Rising for rights – MARI INDIA

Rising for the Rights: Strengthening CSO Network in South Asia for achieving SDG 6

MARI has played a pivotal role in the execution and expansion of FANSA India, ensuring that its core values of inclusivity, advocacy, and capacity-building are embedded in all initiatives. As the driving force behind the WASH learning and sharing initiative, MARI has strengthened the capacities of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) across twelve states, enabling them to effectively address water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) challenges at the grassroots level.

Through its leadership, MARI has facilitated collaboration between CSOs, local governments, and sector partners to enhance service delivery, transparency, and accountability in WASH governance. By integrating research, advisory support, and advocacy, MARI has contributed to evidence-based policy recommendations, such as the effective utilization of the 15th Finance Commission Tied Grants for WASH.

Additionally, MARI’s involvement in national alliances like the NFSSM has amplified the reach and impact of FANSA India’s initiatives. With a strong commitment to empowering marginalized communities and strengthening CSOs, MARI continues to champion sustainable WASH solutions that align with Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG6), ensuring access to clean water and sanitation for all.

Objectives

The primary objective of FANSA India is to facilitate

To empower marginalised communities to access safe and sustainable WASH services and eventually secure their water and sanitation entitlements
To collaborate with National/ State/ Local governments and other sector partners to enhance their capacity and effectiveness in delivering WASH services
To extend research and advisory support to its network members, building their capacities to integrate principles of WASH rights into their programmes and activities
To uphold its core values and evolve as a proactive network by providing leadership for diverse networks of NGOs, CSOs and CBOs

Rooted in the principles of inclusivity, empowerment, and advocacy, MARI, through FANSA India, is committed to strengthening grassroots CSOs, driving sustainable WASH solutions, and ensuring equitable access to water and sanitation for all."

Achievements

FANSA works with a mission to improve WASH governance

By building capacities and opportunities for CSOs and CBOs in decision-making
By advocating for robust transparency and accountability
By partnering and working together with the local governments
By fostering learning sharing

Achievements

FANSA India has 381 CSO members covering 12 State chapters in the country. FANSA India is a vibrant CSO network engaged in strengthening WASH sector not only in the country but across South Asia.
FANSA India is a member of National Faecal Sludge and Septage Management (NFSSM) Alliance – Bringing together the expertise of over 35 diverse organizations (NGOs, CSOs, Academic Institutions, Think Tanks. At the National, State and District Level, the network members are part of various committees formed by respective governments.
COLLECTIVE ADVOCACY – Submission of Recommendations to the officials of Government of India on a Study conducted by FANSA India for effective utilization of 15th FINANCE COMMISSION TIED GRANTS for WASH to Local Governments

Goals

Strengthening CSOs of South Asia to contribute in achieving SDG6 by scaling up CWIS

“Through its unwavering commitment to empowering marginalized communities and fostering collaboration among CSOs, FANSA India, supported by MARI, continues to lead the charge in transforming WASH governance, ensuring sustainable, equitable access to water and sanitation, and contributing to the achievement of SDG 6 across South Asia.”