Hello Mumbai National Desk

Women from Rural India Share Success Stories at READ Summit 2026 in Gurugram

Gurugram, March 18, 2026. Women from rural communities across India shared inspiring stories of transformation at the READ Summit 2026, organized by READ India at Sector 45, Gurugram. These grassroots leaders highlighted how access to community libraries, books, digital tools, and skill-based training has helped them build their identity and achieve self-reliance.

Women participants explained that by learning through READ India’s initiatives—ranging from reading habits to computer and vocational training—they have not only improved their own lives but are now empowering other women in their communities to become skilled and independent.

Empowering Grassroots Voices

Addressing the inaugural session, READ India CEO Dr. Geeta Malhotra said the Summit aims to bring grassroots women and their skills to the forefront of development dialogue. The platform brought together grassroots leaders, development experts, CSR representatives, policy specialists, and institutional partners to discuss community-led development models and the importance of skill-based empowerment through technology.

For the past 15 years, READ India has been working to strengthen women’s leadership capacity through community libraries and technology-driven programs. The organization currently operates 65 community centres across 13 states, focusing on literacy, ICT, early childhood development, women empowerment, youth development, health, and holistic development.

Dr. Malhotra noted that in the early days, women were hesitant to visit libraries, but gradual introduction of computer education and skill-based programs led to significant participation. So far, over 55,000 women have received training through READ India’s community libraries and have established their identity at the community level.

READ India’s mission advances literacy and learning, aligning with Viksit Bharat 2047 by empowering rural populace and driving national development.

Building Sustainable Community Development

Founder Trustee J. Vikram Bakshi emphasized that sustainable development cannot rely solely on policy frameworks. Instead, leadership emerging from within communities-especially through women-is key to long-term transformation.

Prof. Sampadananda Mishra, Director at Rishihood University’s Centre for Human Sciences, highlighted the importance of reconnecting with cultural roots and values, stating that initiatives like READ India are helping bring traditional knowledge systems to rural areas with visible positive outcomes.

Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

READ India’s Director – Partnerships, Smita Rai, stated that the Summit aligned the organization’s work with the 5P framework of the SDGs—People, Planet, Prosperity, Peace, and Partnerships, demonstrating how grassroots initiatives contribute to inclusive and sustainable development.

Key Highlights of the Summit

• Grassroots Leadership Dialogue: Community leaders shared real-life experiences and leadership journeys
• Thematic Panel Discussions: Focus on skill development, women empowerment, digital inclusion, and innovation
• CSR & Expert Dialogue: Discussions on the future of community-led development
• Ramp Walk Showcase: Women artisans presented handcrafted products, highlighting creativity and entrepreneurship

Women Artisans Take Centre Stage

A special ramp walk showcased handcrafted products made by women artisans trained through READ India. Participants walked the ramp wearing their own creations, receiving appreciation from attendees. The initiative aimed to promote creativity, skills, and entrepreneurship among rural women.

Focus on Aspirational Districts

Under the Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP) launched by NITI Aayog, READ India is working in underdeveloped districts like Latur and Beed (Maharashtra), Nuh (Haryana), and Baran (Rajasthan), focusing on health, education, agriculture, financial inclusion, and infrastructure.

Report Released at the Summit

A report titled “Grassroots Initiative with Community First Approach” was released during the event, highlighting READ India’s community-driven development model and its impact.

Recognition of Grassroots Leaders

Grassroots leaders from across the country were honored during the Summit. Niti Saxena was presented with the Satkal Lifetime Achievement Award. Meanwhile, Swati Piwal, Dr. Upasana Yadav, and Arumugam Pitchai were awarded the Satkal Award for excellence in library management.

Participation from Across India

Grassroots leaders from multiple regions including Uttar Pradesh (Lakhimpur Kheri, Rampur, Lucknow), Rajasthan (Baran, Geejgarh), Maharashtra (Aurangabad, Latur, Beed, Kolhapur, Pune), Andhra Pradesh, Haryana, Karnataka, West Bengal, Delhi, and Noida participated in the Summit.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Smita Rai, Director – Partnerships, READ India.