An Ethiopian delegation visits Rajasthan to study rural livelihood initiatives

A 25-member delegation from Ethiopia, during its visit to Rajasthan this weekend, gained insight into the community-based livelihood and women empowerment initiatives being implemented under the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM). The group studied the model facilitated by the Rajasthan Grameen Ajeevika Vikas Parishad.

The delegation consisted of fifteen members from the Ethiopian government, three from the World Bank and seven from Micro Save Consulting, who were accompanied by four officials from the NRLM. The two-day visit was aimed at understanding the structure, implementation and outcomes of the state’s rural livelihood programmes.

The members of the delegation interacted with members of self-help groups (SHGs), village organizations and cluster-level federations led by women in Alwar district. They observed the processes of SHG formation, mutual lending mechanisms and income generating activities undertaken through producer groups and manufacturing enterprises.

Ethiopian officials praised the community-driven model and leadership shown by women members of SHGs. They also showed keen interest in understanding the activities being undertaken for sustainable rural livelihoods and socio-economic empowerment of women.

The delegation visited the State Project Management Unit of Ajeevika Vikas Parishad in Jaipur after completing the tour to villages in Alwar district. The District Project Managers presented detailed insights into the ongoing programs and innovations during the interaction.

While State Mission Director Neha Giri emphasized on the convergence between various government programs and the role of community institutions in promoting inclusive development, the officials of the participating banks apprised the delegation of the credit linkages and financial mechanisms extended to SHGs across the state.

According to official sources, the discussions at the meeting provided valuable insights into Rajasthan’s model of rural livelihoods, community mobilization and women-led enterprise development. Senior bankers also shed light on efforts to increase financial inclusion in rural areas.