Livelihood for 500 Tribal Women in Gujarat

Hello everybody!

Since our last update, a lot has happened in Tilakwada. Firstly, the women have been able to expand their garden- 150 new plants have been added, totaling 310. We are excited that 8 new blocks have been created for vegetable growing–another way the women can control the food they are eating as well as increase income. Secondly, on November 20th, Vikalp held a training session on Human Rights for 20 women coming from various villages in Tilakwada district. Our advocate trainer discussed many important issues with the women so that they can inform the remainder of the women in their respective villages. These are the issues we addressed:

-Teaching the women how to properly file a First Incidence Report; what precautions to take so that the process runs smoothly. -Engaging discussion about 2005 Domestic Violence Act Section 498; what it means and how to use it. -NREGA National Rural Employment Guarantee Act; How to ensure that individuals get the prescribed amount of work, proper wages, and safe labor practices which is guaranteed by the state. -How to remain active with local government; learning how to control and deal with various issues Eg. By putting collective pressure on the Sar Panch (local court) in order to ensure that their needs are being met. A meeting was held regarding joint ownership of land. Legally in Gujarat, women cannot claim even partial ownership of the land which they work and live on – it belongs to the husband only. The women of Tilakwada have started a campaign so that they can work towards becoming joint owners. 12 farmers came to a meeting from 12 different villages agreeing to take up the matter. Both men and women agreed that the government does not take this issue very seriously. They have decided to involve the government by pressuring them to allow for change, advocating for the women who deserve equal ownership. There have already been five successful cases and the process has only just begun!

Unfortunately, this year, cotton selling could not take place because no rains came to the area. Furthermore, only the rich farmers were able to grow their plants because they had access to water. These women need better access to water so that their plants can thrive in order to gather and sell the cotton. We are always in need of more funding for this tremendous endeavor.

We have also reviewed the year at Tilakwada Women’s Court. Between January – December 2009 there has been 35 new cases, 61 hearings, 27 letters sent to defendants, 10 solved cases, and 12 fact-finding village visits.

We appreciate all of your support – any amount will help us wonderfully in our efforts to help the tribal women of Tilakwada. We hope you have enjoyed this update and look forward to your continued interest in our efforts. Thank you !