Purulia is regarded as one of the most backward districts of West Bengal. The women there are much appreciable in terms of their concern regarding a clean and healthy society. Breaking the societal norms the women have come out as motivators or change agents in triggering for an Open Defecation Free (ODF) Society. Moreover, they took up the job of masonry and are proudly known as the women masons. We had an enriching session with the Self Help Groups.

South Asian Women in Media (SAWM) is a network of women media professionals in South Asia. SAWM works for freedom of press, increased participation of women in the media, a gender-sensitive work environment and a gender-equal outlook in the media. Launched in April 2008, SAWM’s central secretariat is in Lahore, Pakistan and the association has country chapters in eight members of SAARC. SAWM helps women working in media to network across borders, and with international rights organizations, to assert their rights and defend their interests.