We live in a world where inequality, poverty, and underdevelopment continue to shape the daily lives of millions. In this world, access to basic human rights such as food, healthcare, and education remains out of reach for many. Among those most affected by this inequality are women and children — especially in marginalized and indigenous communities. In Bangladesh, where the population stands at over 140 million with a growth rate of 1.42%, such issues are even more pronounced in rural and indigenous areas like Madhupur in Tangail District.

For decades, the women of Madhupur, particularly from the indigenous Garo and Koch communities, have faced multiple layers of marginalization. These include economic hardship, social neglect, cultural discrimination, and limited access to public services. Despite being bearers of rich cultural traditions and vital contributors to their households and communities, indigenous women were often left voiceless in decision-making processes, undervalued in society, and underrepresented in public and political life.

Roots of the Struggle

Historically, indigenous women in Madhupur lived closely with nature, practicing sustainable farming, traditional healing, and preserving their language and customs. However, rapid changes in population, land use, and governance systems eroded their traditional livelihoods. The Total Fertility Rate (TFR) in the country was 3.00, and the Contraceptive Prevalence Rate (CPR) was only 58.1%, meaning that population growth, poor maternal health, and lack of family planning were ongoing challenges in these remote areas. This led to increased pressure on natural resources and strained the already fragile economic condition of these families.

As the nation modernized, indigenous women found themselves further marginalized. Their languages were slowly disappearing, their role in society diminished, and their dignity often questioned. The neglect and disregard they faced were not only from broader national structures but also from within their own communities, influenced by patriarchal traditions.

The Emergence of Achik Michik Society (AMS)

In response to these harsh realities, a group of passionate and committed individuals from the Garo community came together on December 25, 2006, to form the Achik Michik Society (AMS). The name itself reflects the vision: “Achik” means “Garo” and “Michik” means “women” — symbolizing a journey toward justice, dignity, and development for the Garo people, especially women.

AMS was born out of a vision to build a better future for the disadvantaged, distressed, and deprived groups of society — particularly the women of Madhupur. The society aimed to restore dignity to women, enhance their value in families and communities, and ensure the survival and usage of indigenous languages. Through awareness programs, education, skill development, advocacy, and community mobilization, AMS began to create ripples of change.

On October 22, 2007, AMS was officially registered with the Department of Women Affairs, Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, making its work formally recognized and further strengthening its capacity to bring change.

Impact and Progress

Since its founding, AMS has played a crucial role in:

• Increasing women’s dignity in society by promoting leadership roles for women in community organizations.
• Reducing neglect and undervaluation of women through education and income-generating activities.
• Reviving indigenous languages and cultures, encouraging youth to learn and use their mother tongues.
• Combating early marriage and improving reproductive health awareness, aligning with national goals to manage population growth.
• Empowering women economically by introducing handicrafts, eco-farming, and micro-enterprises.
• Creating safe spaces for indigenous women to voice their concerns and participate in decision-making.

The Ongoing Struggle

While AMS and other local initiatives have made significant strides, the struggle of Madhupur women is far from over. Challenges such as land grabbing, environmental degradation, cultural assimilation, and gender-based violence still exist. But the resilience and unity among these women, fueled by the spirit of organizations like AMS, continue to grow stronger.

Today, the story of Madhupur women stands as a symbol of grassroots resistance and empowerment — a story of how even in a world of inequality, marginalized women can rise, reclaim their voices, and shape a better, more just future.