Malashri, a resident of S. Kodagehalli, Kondapura, is a dedicated advocate for her community. Inspired by the Nagarika Sakhi program, she took action to address the pressing issues of drinking water, transportation, and infrastructure in her area.
Malashri’s Journey
Step 1: Identifying Community Needs
Malashri observed the deteriorating condition of the drinking water taps in her village and the lack of bus services to connect her community to nearby towns.
Step 2: Mobilizing Community Support
With the support of her Self Help Group (SHG) members, Malashri engaged with the Gram Panchayat members to address these issues.
Step 3: Advocating for Change
- Drinking Water: Malashri and her team wrote an appeal to the PDO officer, gathering signatures from villagers and SHG members. They maintained consistent follow-up until the new drinking water taps were installed.
- Transportation: Malashri actively engaged with the Bus Depot Manager of Tumkur, seeking to extend bus services to her village. She persisted in her efforts despite initial challenges in garnering community support.
Step 4: Overcoming Challenges
Malashri and her team faced several obstacles, including resistance from authorities and resource constraints. However, they remained determined and persistent in their advocacy.
The Outcome
Through her relentless efforts and community support, Malashri achieved significant improvements:
- Drinking Water: New drinking water taps were installed in her area, providing access to clean water for the villagers. This meant no more long walks to fetch water, especially for women and children, allowing them to focus on other essential tasks.
- Transportation: Bus services were extended to all villages within the S Kodigehalli panchayat, addressing the pressing need for transportation access. This opened up new opportunities for education, healthcare, and economic activities for the villagers.
What Malashri Learned
- Effective communication: Malashri recognized the importance of maintaining open and regular communication with Gram Panchayat members to expedite the resolution of community issues.
- Community power: The collective effort of the villagers and SHG members played a crucial role in achieving their goals.
- Persistence: Malashri’s unwavering determination and consistent follow-ups were key to overcoming challenges and securing positive outcomes.
Malashri’s Impact
Malashri’s efforts have not only improved the physical infrastructure of her community but have also had a profound impact on the lives of its residents. By ensuring access to clean water and transportation, she has empowered the villagers to pursue better opportunities and improve their overall well-being. Her dedication and commitment to her community serve as an inspiration for others, demonstrating the power of individual action and collective collaboration.
