Role of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Social Development: A Study of Women Empowerment Initiatives in India
Keywords:
NGOs, Women Empowerment, Social Development, Delhi, Gender Equality, Skill Development, Legal Awareness, Economic IndependenceAbstract
The present study examines the contributions of NGOs toward enhancing women’s socio-economic, educational, and political status in urban India. The research focuses on ten active NGOs operating across various districts of Delhi and their programs aimed at skill development, self-help group formation, health education, legal literacy, and livelihood promotion. Using a mixed-method approach, data were collected from 30 NGO officials and 200 women beneficiaries through structured questionnaires and interviews. The findings reveal that NGO interventions have significantly improved women’s economic independence, decision-making capacity, and awareness of rights. Skill development initiatives led to increased self-employment and income generation, while legal literacy programs enhanced understanding of gender rights. However, challenges such as inadequate funding, limited government coordination, and social resistance remain major barriers to sustainable impact. The study concludes that NGOs act as vital agents of inclusive social transformation, complementing governmental efforts in achieving gender equality and community development goals in urban India.
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