SPORTS FOR EMPOWERING GIRLS: THE CSR INITIATIVE
The Centre for Social Research (CSR) has been at the forefront of empowering
Young girls in rural India through its ground-breaking "Sports for Girls"
program. Launched in 2017, the initiative initially covered five districts of
Haryana, targeting girls in underserved communities with the aim of
addressing gender discrimination in education and sports.
Supported by the Australian High Commission and NCW, the program
implemented a range of activities designed to foster holistic development
among participants. From providing training in various sports to conducting life
skills workshops and community awareness campaigns, CSR sought to build
confidence, leadership skills, and physical fitness among the girls while
challenging societal norms surrounding girls' education and sports
participation.
The impact of the program was profound. Increased enrolment in sports
programs, improved self-esteem and social status for girls, and positive shifts
in community attitudes were some of the notable outcomes observed during
the program's tenure.
Although the specific program continued even after 2018, CSR remains
committed to its mission of girls' empowerment through various on-going
initiatives. Supported by the Australian High Commission, CSR kept on
motivating girl players through Nutrition drive & Zonal tournaments even
during the pandemic years. Between the year 2021 to 2022, GAIL came
forward to support girl players in 3 districts of Haryana. Recently, CSR launched
the fourth phase of its "Sports for Girls" program, targeting districts in Delhi-
NCR. In collaboration with the Australian High Commission, this new phase
aims to further promote gender equality by utilizing sports as a tool to unlock
the true potential of girls and break societal barriers.
The program adopts a comprehensive approach, incorporating targeted
gender sensitization, psychosocial support, and expert-led sessions to
empower participants. Additionally, nutritional supplements are provided to
young girl players to support their health and performance, further
emphasizing CSR's commitment to their overall well-being.
Through its efforts, CSR envisions creating a more inclusive and empowering
future for girls in the community. By harnessing the power of sports, the
organization not only adds economic value to the lives of these girls but also in
stills in them a sense of confidence and agency. As a result, girls experience
increased value in society and within their families, leading to benefits such as
improved health, delayed marriages, and greater investment in their higher
education.
In conclusion, CSR's "Sports for Girls" program stands as a beacon of hope,
demonstrating the transformative potential of sports in empowering girls and
challenging entrenched gender norms.
