It is regrettable that even though the society today has made substantial socio – economic advancements, the society’s approach at large in dealing with issues of women’s rights is nothing short of being dismal. Women still do not enjoy equal status and are still a less privileged group. It is of prime relevance that the socio – economic developments are measured and viewed inclusive of the status of women and not in isolation.
Women who are widows are put at a dual disadvantage due to the prevailing defective social systems. They are a further marginalized group, deprived of their rights, freedoms and opportunities to develop. Their condition to say the least is deplorable. They are subjected to societal discriminations and deprived of their right to work and earn their livelihood. In many cases they are socially ostracized and not allowed to participate in various social occasions. Those who work have to undergo exploitation. The fact that majority of these widows are illiterate does not help their case either. The conditions are much worse for the women in rural and tribal areas.
In order to address these issues the Widow Economic Resettlement Program has come into existence. It is funded by Women and Child Development Department and Social Defense Department of Government of Gujarat. It mainly focuses on widows in the economically productive age group of 18 to 40 years, who are receiving pension under the ‘Widow Pension Scheme’.
The program was initiated with 100 women identified through 'District Social Defense Department'’ mainly from the Padra, Karjan and Chhota Udepur talukas of Vadodara district. Training programs in business that are production or skill based, sales based or service based are conducted for a period of time ranging from 2 – 4 weeks after identifying their potential and interest areas through preliminary workshops.
The organization not only provides support, guidance and timely reviews and follow-ups to these women but also helps establish bank linkages for businesses that require more investment. Ensuring their steady growth is the primary aim of the organization.
