Conversations with the women of Khedi Milak in the Sambhar region of Rajasthan, along with our partner in the area
I was thinking about Las Vegas hotels, Japanese dignitaries meetings, various high level partner meetings done in Hitachi Group in sanitized 5-star environments. These were my thoughts as I sat down before the humble ensemble of rural women. The setting is at a non-descript village, in Sambhar region in rural Jaipur district. The contrasts are huge but I fit into both scenarios perfectly well. This is a partner meeting, sans the hoopla! A meeting to explain our training concept, capability development and a life of dignity for villagers. I love this avatar too, as much as my previous jobs.
Gram Chetana Kendra is a NGO working since 30 years in the water distressed areas of Sambhar region. They have done stellar work on preventing child malnutrition, children abuse, water harvesting, skill development, preventing child marriages, training of handicapped and youth engagement. This village – Khedi Milak – is 55kms from Jaipur. so near yet so far from actual development. Fluoride infested waters have laid them low. 3000+ handicapped youth can be found in just 11 villages.
Head Held High Foundation has signed up a MOU with this NGO. We will work on developing employability, self-employment opportunities and motivate the youth here with the most essential skills.
Mobilization took us to small hamlets that have colorful attires, cheerful women and bad roads. State transport never reaches some of the villages here. Girls welcomed us with a traditional “raakhi” type reshm ki dori, tilak at each centre. We spoke in Hindi, GCK team spoke in Marwadi/local dialect and motivated them to attend the HHHF classes. Sunil my new colleague from AP, smiled a lot since he does not know Hindi at all. The villagers were very receptive, warm and open minded. Thus we conquered few more hearts
