In rural India, your support is turning silence into strength. Many marginalised communities have long experienced exclusion and discrimination, with limited access to basic rights, resources and education. But a new hope is dawning.

Supported by people like you, our partner, Jesuit Research and Development Society, is working with vulnerable groups to break the cycle of disadvantage.

The ‘Lok Manch’ project has trained over 6,000 people to become Community Leaders, equipping them to identify local needs and engage with government to improve access to essential schemes and entitlements.

A vital part of the project is the Women’s Empowerment Groups, which helps marginalised women and girls—like 18-year-olds Rani and Anupa—learn about their rights and entitlements.

“When the Women’s Group came to our village to talk about women’s rights, I liked what I heard, ” says Rani. “Until then, I didn’t know about the Group, but I didn’t like the discrimination in my family,” adds Anupa.

Since joining, Rani and Anupa have transformed from quiet, shy girls into confident young women with new skills, confidence, and a better understanding of their rights.

Despite initial resistance from the community, the girls built their own football field, convinced their parents to support them, entered a tournament—and won first place.

With your support, Rani has attended leadership training in Ranchi and Delhi and, with a new sense of independence, aspires to play on the national women’s football team. “I also want to tell my parents not to impose an arranged marriage on me,” she says. “I can decide for myself.”

Anupa, who plans to study economics and law, encourages others to stand up for their rights. “I want my younger sister to be able to dream on her own.”

When a girl in their village faced early marriage, the group stepped in, spoke with her parents—and stopped it from going ahead.

Find out more

• This story featured in our Reflections Winter #635 – 2025. Download Reflections.
• About the Lok Manch Program.
• See all our programs and find out how you can have an impact.