Gender inequality and widespread domestic violence in rural areas are major issues and women's economic independence is a top priority. In Kurinjipady and Bhuvanagiri districts, women's development programmes have been successful in promoting self-help groups, rights and skill-based training and entrepreneurship development. These programmes enabled women to gain economic independence by connecting them to banks and receiving credit assistance to start income-generating activities such as food processing, livestock rearing and value-added manufacturing. This empowerment increased women's self-esteem, confidence and solidarity, enabling them to fight injustice and assert their rights, thereby contributing to social and economic improvement.