Inspiring IAS Officer, Ms. Hari Chandana Dasari (IAS), Collector and District Magistrate, has brought a change to the world in terms of women's empowerment. With a vision to uplift the status of women, she led many transformative initiatives that not only reshaped many lives but also set shining examples of leadership in public administration.
She Toilets Initiative
Hari Chandana initiated the She Toilets initiative, a groundbreaking project for providing clean and safe sanitation facilities for women. It aimed to address both hygiene and dignity issues. This flagship initiative was widely recognized nationally and was in great demand for mobile She Toilets. The initiative not only made sure that women had access to hygienic sanitation but also created a model of public health and empowerment that resonated with communities across the country and set a benchmark for similar initiatives.
Hari Chandana Dasari engaged 4,000 women in Narayanpet in mask-making during the pandemic, turning it into a profitable enterprise. The project, which assisted women to contribute during a trying time, had earned a profit of Rs 50 lakh within a year. She also made use of the handloom industry's expertise in making handloom masks and linked local artisans to new opportunities. For this initiative, she received The Social Impact Award by the British Council for her significant role in creating positive social change. Hari Chandana Dasari has also been a strong advocate for the education and healthcare of women in rural areas. Under her leadership, a series of mobile health clinics and education programs were launched in remote villages.
These programs aimed at educating women about their health rights, reproductive health, and providing them with access to free medical services. Her tireless work in closing the gender gap in health and education has left an indelible mark on society, particularly on marginalized communities. Additionally, Dasari promotes women's leadership by supporting women's participation in governance. She has taken out time to mentor young women in taking on the mantle of local body and government projects' leadership. It will ensure women find a place in the decision-making table. Increasing female participation in politics and public administration makes room for a whole new generation of women leaders. The FLO Influential Women Awards 2021 recognized 14 remarkable women, including Hari Chandana Dasari, for their outstanding contributions. Hari was honored in the Public Administration category for her impactful leadership and initiatives like eco-friendly projects, mask-making during COVID-19, and enhancing women's empowerment. The awards ceremony, held at Chowmahalla Palace, celebrated women excelling in various fields such as entrepreneurship, healthcare, and social service.
This work of Hari Chandana Dasari is a manifestation of leadership fueled by compassion, knowledge, and determination. Through her efforts, women are not only empowered but also set into motion a greater movement towards the achievement of equality between the genders.
