About the Conference
Women-Led Development in Darbhanga
On April 11, 2026, Sulabh International, in collaboration with the Srijani Centre for Development, organised a conference in Darbhanga, Bihar, bringing together policymakers, practitioners, and community leaders to reaffirm a shared commitment to bottom-up, community-driven development.
Rooted in Bihar, Sulabh’s journey reflects a model that has evolved from addressing grassroots challenges to shaping national solutions, grounded in dignity, inclusion, and social transformation. The inaugural session highlighted the Darbhanga Model, with a focus on dignity, livelihoods, and women-centred development.
Welcome Address
Anchored in Dignity
Mrs Nitya Pathak
Executive Convenor, Sulabh International
Our journey has always been anchored in dignity. Today, dignity must extend beyond sanitation to livelihoods, opportunities, and women’s independence and self-worth.
The welcome address set the tone for the conference, emphasising that Sulabh’s vision of dignity must evolve to encompass economic opportunity, women’s leadership, and community-driven development across Bihar.
A film, “Journey of Sulabh International: From Dignity to Development,” showcased the visionary work of Dr Bindeshwar Pathak, linking sanitation with dignity, health, livelihoods, and social equality. This was followed by the release of the report “From Darbhanga: Dignity, Livelihoods and Women’s Participation.”
The programme highlighted key initiatives including women-led farming, community seed banks, Makhana cultivation, and the promotion of Mithila painting, strengthening livelihoods while preserving local traditions.
Distinguished Guests
Voices of Leadership
Shri Gopal Ji Thakur
Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha
Shri Gopal Ji Thakur paid tribute to Dr Bindeshwar Pathak and emphasised the need for stronger collaboration between government and civil society to advance development in the region.
The event was further honoured by the presence of distinguished guests who underscored a collective vision for development that is locally rooted, women-centred, and driven by dignity.
Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha
Hon’ble MLA, Keoti
District Magistrate, Darbhanga
Former Superintendent, Darbhanga Medical College, Bihar
Thematic Sessions
Three Conversations That Shaped the Day
Women-Led Development & Government Pathways
Moderated by Mrs Abha Kumar, Senior Vice President, Sulabh International
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Shri M K Thakur
President, Mithila Vegetable Union & Cold Chain Expert
Discussed pathways for connecting women-led agricultural enterprises with market infrastructure. -
Prof Chandan Kumar
Principal, Darbhanga Engineering College, Darbhanga
Highlighted the role of technical education in enabling women’s participation in development. -
Shri Sanjay Pandey
Founder, Yuganter & Disaster Risk Resilience Coordinator
Shared insights on building community resilience through women-led disaster preparedness.
Civil Society, Systems & Women’s Agency
Moderated by Ms Deepali Bhattacharya, Gender & Development Expert
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Ms Mansi Samaddar
Program Director, Aditi, Patna
Spoke on institutional frameworks that strengthen women’s agency. -
Ms Parineeta Kumari
Founder, Drishti – The Insight, Patna
Highlighted the role of grassroots journalism in amplifying women’s voices. -
Ms Suman Singh
Founder, Sakhi, Darbhanga
Shared community-based approaches to women’s empowerment. -
Ms Priyanka Kumari
Founder, Gender in Action For You Foundation
Advocated for integrated, collaborative approaches to gender equity.
From Livelihood to Voice: Identity, Visibility & Transforming Narratives
Moderated by Mrs Hemlata Shekhawat, Director, Srijani, Patna & Mrs Sonam Mishra, Vice President, Sulabh International
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Ms Reena Sopam
Senior Journalist and Author
Emphasised authentic storytelling and the role of inclusive media platforms. -
Ms Arya Jha
Journalist, News18
Highlighted how grassroots voices can be amplified through media representation.
The session brought together women representatives from Srijani Patna and Darbhanga, who shared inspiring journeys of moving beyond economic participation to becoming voices of change within their communities.
Conference Moments
Scenes from the Day
Cultural Programme
Celebrating Mithila’s Heritage
The conference concluded on a vibrant and memorable note with a cultural programme celebrating the rich heritage of the Mithila region. The evening featured soulful classical, devotional, and Maithili folk music performances by Dr Sushmita Jha, Renowned Vocalist, along with captivating presentations by artisans of the Srijani Centre for Development.
The cultural showcase reflected the spirit of Darbhanga, its traditions, artistry, and community pride, bringing participants together in a shared celebration of identity and culture.
The conference served as a powerful platform celebrating women’s voices, creativity, and leadership, reinforcing their central role in shaping inclusive and transformative development.
Event Gallery
Moments from the Day
