Jeevika's implementation model directly affects how local governance is conducted. The participatory approach is built upon the participation of the entire village particularly including traditionally marginalized groups - women and the poor. The project forms local level institutions such as village development committees and self help groups to implement and manage project activities. These institutions ensure the participation of marginalized groups in the decision-making process and in local governance. These village-level institutions include all elements of society in the decision-making process and in village governance.
Furthermore participation in the process build the capacity and confidence of villagers while also providing them with the information and resources necessary for them to hold local governance more accountable, transparent and effective. The project's focus on the poorest of the poor amplifies their voice in the community so that ultimately their concerns and priorities might be better reflected in local governance. The project aims to give voice to those members of society who have traditionally been overlooked by existing governance structures. The project's own governance structures build the governance skills of beneficiaries, increasing their ability to govern themselves. Additionally, through Jeevika's partnership with the Government of Gujarat, all project work is undertaken in cooperation with government and village panchayats thereby building relationships and channels of communication between existing governance structures and local communities where none existed before.
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