Ethiopian delegation visits Rajasthan to study rural livelihood initiatives

A 25-member delegation from Ethiopia got an insight into the community-based livelihood and women empowerment initiatives implemented under the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM) during its visit to Rajasthan over the weekend. The group studied the model facilitated by the Rajasthan Grameen Ajeevika Vikas Parishad.

The delegation consisted of 15 members from the Ethiopian government, three from the World Bank and seven from Micro Save Consulting, and they were accompanied by four officials from NRLM. The aim of the two-day visit was to understand the structure, implementation and outcomes of the State’s rural livelihood programmes.

The delegation members interacted with members of women-run self-help groups (SHGs), village organizations and cluster-level federations in Alwar district. They observed SHG formation processes, borrowing mechanisms, and income-generating activities carried out through producer groups and producer enterprises.

Ethiopian officials praised the community-focused model and the leadership shown by women members of SHGs. They also showed keen interest in understanding the activities undertaken for sustainable rural livelihoods and socio-economic empowerment of women.

After visiting the villages of Alwar district, the delegation visited the Ajeevika Vikas Parishad State Project Management Unit in Jaipur. Regional Project Managers provided detailed information on ongoing programs and innovations during the interaction.

While State Mission Director Neha Giri highlighted the convergence between different government programs and the role of community-based institutions in promoting inclusive development, officials of participating banks briefed the delegation about credit linkages and financial mechanisms extended to SHGs across the State.

According to official sources, discussions during the meeting offered valuable insights into Rajasthan’s model of rural livelihoods, community mobilization and women-led enterprise development. Senior bankers also shed light on efforts to increase financial inclusion in rural areas.