchayats, Community Resource Persons (CRPs), Anganwadi workers, and other local representatives. This collaborative approach ensured inclusivity and extensive coverage, capturing the unique challenges faced by women in urban and rural settings. Digital tools like Google Forms were employed to streamline data collection, making the process efficient and setting a precedent for similar initiatives in the region.

The survey’s findings revealed critical gaps in the socio-economic fabric impacting single women. Of the 95,960 women identified, a staggering 77,225 were excluded from welfare schemes, leaving them without essential support for housing, pensions, and healthcare. Additionally, 93,706 women were found to lack vocational training, highlighting a significant barrier to achieving financial independence. These insights underscored the urgent need for targeted interventions focusing on financial stability, skill development, housing, and social inclusion.

To address these challenges, Ahilyanagar launched a series of vocational training programs aimed at equipping women with employable skills. Sectors such as tailoring, organic farming, and beauty services were identified as high-potential areas that could provide sustainable livelihoods. By January 2024, 357 women had successfully completed training in these fields, enabling them to embark on entrepreneurial journeys. For instance, many women who received training in tailoring or beauty services started their own micro-enterprises, earning daily incomes ranging from ₹350 to ₹550. These small businesses not only provided financial stability but also instilled a sense of confidence and self-reliance among the participants.

Financial support was another critical component of the initiative. Through partnerships with Self-Help Groups (SHGs), microloans and financial aid were made accessible to women, enabling them to establish and expand their businesses. By January 2024, over 27,439 women had benefited from this financial inclusion strategy. These measures ensured that the women were not merely trained but also equipped with the resources needed to apply their skills in practical, income-generating activities. Additionally, welfare enrolment drives were conducted to integrate the 77,225 excluded women into schemes such as the Sanjay Gandhi Niradhar Yojana, providing them with essential social security benefits.

Despite its successes, the initiative faced several challenges. Social stigma associated with single women often discouraged participation in the survey and training programs. To address this, community outreach efforts were intensified, leveraging the trust and influence of local representatives like Anganwadi workers and Gram Panchayat members. These trusted figures played a crucial role in encouraging women to step forward and participate in the programs. Resource limitations also posed hurdles, as only 2,254 women could initially be accommodated in the skill-based training programs. However, plans are already underway to expand these programs, ensuring that a larger number of women can benefit in the future.

The impact of this initiative extends beyond individual beneficiaries. Women-led businesses have begun contributing to the local economy, with some enterprises generating annual profits of ₹1–2 lakh. This economic growth is accompanied by significant social empowerment. As single women gain financial independence and establish themselves as entrepreneurs, they are increasingly recognized and respected within their communities. This shift in societal perception fosters greater dignity and inclusion for single women, breaking down long-standing barriers of marginalization.

Ahilyanagar’s success serves as a model for other districts seeking to address similar challenges. The initiative’s structured; data-driven approach demonstrates the importance of granular insights in designing effective interventions. By combining vocational training, financial support, and welfare inclusion with robust community engagement, the program offers a scalable and sustainable framework that can be replicated across the state. Continuous monitoring and evaluation mechanisms have been integrated into the initiative to ensure that outcomes are tracked and gaps are addressed promptly. Future plans include expanding skill-based training programs and improving access to government welfare schemes, ensuring that the benefits of the initiative reach even more women in need.

In conclusion, Ahilyanagar’s efforts to empower single women represent a significant step towards addressing socio-economic disparities and fostering inclusive development. By prioritizing financial stability, skill development, and social inclusion, the district has created a pathway for single women to achieve self-reliance and dignity. The initiative’s transformative potential is evident in the economic growth it has spurred, the social barriers it has dismantled, and the hope it has instilled in thousands of women. As other districts look to replicate this model, Ahilyanagar’s success story stands as a testament to the power of targeted, community-driven interventions in creating a more equitable society.

