Dimensions, manifestations, and perceptions of gender equity: the experiences of Gram Vikas

Abstract

Concerns about gender equity have been at the fore of discussions and analysis of NGO interventions and action since the 1970s. Gender equity, defined as equal rights to access, opportunity, and participation for men and women, has always been a distinctive feature in the programmes of Gram Vikas, a leading NGO in the Indian state of Orissa. Conscious efforts to identify and address these issues began in the mid-1980s. Several specific initiatives have been made to create a level playing field between women and men in the village communities where Gram Vikas works, and within the organisation. There have been resistance and challenges to several of these interventions, and while some of them have embedded themselves to create lasting impact, others have had only limited effect.

Keywords:

• Civil society
• Gender and diversity
• Rights
• SE Asia

Notes

This article is based on my experience of working with Gram Vikas from 1997 to 2005, when I managed the work on planning, monitoring, evaluation, documentation, gender mainstreaming, and resource mobilisation. Information about Gram Vikas can be found at www.gramvikas.org.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

R. V. Jayapadma

R. V. Jayapadma is a freelance rural development professional based in Trivandrum, Kerala, with interests in social leadership, NGO management, and gender issues. During 2007 she was Visiting Fellow at the Institute of Rural Management in Anand, where she worked on strategic issues in development organisations. Prior to that, she worked with grassroots NGOs in Bihar and Orissa for over a decade, mobilising rural communities and facilitating several interventions to help them to improve their quality of life.