Day 4: Same but different
Karen and Eddie, returning to India after their 2020 visit, reflect on the remarkable progress of the Self-Help Group movement (Small, Powerful Groups here). From small community projects to large-scale infrastructure and leadership initiatives, the transformation is undeniable.
Read about their journey, the inspiring young women leading change, and the incredible evolution of the Titan watch factory—now run by women.
India – Five Years of Change ✨
We were fortunate to have been part of the previous India visit in 2020 and had amazing memories and expectations as we planned for this trip. However, as the journey progressed, we both started to realize that things had moved on, and the influence these women were having on their own lives and communities was making a real difference.
The familiar sights and sounds greeted us as we entered our taxi to the hotel for our first night in Bangalore—the heat, the noise, and the incredible aromas of spices and cooking that changed with every turn, depending on what the shops and stalls were selling. And, of course, the traffic—a true example of “organized chaos.” Most of all, we were once again welcomed by the wonderful people—always happy, friendly, and helpful. But that’s where the similarities began to change.
Like last time, we visited various groups of women to observe and understand what motivated them to join an SHG (Self Help Group). Previously, SHGs were making small yet meaningful contributions to their communities—saving money to buy goats or a single cow for the village, providing books and materials for the local school, or sending a member of the village to a large fair or market to sell locally made products and share the profits upon return.
Five years on, these groups are now creating a significant impact in their communities, with substantial access to funds and a voice within local councils and government departments. Here are some of the projects they have initiated and successfully implemented:
The installation of 220 toilets in homes in outlying communities
Solar-powered street lighting
Building a local shop and employing residents to run it
Health education programs (e.g., COVID vaccinations, feminine hygiene kits for senior school students)
Environmental initiatives (e.g., working with farmers to improve soil water retention and purchase more efficient tools and equipment)
Identifying and training individuals to stand for election in local councils and government posts
One of the most inspiring moments was meeting a group of seven young women (aged 14-16) who delivered a presentation about the improvements in their village and the role they played in these changes. They ended with a song and traditional dance, their enthusiasm, pride, and confidence shining through—absolutely infectious.
We also revisited the Titan watch factory that we had seen on our last trip, which is run and owned by women. Five years ago, they had four factory units and employed 150 people, with a male director. Today, they have 14 factory units, employ 600 people, and now have a female director.
If this reflects how the SHG movement has grown and evolved over the last five years, then India’s future is in safe hands.
