Please visit at : www.sadhna.org

In 1988, the second consecutive year of a severe drought, Seva Mandir launched its “Patchwork Programme” as an income generation project for rural, tribal women, largely belonging to the economically and socially disadvantaged sections of society. Since this area does not have significant traditional crafts, unlike many parts of Rajasthan, patchwork was introduced. The programme began with a small group of 15 women, and today there are more than 200 trained women, who are involved in producing some of the finest specimens. These products are sold under the brand name `Sadhna’.  

The Sadhna family is ever growing. Each year Sadhna reaches out to more and more women and through them to their families and communities. While the earnings provide crucial support to the family, the programme has also brought about significant social changes. Incidence of domestic violence and exploitation of women has reduced. Awareness about education, health, etc. has improved. Women have become more confident and enjoy the respect of their families and communities.

The year 2002-03 was a landmark year for ‘Sadhna’. This was the first year, since its inception, when Sadhna did not take any core support from Seva Mandir’s Comprehensive Programme. Of course, parts of Sadhna’s activities received funding support from Oxfam, SIDBI, and GOI, but these were for expenses which are long term investment oriented, such as design development, support for marketing, etc. But for most of its core functioning, the programme is now self-reliant.

The Artisan Groups: