Integrated Community Development
Sustainable Rural Infrastructure: Water and Agriculture
Drilling borewells and supporting local farmers to create self-reliant village economies Proven rural development for 100+ villages is central to RTU India’s mission of creating self-sustaining and dignified communities. For decades, we have focused on the most essential needs of rural South India, including clean water access, professional sanitation, and stable housing. Following Google’s E-E-A-T principles, our projects are built on transparency and long-term community trust. By providing the basic infrastructure necessary for life, we allow families to move beyond survival and focus on health and education. This dedicated approach to village welfare ensures that even the most remote areas have a reliable foundation for growth, resulting in a safer and more resilient future for thousands.
Rural Development
Micro Finance
To help improve the poor living conditions and lack of economic opportunities in rural areas, RTU started a Rural Development Programme in 1992. Self Help Groups, micro credit systems and potable water support have been implemented in 26 remote villages of Theni & Dindigul districts as long term solutions.
We helped set up Self Help Groups where each member saves a small amount every month and pools it into the group (a micro credit system). Once the savings reach a set level the group starts to give loans to its members for income generating activities (for example to buy a cow for milk).
This is a long-term solution that means they no longer have to rely on moneylenders who charge high interest rates. Meetings are held with the RTU staff so the members can discuss any problems they might be facing as well as getting assistance with access to government subsidized loans and helping them make links with banks. We now have 1276 members in micro credit societies.
Irulayamman Nagar Self Help Group President
Case study -1
My name is Valli. My husband died 3 years ago leaving me and my 3 children. We were living in Periyakulam on the riverbank in a hut, without any source of income. In Feb 2003. RTU came forward to sponsor a few families like us. It has built 8 houses for us. But we were lacking basic necessities like, drinking water and electricity.
In the same year a self-help group was formed by RTU. The main purpose of this group was our overall development with focus on economic development. Therefore savings and credit was one of the main activities of our group from its inception. Every member has saved an amount of Rs.10 in each month and collected a substantial amount. The group started disbursing small loans to the needy members on a nominal interest. Thus we were relieved from the clutches of local moneylenders. RTU also facilitated us to avail of a government loan of Rs.25,000/-
Income Generating Activities
Case study -2
I am Latha from the Village Kamatchiammal Koil. I was living in a hut with my husband, 2 children and mother-in-law. Being landless and with no assets life was really a struggle for us. Our earnings have seldom been enough to meet the family’s day to day needs. We never stopped dreaming of a more secure and contented life. But our minds have always been preoccupied with survival. Three years ago RTU started a saving and credit group for women in our village. I also joined the group. Joining the group has proved to be a turning point in my life. The group became a place where I could learn about my health and that of
my children, about my rights as a woman, and about doing business. I began to save in the group scheme Rs.50/- per month. My vision and self esteem grew. On 18/8/05 I took a loan from RTU and Rs.2000 from the group and purchased a cow. The cow gave more than sufficient milk for our family use. During the past 292 days this cowgave us 1922 litre milk. I spent Rs.26.50 daily for feeding the cow. We took 1 litre milk daily for our own consumption and sold the rest of the milk and improved our economic status. We have constructed a house to live in and posses golden ornaments for our daughter after meeting the school expenses of our children through this income. I am confident, my children will become professionals.
Our Holistic Approach to Rural Development
RTU India utilizes a proven rural development model that addresses the interconnected challenges of poverty. We believe that true progress is only possible when a community has access to clean water, safe housing, and proper sanitation simultaneously. Our dedicated team works directly with village leaders to identify specific needs and implement solutions that are culturally appropriate and easy to maintain. This holistic strategy ensures that our interventions create a lasting impact, allowing entire villages to rise out of poverty with dignity and collective strength.
Safe Water and Sanitation for Remote Villages
Access to clean water is a fundamental human right, yet many rural areas still struggle with waterborne diseases. We are committed to providing safe water and sanitation for remote villages through the installation of borewells, hand pumps, and modern latrines. By removing the daily burden of walking miles for water and improving hygiene standards, we significantly reduce illness and child mortality. This trusted sanitation program is essential for the health of the community and allows children to stay in school rather than falling ill from preventable conditions.
Building Sustainable Rural Infrastructure
Beyond immediate relief, we focus on building sustainable rural infrastructure that serves the community for generations. This includes constructing community centers, paving village pathways, and providing the physical resources necessary for a functioning society. Every project is built with durability in mind, using locally sourced materials and professional construction standards. This reliable infrastructure support provides the backbone for economic activity and social gathering, turning isolated clusters of huts into organized, resilient, and thriving rural neighborhoods.
Empowering Communities Through Dedicated Support
Our mission is defined by empowering communities through dedicated support and education. We don’t just provide facilities; we train local “Water Committees” and village groups to manage and maintain their new resources independently. This fosters a sense of ownership and pride, ensuring that the development is sustainable long after our initial work is complete. By focusing on inspiring local leadership, we ensure that rural residents have the tools and confidence to continue their journey toward prosperity and self-sufficiency.