March 4 – 7, 2025 Kanti Village, India – As part of AMMACHI Labs’ “Amrita COVID Community Resilience Resource Centre,” a team of six M.Sc. students and three faculty members from Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Faridabad, recently completed a week-long hands-on field study in Kanti Village. Their research focused on understanding health, nutrition, and women’s empowerment in rural communities.

During their stay, the team engaged in various activities aimed at assessing and supporting local development initiatives. They met with women from the village to discuss their daily nutritional intake and dietary challenges. Visits to local farms provided insights into traditional and modern farming practices, enhancing the students’ understanding of rural agriculture.

A significant aspect of their study involved interactions with women’s self-help groups (SHGs). These meetings allowed the team to observe the role of SHGs in fostering economic independence and empowerment among rural women. Additionally, discussions with local healthcare workers focused on health issues, vaccination programs, and government health initiatives aimed at improving rural healthcare services.

The students also held discussions with the village leader regarding essential community projects, particularly initiatives to secure clean drinking water for all households. As part of their data collection efforts, they visited two Anganwadi centers, where they recorded anthropometric measurements—including height, weight, chest, and head circumference—of children to assess their nutritional status.

This immersive experience provided students with valuable practical knowledge, equipping them with firsthand insights into rural development, social structures, and data collection methodologies. The visit not only enriched their academic learning but also strengthened the bond between Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham and the Kanti Village community, fostering continued collaboration for sustainable rural development.