In January 2001, Gujarat faced its worst ever earthquake in which more than 18,000 persons died and almost 700,000 persons were left homeless The Self Employed Women’s Association (SEWA), had a long history of organizing poor women in the region, and found that many of its members were severely affected by the earthquake, both in terms of the physical damage it inflicted and the increase in unemployment and poverty, which came in its wake.

Yet SEWA’s members were not looking for donations or handouts. Members had one resounding request: We want work, not relief.

“The earthquake destroyed our houses not our morale. We do not require charity, but we need employment…” Monghiben, SEWA member, Adhoi village, Kutch. With picture of Monghiben

“Now we don’t want to live on the mercy of others after each calamity. If we get proper training then we can also fight any disaster efficiently,” Gauriben, SEWA Member, Kuda village, Surendranagar. With picture of Gauriben

Launched in January 2001, Jeevika is a seven-year collaborative effort between SEWA, the Government of India, the Government of Gujarat, the World Food Programme (WFP), and the International Fund for Agriculture Development (IFAD). SEWA is the primary implementing agency. Overall responsibility for Jeevika belongs to the Rural Development Department of the Government of Gujarat, with IFAD providing a loan through the Government of India, and the WFP providing food assistance. The total budget of the project is estimated at USD 24 million.