The Resurging Value of Civil Society for Indian Crafts
“”In the lush landscapes of West Bengal’s Alipurduar district, the Tasati Tea Garden conceals a hidden struggle, where an underprivileged community of 12,000, primarily from Scheduled Castes and Tribes, battles exclusion, ignorance and deprivation.”
In the heart of West Bengal, nestled amidst the verdant beauty of Alipurduar district, lies the Tasati Tea Garden where verdant tea leaves sway in the breeze, creating a visual feast for the eyes. However, behind this natural beauty, a community of approximately 12,000 people, primarily hailing from Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs), has long been denied their basic rights and opportunities for a better life.
The tea garden workers of Tasati have grappled with a fundamental issue that has hindered their progress – a glaring lack of awareness. They remain in the dark about crucial matters related to health, education, governance, and finance. A comprehensive baseline survey, discussions, and data analysis all pointed to one clear problem: the absence of accessible information. They lacked the tools and knowledge required to access their entitled benefits and government schemes.
To bridge this information gap and provide the community with a lifeline towards empowerment, SoochnaPrenuer centres were established in the district. These centres were envisioned as hubs of knowledge, delivering critical information and services related to governance, finance, education, and health.
At the forefront of this transformative initiative is Kabita Oraon, a dedicated SoochnaPrenuer. Kabita is a catalyst for change, tirelessly working to enlighten the community about various government schemes and programs. She educates them on the application processes and empowers them with essential social and governmental information.
From this centre, a multitude of online services are now at the fingertips of the community.
But Kabita’s efforts don’t stop at the centre’s doors. She has been instrumental in organising regular community meetings where vital information about government services and schemes is disseminated. These gatherings serve as platforms for discussing who is eligible, where to apply, and how to apply for these essential benefits.
SAKSHAM (Enabling) has become a transformative force in the lives of Tasati Tea Garden workers, turning the tide from exclusion to empowerment. With Kabita Oraon and the SoochnaPrenuer centre as guiding lights, the community is on the path to a brighter future, where their rights are acknowledged, and opportunities abound.
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