Community Development Volunteers (CDV)

While working in the urban slums we found that many poor women despite all the hardships in their lives had strong philanthropic attitude. They were always ready to help neighbours in solving their problems- problems of health or basic amenities.
We identified these women and provided them information on various health problems of Children and Women. They became Community Development Volunteers. We conveyed to them their health was their right and we have to look at health in Rights’ Perspective. They now impart health education to their neighbours and visit government clinics to ensure their they get quality health care. We also provided them information regarding various Municipal Corporation Departments where they should go to regarding problems of Water, Sanitation, Ration Cards etc. We also have discussed Right to Information Act (R.T.I) and how it can be used.
On the 8th March 2010 we gave Identity Cards to 250 CDVs which they use while approaching different authorities. Training on various issues and I-card has bolstered their self-esteem and have earned them credibility in the community.

Sangharsh and Ekta Sangthan

The women now know that if they want to improve their health, apart from quality health services enough water, better sanitation and education are required. These were their rights denied to them by Civic Authorities with impunity. So an organization named “Sangharsh and Ekta Sangathan” was formed on 8th March 2008 so that they can struggle in a more organized way. 6 committees are formed with women representative from 22 slums pockets

1. Health
2. Education
3. Water & Sanitation
4. Ration Cards
5. Government Schemes
6. Road and Street Lights