Slums are often seen as a burden on urban infrastructure, but government agencies and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are now taking action to improve the lives of slum residents. Caritas India’s Gram Nirman urban component is a shining example of how an NGO can make a real difference in the lives of urban slum dwellers, particularly those affected by HIV/AIDS.

Gram Nirman’s approach focuses on strengthening and rehabilitating slum dwellers and HIV-affected households. One of their key initiatives is the formation of self-help groups, such as the “Suraj Mahila Samuh” group in East Delhi. This group was started by Poonam, a 50-year-old widow and mother of four, who works as a community educator for Caritas India.

Poonam recognized that creating self-help groups and initiating internal savings would not be enough to sustain the group beyond the Gram Nirman program. She worked hard to create a social circle of women from diverse backgrounds who were eager to provide for their families. Breaking social barriers can be challenging for women, but Poonam’s determination and market research led her to a suitable enterprise: local food processing and packaging.

With guidance from the Gram Nirman team, Poonam started a small enterprise producing dry vermicelli/wheat strings, known as sevai in Hindi. She encouraged other women to join her in pooling resources and sharing responsibilities. Their collaborative effort enabled them to produce a greater number of high-quality products and sell them in the local market.

The group sells their final product to local stores for INR 120 to INR180 per kg, with a return of approximately INR 3500-4000 per head per month. The profit is distributed fairly among all group members, giving new female entrepreneurs great confidence to invest more time and energy in the business.

The income earned is extremely beneficial to the women, supporting their household needs such as purchasing food, educating their children, covering health needs, and saving for various other needs. This lends credence to the theory of women’s empowerment, as they actively strive for self-reliance.

Poonam’s story is a powerful example of resilience and the positive impacts of collaboration. She not only achieved personal success but also contributed to her community by employing other women from the support group, providing them with a steady income and furthering the group’s empowerment goal.

Poonam’s journey from facing barriers and challenges to becoming a successful entrepreneur highlights the importance of solidarity and the transformative power of encouragement and mentorship. Her story illustrates the profound effect that a supportive community can have on an individual’s ability to overcome personal and professional challenges.

Caritas India’s Gram Nirman program is a shining example of how an NGO can make a real difference in the lives of urban slum dwellers. By empowering women through self-help groups and providing end-to-end solutions, the program is not only improving the economic standing of slum dwellers but also strengthening their resilience and self-reliance. Poonam’s story is a testament to the power of collaboration and the transformative impact of NGO interventions in urban slum development.