In India, there are countless organizations working tirelessly to support women, but few focus specifically on empowering young women from rural, conservative, and patriarchal communities—those whose voices are often silenced by societal norms. In this landscape, i-Saksham stands as a beacon of hope and change. Founded in 2014 in Bihar, i-Saksham is dedicated to giving these young women the education, skills, and opportunities they need to claim their Voice and Choice. Through a transformative two-year fellowship, it equips them to become “edu-leaders”—grassroots changemakers who not only drive transformation in their own lives but inspire and lead their communities toward progress. Now in its 12th cohort, i-Saksham continues to prove that with the right support, young women can overcome even the most deeply rooted barriers and become role models for future generations.

The Problem i-Saksham Addresses in Bihar

In Bihar, as in many other regions, gender biases, limited education, and traditional norms restrict young women’s aspirations. Many face early marriage, limiting their autonomy and leadership opportunities. Across India, similar challenges exist:

• 88% drop out of higher education
• 40% face early marriage
• 96% are excluded from the labor force
  
  

These norms hinder women’s participation in education and decision-making. In Bihar, only 41% of women have a say in their health, finances, or family visits, below the national average of 56%. Women, especially from marginalized communities, lack mentorship and role models, limiting their chances to build confidence and leadership skills.

Through the i-Saksham fellowship, countless young women like Ruchi have experienced profound transformations in their lives. Each story is a testament to the power of education, mentorship, and community support in overcoming barriers. Below, we begin with Ruchi’s journey—a young woman whose determination, courage, and newfound leadership have inspired not only her community but also fellow women across Bihar.

Defying Expectations: How Ruchi Chose Education Over Early Marriage

Ruchi, a young girl from Farda village in Munger, is a symbol of resilience and determination. A shy and cheerful young woman, Ruchi is currently a Batch-Ten Edu-Leader at i-Saksham, a social organization working towards empowering individuals through education. Ruchi has always had a deep interest in learning, despite the numerous personal challenges she has faced.

Ruchi lives with her father, two younger brothers, and an elder sister who is married. Her father works in the city to support the family. In 2022, when Ruchi was in her twelfth grade, her mother passed away. The loss of her mother was not only unbearable but also horrifying for Ruchi. The mere thought of an uncertain future sent shivers down her spine. In such a trying situation, it is almost impossible for anyone to keep themselves together, yet Ruchi managed to stay strong. She decided that her studies would be her weapon for survival. Despite her grief, Ruchi appeared for her twelfth-grade exams and passed with flying colors.

After her mother’s passing, the responsibility of managing the household fell entirely on Ruchi. Along with taking care of her younger brothers and the home, she continued her studies. Currently (in 2024), Ruchi is pursuing her second year of a Bachelor of Arts degree.

However, after losing her mother, societal pressure regarding marriage began mounting on Ruchi. Relatives and neighbors began questioning how a girl could live without a mother and who would take care of her. These concerns became constant, leaving Ruchi anxious and in distress. She often found herself crying silently in her room, torn between her dreams and family expectations.

One day, Ruchi made a brave decision – she would take control of her future. She decided to have a conversation with her father, explaining that she wasn’t ready for marriage. She wanted to focus on her studies and needed two more years to secure her future. She also expressed her fear that after marriage, she might not be allowed to continue her education or take care of her younger siblings.

Ruchi was apprehensive about speaking to her father, worried he wouldn’t listen to her. But she realized that if she didn’t stand up for herself now, she might never have the chance again. Her rights and dreams would always be suppressed.

When her father returned home from the city, Ruchi gathered her courage and expressed her thoughts. Initially, her father was not receptive, even refusing to listen to her. But Ruchi persisted, using various approaches to explain her point of view. She told him, “I will get married, but I need two years to become capable and independent. After marriage, there is a possibility that I may not be allowed to pursue further studies, and I may not be able to help look after the house and my brothers. Everything could fall apart.” She added, “If you allow me this time, I will be able to do something for my brothers’ future too.”

Finally, Ruchi’s determination paid off. Her father understood her perspective and agreed to give her the time she needed to focus on her studies.

Now, if anyone from their village or community questions her father about her decision, he confidently responds, “What difference does it make to marry off the eldest daughter? She cannot come here and manage the house now anyway.”

However, Ruchi’s elder sister remains upset with her. She hasn’t spoken to Ruchi over the phone because she wants Ruchi to give up her education and say yes to marriage. Ruchi believes that her sister will eventually understand and support her decision. For now, there is no pressure for marriage at home, and Ruchi is able to focus on her studies without worry.

The Logical Indian’s Perspective

Stories like Ruchi’s are a reflection of the strength, resilience, and untapped potential of young women across rural India. In a society where traditional gender roles often stifle women’s aspirations, Ruchi’s decision to prioritize education over societal pressure for early marriage is both inspiring and empowering. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of access to education, mentorship, and the ability to make one’s own choices. Organizations like i-Saksham play a crucial role in supporting these women, helping them navigate the barriers imposed by deep-rooted patriarchal norms and fostering the next generation of leaders. Ruchi’s story exemplifies the kind of change that is possible when young women are given the opportunity and space to define their own futures.