Ward No. 8 of Putha Uttarganga RM of Rukum East, Lumbini Province, is one of the most remote and marginalized areas, still inaccessible by road and vehicles. For years, women here were confined to household roles, with deeply rooted social norms discouraging their participation in social dialogue, decision-making, and development activities. These beliefs were held not only by men but also by women themselves.
As a result, women rarely spoke openly, endured injustice silently, and were largely unaware of their rights. Harmful practices like child marriage were widely accepted, and many parents believed early marriage ensured a safer future for their daughters.
To address these challenges, the Saksham Project established girls’ and boys’ groups, child clubs, Child Rights Committees, and the Milanshil Mothers’ Group to empower women. Initially, participation was low, and women hesitated to speak due to years of silence and fear.
Over six years, through regular meetings, monthly empowerment sessions, and trainings on women’s rights, child rights, gender equality, and harmful practices, women gained knowledge, confidence, and leadership skills. They began speaking openly, sharing experiences, and advocating for change in their communities.
The mothers’ group has conducted six awareness campaigns on gender-based and domestic violence, against child marriage, and actively works against child marriage with adolescents. Their efforts led to institutional support, including NPR 100,000 allocated by the ward for programs addressing harmful practices, and the current Executive Ward Chairperson is now a member of the group, showing strong trust in women’s leadership.
Purnimaya Malla, a group member, shares, “Since the Saksham Project began, gender discrimination, violence, and child marriage in our community have decreased. We were once afraid to speak; now we confidently raise our voices to solve problems.”
The journey of the Milanshil Mothers’ Group demonstrates how sustained support and empowerment can transform even the most remote communities, turning silent women into agents of lasting social change.
