India’s largest self-help group, Kudumbashree, which translates to ‘Prosperity of the Family’ is planning to launch ‘Happiness Centres’ as a new initiative under the National Rural Livelihood Mission’s FWHW (Food, nutrition, health and WASH) programme. The project will be launched in 168 model Community Development Societies (CDS) across Kerala in its initial phase, with an objective to ensure the holistic welfare and upliftment of individuals and families by “addressing various challenges faced across domains”.
A two-day workshop was held at the Hotel Grand Chaitra in Thiruvananthapuram from June 21-July 22 to develop the project’s approach and criteria. The project will conduct a survey in selected CDSs to create a Kerala-specific index. Experts will guide the implementation, integrating activities with existing Kudumbashree projects and establishing robust monitoring mechanisms at regular intervals.
As per a statement issued by the state’s Local Self Government Department (LSGD), the project aims to “enhance overall happiness by addressing various challenges faced by individuals and families across domains such as equality, financial stability, mental health, nutrition, hygiene, democratic values, arts, sports and literature”.
Family Nutrition and Health Welfare (FNHW) resource persons will be appointed in 168 model CDSs for effective project implementation. At the local level, various committees will be formed, including representatives of local bodies and the Kudumbashree three-tier organisational system. Necessary training will be provided to the district resource groups, area development society (ADS) and CDS members, and district programme managers for project implementation. This training will be completed in July. Additionally, integration with various departments and institutions will be ensured.
Kudumbashree conducted a pilot study in Kottayam district, which showed that formal groupings are not effective as people are often reluctant to be a part of a group and discuss their issues there. Therefore, the plan is to adopt a more comprehensive and informal structure. “The happiness centre is not a physical premise. While we will be using Kudumbashree’s Ennidam (myspace) spaces, the goal is to engage with each individual or family in their areas personally, providing support in a non-intrusive and natural way. This approach aims to ensure that people do not feel obliged to make a compulsory visit to centres, thus fostering a more welcoming and effective management,” said Kudumbashree state coordinator Nishad.
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The Kudumbashree Mission, launched in 1998 by the State Poverty Eradication Mission (SPEM) of the Kerala government, is a comprehensive programme aimed at eradicating poverty and empowering women. The mission focuses on three key areas: economic empowerment, social development, and women’s rights. Its objective is to uplift marginalised communities, with a special emphasis on women, by implementing various programmes and initiatives that foster self-reliance and sustainable development.
With nearly five crore women actively involved, Kudumbashree has expanded statewide, empowering women to initiate micro-businesses in sectors such as agriculture, food processing, services, technology, and textiles through self-help groups (SHGs) and community-based organisations (CBOs). It has also made strides in social development, education, skill development, healthcare, sanitation, and environmental conservation.
The mission’s focus on education and skill development has equipped women with the necessary tools to enhance their employability and entrepreneurial skills. These efforts have not only improved the skillsets of women but also boosted their confidence and self-esteem. It has empowered women to take on leadership roles within their communities and many of the members have been elected to local self-government bodies as well.
Notably, the Kudumbashree Mission has made significant strides in healthcare through various initiatives, enhancing access to healthcare services and promoting awareness about hygiene and nutrition. The Asraya project, in particular, has provided vital support to destitute families, offering critical healthcare assistance to the most vulnerable members of society. Furthermore, the mission’s efforts in sanitation have resulted in the construction of numerous household toilets, leading to improved public health standards in rural areas.
Kudumbashree has made a significant contribution by integrating marginalised women into mainstream agriculture. Photo: Kudumbashree
In the farming sector, Kudumbashree has made a substantial impact by empowering marginalised women to become active participants in mainstream agriculture. This initiative has not only improved food security but also provided a stable source of income for these women. Through its efforts, Kudumbashree has enabled the formation of around 60,000 joint liability groups (JLGs) comprising women farmers in Kerala, cumulatively cultivating approximately 53,000 hectares of land and directly involving over 350,000 women in agricultural activities.
Interestingly, these initiatives have fostered a shift towards sustainable agricultural practices, yielding positive impacts on environmental conservation and the preservation of local biodiversity. Furthermore, Kudumbashree’s Haritha Karma Sena programme has been instrumental in promoting environmental sustainability through waste management and recycling, further contributing to conservation efforts and reinforcing the mission’s commitment to eco-friendly practices.
Kudumbashree’s pioneering initiatives, such as the Balasabha programme for children and the Gender Self Learning Programme, have successfully cultivated a culture of learning and gender equality within communities. The Balasabha initiative has empowered children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds by providing them with comprehensive support, including educational assistance, life skills training, and opportunities for holistic growth. Meanwhile, the Gender Self Learning Programme has played a vital role in addressing gender-based issues and promoting gender equity through community engagement, discussions, and awareness campaigns, thereby fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.
During crises like the Kerala floods and the COVID-19 pandemic, Kudumbashree showed resilience and community support. They distributed essential supplies, set up community kitchens for food security during lockdowns, and contributed to pandemic efforts by producing masks and sanitizers. They also donated Rs 7 crore for rebuilding after the flood. Additionally, Kudumbashree’s cooperative ventures in farming, dairy production, handicrafts, and People’s restaurants bolster economic stability and provide affordable meals during emergencies.
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“By addressing a wide spectrum of challenges, from economic stability to mental health, Kudumbashree continues to innovate and adapt to the evolving needs of society. This new initiative not only aims to uplift the spirits of individuals but also reinforces the organization’s efficiency in implementing comprehensive, community-driven projects. As Kudumbashree moves forward, the organization, which stands for the prosperity of families, has indeed become the prosperity of Kerala since the 90s. We have achieved so much since then, and now we are going to achieve this too,” says Fousia, CDS Chairperson, Kadambanadu, Pathanamthitta.
Anusha Paul is a journalist based in Kerala.
