Empowering Women Through Sustainable Development in Indore
Experience at the Jimmy Magilligan Center for Sustainable Development
In Indore, a group of 35 women from seven self-help groups, along with 10 digital friends from Bapu Gandhi Nagar, Scheme Number 140, and Shiv-Parvati Nagar, visited the Jimmy Magilligan Center for Sustainable Development. The purpose of this visit was to learn practical lessons on environmental conservation and sustainable livelihoods from the center's director, Dr. Janak Palta Magilligan.
Dr. Janak warmly welcomed the participants and shared that the center was built by her late husband, Jimmy Magilligan. Before the house was completed, he established solar and wind power stations that have been providing free street lighting to 50 tribal families since December 2010. Tragically, he passed away in a road accident on April 21, 2011. After this incident, Dr. Janak dedicated herself to raising awareness about sustainable development from her home, 'Giridarshan,' in Sanawadiya, naming the center in her husband's honor. The center operates without any financial assistance.
During their visit, participants learned about biodiversity, rainwater harvesting, organic farming, solar cooking, and the use of solar dryers to lead a balanced, natural, and healthy lifestyle. Accompanied by Mrs. Abha Palta Tiwari, they explored a self-sustainable campus where they observed medicinal plants like Giloy and Punarnava, along with pulses, herbs, spices, and the preservation of indigenous seeds.
They were also shown demonstrations of chemical-free colors, including Holi powders made from bougainvillea petals, orange fruit jam, and colors derived from various natural sources. Dr. Janak emphasized the importance of keeping children away from mobile phone addiction and engaging them in sports, gardening, and creative activities.
Following this, Dr. Janak shared insights from her 41 years of experience, detailing her journey from the UK to India, where she worked alongside her husband in over 500 tribal villages across Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, focusing on sustainable development that emphasizes the roles of individuals, families, and communities.
Father Shinoz Joseph, director of the Jan Vikas Society, expressed gratitude, stating, 'We are fortunate that Padma Shri awardee Dr. Janak Palta Magilligan has inspired women and girls from self-help groups to develop low-cost sustainable livelihood opportunities using local resources and to enhance income through the processing of fruits, vegetables, and other food items using solar dryers. She has encouraged women to start small businesses through groups, fostering economic self-reliance and teaching skills for a self-sufficient life based on indigenous knowledge.'