The HRD Department primarily aims and works for capacitating the different stakeholders associated with the development activities of KIDS. Over the years, the HRD Department has been focusing on creating a platform in the grass root level of the community so as to effectively implement the development initiatives of KIDS. The major thrust area of this Department is the empowerment of women, which is done through the formation and strengthening of Self Help Groups and its apex bodies known as Mahilamadals / Federations.

The major programmes implemented by the HRD Department during the reporting period are as follows:

• Formation and strengthening of Self Help Groups.
• Leadership training to the selected leaders from the Self Help Groups.
• Collaboration with District, Block and Grama Panchayats, Department of Industries, Health and Agriculture Departments, and Central & State Social Welfare Boards to associate in the development initiatives.
• Regular Thrift and Credit system performed in all the Self Help Groups. This helped in eliminating the local money lenders who charged very high interest rates. A platform was created for the SHG members for acquiring loans or other financial support in case of any emergency.
• Auditing of the books of accounts of the Self Help Groups, which helps to impart a uniform financial accounting system in all the SHGs. The continuous marketing system helped these SHGs to upgrade their skills with regard to book keeping & management of structured groups and enterprises.
• Organized Gramajyothi and Women’s Day Celebrations which enhanced the members’ capacity to organize events and create a “we” feeling among themselves.
• Associated with Kudumbasree units in the Panchayats, provided capacity enhancement trainings to the CDS / ADS members. Joining hands with panchayats and Kudumbasree helped in effective utilization of the programmes of the Govt. for the sustainable development of the members associated with Kudumbasree.
• Facilitates Men SHGs (the groups for the construction workers, fishermen and other specific categories) which strives for their welfare and ensure their rights at the work places. The interventions by KIDS helped in creating first line and second line leadership among these SHGs which they proved through organizing fruitful programmes & events and engaging in the social development process. The knowledge among these members about the current development scenario and issues have been increased which resulted in many constructive programmes initiated by these SHGs.