Strength in Unity, Progress in Action

By Barsha Gain, from the coast

In Antakhali village of Dhumghat, Ishwaripur Union, Shyamnagar upazila of Satkhira, the Krishnachura Women’s Development Organization was formed in 2024. With their own initiative and the guidance of BARCIK, the women came together with the goal of enhancing women’s capacity, improving family farming, protecting nature and the environment, and contributing to the overall development of their area. From the very beginning, they have been playing an active role in their personal progress and in community development.

The organization discusses and implements plans around women’s health issues, empowerment, the benefits of environment-friendly ovens, solutions to salinity problems, and ways to contribute to local development. They are campaigning to reduce chemical fertilizers and pesticides to promote safe food production and organic farming. Members are raising awareness among villagers about the harmful effects of pesticides while providing training on making and using vermicompost and organic pest repellents. Family-based organic farming is increasing, and two women are now earning income by selling vermicompost and earthworms, inspiring others to follow the practice.

The members also promote the use of indigenous knowledge in treating livestock diseases such as pox, foot-and-mouth, and swelling from allergies, and throat infections, thereby reviving traditional veterinary practices. Through training on agroecology and food sovereignty, they have developed a clear understanding on the interrelationship between environment, ecosystem, and biodiversity. They now realize that every element of nature plays a vital role in sustaining life, and thus they are raising awareness among others to protect biodiversity.

The group also promotes the values of pluralism recognizing that men and women, Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, Christians, fishers, farmers, blacksmiths, potters, indigenous peoples, and other marginalized groups all have equal rights to live with dignity in society. They emphasize on equality, empathy, and collective efforts in building an inclusive society.

The president and general secretary of the group inspired and supported the formation of new women’s organizations in nearby villages such as Antakhali and Shrifolkati. These newly formed groups are also showing interest in self-development and local progress.

Today, the Krishnachura Women’s Development Organization plays a vital role in women’s empowerment and community development. By working collectively, members gain easier access to government and non-government services, enhance women’s role in family progress, and increase the acceptance of women’s voices in society. They are becoming self-reliant, finding collective solutions to problems, and taking active roles in social and national development through empowerment and participation.