Three-Day MEG Management and Business Planning Training at Block Office

Three-day Block  level program at Block office, in all the Blocks. MEG management and business plan Training SS level at Block level 

Shakti Organisation fostering economic development and empowering local communities. As part of our MPOWERD PROJECT, we recently conducted a transformative three-day training program on Micro Enterprise Group (MEG) management and business planning with Smart Sakhi at block level for SHG groups. This initiative was held at Ramanaguda Block and aimed to equip local leaders with essential skills to support and manage micro enterprises effectively.

The training program was part of Shakti Organisation’s Mpowerd project with the help of TrickelUp India Foundation, which focuses on empowering women and strengthening local economies. The three-day event provided a deep dive into crucial aspects of MEG management and business planning, ensuring participants are well-prepared to drive successful micro enterprises within their communities.

Day 1:-The first day of the training was dedicated to preparing participants for entrepreneurship. Key topics included “Assessing Business Readiness” Where they learn Evaluating personal readiness and understanding the prerequisites for starting a business. “Identifying Business Opportunities”, business ideas and assessing market needs within the community. “Initial Planning” for Setting clear objectives and anticipating potential challenges.

Day2:- On the second day, the focus was on crafting detailed business plans. Participants learned about “Marketing Plans” for Creating effective strategies for market entry, customer acquisition, and competitive positioning. “Organization & Management” for Understanding different business structures (e.g., sole proprietorship, partnership, cooperative) and their legal responsibilities. “Costing of Products/Services” Techniques for pricing products or services based on production costs and market rates. “Financial Planning” Developing budgets, cash flow statements, and financial projections to ensure business viability.

Day 3:- The final day addressed critical financial aspects necessary for business success. Topics covered included “Financial Planning” Developing comprehensive financial plans to manage resources, expenses, and revenue. “Sources of Start-Up Capital” Identifying and securing funding sources, such as grants, loans, and investment opportunities. “Financial Management” Best practices for bookkeeping, financial reporting, and cost control.

Through practical exercises and group discussions, participants learned how to effectively manage finances and secure the necessary capital for their ventures.

The training program was met with great enthusiasm and positive feedback from participants. The comprehensive curriculum and interactive approach provided valuable insights and practical skills that will significantly benefit local entrepreneurs. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in making this program a success.

The Smart Shakhi project’s focus on empowering women and supporting local economic development is making a tangible impact, and this training program is a testament to our commitment to fostering sustainable growth at the grassroots level.

Shakti Organisation remains dedicated to advancing local entrepreneurship and community development. The success of this block-level training is a step forward in our mission to empower individuals and strengthen economies. We look forward to continuing our efforts and driving positive change in our communities.

Child Marriage: A Hidden Form of Child Labor

 Child Marriage: A Hidden Form of Child Labor

 When we think of child labor, we often picture children toiling away in factories or fields. However, there's a less visible, yet equally alarming form of child exploitation that often goes unnoticed: child marriage. It is a complete violation of a girl’s human rights. It is illegal because it puts girls in jeopardy, violates their rights as children, and distorts the rest of their lives. Its victims are raped repeatedly and subjected to high-risk pregnancies, life-threatening childbirth complications and heightened exposure to sexually transmitted infections such as HIV. Here’s why understanding child marriage as a type of child labor is crucial for addressing both issues effectively.

According to ILO Recommendation and SDG 8.7 standards, child labor includes working more than 21 hours per week for children under 15 (no threshold exists for children over 15). 

A multi-country study highlights a troubling link between child labor and child marriage. In India, for example, girls aged 12-17 who worked longer hours—ranging from 7 to 28 hours per week—were more likely to be married. This suggests that the demands of labor and the pressures of marriage are interconnected. Additionally, married children may face hazardous working conditions, such as working at night or in unhealthy environments like smoky kitchens. Unfortunately, there is limited data on these specific conditions, making it challenging to fully assess the extent of this issue.

Shakti Organisation proudly proclaims a significant success in the ongoing battle against child marriage. Through focused intervention and collaboration with the Kailash Satyarthi Children's Foundation, it has prevented a marriage that could have drastically impacted the young girl's future.

On a positive note, the girl's parents have signed an agreement to delay the marriage until she is at least 18 years old. This document is crucial not only for protecting the girl's rights but also for ensuring a better future for her.

This achievement marks a significant milestone in Shakti’s mission to create a child marriage-free India. It demonstrates how collaborative efforts and dedicated advocacy can bring about positive change.