Empower Women Farmers in India

Dear Friends,

It has been 6 years since the formation of Nala Bachat Samiti, a group of 86 tribal farmers who are the real owners of the dal mill. From the day of its inception, Nala Bachat Samiti has taken active responsibility in undertaking operations of the dal mill. Members of Nala Bachat Samiti has played active role in procurement of raw pulses during the procurement seasons. They have also participated in the operations of machinery in the dal mill. Regular meetings have been organized over the years providing information and updates to members of Nala Bachat Samiti. Nala Bachat Samiti has matured enough to undertake the role of conflict resolution in the dal mill. Recently, the workers in the dal mill were heckled and harassed by a tribal villager named Vivek (name changed) who is also a disgruntled alcoholic. There have been quite a number of instances when he has beaten up workers in the dal mill and forcefully taken away dal without paying. In the recent meeting with Nala Bachat Samiti, this incident was brought up and a resolution was asked for from the Samiti (group). The members of the Nala Bachat Samiti, which included a family member of Vivek, unanimously decided to take turns to guard the dal mill from intrusion as also warned Vivek against future misbehavior with employees of the dal mill.

Having said that, the members of Nala Bachat Samiti have agreed to motivate more villagers to deliver their produce in the dal mill to meet the increased target of 80 tonnes of raw pulses. The new procurement centres in the villages will also be manned and monitored by members of Nala Bachat Samiti. Over time, the Nala Bachat Samiti will be empowered enough to take its own responsibilities in the entire operations of the dal mill.

Once again thank you so much for your continuous support to our program.

Regards

Atul Lekhra 

Links:

• Seva Mandir's website