SOFY, with its mission to empower women throughout life, has undertaken a ground-breaking initiative called Project Jagriti. This project tackles two critical issues faced by rural women in India: financial dependence and a lack of awareness around menstrual hygiene.
The Struggles of Rural Women
Approximately 57% of rural Indian women use cloth during menstruation, leading to health risks and making periods a difficult time. Furthermore, societal structures often keep these women financially dependent on men, restricting their personal choices. Alarmingly, 23 million girls drop out of school annually due to inadequate menstrual hygiene management.
SOFY’s Project Jagriti: Empowering Women, Transforming Lives
SOFY stepped in to bridge this gap and create a wave of change. Project Jagriti’s mission is to:
- Empower women entrepreneurs: By providing them with resources and training, Jagriti equips women to run their own businesses, like cosmetic shops, grocery stores, or beauty parlours.
- Increase menstrual hygiene awareness: Educational sessions are conducted within communities to dispel myths and encourage the use of sanitary napkins.
- Promote financial independence: A steady income allows women to contribute to household finances, fostering greater autonomy and decision-making power.
A Journey of Success
Launched nearly two years ago, Project Jagriti has already impacted nearly 200 women in villages across Sikar (Rajasthan) and Bulandshahr (Uttar Pradesh). These women have collectively earned a profit of close to 45 lakhs.
Measurable Impact
SOFY’s Project Jagriti’s achievements are truly remarkable:
- Increased Menstrual Hygiene Awareness and Napkin usage: Educational sessions have led to a staggering 85% increase in awareness and a 40% rise in napkin usage within the targeted villages.
- Financial empowerment: Women are now self-sufficient, contributing to their families’ well-being.
- Media recognition: Project Jagriti has garnered positive media coverage in both local Indian and Japanese publications.
Looking Ahead: A Brighter Future for Rural Women
SOFY’s commitment to empowering women continues. This year, Project Jagriti aims to include 100 more women entrepreneurs and expand its reach to additional rural areas. The ultimate vision? To achieve 100% napkin penetration in rural India by 2030.
