Impact Spotlight
Solar for 50 Dalit households, 5 girls’ secondary schools, and 5 health centers
Educational opportunities for more than 500 children previously living on the street or in forced labor
Education and resources for 3,200 rural women
About
Dalit families in India face significant socio-economic challenges built on centuries of religious and cultural marginalization. Historically, Dalit were known as “untouchables”, a remnant of Hindu caste systems, dictating that those born into Dalit families were segregated, with little access to education, healthcare, or job mobility. While the caste system was outlawed in 1950, the legacies of systematic marginalization still persist.
VOC Rural Development Centre is committed to empowering the marginalized rural Dalit communities in Tamil Nadu state. Over two decades, VOCRDC has been deeply integrated into these communities, using participatory methods and local partnerships to deliver critical services in housing, education, healthcare, and energy access, while respecting and promoting local cultural practices.
“The Solar Empowerment Initiative is a transformative step towards sustainable development in our community. By providing clean and reliable energy, we are not only improving the quality of life for Dalit families but also empowering them economically and socially. This project reflects our commitment to fostering inclusivity and resilience among the most marginalized sections of our society.”
HF Partnership
In partnership with the Honnold Foundation, VOCRDC is bringing solar energy to 50 Dalit households, 5 girls’ higher secondary schools, and 5 primary health centers in Vadipatti Taluk, Tamil Nadu, India. This initiative not only provides clean, reliable energy but also supports community education and skill development programs to ensure long-term impact – enhancing living conditions, improving education, and promoting economic empowerment.
In the News
