Communities at Focus..
MSDI works with some of the most marginalized and neglected populations in Odisha. Women with disabilities, women from fishing communities facing livelihood loss and deprived urban slum children lacking access to basic education. These groups experience multiple layers of social, economic and structural exclusion that prevent them from living with dignity and self reliance.
Women with Disabilities
In India, while progressive policies such as the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (2016) aim to support persons with disabilities, women with disabilities continue to face significant gaps in access and inclusion. Many government initiatives are limited by weak implementation, low awareness, and administrative challenges,
preventing benefits from reaching those most in need. Fragmented approaches across departments further reduce effectiveness, especially for women who experience multiple layers of discrimination. Key barriers remain in accessibility to education, healthcare, livelihoods, and public services, alongside persistent social stigma and limited representation in decision-making. Strengthening inclusive, coordinated, and ground-level implementation is essential to ensure meaningful impact in the current scenario.
Women Fishing Community
Fishing women in coastal India are facing increasing challenges as their traditional livelihoods continue to shrink due to climate change, declining fish catch, coastal erosion, and pollution. Additionally, limited access to modern market systems, lack of storage facilities, and exclusion from formal financial services further
reduce their income opportunities. Many women engaged in fish processing and vending struggle with unstable earnings and minimal social protection. The way forward lies in strengthening their capacities through skill development, access to sustainable fishing practices, improved market linkages, and inclusion in cooperatives and self-help groups. Promoting alternative livelihoods, ensuring access to credit, and integrating them into value chains can enhance resilience and secure their economic future.
Underprivileged Girl Child (Urban Slum)
Despite the introduction of the National Education Policy 2020 and various government initiatives to improve access to education, slum girl children in India continue to face significant barriers to basic education. Mobile education services for slum girl
child dropouts play a vital role in bringing education to the doorstep of vulnerable children who are unable to attend regular schools due to poverty, migration, household responsibilities, or social barriers. Through mobile learning centers, digital vans, community classes, and bridge education programs, these services provide flexible and inclusive learning opportunities in slum communities. They help girls continue basic education, develop life skills, improve confidence, and reconnect with formal schooling. Mobile education also creates awareness among parents and communities about the importance of girl child education and empowerment for a better future.
Regions at Focus..
MSDI operates across key regions of India, focusing on states with significant vulnerable and underserved communities. The geographical spread also allows for cross learning, regional collaboration, and scalable livelihood models across similar socio-economic contexts.