IIRD’s non-formal education programmes endeavors to build civic esteem among the rural masses through learning of national songs, civic administration, government programmes of development, rules of national flag, and formalities relating to the conduct of national festivals such as independence day and Republic Day. Further, they learn through participatory means on topics related to organic agriculture, ecology of the villages, health, nutrition, income generation activities, and other topics directly relevant to their livelihoods. It has become a normal practice among the village women to celebrate the national festivals, women’s day, and environment day in their villages as well as assemble in large number for joint celebrations at IIRD’S centre at Bidkin. It is also the time when they express themselves culturally through street plays, dramas, dance and songs. Their hearty participation in the national festivals helps in building solidarity among different woman’s groups and brings about close social harmony for participating in national efforts for progress.

The participatory learning and design of development programmes is made possible through the Six Community Learning Centres (CLCs) initiated by IIRD in six nodal villages. Each of these CLCs cater between 6 and 10 villages in their close proximity. The CLCs are a meeting place where training sessions and discussions are held on development topics. The field workers at the CLCs are primarily involved in mobilizing community support for the development programmes, identification of beneficiaries for the various development projects, facilitating participatory learning, promoting organic agriculture and alternative marketing, and identifying strategies for implementation of development projects with the participation of the communities.

Environment Day celebrated by women - procession with banners and placards with message.

Flag hoisting ceremony on Independence Day

Drama in progress to highlight social issues