Background

The Bihar Dalit Vikas Samiti (BDVS), a pioneering organization committed to the empowerment of marginalized communities, hosted the State-Level Convention of Ambedkar Yuva Manch (AYM) to foster youth leadership, social equity, and community development. Held on October 21–22, 2024, the convention provided a vibrant platform for youth to connect, reflect, and strategize on key issues impacting their lives and communities.

Objectives of the Convention

• Youth Empowerment: Build leadership, life skills, and self-reliance among AYM members.
• Self-Evaluation & Peer Learning: Encourage self-reflection and mutual learning.
• Strategic Planning: Develop community-centric action plans for growth and impact.

Highlights

The two-day convention featured sessions on education, entrepreneurship, health, and rights awareness. Inspirational talks by eminent personalities encouraged youth to pursue skill-based growth, reject substance abuse, and uphold Ambedkarite values.

Conclusion

The event concluded with a collective commitment to justice, equality, and empowerment. It served as a powerful platform to strengthen youth participation and promote inclusive community development in Bihar.

From November 27 to 29, 2024, an enriching Advanced Embroidery Training program was held at the Administrative Office in Patna, aimed at empowering Dalit women tailors with specialized skills. The training focused on enhancing their embroidery techniques and improving their craft to support personal and professional growth.

The training was conducted by expert trainers from USHA Company — Mr. Santosh Kumar and Mr. Manedranath. They provided practical guidance on advanced embroidery methods through hands-on sessions. Participants learned a range of techniques, including:

• Basic to Advanced Embroidery Stitches
• Colourful Thread Embroidery Techniques
• Decorative Embroidery for Apparel and Home Décor

The program’s primary goal was to equip participants with skills to expand their tailoring businesses by offering intricate, high-quality embroidered products. Participants explored floral motifs, geometric designs, and traditional patterns with significant market demand both locally and globally.

Beyond technical training, the event also covered entrepreneurship development — teaching women how to market their work, manage finances, and build customer networks. The experience not only developed their artistry but also fostered confidence and self-reliance.

By the conclusion of the training, participants had acquired valuable skills and business knowledge to independently sustain or grow their enterprises. This initiative marks a meaningful step toward economic empowerment and social upliftment for Dalit women artisans in Bihar.

A Capacity Building Training was held for Dalit women at BDVS in Patna from November 27 to 29, 2024. The training focused on empowering women through leadership development, entrepreneurship, and financial management.

Key Highlights:

• Skills Development: Women were trained in project management, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and leadership. Practical workshops on cash book maintenance, ledger management, and fundraising enhanced financial transparency and governance.
• Entrepreneurship Focus: Participants learned how to create and manage small businesses—especially in handicrafts and sewing—to improve economic independence.
• Leadership & Governance: Sessions focused on helping participants take active leadership roles within their communities and federations.

Impact:

• Leadership Skills: Participants are now prepared to take on leadership roles in their communities.
• Financial Literacy: Women gained practical knowledge in managing finances, budgeting, and fundraising.
• Entrepreneurial Empowerment: The training helped women start and sustain small businesses, promoting local economic growth.

Conclusion: The training program successfully empowered 50 women, equipping them with essential skills to become effective leaders and entrepreneurs, thereby fostering sustainable development and gender equality in their communities.

The Bihar Dalit Vikas Samiti (BDVS) organized a three-day State-Level Convention of Village Level Organizations (VLOs) from October 1 to 3, 2024, focusing on empowering Dalit communities across 10 BDVS operational areas through leadership development, rights awareness, and collective advocacy.

Objectives:

• Strengthen VLOs and promote effective community governance (Gram Swarajya).
• Encourage women and youth leadership for inclusive representation.
• Raise awareness on government schemes, rights, and entitlements.
• Foster unity, cultural identity, and social cohesion within the Dalit community.

Participants:

The convention saw the participation of 304 community leaders, BDVS staff, experts, and cultural troupes. A notable highlight was the strong participation of women leaders, signifying progress toward gender equality and inclusion.

Proceedings Summary:

• Day 1: Inauguration and orientation by BDVS leadership and dignitaries.
• Day 2: Thematic workshops on governance, migration, and women’s leadership, along with vibrant cultural performances.
• Day 3: Reflections, strategic planning, and closing ceremony with a motivational call to action.

Key Outcomes:

• Over 200 participants received leadership and rights-based training.
• Enhanced VLO functioning across 90% of operational units.
• Raised awareness on key schemes like E-Shram, Ayushman Bharat, and PDS.
• Integrated data-driven insights and cultural tools in community learning.

Challenges Noted:

• Limited digital access and awareness of government schemes.
• Low Gram Sabha participation in some communities.
• Persistent social discrimination and exclusion.

Recommendations:

• Regular VLO training and follow-up programs.
• Improved digital infrastructure at the village level.
• Enhanced data advocacy and inter-VLO collaboration.
• Continued focus on promoting women and youth leadership.

Conclusion: The convention reinvigorated grassroots leadership efforts and strengthened VLO networks across Bihar, equipping communities with tools for inclusive, rights-based, and sustainable development.