Ela Bhatt

Ela Bhatt (1933-2022) was an Indian cooperative organizer, activist, and Gandhian who founded the Self-Employed Women's Association of India (SEWA) in 1972. SEWA is a trade union that promotes the rights of self-employed, low-income women workers in India's informal economy.

Bhatt's work focused on organizing women in marginalized sectors such as street vending, garment making, and agriculture. SEWA provided these women with access to credit, healthcare, childcare, and training, empowering them to improve their economic security and gain a voice in society.

Bhatt received numerous awards and recognitions for her work, including the Right Livelihood Award in 1984, the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Community Leadership in 1977, and the Padma Bhushan from the Government of India. She also served on several national and international advisory boards and organizations, advocating for policies that support the informal sector and women's empowerment. Her leadership and dedication made her a prominent figure in the global movement for social justice and economic equality.