ASHA NIVASWomen’s Development Programmes
Empowering, philosophy of promoting Self-Help and Mutual help.
Women’s Development Programmes
Asha Nivas has been consistently working towards the socio-economic empowerment of marginalized women through organized community structures, financial inclusion, skill development, and social protection initiatives.
Women’s Associations and Credit Societies
Asha Nivas initiated Women’s Associations among slum-dwelling communities, forming over groups with its members. These associations promote regular savings, provide access to affordable credit, and create awareness on gender justice and equality. By offering alternatives to private moneylenders, the programme has protected vulnerable families from exploitative debt cycles and strengthened women’s financial independence.
Formation of Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
At Asha Nivas, we believe that when women are empowered, entire communities thrive. Our Self-Help Groups (SHGs) serve as a powerful platform for women to discover their inner strength, claim their rights, and take charge of their futures. Beyond financial savings, these groups nurture confidence, solidarity, and leadership among women who have long been unheard and undervalued.
Capacity Building and Leadership Development
To enhance social mobility and confidence among women in slum communities, Asha Nivas conducted SHG training programmes,. These programmes addressed financial literacy, rights awareness, and community participation. Additionally, trainings were organized for SHG animators and representatives to promote democratic functioning, collective decision-making, and gender solidarity.
Entrepreneurial and Vocational Training
Entrepreneurial Development Programmes (EDP) were conducted and women were trained and encouraged to venture into entrepreneurship. Furthermore, women received vocational training across 45 trades, enabling them to secure remunerative employment and improve household income.
Micro-Credit and Enterprise Promotion
Access to capital remains critical for women’s economic empowerment. Asha Nivas facilitated micro-credit linkages from commercial banks, with additional applications processed through the Corporation of Chennai’s revolving fund scheme. With sustained mentoring and logistical support, micro-enterprises were initiated in sectors such as canteens, Aavin milk distribution, garment units, dry cleaning, departmental stores, and handicrafts. Income Generation Programmes were also established, including pickle making, appalam production, and candle-making units, providing both skill training and employment opportunities.
Social Security and Protection
To enhance financial security, Asha Nivas partnered with the Life Insurance Corporation of India to insure the lives of economically vulnerable women, demonstrating a successful Corporate–NGO collaboration.
Domestic Workers’ Training and Placement
Recognizing the vulnerabilities of women in informal employment, Asha Nivas trained women in domestic work skills and facilitated job placements. A support network was established to safeguard their rights and promote dignified working conditions.
Counselling and Legal Aid
In recognition of its expertise in women’s welfare, the Tamil Nadu State Welfare Department entrusted Asha Nivas with administering counselling services in All Women’s Police Stations within the Chennai Metropolitan area. The organization provides professional counselling and legal aid services to women facing violence, abuse, and family distress.
Strengthening SHG
Asha Nivas formed new Self-Help Groups, enrolling women across Chennai. Through a robust six-month training period, women were equipped with skills in leadership, communication, financial literacy, and entrepreneurial planning. Upon evaluation, eligible SHGs were linked to external credit through financial institutions, allowing members to become first-generation entrepreneurs and economic contributors in their communities.
Market Linkages for SHG Products
At Asha Nivas, empowering women through economic independence remains a central pillar of our mission. In collaboration with nationalized banks and partner NGOs, our Self-Help Groups (SHGs) actively participated in exhibition-cum-sale events, offering handmade products to the public. These exhibitions were hosted in the premises of banks such as Indian Bank, Indian Overseas Bank, and Chennai Cooperative Bank during festive occasions like Navaratri, Ayudha Pooja, and Deepavali.
These events not only provided vital income opportunities but also fostered connections with customers, bank officials, and other NGOs—broadening SHG networks and enhancing their market visibility. SHG members were proud to represent their enterprises and showcased remarkable professionalism and creativity in their stalls.
Women’s Development Programmes Gallery
