Mayyanad
Grama Panchayat

Kudumbashree  is Kerala’s flagship poverty eradication and women empowerment program. Operating under the Local Self-Government Department of the Government of Kerala, it was formally inaugurated on May 17, 1998.

Core Objectives

• Women Empowerment: Organize women to build social, economic, and leadership capabilities.

• Poverty Alleviation: Lift families out of poverty through self-employment, micro-enterprises, and microfinance initiatives.

• Grassroots Governance: Ensure women actively participate in local planning, decision-making, and community development.

Three-Tier Community Network

1. NHG (Neighbourhood Group / Ayalkootam): The primary level consisting of 10 to 20 local women members.

2. ADS (Area Development Society): The middle tier formed at the ward level of a Grama Panchayat or Municipality.

3. CDS (Community Development Society): The apex tier at the local body level (Panchayat/Municipality/Corporation).

Key Initiatives & Activities

• Thrift and Credit: Facilitates small savings among women and offers low-interest microloans to promote financial independence.

• Micro-Enterprises: Operates community initiatives like Janakeeya Hotels (affordable food outlets), catering units, tailoring shops, and food product manufacturing.

• Collective Farming (MKSP): Encourages women's groups to engage in fallow-land farming and sustainable agriculture.

• Social Welfare: Manages BUDS Schools for children with special needs, Gender Resource Centres, and community waste management projects.

Mayyanad CDS Details