Vedanta's Hindustan Zinc Nourishing Students of Rural Government Schools

Daily mid-day-meal to 180,000 rural students of 2000 schools

It was morning hours and I was going through the local newspapers, just to brush-up with what is happening in the country. Generally, you tend to look for good news in the papers, after all its morning time and one has a full day ahead.

My eyes went to a news that stated “ASSOCHAM awards Hindustan Zinc with CSR Excellence Award”. The news came in the middle of my thoughts on the need for upliftment of rural poor, particularly in deep rural and tribal areas.

The news also mentioned the work being done by Hindustan Zinc in different areas. Few areas that were new to me were mid-day meal to school going children, agriculture & live-stock development, and computer education. I had seen the work done by Vedanta’s Hindustan Zinc in women empowerment, nutrition to children, shiksha sambal program for students, training to rural youth for employment and health & medical facilities in rural villages.

My first fascination came for knowing about the mid-day meal program of Hindustan Zinc. The news had stated that the benefits of the same are reaching to about 180,000 rural students of government schools in Rajasthan.

It is not difficult to get information about Hindustan Zinc in Rajasthan. I only needed to speak to the Principal of the school I had met for the Shiksha Sambal Program. The Principal Dr. Rupa Pareekh informed me that Hindustan Zinc has 6 mid-day-meal kitchens in Rajasthan – Chittorgarh (4), Bhilwara (1) and Udaipur (1). She also gave me the reference of Mr. Arvind Trivedi from Naandi Foundation. Naandi Foundation and Government of Rajasthan are partners of Hindustan Zinc in running the kitchens.

I called up Arvind Trivedi who invited me to visit the kitchen in Salumbar, about 90 minutes drive from Udaipur city. As Udaipur was new to me, I asked Arvind to meet me near the Udaipur Bus-stand. I reached Udaipur in the afternoon and he was waiting for me.

Arvind informed me that the basic objective of starting the mid-day meal was to provide a daily hot and healthy meal to the rural children. The meals are cooked in the most hygienic way and all measures were taken to ensure that the food reaches schools well in time. It is a responsible job, after all we are dealing with rural school children.

“Mid-day-meal program must have also impacted the attendance in the rural schools”, I asked Arvind. “Yes very much”, he replied. In fact there has been a tremendous increase in the enrollment of students and they do not miss school now, he continued. Children eagerly wait for the meals. It was not surprising that this effort would have brought a significant change in attendance, as most of these schools are in rural areas and children attending schools come from poor families.

I wanted to know how the food is made ? How are these hi-tech machines ? How many people are engaged in the process ? I wanted to see everything. Arvind informed me that the kitchen is closed during the afternoon hours and also till late evening. This is the time when the utensils that we receive back from the schools are cleaned along with the machines. The kitchen starts operating almost in the middle of night as we need to prepare the meals by 6 AM. If I need to see the kitchen then I need to visit at around 2.30 AM in the mid-night or should I say early morning.

I agreed. Arvind will pick me from my hotel at 2.00 AM in the night and we shall be visiting the kitchen at Salumbar in Udaipur.

Now, I had time to see the beautiful city of Udaipur, one of the most sought after destination of foreign tourists across the world. I could see City Palace, Crystal Gallery and had camel ride at Sukhadia Circle.

Arvind came to pick me up as we decided and we departed for the Kitchen. Arvind informed that all these kitchens are hi-tech and operated by trained operators. Utmost care is taken also to ensure the hygiene of the workers and also packing of the food.

Six hi-tech kitchens are being operated by Hindustan Zinc in association with Government of Rajasthan and Naandi Foundation. The kitchen at Bhilwara is biggest, which caters to about 45,500 children of 530 schools. Kitchen at Salumbar is catering to 36,500 children of about 450 schools. Overall about 180,000 rural children of 2000 government schools are provided mid-day-meals.

We reached Hindustan Zinc’s Salumbar kitchen. It was like a small factory, very clean and hygienic. Almost 18-20 people were working, well dressed, wearing gloves, caps and aprons.

I could see chapatti making machine, vegetable making machine and large container making rice. Indeed it was all hi-tech structure. It was amazing to be a witness to chapatti making machine where hundreds of chapattis were being made instantly. I could also see large boxes lined up together. On my asking Arvind informed that these are the containers which carry the meals. Further in these containers, we would keep boxes that carry vegetables, rice and chapattis. Plates are available in the schools.

But how are these containers carried to schools, to which Arvind replied, “we have our own transport system, the mobile vans, which are responsible for delivering these large boxes on time”. I could see all of them lined up and ready to carry the boxes.

Arvind informed that besides the government department, Hindustan Zinc officials also pay surprise visit to these kitchens to ensure that the objective of setting up these kitchens is fulfilled.

I was thrilled to see the contribution of public private partnership in providing such delicious hot mid-day meal to the school going children.

Before, Arvind could say anything, I could not resist myself and picked-up a plate and went ahead to get some potato-tomato vegetable which was well cooked. With some rice and two chapattis I began my morning breakfast. You can understand the temptation of having the hot freshly cooked food, particularly when you have the steam coming out of the rice. No, I did not use a spoon for the rice, I preferred my fingers. It was too delicious to be described in words.

I wanted to speak to the Principal of a school to know the reaction and how this has helped the school and the children. Arvind informed me that I could visit a school near Jaisamand Lake in Udaipur and see the lake as well.

