Our Work at Tezpur Mahila Samiti (TMS)
Founded in 1919 by pioneering leaders such as Chandraprabha Saikiani and Kiranmoyee Agarwala, the Tezpur Mahila Samiti (TMS) has been a vital force for women’s empowerment and community development in Northeast India. Over the decades, TMS has grown into a dynamic organisation supporting marginalised communities, promoting traditional knowledge systems, and advancing gender equality.
In 1947, TMS expanded its reach by forming the Tezpur District Mahila Samiti, adopting a federation model to work across the entire district. This network of primary samitis now functions under the broader Assam Pradeshik Mahila Samiti, fostering collective action and local leadership.
Programmes
Tailoring School
TMS’s Tailoring School equips women with practical skills in garment making through short-term certification courses. These classes promote financial independence, encourage entrepreneurship, and build a sense of solidarity among participants.
Computer Centre
The Computer Training Centre offers accessible digital literacy through a three-month Basic Computer Course that covers PowerPoint, Word, and Excel. The program runs from Monday to Saturday, 11 AM to 4 PM, at a subsidised fee of ₹1,500—enabling broad participation, including working women and economically disadvantaged individuals.
This initiative is conducted in collaboration with the Darrang Type Writing and Computer Institute (established in 1961 and registered with India’s Ministry of Corporate Affairs). A complimentary Spoken English course is also offered to computer students, enhancing their professional communication skills.
Projects
Annapurna Akhol Canteen
Our community canteen provides nutritious, affordable meals while also serving as a training ground for culinary skills. This initiative addresses both nutritional needs and economic empowerment through vocational training in food preparation.
Jal Sparsh Project
Funded by the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), this project empowers 200 women—particularly tribal women—in Sonitpur district by teaching them how to transform invasive water hyacinth into eco-friendly, marketable products. In partnership with Eco Roots Foundation, this initiative promotes both environmental conservation and economic sustainability.
The project was recently showcased at a national exhibition hosted by the Ministry for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) at the President’s House in Hyderabad, receiving national recognition and expanding market access for participating artisans.
Education
Sishu Bharati School
Founded in 1954 by Chandrabala Barua, Sishu Bharati School provides free education to underprivileged children up to Class 5. Supported by prominent figures such as Bijoy Bhagawati and Meena Agarwala, the school serves over 100 students with instruction in Assamese, English, mathematics, and general knowledge. Co-curricular activities—including music, martial arts, and yoga—foster holistic growth. The school operates from 9:15 AM to 2:00 PM, staffed by a team of eight teachers and three helpers.
Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
Since 1994, TMS’s SHG program has empowered over 8,800 women across the district. These groups function on a three-year cycle, collectively raising significant funds to support small enterprises, savings schemes, and community initiatives. In the current 2022–2024 cycle alone, SHGs have mobilised ₹45 lakhs, reflecting the strong economic and social impact of the program.
Handloom Training and Production Centre
Mahatma Gandhi once said, “Assamese women weave fairy tales in their clothes.” At TMS, we strive to preserve this rich textile heritage through our handloom training centre, which revives traditional techniques and promotes indigenous fabrics like Muga, Eri, and Paat silk.
Our weaving programs include training in crafting Mekhela Chador, tribal textiles, salwar kameez sets, and the culturally significant Gamocha. These handmade products blend tradition with modern trends and serve as a source of livelihood for women artisans, reinforcing cultural identity while promoting economic independence.
Legal Aid Centre
TMS’s Legal Aid Centre offers free legal support and mediation services for women facing domestic violence and other forms of injustice. Open on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 11 AM to 4 PM, the centre handles approximately five cases per day.
Key Features:
Electric Rickshaw Project
In response to both environmental and economic concerns, TMS has introduced the Electric Rickshaw Project to provide sustainable transportation solutions while creating employment for local women as drivers. This initiative promotes green mobility and women’s participation in public life.
Historical Context
Established during a period of profound change in India, TMS was shaped by visionary women like Chandraprabha Saikiani, who led campaigns against child marriage and mobilised women in the freedom movement. TMS played a key role in empowering women through education and handloom production, laying the foundation for a legacy that continues to evolve.
Today, TMS functions as a federation of nearly 100 rural and tribal women’s groups, uniting over 10,000 members. Its activities span education, legal aid, environmental sustainability, and economic empowerment—anchored in a century-long commitment to justice and gender equality.
Tezpur Mahila Samiti remains a beacon of hope, resilience, and transformation—honouring the past while building a more equitable future for women and communities across Assam.
