All India Women's Conference

Background

In 1926, at the suggestion of the organization's founder, Margaret Cousins, a number of regional conferences were held throughout the country to discuss specific local issues regarding educational reform. In January 1927, delegates from these regional conferences were invited to attend the first official AIWC. Approximately 2,000 people attended this national gathering, which took place in Poona, India. The conference and the participation of women from a range of communities and backgrounds signified an important chapter in the development of the women's movement in India. During this time, a number of resolutions were adopted aimed at enriching the content of primary education, vocational training, and collegiate-level programs. The AIWC was critical in helping to increase societal acceptance of women's education and in working toward increasing women's literacy rates.

During subsequent conferences and following significant debate on the issue, the organization decided to expand the scope of its work beyond its educational focus to include a social reform agenda. The organization became actively involved in legislative advocacy aimed at ending the practice of child marriage and securing women's rights to divorce and inheritance. The group also participated in efforts to improve women's working conditions and to secure women's right to vote. Several members of the AIWC participated in the framing of the constitution following India's independence, and many of the organization's past presidents went on to hold significant political positions. The AIWC also worked to expand its visibility and build connections beyond India. The group participated in several international conferences and serves as a consultant to several international agencies on economic and social issues impacting women.

Contemporary Work

The AIWC s current work involves a range of activities and projects aimed at improving educational opportunities and increasing women's workforce participation. The group utilizes a range of strategies, including public awareness campaigns, protest meetings, leadership training, and legislative advocacy. The organization works on issues such as health and family welfare, women's labor, trafficking, disaster relief, developing rural energy, and microcredit programs. The AIWC has also initiated several projects aimed at training and employing women in fields ranging from computing to textile weaving to hair and skin care.