About Kudumbashree
KUDUMBASREE
Kudumbashree is a people-centered movement that has made a significant contribution to the social empowerment of women and poverty alleviation in Kerala. Its primary objective is to enhance women’s economic self-reliance and increase their participation in society.
1. Beginning
Kudumbashree is the State Poverty Eradication Mission launched by the Government of Kerala on May 17, 1998. The mission operates under the leadership of Local Self-Government Institutions and with active participation from the people.
Information | Details |
|---|---|
Year Established | 1998 |
Date Established | 17 May 1998 |
Objective | Poverty Eradication & Women’s Empowerment |
2. Structure (Three Tier System)
| തലം | സംഘടന | പ്രവർത്തനം |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Neighborhood Group (NHG) | The basic unit consisting of 15–20 women. There are 116 NHG units functioning in Pandanad Grama Panchayat. |
| 2 | ADS | Ward-level coordination. There are 14 ADS units functioning in the Grama Panchayat. |
| 3 | CDS | Panchayat-level coordination. |
3. Major Activities
Women’s Empowerment
Ensuring the social, economic, and political empowerment of women.
Formation and Functioning of Self-Help Groups (NHGs)
Savings, loans, and collective activities through Neighborhood Groups (NHGs).
Self-Employment Enterprises
Providing support to start and operate individual and group enterprises.
Poverty Eradication
Implementing programmes to improve the living standards of poor families.
Livelihood Development
Creating employment opportunities in agriculture, animal husbandry, food processing, the service sector, and other related areas.
Financial Inclusion
Facilitating access to bank loans, microfinance, and savings schemes.
Agricultural Activities
Promoting organic farming, group farming, vegetable cultivation, and nutrition gardens.
Social Development Activities
Activities related to health, sanitation, nutrition, and anti-drug awareness.
Training and Skill Development
Providing vocational and entrepreneurship training.
Collaboration with Local Self-Government Institutions
Participation in Grama Panchayat development projects.
Environmental Protection
Waste management, tree planting, and other environmental initiatives.
Balasabha and Youth Activities
Ensuring the participation of children and youth.
Special Feature: Kudumbashree plays a crucial role in ensuring economic independence and social leadership among women.
4. Importance
Kudumbashree plays a crucial role in improving the quality of life of women in Kerala and ensuring their economic security. It ensures the active participation of women in local development activities and paves the way for the overall progress of society.