“Sulabh Development Forum” started in Darbhanga, emphasis on women empowerment
Darbhanga (Bihar) : Continue to carry forward the legacy of noted Social Reformer Padma vhibhusan Late Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak, Sulabh International today launched its new initiative “Sulabh Development Forum” to enhance women’s participation in community development .
In this context a two day conference was inaugurated in which large numbers of experts from developmental sectors and social scientists participated. The conference was inaugurated by Rajya Sabha MP and President of Bihar BJP Mahila wing ,Mrs. Dharmshila Gupta, President of Sulabh International Mr. Kumar Dilip and Mrs Nitya Pathak,Convenor ,Sulabh International.
Speaking on the occasion,Mrs. Dharmashila Gupta recalled the contribution of Sulabh International in the field of Sanitation and Social Services. She highlighted the ongoing schemes initiated by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi. She claimed that Present government has extended coverage of Water and sanitation to each and every person in the country.
Mrs. Gupta stressed the need of more sulabh Sauchalya at public places.
Addressing on the occasion President of Sulabh International ,Mr. Kumar Dilip says, “We have initiated women-led farming programmes, inspired by the success of our work in other parts of country Women farmers are being supported through community seed banks, enabling them to preserve indigenous seeds, strengthen food security, and build sustainable livelihoods.”
He said that development must be holistic. In this context, holding the Sulabh Development Forum in Darbhanga carries deep symbolic meaning. It sends a clear message — that Sulabh International believes ideas should not remain confined to elite spaces. Development must be shaped by communities, guided by local realities, and built from the ground up.
Speaking on the occasion Mr. Sutirtha Sariah ,Vice President says,”recognising the unique agricultural strength of the region, we have also begun supporting Makhana cultivation — a crop deeply connected to the identity and economy of North Bihar. By promoting Makhana farming, particularly among women farmers, we aim to enhance incomes while preserving traditional agricultural knowledge.
At the same time, we are supporting Mithila painting, one of India’s most celebrated cultural traditions. For generations, talented Mithila artists — many of them women — have depended on middlemen and received only a fraction of the value of their work. Our initiative seeks to connect Mithila painters directly with markets and platforms, ensuring fair recognition and improved livelihoods.
On the occasion A research Fellow,Bandana Luthara Sinha presented a report about the study .