On International Women’s Day, the Centre for Youth Development and Activities (CYDA) organised programs and activities at various locations where its initiatives are being implemented. The purpose of these events was to initiate conversations around women’s rights and to challenge structural barriers that limit women’s participation. With the support of ACG Cares Foundation, a Community Outreach Program was organised in Dahanu to promote awareness on girls’ education and women’s empowerment. The celebration recognised the strength and contributions of women and created a platform to openly discuss the challenges that women and girls continue to face in rural and tribal communities. Ms Pramodini Naik, Assistant Director at CYDA, reports for ImpactLens.
In tribal areas such as Dahanu in Palghar district, girls often face additional barriers such as household responsibilities, social expectations, and limited exposure to opportunities. Strengthening awareness within communities is therefore essential to ensure that girls continue their education and grow into confident, independent individuals. Community participation plays a crucial role in creating a supportive ecosystem for girls’ education and women’s empowerment. When families, local leaders, and community members collectively recognize the value of educating girls, it encourages positive change in attitudes and practices. Awareness initiatives help communities reflect on gender roles, challenge stereotypes, and support girls in pursuing their education and future aspirations.
As part of the Women’s Day celebration, six street plays were conducted on 8th and 9th March 2026 across the villages of Aashagad, Modgav, Dhundhalwadi, Saravali, and Savata in Dahanu block. Street theatre proved to be a powerful medium to connect with the community and spark meaningful conversations on issues related to girls’ education, gender equality, and women’s rights. The outreach activities witnessed participation of around 910 women, girls, and community members, creating a vibrant space for dialogue and awareness.
The street plays encouraged women to speak openly about the issues they face in their daily lives. In Ashagad village, women shared that household responsibilities are still largely carried by women, while the contribution of men in domestic work remains minimal. Women are looking forward to skill training to enhance their livelihoods; some also showed interest in adult literacy and expressed the need for a space to openly share their personal concerns. Women expressed the need for shared responsibilities within families so that girls and women can pursue education and personal growth. In Savata village, women raised concerns about domestic violence and discussed the emerging issue of cyber-crimes against women. They expressed the importance of awareness, community support, and education in preventing such challenges. The discussions reflected the growing awareness among women about their rights and the need for safe and respectful environments.
During the program, girls from Jeevandhara Schools expressed their strong determination to continue their education and become economically independent in the future. They shared that education is the most powerful weapon to bring equality in society, raise voices for women’s rights, and build a more just and equal community.
The program was graced by respected community leaders including Mrs. Prabhavati Mahala, Sarpanch of Dhundhalwadi village, Ms. Najamin Ansari, Community Resource Person at Ashagad, and Mr. Shivaji Mahale, BJP District General Secretary, Palghar. Fr. Daiy, Mermier Ashraya, Savta also addressed the gathering and emphasized the need for continuous efforts toward women’s empowerment. He shared that he has been working in the region for the past 13 years and believes that much more needs to be done to strengthen the dignity and status of women in society.
From CYDA Ms. Arokia Mary (Joint Director), Mr. Avinash Misal (Coordinator), and the Remedial Facilitators encouraged women’s participation through quiz competitions and interactive discussions during the program. Women who actively participated in discussions and shared their opinions were appreciated with attractive gifts, which further motivated community engagement and dialogue.
The Community Outreach Program not only celebrated International Women’s Day but also strengthened awareness about the importance of education, equality, and empowerment for women and girls. Through collective participation and dialogue, the initiative inspired communities in Dahanu to take a step forward toward building a more inclusive and equitable society where every girl has the opportunity to learn, grow, and achieve her dreams. However, such celebrations should not remain limited to a single day but should inspire long-term efforts to create spaces of belonging, respect, and equal opportunities for women within communities.
