For centuries, the societal landscape in India relegated women to a secondary status, defined through the narrow lens of domestic roles — silenced, controlled, and excluded from decision-making. The Organization for the Development of People (ODP) launched the Women Empowerment Program to disrupt these traditional power dynamics, one Sangha at a time.
What began as localized village Sanghas has evolved into a formidable movement. By providing a safe platform for collective dialogue, women discovered a transformative truth: unity is their greatest asset — scaling from self-help groups to district federations, culminating in the apex body, MAHILODAYA.
The program has transitioned from basic mobilization to an integrated model of excellence. Our focus spans leadership development, financial literacy, environmental stewardship, and local governance — ensuring women are not just visible, but vital to the community's fabric. Goal: to equip poor and marginalized women with the agency to demand equity, justice, and a legitimate voice, and to shift control of resources into their hands so they may exercise their rights with absolute freedom for sustainable development.
Cultivating courage and self-esteem so women command respect and equality within the social hierarchy.
Strengthening SHGs through systematic savings to eradicate exploitation by moneylenders, growing female-owned assets and income.
Capacitating leaders at the grassroots level to manage federations independently and effectively.
Motivating women to enter Panchayath structures and drive transparent, inclusive local governance.
Bridging the gap between women and government or financial institutions to maximize the impact of available welfare schemes.
Today, women are no longer passive recipients of aid; they are self-confident architects of their own futures.
Formation of five specialized committees to handle diverse developmental facets.
Expanding governance from 5 office bearers to a robust 10–15 member leadership council.
Mandatory rotation of leadership every two years to prevent stagnation and foster new talent.
A systematic framework to maintain CBO (Community Based Organization) activities, infrastructure, and staff training without external dependency.
We mobilize communities to demand accountability and social reform — over two decades of grassroots activism and high-level policy intervention.
A relentless campaign against the devastating social effects of illicit liquor, culminating in the successful 2004 government ban on arrack shops.
Successful advocacy for the prohibition of online lottery systems that disproportionately targeted vulnerable, low-income families.
Ongoing monitoring and challenge of administrative negligence in government hospitals, specifically in Mandya and Mysore.
A voice for survivors of domestic abuse, dowry harassment, and extreme violence — dismantling the culture of silence and impunity.
A zero-tolerance stance on sexual assault and child marriage, pushing for stringent legal action and preventative community education.
Advocacy for the robust implementation of the Panchayat Raj Act — empowering local bodies toward true grassroots democracy and female leadership.
From the Kaveri water crisis to inflation of food and fuel, and active intervention in communal tensions to keep religious harmony at the community's core.
"Silence is complicity. We act because change cannot wait."
Our methodology of resistance follows a strategic, multi-pronged approach — Mobilization through peaceful protests and mass processions, Awareness through poster campaigns and slogans, and Advocacy through formal memoranda submitted to key government officials.
In partnership with BHM and KROSS, our Women Empowerment Projects bridge the gap between marginalization and self-reliance. When a woman is empowered, the trajectory of her entire family — and community — is rewritten.
A beacon of hope for children in distress — a 24-hour, free emergency outreach service. Whether a cry for help or a need for protection, we ensure no child walks alone. Vision: a society where every child feels accepted, wanted, protected, and cared for.
A steadfast sanctuary for women navigating the aftermath of injustice — comprehensive counselling and immediate, life-altering intervention for those facing atrocities, so that no woman walks the path to recovery alone.
"Behind every statistic is a story of courage."
A strategic retail venture bridging rural craftsmanship and modern markets — a centralized platform for artisans and SHG women to showcase their talent, scale their businesses, and achieve economic independence. Two flagship outlets operate in Mysuru and Mandya.
A transformative digital project bridging rural Self-Help Groups and the national banking ecosystem. By digitizing financial and social data, and using Aadhaar-linked identification, we foster a transparent, efficient, and inclusive environment for grassroots empowerment.
If you see a child in distress — lost, abused, or in need of medical care — do not hesitate. Your awareness could be their turning point. Free. Nationwide. 24 hours a day.