India hosts knowledge-sharing meet on rural livelihoods with African delegates
By Doruvu Paul Jagan Babu: Assistant Chief Editor
New Delhi: The Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) hosted a knowledge-sharing session on “Livelihood Promotion through Self-Employment at the Grassroots Level”, bringing together 35 delegates from 10 African nations. The event, held in New Delhi, served as a platform to exchange best practices and strategies for rural development. The National Institute of Labour Economics Research & Development (NILERD) facilitated the session.
A gesture of cultural bonding
The session opened with a welcome address by Smriti Sharan, Joint Secretary, MoRD, who greeted the participants in Zulu with the word “Sawubona”—a phrase signifying recognition and respect. She emphasized the shared values between India and Africa and underscored the importance of collaborative efforts for rural prosperity.
Focus on rural livelihood models
Representatives from Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) presented insights on key thematic areas, including:
Farm and Non-Farm Livelihoods
Financial and Social Inclusion
Food, Nutrition, Health & WASH (FNHW)
Institution Building and Capacity Development
Gender Empowerment in Rural Development
Global recognition for India’s rural women entrepreneurs
Delegates from African nations praised India’s rural development efforts, particularly the role of women in shaping India’s rural growth narrative. Many expressed their intent to implement India’s successful self-employment and livelihood promotion strategies in their respective countries.
Closing remarks and future collaboration
In her closing address, Rajeshwari SM, Director, MoRD, lauded the session as a crucial step toward strengthening global partnerships in rural development. Senior officials, thematic leads from DAY-NRLM, and faculty members from NILERD, including Dr. Molishree, Dr. Monika, Alok Jawahar, and Raman Wadhwa, were also present at the event.
The session reinforced India’s commitment to global knowledge-sharing and sustainable rural development, setting the stage for future collaborations between India and African nations.
