Lal Sakhi—The Women’s Voice Foundation: Genesis, Innovation and Gender and Environmental Justice

Abstract

This article aims to discuss Lal Sakhi—The Women’s Voice Foundation’s (a non-government organisation in India), contribution to sustainable development and its innovative approaches to empower women, and how it faces challenges in that process. Drawing on the narratives of the Lal Sakhi founder and the secondary data, it discusses the origin of the organisation and motivations and vision of the founder. The analysis suggests that in a short period, Lal Sakhi has contributed to sustainable development by reducing the consumption of plastic and by enhancing hygienic practice among women. It directly contributes to achieving the sustainable development goals relating to health, hygiene and environment. The founder’s ‘Change Agents Movement’ is gradually growing, impacting the lives of thousands of women and girls. While appreciating the innovative and critical approaches of the organisation, it looks at some of the challenges and the potential for scaling up. In view of its programs, activities and creative approaches, and impact, we argue that the story of Lal Sakhi—The Women’s Voice Foundation is infectiously inspiring. Thus, we call people from all walks of life to contribute to this noble cause.