What do we mean by Community?

'Community' is defined as a group of families living within a defined geographic area. This group is governed by social, cultural, economic and political bonds or norms. Gram Vikas works at the 'community' level within these boundaries to initiate processes that are socially inclusive and gender equitable. The 'community' has a critical role to play with regard to engaging with the state. In Orissa's context, the members of the Palli Sabha comes closest to Gram Vikas' definition of a 'community'.

What do we mean by dignified quality of life?

In our perception 'dignified quality of life' of people or communities would be characterised by:

	Options for appropriate family and community infrastructure and sources of energy
	Sustainable use and management of natural resources
	Food security and access to secured livelihood opportunities
	Assured access to basic education and adequate health services
	Strong self-governing people's institutions with equal participation of men and women

A minimum or 'threshold' level of quality of life is essential for communities to be able to govern themselves - politically, economically, socially and culturally, and achieve what is rightfully theirs, both from the State and the Market, in a sustainable and self-perpetuating manner. 'Communities' having reached a 'threshold quality of life' must be able to bring their energies together to form 'critical masses' to be able to bargain with the Market and the State, for effective returns and for demanding their rights.

What do we mean by 'critical masses'?

'Critical masses' are defined as groups of 'conscientised' people who have developed pressure-group mechanisms and democratic governance systems within their own communities. They draw strength from such experiences and encounters and develop sufficient strength to bargain with or influence their external environment. They collectively demand their rights and are capable of bringing about changes that they desire. Critical masses are sought to be energized from the village level through Gram Panchayats, upto the state level. 'Critical masses' are driven by quality as well as quantity, signifying that they are contextually defined, comprised of physical numbers, but also effectiveness and strength.