HUNAR SE PARICHAY: A REVIVING LIVELIHOOD INITIATIVE
Introduction
The COVID-19 pandemic and the lockdown had devastated the lives and livelihoods of small and microbusinesses in India, especially in the unorganized sector in urban areas. These businesses, which included roadside shop owners, beauty parlours, and vegetable vendors had faced unemployment, debt, loss of assets, and rental crisis. They had fought against all odds to sustain themselves, but many had been forced to give up their valuable equipment and assets to repay their loans. They needed immediate and empathetic support and recovery measures from the NGO’s and the public to start their business again and feed their family. The NGOs and the public rose to this challenge and offer compassion and resilience to the individuals who have lost their dreams and aspirations due to the pandemic. Only by standing united can we pave the path towards a brighter future for all.
Objectives
The main objective of the project was to support the livelihood of very needy beneficiaries in Pune and Nagpur district (urban slums and communities). The insights gathered from our baseline survey served as a strong foundation for the Reviving Livelihood Project and Poonawalla Housing Finance (the CSR Partner) to design programs that addressed the specific needs and aspirations of these communities, which drove positive change and fostering sustainable development.
Implementation Activities
1. Baseline Survey
In line with this vision, we conducted multiple literacy training sessions for our beneficiaries at various localities, providing them with opportunities to collaborate and enhance their understanding of these essential tools for business success.
2.Digital & Financial Literacy Session
Digital Literacy and Social Security Schemes Knowledge Session for Beneficiaries from Pune and Nagpur These sessions aimed to empower beneficiaries with essential skills and information to enhance their livelihood prospects.
3.Social Security Scheme Knowledge Session
Recognizing the importance of social security for vulnerable communities, we facilitated a comprehensive knowledge-sharing session on various government-sponsored social security schemes.
4.ABHA and Eshram Cards session
We organized the ABHA and Eshram Cards session specifically for the beneficiaries who needed it, explaining the benefits of these cards. The ABHA and Eshram Cards session aimed to provide essential knowledge about the benefits and advantages of these cards to the beneficiaries in need. During the session, we elaborated on the various welfare programs and social security measures that the cards unlock for them.
Outcome
In a meticulous endeavour, we carefully assessed the diverse requirements of each beneficiary, thereby facilitating a purposeful grouping and selection of appropriate vendors to procure essential raw materials. This remarkable coordination ensured that the beneficiaries were poised to embark on their entrepreneurial endeavours with profound preparedness, a testament to our unwavering commitment to fostering successful and sustainable ventures within our esteemed beneficiary community. Amidst an air of positivity and hope, the Poonawalla Housing Finance team meticulously distributed start up kits and essential materials to deserving beneficiaries, igniting the flames of entrepreneurship in their hearts. Forty beneficiaries thus began their new entrepreneurial journey!
Conclusion
The splendid array of supported businesses, ranging from Snack Centres and Garment Shops to Flour Mills and Boutiques, exemplifies the unwavering commitment of the Reviving Livelihood Project and Poonawalla Housing Finance in empowering individuals of diverse backgrounds. This comprehensive and empowering approach demonstrates the Reviving Livelihood Project and Poonawalla Housing Finance’s unwavering dedication to uplifting individuals from various walks of life, fostering prosperity, and nurturing a positive social transformation within their respective communities.
