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Promoting Sanitation and Hygiene in Rural Areas

SEEDS established the Rural Sanitary Mart (RSM) as part of its commitment to improving sanitation, hygiene, and public health in rural communities. The RSM initiative was started in the mid-2000s, in response to the need for affordable sanitation products and increased awarenesns on safe hygiene practices among rural households.

Establishment of Rural Sanitary Mart at Kalkurichi

With the support of the District Rural Development Agency (DRDA), Virudhunagar, SEEDS established a Rural Sanitary Mart at Kalkurichi Village. The primary objective of the RSM is to ensure access to quality, low-cost sanitation materials and to promote the construction and use of individual household toilets in rural areas.

Production and Supply of Sanitation Materials

The Rural Sanitary Mart supplies essential sanitation products such as toilet pans, phenol, soap oil, and other hygiene-related materials. These products are manufactured and supplied by women Self Help Group (SHG) members promoted and supported by SEEDS. This approach not only improves sanitation coverage but also creates sustainable livelihood opportunities for rural women.

Capacity Building and Skill Development (Mid-2000s onwards)

Since its establishment in the mid-2000s, SEEDS has provided regular training to SHG members involved in the RSM. Training includes production techniques, quality control, basic accounting, marketing, and enterprise management. These capacity-building efforts strengthen women’s entrepreneurship and ensure the sustainability of the Rural Sanitary Mart.

Supporting Government Sanitation Programmes

The RSM functions as a grassroots support system for government sanitation initiatives by facilitating access to sanitation materials and promoting hygienic practices at the community level. SEEDS works closely with local bodies and government departments to encourage toilet construction and improved sanitation behavior among rural households.

Community Awareness and Behaviour Change

Alongside product supply, SEEDS conducts sanitation awareness campaigns in villages served by the RSM. These campaigns focus on the importance of toilet usage, environmental cleanliness, personal hygiene, and disease prevention. Community participation plays a key role in driving long-term behavior change.

Livelihood Promotion for Women

The Rural Sanitary Mart has emerged as a livelihood promotion platform for rural women, particularly SHG members. By engaging women in production and marketing of sanitation goods, the programme enhances their income, confidence, and economic independence while contributing to community well-being.

Impact and Sustainability

Through the Rural Sanitary Mart initiative, SEEDS has contributed to increased access to affordable sanitation materials, improved hygiene practices, enhanced women’s livelihoods, and cleaner rural environments. The RSM continues to function as a sustainable, community- managed model that integrates sanitation improvement with women’s empowerment.