Once a village has been selected, Jeevika is introduced through a series of gram sabhas, or general village meetings. At these meetings, the philosophy and goals of Jeevika are explained along with the microplanning process, the central position of the poorest of the poor and women in the project, and the roles and responsibilities of the village development committee, known as the 'Jeevika SEWA Mandal' (JSM).
Once the initial gram sabhas are completed, the JSM members are elected by the villagers. JSM members must include the poorest of the poor and members of the village government, known as the panchayat.
The overall responsibility for the planning and implementation project activities lies with the Jeevika SEWA Mandal (JSM). Though initially JSM comprised both men and women, in order to ensure participation from women, all JSM members are now women. Men are incorporated in the process through various sub-committees.
Given that many JSM members lack experience in planning, implementing and monitoring long-term projects, Jeevika relies on a highly process-oriented approach with extensive investments in training and capacity building. Monthly district-level JSM meetings are also held, during which JSM members from all of Jeevika's partner villages share experiences and best practices, thereby reinforcing the skill specific training provided through Jeevika. |
