Shillong, October 1: The Government of Meghalaya has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with The/Nudge Institute to drive livelihood and social development for 50,000 of the state’s poorest households, focusing particularly on single mothers and marginalized groups.
This initiative will target social and financial inclusion, livelihood promotion, and social protection.
The partnership will involve close coaching and livelihood support through a dedicated community cadre while leveraging technology-based tools for monitoring and efficient implementation.
The MoU was announced during the North-East Conclave on September 27, co-hosted by the Meghalaya State Rural Livelihoods Society (MSRLS) and The/Nudge Institute in Shillong.
The conclave centered around the theme “Strengthening Ecosystem for the Development of the Most Excluded and Poorest of the Poor.”
Principal Secretary and Development Commissioner Sampath Kumar emphasized the state’s commitment to inclusive development, while Sriram V, Managing Director of Partnerships at The/Nudge Institute, highlighted their role in providing technical assistance and on-ground support.
The conclave gathered key stakeholders from across northeastern states and showcased success stories of women-led self-help groups in Meghalaya.
The ‘Economic Inclusion Program’ by The/Nudge is already scaling in seven states, in partnership with the governments, and is an evidence based model proven to increase household income by working predominantly with women of excluded communities.
A success-stories compendium named “Against All Odds” was also launched by the guests showcasing the positive transformation in the lives of SHG women of Meghalaya.
This initiative marks a significant step in addressing the needs of the region’s most vulnerable communities.