Contribution to the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)
While no specific targets have been set for the purpose, DLGSP is contributing in several ways to national efforts to meet the seven MDGs.
Poverty reduction
The goal of reducing poverty, as envisaged in the National MDG - 1 and also emphasized in the Tenth Plan and the Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper, is clearly a major objective of DLGSP.It supports participatory planning and implementation of productive infrastructures.Emphasis has been given for improved service delivery fro the poor including Dalits, Janajatis and women.They are mobilized for socio-economic activities at the CO level.Support is provided for social mobilization and some skills development training.Small grants are given for the development of infrastructures.These interventions made for the inclusion of vulnerable groups in the targeted activities contributes towards MDG - 1.
Primary education
DLGSP has provided small grants for school renovation.CO members are also made aware of the importance of sending boys and girls to school and making sure they do not drop out.This has improved enrolment of both boys and girls in the districts covered, which ultimately contributes to the MDG - 2.Perhaps because of the emphasis on engaging women in VDP activities, some informants indicated that the percentage of girls enrolled in school is greater than boys in many areas.
Gender equality
The formation of women and mixed COs has brought women to the forefront in making decisions on matters affecting their lives.Many women met during our field visits said they had been empowered through the intervention of the programme.Among other things, they have become more vocal in raising issues that affect them, they have started to save regularly, and have obtained loans for income generating activities that interest them.Some also mentioned they now play a bigger role in family decision making.This indicates DLGSP is contributing towards MDG - 3, which is the promotion of gender equality and empowerment of women.
Reduced child mortality
DLGSP's contribution to the MDG - 4 is indirect.Through CO discussions, the programme is raising awareness on various socio-economic development issues including health and child mortality.The LDF has provided funds for many drinking water schemes and toilets.This has increased knowledge about personal hygiene and improved access to safe drinking water and sanitation, which ultimately contributes to MDG - 4 (reduced child mortality).
Improved Maternal Health
Like MDG - 4, DLGSP's contribution to the MDG - 5 is also indirect.The social mobilization component of the programme has helped to increase awareness of CO members. Many are also members of the Mothers' Group.Such involvement has been useful in establishing links with services offered by other programmes, such as clinical and family planning services, which support MDG - 5.
Combating HIV/AIDS
As mentioned earlier, DLGSP has been incorporating subjects related to HIV/AIDS in training activities at different levels including its own staff.Posters and community handbooks are also used for dissemination of information on preventive methods.These interventions have contributed towards MDG - 6.
Environmental sustainability
The programme has supported this goal through training and funds for flood control river embankments (eg in Bardiya) and soil erosion.CO members have also been involved in tree plantation activities and community management of forests (eg Naubasta and Sitapur VDCs).The use of improved cooking stoves (ICS) is being promoted to reduce consumption of firewood and domestic air pollution, a particular hazard for women.These activities support MDG - 7.
