By BIS Correspondent for BIS Mumbai

On October 27, 2025, DISHA Don Bosco, Kawant organized a one-day training programme for women from various Self-Help Groups (SHGs) supported by the organization. A total of 35 women from six SHGs participated in this capacity-building session aimed at deepening their understanding of SHG operations and strengthening their journey toward social and economic empowerment.

The training was animated by Fr Dr Mayank Parmar, SDB, Director of DISHA Don Bosco, and a social work researcher with extensive field experience in women’s empowerment through SHGs. His practical insights and research-based approach helped participants relate the concepts to their daily lives and community realities.

The programme began with a welcome by Mr Arvind Rathwa, who highlighted the importance of such training sessions in empowering women with the knowledge and confidence to manage their financial activities and become self-reliant contributors to their families and communities.

To introduce the theme, Fr Parmar initiated an interactive discussion to assess participants’ existing understanding of SHGs — their structure, objectives, and functions. The open exchange encouraged active participation and curiosity among the women, setting the tone for a dynamic and engaging session.

A short documentary film titled “Ame Amara Taranhar” (“We Are Our Own Saviours”) was then screened. The film depicted inspiring real-life stories of women who overcame financial struggles such as paying school fees and medical expenses through the support of their SHGs. The visuals resonated deeply with the participants, helping them see the practical value of unity, discipline, and mutual support.

Following the film, Fr Parmar presented a detailed PowerPoint session explaining the meaning, structure, and significance of SHGs, emphasizing their dual role in promoting financial security and social solidarity. He shared success stories of women who transformed their lives through regular savings, collective decision-making, and small-scale entrepreneurship.

He underlined that SHGs are not merely about financial transactions but are platforms for personal growth, leadership, and social change, saying,

“A Self-Help Group is not only about saving money — it is about saving dignity, building trust, and creating opportunities for women to stand on their own feet.”

The participants actively engaged in discussions and a question-and-answer session, expressing how the training boosted their confidence to manage group finances and support others. They noted that while formal financial institutions often remain inaccessible, SHGs provide a simple and reliable system of collective saving and lending.

The session concluded with renewed energy and commitment among participants to strengthen their groups and inspire other women to join the movement of self-reliance.

Through such initiatives, DISHA Don Bosco continues its mission of empowering rural women — helping them emerge as leaders, entrepreneurs, and agents of social transformation within their communities.