Nishtha

Nishtha provides education support to girls in rural Bengal, including fees, menstrual supplies, health and hygiene, and additional skills such as computer and English language skills. The programme is a continuous process that supports girls during crucial years of their schooling, helping them to overcome obstacles and continue their education.

Its Collectives programme provides a safe space for young people to explore themselves and establish their rights. It builds team spirit, gender equality, advocacy skills and strengthens community relationships. Young girls and women facing discrimination and violence are empowered to become changemakers and supervisors. The programme aims to positively impact social issues and bring opportunities back to the community.

Nishtha empowers girls and women in villages through education, information, and all-round support. It provides awareness on gender concepts, legal provisions, and sexual and reproductive health and rights. It also works towards breaking age-old norms and practices related to sexuality, menstruation, and contraception. Through campaigns and forums, it creates awareness about the larger international scenario of women's rights.

Nishtha's economic independence programme for women aims to expand their capacity for making frank choices through full and equal participation in all spheres of life. Women are trained to become small entrepreneurs by saving their own funds, with each group having elected officials and group accounts. Savings are used to ensure education and capacity-building for their children and themselves.

It prepares young people for adulthood by promoting skills and youth leadership. Future leaders are identified and groomed through extensive training, equipped with skills such as problem-solving, creative thinking, teamwork, facilitation, and communication. The Youth Federation, comprising elected members, works on an annual action plan to address rights violations across villages.