Jyotsna Mohanta's journey from DISHA training to launching a mini Aanganwadi
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Tata Steel Foundation’s initiative to empower womenÂ
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Sukinda, March 7, 2024: Jyotsna Mohanta, a resident of Kharkhari village in Maruabil Panchayat under Sukinda block, was invited to join Tata Steel Foundation's Disha Training program during a self-help group (SHG) meeting in 2022. Feeling restricted to household duties, she sought to make a difference.
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Observing the challenge faced by children of her village in traveling to the Anganwadi center in Ragda village, located 4 km away, she identified the need for a solution. The timing of transporting children to and from the center clashed with families' primary livelihood activities, resulting in low attendance at the Ragda Anganwadi.
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Jyotsna and her SHG members learned that Mission Shakti SHGs were responsible for mid-day meal services and decided to establish a mini Anganwadi in Kharkhari village. After expressing their interest to the Panchayat's bookkeeper and engaging with local leadership, Jyotsna's SHG, Maa Bhabani SHG, was entrusted with this initiative.
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The mini Anganwadi now caters to children aged 0 to 5, providing essential rations and meals tailored to their nutritional needs. Currently, four children aged 0 to 3 and five children aged 3 to 5 benefit from the services offered. Jyotsna shared her motivation behind the project, stating, "When I see the children in my mini Anganwadi learning to write letters and alphabets on their slates with chalk, I feel a sense of accomplishment. My goal is to ensure that every child, whether one or many, receives the government benefits they are entitled to. No child should be left behind."
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While the initiative is still in its early stages, Jyotsna's and her SHG's dedication is praiseworthy. The establishment of the mini Anganwadi exemplifies a proactive approach to addressing local challenges and underscores the positive impact of grassroots efforts on communities.
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