Kamla Meena initially formed a self-help group which educated women on how to generate income and manage finances (and ultimately formed a multi-purpose cooperative which focused primarily on the development of women). This raised women's economic and social position in her community. Her humble education did not stop her from raising her voice not only with regard to local concerns but also on national and international levels. She engaged in trainings and local and international forums, such as of the WTO in Hong Kong and raised the awareness of the international community with matters prevalent in her community. Her engagements in these forums made her more courageous and capable in promoting the rights of women and children. To her credit, she was able to uplift the quality of education and health of children in her community, promote and generate livelihood and inculcate care for the environment through organic farming, and help institute a system of pension for widows and old women.

Nominated by:  Centre For Community Economics and Development Consultations Society (CECOEDECON)
E-mail:  sharad_jp1@sancharnet.in / cecoedecon@gmail.com
Phone No.:  91 141 2770330
Fax No.:  91 141 2770330