• Team Utthan
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Transforming Lives Through Access to Government Schemes

In Bhavnagar district, women from multiple villages have come together through a federation platform that enables participation, dialogue, and collective action. Regular village and hamlet-level meetings help women understand their rights and learn about government welfare schemes, many of which were earlier unknown or inaccessible to them. These interactions create a space where women raise concerns, share experiences, and receive practical information to improve their everyday lives.

 

In one such village, women spoke about the health and financial challenges they faced due to dependence on traditional cooking methods. One woman, living with health issues and caring for three children, struggled to cook using a smoky chulha and could not afford the cost of a gas connection. Through community meetings, she received information and support to apply for the Ujjwala scheme, including assistance with documentation and form submission. Within a month, she received an LPG connection.

 

Access to clean cooking fuel brought immediate relief—reducing health risks, saving time, and easing daily household work. More importantly, participation in the federation helped build confidence and awareness, enabling women to step out, speak up, and claim their entitlements. The experience highlights how informed participation and collective support can lead to meaningful and lasting change in women’s lives.