The background of the project was that ADDA, as part of its Integrated Women's Empowerment Project that had helped to establish 146 women groups, however, about 66 groups were still rather weak and new.

The overall goal is to address food security needs and improve livelihoods by supporting 66 woman SHGs/VSLAs providing microbusiness development training, technical support for construction of cooperative, rice banks, water wells and home gardens.

Increased capacity of 66 SHGs through improved involvement, savings/credit, group leadership and their ability to voice their needs in the communities. Also focus is on increasing the capacity of the local partner to implement and disseminate experience.