Participation, Skilling, Gender Equality Key to Women’s Empowerment, says CEO of SOS Children’s Villages India
New Delhi : In a nationwide initiative, in the run-up to International Women’s Day under the theme ‘Accelerate Action’, SOS Children’s Villages India organised panel discussions across its 32 Children’s Villages. Through these discussions, which featured inspiring women leaders from diverse fields, Sumanta Kar, CEO of the NGO, focused on accelerating women’s empowerment through participation, skilling, and gender equality. The initiative highlighted the role of women caregivers and SOS Mothers in shaping a more equitable society by fostering financial independence, access to education, and social inclusion.
Through its Family Strengthening Programme and other holistic care interventions, SOS Children’s Villages India has actively worked towards equipping women with essential skills and opportunities. Over 8706 women caregivers have been trained and upskilled through these programmes, enabling them to secure stable employment or establish their own businesses. In 2024 alone, 2770 women have successfully started their own ventures or gained stable income sources, contributing to their families’ financial security. The organisation currently has 318 SOS Mothers nurturing children across its Children’s Villages, playing a crucial role in creating a supportive and empowering environment.
Sumanta Kar, Chief Executive Officer, SOS Children’s Villages India said, “Women empowerment India calls for a multifaceted approach. At the core of this empowerment lie three essential elements: participation, skilling, and gender equality. These elements play a critical role in fostering socio-economic progress where women can not only thrive but achieve their fullest potential. As we strive for a more inclusive society, the focus on these key areas becomes imperative for realizing true gender parity. SOS Children’s Villages India imparts education and skills to many girls and women, setting them up on the path of self-reliance. Our programmes are designed to actively contribute to a Vikasit Bharat.”
Over the past year, women’s participation in economic activities under SOS India’s community programmes has increased by 319.98 percent, demonstrating the effectiveness of initiatives aimed at fostering financial independence.
Self-Help Groups (SHGs) have been instrumental in strengthening women’s financial independence and social standing. SOS India has supported 1257 such SHGs and female-led initiatives, creating a platform for women to drive community development. These initiatives have provided women with not only financial literacy and skills but also the confidence to participate in decision-making processes that impact their lives and communities.
“Participation is the pillar of women empowerment. For women to have a voice in decision-making processes, whether at the family or community level, they must be actively involved. The process of inclusion gives women the power to influence decisions, contribute ideas, and create solutions that address their unique needs. When women participate in governance, business, and public life, they bring different perspectives that lead to better outcomes for society as a whole. Whether at the grassroot level or through any other platform, enabling women to take part is an essential step toward gender equality,” added Mr. Kar.
The impact of these initiatives is best reflected in the stories of women whose lives have been transformed through SOS India’s support. One such inspiring story is that of Sudha, an SOS Mother who has dedicated her life to nurturing children in Children’s Village Greenfields. “I have empowered the children by providing them with a loving and stable home. During their study hours, I have encouraged them and created a warm and nurturing family environment. I have taught them respect, kindness, and independence, and motivated them to become self-reliant and role models for others. Through my journey, I have learned that empowerment is not just about providing care but also about inspiring children to dream, achieve, and lead a life of dignity and purpose.,” she said.
Another testament to the effectiveness of these initiatives comes from Sunita from Pune who benefited from the Family Strengthening Programme and has since become financially independent. She said, “This grocery shop I have been empowered to run, is not just livelihood for me, it is a step towards securing my children’s future. I want to ensure they have better opportunities in life, and this shop will help me achieve that dream.”
As SOS Children’s Villages India continues its commitment to creating an inclusive and empowering environment for women, International Women’s Day serves as a reminder of the progress made and the work that still lies ahead. By accelerating action in skilling, participation, and gender equality, the organisation aims to foster a future where every woman has the opportunity to thrive.