KEY RESULTS & OUTCOMES OF THE PROJECT

Comprehensive Data Collection: The survey identified 95,960 single women, providing a detailed database for targeted welfare interventions, skill training, and financial support​

​Skill Development and Employment: 357 women trained in diverse sectors (beauty, tailoring, farming) achieved daily earnings of ₹350–₹550 or established small businesses​

​Entrepreneurial Success: Financial aid and training led to thriving enterprises, with some women reporting annual profits exceeding ₹2 lakh, boosting economic independence​

Increased Scheme Accessibility: Many single women were connected to welfare schemes, improving access to essential services like housing, healthcare, and pensions​

Social Empowerment: The project reduced stigma and enhanced dignity, fostering community acceptance and self-confidence among single women

SCALABILITY OF THE PROJECT:

The project for single women in Ahilyanagar district exemplifies a scalable and replicable model, offering a pathway for broader implementation and future development.

Framework for Scalability: The project’s evidence-based approach utilized a robust survey model, collecting data on 95,960 single women through grassroots workers like CRPs and Anganwadi workers. This method can be replicated in other districts by leveraging local governance systems for data collection and outreach. The integration of digital tools like Google Forms further simplifies scalability and ensures cost-effectiveness.

Skill Training Expansion: Current vocational training programs in tailoring, organic farming, and beauty services have trained 357 women. Future plans include diversifying into sectors like e-commerce, digital marketing, and renewable energy, focusing on the 93,706 women who have yet to receive skill-based training. This expansion would significantly increase the program’s reach and impact.

Financial Inclusion Strategies: Post-training financial aid has already enabled quick entrepreneurial success for many participants. Scaling up partnerships with nationalized banks and microfinance institutions can expedite fund disbursement. Establishing revolving credit funds at the district level would ensure ongoing financial support for new enterprises.

Welfare Scheme Integration: The project successfully connected women to government schemes for housing, pensions, and healthcare. Institutionalizing the prioritization of single women in future welfare programs, such as health cards and insurance coverage, remains a key goal.

Cross-District Knowledge Sharing: Ahilyanagar’s model serves as a replicable blueprint for other regions. Organizing inter-district workshops and collaborating with the state government to roll out standardized frameworks can amplify its impact.

REFLECTIONS OR LESSONS LEARNT:

The intervention targeting single women in Ahilyanagar district has provided valuable insights into addressing social and economic challenges. Below are the key reflections and lessons learned:

1. Importance of Data-Driven Planning

Reflection: Comprehensive data collection identified 95,960 single women, revealing critical socio-economic vulnerabilities and enabling targeted support​

Lesson: Accurate, village-level data is vital for designing and implementing effective interventions. Future programs should prioritize early-stage data collection using digital tools for efficiency.

2. Community Engagement Drives Participation

Reflection: Collaboration with Gram Panchayats, Anganwadi workers, and CRPs facilitated extensive outreach and encouraged participation from marginalized groups​

​Lesson: Leveraging trusted local networks enhances accessibility and trust among beneficiaries, especially for socially vulnerable populations.

3. Skill Development as a Catalyst for Empowerment

Reflection: Vocational training enabled 357 women to achieve financial independence, with daily earnings ranging from ₹350 to ₹550 or more​

Lesson: Skill-based training tailored to local market demands empowers women economically and socially. Diversifying training programs is essential for broader impact.

4. Financial Inclusion Ensures Sustainability

Reflection: Immediate financial support post-training helped women establish businesses, with some achieving annual profits of ₹2–2.5 lakh​

Lesson: Combining skill training with easy access to financial resources is crucial for sustainable entrepreneurship. Partnerships with banks and microfinance institutions are instrumental.

5. Addressing Social Stigma Requires Holistic Support

Reflection: Social acceptance improved for single women through their economic and social empowerment, reducing stigma​

Lesson: Interventions must integrate social awareness campaigns alongside economic measures to address deeply rooted biases and ensure inclusive progress.