Jaisalmer, January 08, 2025.
An innovative initiative aimed at women’s empowerment, known as ‘Maru Udaan’, launched in Barmer in Nov 2024 is set to expand across Rajasthan. The programme will be rolled out statewide from Jan 9.
‘Rajasthan Maru Udaan’ will offer a wide range of activities and training sessions covering key areas like mental and physical health, skills development, personal finance management, home-based entrepreneurship, self-defence, cybercrime awareness, and driving courses.
The initiative aims to empower women across health, education, self-employment, and confidence-building. Workshops will focus on topics such as millet cookie production, environmental conservation, and water and waste management. Health camps will be organised for vulnerable communities, with activities taking place at both district and Panchayat Samiti levels.
According to commissioner of Women Empowerment Department, Neetu Rajeshwar, the programme’s effectiveness and utility have led to its implementation in all districts from Jan 9. The initiative will involve collaboration among multiple departments, including medical and health, industries, police, transport, agriculture, horticulture, and education. Funding for the programme will primarily come from the ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ scheme, with additional financial support available from corporate social responsibility (CSR) partners.
The initial phase of ‘Maru Udaan’ in Barmer was a major success, with over 3,000 women participating in more than 50 sessions across 12 blocks and a district-level dialogue. Starting on Nov 12 and concluding with a district event on Nov 29, the programme aimed to create a sustainable empowerment chain, with trained participants acting as ‘brand ambassadors’ to share knowledge on health and financial management.
To foster open discussions, sessions were conducted in smaller groups of 55-60 women, allowing for free expression and expert guidance. The statewide rollout will involve various stakeholders, including NGOs and international organisations like UNFPA and UNICEF, with oversight from district officials.
Each district has been allocated an annual budget of Rs 10 lakh for the ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ initiative.
Following the successful implementation of ‘Maru Udaan’ in Barmer, the state govt has provided an additional Rs 10 lakh grant, which will further strengthen efforts toward women’s empowerment across Rajasthan, creating a supportive environment for women and girls state-wide.
