Prakriti

Prakriti's Panchayat Sakhi programme has been successfully implemented in 40 gram panchayats across the Nagpur district since 2018. The programme, initially launched in 2000 and re-launched in 2018 with the support of the R.G. Manudhane Foundation for Excellence, aims to enhance the role of women in Panchayat Raj Institutions and develop their leadership qualities. It has also contributed to an increase in the number of women on the voters' list, raised awareness of women's eligibility for local self-governance body elections, and improved the functioning of the Gram Sabha Committees. The impact of the programme has been significant enough that the government of Madhya Pradesh has circulated a notification to appoint Panchayat Sakhi in Madhya Pradesh.

Prakriti has been dedicated to the rehabilitation of distressed farmers' families, particularly those affected by suicide, since 2008. In Akola and Amravati districts, the organisation implements a comprehensive programme that addresses the mental trauma experienced by these families and helps them cope with the aftermath of such a life-altering event. Prakriti's objective is to support these women in gaining financial independence by providing livelihood options. Additionally, the organisation endeavours to assist them in asserting their property rights over their dwellings, empowering them to take control of their lives.

Prakriti implements the project on economic empowerment of rural women and younger womenfolk in 30 villages of Nagpur and Chandrapur Districts of Vidarbha since 2019. The project specifically targets single women who have experienced separation, divorce, widowhood, or face violence and abuse. Prakriti has conducted over 300 one-on-one counselling sessions, established affiliations between 172 self-help groups (SHGs) and the Maharashtra Rajya Jivannoti Aajeevika Mission, and successfully linked approximately 1720 women to Government insurance schemes. Additionally, the project has led to a reduction in personal loans from microfinance companies, while addressing issues related to property rights, pensions, and access to ration for single women through collaborative work with SHGs.

Prakriti's Livelihood Promotion Programme for Women Farmers in the Nagpur, Yavatmal, and Akola districts of the Vidarbha region addresses the challenges faced by women farmers who are experiencing distress due to land grabbing and the migration of men to urban areas. Recognizing the importance of farming as a livelihood source for women, the programme aims to improve their leadership in agriculture. Through the introduction of Agro-Bio diverse farming (Swavlambi Sheti), women farmers receive training and support in various aspects of farming, including soil health improvement, soil testing, seed preservation techniques, pest management, and exposure to organic farming practices through visits to research institutes and other farms. This programme empowers women to make informed decisions and play a leading role in sustainable farming practices.

Prakriti's Women & Land Rights Program empowers rural women in Nagpur, Chandrapur, and Akola districts. It raises awareness about women's land rights, improves their access and control over land, and addresses challenges. The programme covers 30 villages, where women leaders receive orientation. Observations reveal declining farm-based livelihoods due to reduced agriculture and limited knowledge of land rights. Widows are exceptions with land ownership. Land fragmentation and lack of awareness about common land pose challenges. The programme sensitizes officials and involves Gram Sabhas for support.