Sat Nov 01 20:45:07 UTC 2025: Summary:
A 25-member Ethiopian delegation, including government officials, World Bank representatives, and consultants, visited Rajasthan, India, to study the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM) initiatives. They focused on understanding community-based livelihood programs and women’s empowerment models implemented by the Rajasthan Grameen Ajeevika Vikas Parishad. The delegation interacted with self-help groups (SHGs) and observed their operations, income generation activities, and the overall structure of the program. They expressed admiration for the community-driven model and the leadership of women in the SHGs. Discussions also covered convergence with other government schemes, credit linkages, and efforts to enhance financial inclusion in rural areas.
News Article:
Ethiopian Delegation Studies Rajasthan’s Rural Livelihood Model
JAIPUR, INDIA – November 2, 2025 – A delegation from Ethiopia concluded a two-day visit to Rajasthan this weekend, gaining valuable insights into the state’s successful community-based livelihood and women’s empowerment initiatives under the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM).
The 25-member delegation, comprised of Ethiopian government officials, World Bank representatives, and Micro Save Consulting consultants, focused on understanding the structure, implementation, and outcomes of Rajasthan’s rural livelihood programs facilitated by the Rajasthan Grameen Ajeevika Vikas Parishad.
The delegation visited Alwar district, interacting with members of women-led self-help groups (SHGs), village organizations, and cluster-level federations. They observed SHG formation processes, inter-loaning mechanisms, and income-generating activities through producer groups and enterprises.
“The Ethiopian officials were particularly impressed by the community-driven model and the leadership displayed by the women involved,” said a statement released by the state government. “They showed a strong interest in learning about activities that promote sustainable rural livelihoods and women’s socio-economic empowerment.”
During a visit to the State Project Management Unit in Jaipur, the delegation received detailed presentations on ongoing programs and innovations. Discussions also highlighted the convergence of various government schemes, the role of community-based institutions in inclusive development, and efforts to enhance financial inclusion for rural populations through credit linkages and financial mechanisms.
The visit underscores the growing recognition of Rajasthan’s NRLM model as a potential blueprint for fostering rural development and empowering women in other regions.
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