Formation and Founding Principles

Social Action for Knowledge Building and Awareness Raising (SAKAR) was founded by Ms. Nitika Pant and Ms. Shilpi Agarwal, inspired by their extensive experiences in resource agencies and institutions. The founders' journey from theoretical understanding to practical implementation underscored the necessity of continuous learning, experimentation, and direct engagement with pressing societal issues. After months of deliberation and a pivotal conversation with Dr. Rajesh Tandon, President of Participatory Research in Asia (PRIA), SAKAR was officially registered in 2005. Dr. Tandon's words of encouragement, "If I can do it, you can do it as well," became a catalyst for the co-founders, driving them to initiate SAKAR's activities in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh.

Strategic Location and Initial Efforts

The decision to establish SAKAR in Bareilly was strategic, considering the region's advantageous connectivity to Lucknow and Delhi, and the substantial presence of partner organizations. Despite having over 3000 registered organizations, Bareilly lacked initiatives addressing violence against women and girls, presenting a unique opportunity for SAKAR.

The inaugural workshop in January 2006 marked the beginning of SAKAR's efforts. The workshop focused on disseminating a report by Sahbhagi Shikshan Kendra, Lucknow, detailing the recent panchayat elections in the state. SAKAR's initial activities involved gathering fundamental information in eight villages of the Bhojipura block, establishing a baseline for future interventions.

Empowerment and Literacy Initiatives

In 2007, SAKAR's first project, supported by the Rajiv Gandhi Foundation, aimed to empower women and girls. This initiative marked the beginning of a series of transformative efforts. By 2008, SAKAR had expanded its focus to include children in schools, ensuring quality education and providing remedial classes for weak or out-of-school children. The same year, SAKAR organized its first major event on International Women’s Day, attracting 300 community women and gaining recognition from the administration and media.

Growth and Development

SAKAR's growth was marked by the addition of new staff and volunteers in 2008, propelling the organization toward its vision. In 2009, SAKAR obtained FCRA (Foreign Contribution Regulation Act) registration, enabling it to apply for international grants. By 2011, women's rights issues began gaining visibility, thanks to the active involvement of women's groups and the newly joined sangathan (organization).

Recognition and Advocacy

In 2013, SAKAR solidified its reputation as a women’s rights organization, recognized by the administration and stakeholders. The organization started taking up cases of violence against women and children, including domestic violence, sexual assault, rape, and discrimination, and provided support through legal processes. SAKAR's dedication to empowering children through education was acknowledged with an award from the then Chief Minister Shri Akhilesh Yadav.

Strengthening Community-Based Organizations

By 2015, the women's sangathan of marginalized and minority women had become a robust entity, actively working to eradicate all forms of violence and discrimination against women. SAKAR’s initiatives in women’s empowerment, livelihood strengthening, quality education, and girls’ empowerment were well-established. The organization's approach shifted during the COVID-19 pandemic, moving from a rights-based to a welfare approach, supporting families and communities to survive gracefully.

Expansion and Impact

In 2022, SAKAR scaled up its operations, extending its reach from 20 to 40 villages and from one to five blocks. Adolescent rights and empowerment became a significant focus, aiming to empower the new generation for transformative change. SAKAR's impact includes working with 5000 women, of whom 2000 are part of the Mahila Shakti Sangathan, addressing over 100 cases of violence against women, and providing basic literacy skills to over 500 women through rural literacy centers. The organization has also raised awareness about health rights, worked with approximately 2000 adolescent girls, and re-enrolled over 300 children and girls in schools.

Current Status and Future Aspirations

As of 2023, SAKAR's intensive work spans 28 villages, impacting approximately 10,000 women and 5,000 girls. The Mahila Shakti Sangathan consists of around 2,500 women, and SAKAR collaborates with 800 adolescent girls, along with nearly 200 service providers and stakeholders. The organization aims to expand its initiatives to cover at least five blocks in Bareilly district and extend its reach to the adjoining district of Rampur in Uttarakhand State.