Sonatala Milan Sangha is a voluntary self-help organisation that has operated in Udaynarayanpur in West Bengal since 1935. Originally working to provide emergency relief after natural disasters, it has now developed a long term integrated rural development programme, providing housing, sanitation, education and employment for the rural poor. The housing programme has provided 500 houses to date (1986). These are built using local labour and appropriate materials and technology. Affordable loans and the provision of training and income generating opportunities enable the families to own these permanent, high quality homes that are flood resistant and capable of expansion as the family’s resources or needs increase.

Partnership

NGO, donor agency, local community