Sugar Value Chain – Women Welfare

Rationale:

Supported by Women Win Netherlands, this program addresses the gender-related challenges faced by small and marginal women farmers and workers in the sugar value chain in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Maharashtra. AIM Trust, as a civil society organization (CSO), aims to empower women by improving access to welfare schemes, education, healthcare, and sustainable agricultural practices, ensuring inclusive development.

Efforts Made:

AIM Trust has worked extensively to engage with communities through regular village meetings, identifying challenges faced by women and facilitating connections to government welfare schemes. The organization has also raised awareness about digital platforms such as E-Ganna and E-Shram to enhance transparency and access to entitlements.

In education and health, the program has successfully enrolled drop-out children of cane cutters in schools and provided necessary educational support. Simultaneously, health and hygiene workshops were conducted to address prevalent community health issues, developing a culture of better hygiene practices and disease prevention.

To promote skill development and sustainability, women have been trained in leadership, financial literacy, and sustainable farming methods through Good Agriculture Practices (GAP). The formation of self-help groups has further encouraged entrepreneurship and economic independence among women, enabling them to take greater control of their lives.

Opportunities and Results:

The program has created better access for women and their families to welfare schemes, education, and healthcare services, leading to an overall improvement in their quality of life. Community empowerment has been a significant outcome, with self-help groups driving economic independence and collective action. Increased school enrollment for children of cane cutters has laid the foundation for long-term educational and social development. Furthermore, the adoption of sustainable farming practices has not only improved agricultural outcomes but also promoted environmental health and community well-being.