Palagala is a remote Divisional Secretariat Division in the Anuradhapura District. This division is famous for the statue of Aukana Lord Buddha and the Kalawewa reservoir. Each year large number of people visits these places. Agriculture is the main income source for majority of the people. Most women are housewives and depend on the earnings of their husbands.

FRIENDS started Gender Equity and Empowerment Project in this division in 2014 to support these women to be economically active. Different skill development trainings were conducted for the selected women to initiate their own income generating activities. Women were provided in-kind assistance to start respective livelihood activities. A Livelihood Facilitation Centre was established in Andiyagala junction for further supporting the livelihood initiatives. This centre is operated and owned by the same group of women.