Training Need Assessment for women Self Help group in the O and M of treatment plants

June 17, 2025

The AMRUT Mitra initiative, launched in February 2024, aims to enhance financial and social empowerment among Self-Help Groups (SHGs) by involving them in operation and maintenance (O&M) of Faecal Sludge Treatment Plants (FSTPs). In Uttar Pradesh, 87 projects have been executed under this initiative, with 804 women participating and Rs 794.71 Lakhs expended. However, only four projects focus on FSTP O&M, while the majority address drinking water testing.

The State Urban Development Agency (SUDA), in partnership with Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) and with technical support from CSE, leads this initiative across four cities: Khurja, Jaunpur, Raebareli, and Sitapur. After piloting SHG engagement in these cities, an emerging need for targeted training was identified to address knowledge gaps. To ensure effective training, a Training Needs Assessment (TNA) was conducted through:

• Individual interviews tailored to the personal learning requirements of SHG members.
• Focused group discussions to understand collective challenges in operating and maintaining FSTPs.

The TNA report highlights:

• Current skill levels and knowledge gaps of SHG members in managing treatment plants.
• Challenges faced by women in routine operations, including technical and procedural difficulties.
• Essential learning areas required for effective O&M, such as treatment processes, safety protocols, troubleshooting, and record-keeping.
• Capacity-building recommendations to enhance technical expertise and operational efficiency.
• A reference questionnaire used during assessments across the four cities, serving as a guide for trainers.

By leveraging these findings, trainers can develop structured interventions that improve technical proficiency, operational competency, and leadership skills among women SHGs, ensuring their effective participation in faecal sludge and septage management.