Our Story
How a family of 10 members has reached to the network of more than 50,000+ artisans today.
Gramin Vikas Evam Chetna Sansthan (GVCS) was established on 7th July, 1998 and has been working on a broad spectrum of rural development activities since then. By joining their forces Ruma Devi & Vikram Singh started working together with the motto being. To empower Women Artisans to Reinstate Their value and to make Handicraft as a viable means of creating home-based employment for women artisans.
GVCS,Ruma Devi Foundation, Barmer is a non-governmental, non-profit, non-political and social welfare association which was founded for the upliftment of women, Dalits and marginalised communities in the region. The core area of focus has been livelihood generation for the women of the region. GVCS and Ruma Devi Foundation has promoted handicrafts as a viable means of creating home-based employment that provides them with a steady source of income from the security of their home environment which make their home lives much easier.
Other programmes managed by GVCS includes SHG formation, food relief, fodder for drought affected cattle and education programmes for children & women.
Taking this mission a step further, the Ruma Devi Foundation was established on 14th May 2021. The foundation complements the work of GVCS by expanding the reach and impact of their initiatives. Together, GVCS and the Ruma Devi Foundation continue to champion the cause of women empowerment, skill development, and social welfare, driving positive change across communities. Their combined efforts have grown from a humble beginning with just 10 members to an inspiring network of over 30,000 members today, creating a legacy of resilience, empowerment, and hope.
We believe that true development can only happen when all sections of the village community and community-based organisations are involved in the decision-making process.
Hence, GVCS & Ruma Devi Foundation encourages equal participation of all, in the creation and implementation of its programmes, Stardom rather than slowing things down has actually been a catalyst & has helped bring more communities together not only the hands who seek help but also the people who want to help the growth of GVCS and Ruma Devi Foundation.
Social Responsibility
Sole development of Multi Sports Stadium in Chava village of Barmer district of worth Rs. 10 crores to enable the nurturing of young talent. Aiming to develop Common Facility Center in Sanawara village of Barmer district to channelize the supply and provide regular employment to more than 5000 women of the nearby region. Providing Akshara Scholarship in the field of Art, Craft and Sports every year to allow students to pursue their dreams. Distributed Stitching Machines to over 5000 women and allowed them to Health Camp become new entrepreneurs at home. Distributed solar light lamps to the people of our region and covered 3000.
Distributed solar light lamps to the people of our region and covered 3000 houses till date. Design Development and Training workshops for the people of the region. being held regularly. Skill-up gradation programs are being organized regularly. Programs to prohibit Child marriage were being held Promoted folk music of the region through differ ent platforms. Artisan awareness programs are being held. Banking awareness programs are organized for the people of the region.
Stitching Training Workshops are being held regularly.
Health camps are organized for women for their personal hygienic issues and regular check-up. Motivated women not to do suicidal attempts for freedom. Distributed sanitizing kits to 16,500 families, provided ration kits to 3000 families, oxygen equipments supply to more than 25 PHCS & CHCS during COVID-19 pandemic which She accumulated to a help of over 3.5 crores.
Art and craft promotion
Selected as a finalist amongst 30 contestants and showcased her collection in TFI Fashion Design Awards and won the title of 'TFI Designer of the Year 2019'.
Proudly showcased her collections at various international platforms in Dubai, USA, UK.
Approached by the famous designers and showcased collections in collaboration with the designers Bibi Russell, Hemant Trivedi, Abraham & Thakore, Rohit Kamra and many more.
Being a master designer and artisan, participating in the Rajasthan Heritage Week for con secutive four years since 2016.
Made my solo participation in ramp shows in IHGF Spring Summer and IHGF Autumn Winter, Noida for consecutive four years, two times in a year since 2016 organized by EPCH.
On her own will, she manages to participate in Tribes Fashion Show in association with Tribes India every year collecting all the tribes of different states at one place which is being held regularly in all the four seasons.
She has given handicrafts, a new look, from home furnishings to garments, a classy look to sarees ap preciated all over the world.
Promoted the rich heritage of Rajasthan state in HEIM Textile Fair Germany, Singapore Craft Fair and the prestigious London Fashion Week.
Sayings
DROUPADI MURMU
(President Of India)
"Ruma Devi, brand ambassador of Rajvika and hailing from a rural background, has empowered many women through self health groups. With her talent and hard work, she has not only empowered woman, but also eliminated please."
Ramnath Kovind, Former President of India
"Ms. Ruma Devi's unwavering advocacy for the rights of women artisans is commendable. Through GVCS, she has empowered thousands of artisans, making a significant impact in 75 villages. Her work is truly inspiring."
Anita Dongre, Fashion Designer
"I am deeply moved and humbled by the exceptional craftwork of Ruma Devi and her team. I eagerly look forward to a creative and long-lasting association with them."
Sonakshi Sinha, Actress
"Ruma Devi's selfless dedication to helping women is truly remarkable. Her impact goes beyond herself, touching the lives of numerous women. It's an extraordinary feat that deserves recognition."
Amitabh Bachchan, Actor
"Ruma Devi's incredible journey is a testament to the transformative power of embroidery. She has uplifted countless women from helplessness, making her an extraordinary force in the fashion world."
Anamika Khanna, Fashion Designer
"Becoming a fan of Ruma Ji was inevitable for me. I hope to have the privilege of collaborating with her someday. She is an inspiration to the fashion industry."
Ashok Gehlot, Former Chief Minister, Rajasthan
"I wholeheartedly congratulate GVCS for their remarkable contribution to the global craze for handcrafted items. Ruma Devi's efforts have not only changed lives but have also showcased the immense talent of rural women."
Shobha De, Indian columnist and novelist
"Ruma Devi is an extraordinary and inspiring individual. Her talent, determination, and leadership have established her as a beacon of empowerment for women. She exemplifies the true power of women."