Introduction: SPA was implemented in five districts of Sarlahi, Makwanpur, Dhanusha, Mahottari and Kapilbastu. The project was funded by the Department for International Development, Nepal (DFID/N) in the year 2002- 2008.

Approach/Methodology: The project followed the  Swabalamban approach that was tested and applied by Rural Self-reliance Development Centre (RSDC) for nearly one and half decades as a programmatic tool for catalyzing and revitalizing the hope, aspirations as well as the capabilities of the rural poor, women and disadvantaged. The idea was put into practice with the approach to the Self-reliant Development of the Poor by the Poor (SDPP) which was operated as a project in 60 erstwhile Village Development Committees (VDCs), across five districts.

Aim: The project aimed to development of Self-reliant cooperatives through the institutionalization process and recognized as a means of effective pro-poor self-governance, accompanied by improved socio-economic conditions.

SPA Achievements:

• 61 cooperatives established and are functioning consisting of 526 IGGs covering 14982 households in which 34.61 % were women;
• Social, education and hygiene conditions were improved in poor/ disadvantaged communities;
• The number of alcohol users dropped by 80%, social disputes reduced by 83% and child marriage reduced by 85.96% as the result of awareness programs. A remarkable rise in literacy rates and latrine using households was achieved;
• Employment created and income generated in poor/disadvantaged communities through practical skill and entrepreneurship development and financial resources (local & external) mobilization. Locals mobilized revolving funds and credit funds amongst themselves;
• Small-scale infrastructures(600) was developed in disadvantaged communities;
• Self-reliant cooperative lessons learned and disseminated for further expansion of self-reliant cooperatives. Dissemination is done through publications, workshops and wall magazines.