Project Samartha launched during March 2016 with the support of Utkal Alumina International Ltd as a two months pilot project to enhance the employability for poor women in Ramibeda & Kendukhunti villages (now known as RR-1 colony) of Tikiri, Rayagada District in Odisha.
Under this project Mahashakti Foundation provides training & other support services for skill building of 100 no of disadvantaged poor women. Mainly three types of training are imparted as of now; Training on Phenyl making, Dry Snacks making and Chhatua (Satu) making. During the training different skills related to the trades are taught. The project team also helps the women in building linkage with local vendors for easy access of marketing the products.
Hardly a few members were showing interest in the initial stage of the programme but after two months it has been reversed. Nowadays, many women are becoming enthusiastic to take part in the training. In order to make it more effective the women now need to gain knowledge and get guidance to establish and promote their own micro enterprise.
In the next proposed project, we plan to train women in the field of financial literacy and SHG formation that could help improve their overall behavior and attitude.