Together we moved to visit Mahadev Ka Phala School, near Jaisamand Lake. We met the Principal Mr. Shambu Singh Chundawat. He informed that students are quite happy with the mid-day meal and wait eagerly. The menu of the meals also changes so that meals are not monotonous for the children. He informed that there is a mid-day meal in-charge in every school that tastes the food before it is served.

On asking about the children attendance, he informed that the schools attendance has increased to almost 90% and girls alone attendance to about 70% due to the mid-day-meal program.

Arvind informed that Hindustan Zinc has also applied Waste to Wealth Concept in one of their kitchen, where an Organic Waste Converter has been set-up that converts waste into organic manure. The company is in the process of implementing it in all its kitchens.

I believe the thought to change and give value to the system is utmost important. There are many reasons and ways to find how things cannot be done. But important is putting an effort to ensure that things can be done systematically. Vedanta’s Hindustan Zinc, Naandi Foundation and Government of Rajasthan were perhaps doing the same, nourishing students of deep rural schools.

The movement in the school corridors had increased. I realized it was time for them to have lunch. The students had lined up and sat in rows and sang a small prayer before starting their lunch.

My heart felt sitting with students and having one more round of meals. But I knew, I had to move and let the students enjoy their meals.

Arvind left for his work and I towards the Jaisamand Lake. But I know, my journey will continue..

SHIKSHA SAMBAL - Vedanta's Hindustan Zinc Bridging Gaps In Education In Rural Schools

I was realizing what health and medical facilities mean to villagers. It is said, prevention is better then cure, but here the villagers need only ‘care’. We reached Chanchal’s house and as I had promised her, I shall be staying at her place tonight; after all she had prepared makkai ke roti and raab for me.

As we entered her house, we were greeted by her daughter `Kapila’. I was curious to know what she was doing in her education. On my enquiring she informed me that she has done her B.Ed and now preparing for competitive examinations. I was impressed to see her confidence and the way she was conversing with me. Kapila introduced me to her cousin sister `Urvashi’ who had come from Gulabpura, district Bhilwara to stay with her for two days. Urvashi was studying in a government school in class 12th. She had to leave tomorrow as she had her school.

We all had dinner together, served by Kapila and Urvashi. I came to know that both of them had cooked it for me. I was touched.

Schools in deep rural areas have their own challenges in terms of providing education to students. First and the foremost, it is difficult to convince villagers to send their children to schools, particularly the girls. The discrimination still lives. Secondly, it is evenly difficult to get qualified and experienced teachers. Finally, even if you get both, the infrastructure in the schools needs to change.

Perhaps, Urvashi must have gone through the same process of struggle. On the pretext to ask how her education was going, I touched upon the issue of quality of the schools. `The government has provided schools in deep rural areas and that is really commendable. But the point is how well these schools are equipped to provide quality education’, she started. `The schools have building but infrastructure needs upgradation. The teachers are not available for certain subjects and thus either we have to leave those subjects and choose the subjects available in the school or even change our stream of education’ she continued.

It did not sound new to me. Schools have subjects but no teachers at all? How could this happen? May be it was for a temporary period but what happens in case of students appearing for board examination. Urvashi confirmed that I was right. The biggest problem comes to students of class 10th to 12th who have their future on line.

I was eager to know what had happened to her and how she managed. Urvashi started, `while I was in 9th class I had the dream of pursuing science and then be either engineer or architect. My school is in Hurda, a place about 15 minutes distance from Gulabpura. I was searching for a school which can provide me Physics, Chemistry and Maths, the combination. Unfortunately there was no school offering such combination. On finding more, I came to know that even if the schools were keen to offer these subjects, the teachers were unavailable.’

My obvious thought was, does it mean, no students could pursue science in this combination? This was quite disturbing as it meant future for these students who have limited means of livelihood were not to struggle for education as well.

I asked Urvashi about the options available to a student who still wished to pursue science with Maths, Physics and Chemistry.

`The circumstances left hardly any choice. Either, we change our subjects, or be ready to leave our houses and search for schools in cities like Ajmer or Vijayanagar, the nearby developed cities, to get the subjects of our choice’ Urvashi informed.

I was wondering about the life in such villages. Government is an institution and is of course very keen to provide the best possible facilities in village schools. But you do need the support of people, here, teachers, to run these schools in most successful manners. It is like government sanctions a post of teacher but it becomes difficult to find an incumbent.

But then, what is the solution. I was wishing if the organizations like Vedanta group company Hindustan Zinc also thought on these lines as well.

As we were talking, Kapila joined us, `oh so you narrating your empathy of school subjects’, we could not stop laughing. I addressed my question to Chanchal, `Urvashi did not find her subjects in her school, don’t you think her future is spoiled?’ Before Chanchal could reply, Urvashi interrupted me, `who said my future is spoiled, I am studying the subjects that I wanted to study’. I was confused.

Kapila explained me, `her school did have the problems of getting the teachers in certain subjects and Maths happened to be one of them but her problem was resolved. `Meaning, the school finally got the teacher’, I enquired. `No’ came the reply, the solution came from our Hindustan Zinc.

It was my turn to smile now. I was wondering how much attachment these people have with the company. Urvashi informed me that while we were wondering what to do, one of the company people from Hindustan Zinc approached our principal. He informed that under the company’s community service initiatives, there is a project called `Shiksha Sambal’ under which the company will arrange to provide remedial classes to students appearing for Rajasthan Board Examination, i.e. students of 10th to 12th classes. This project is aimed to provide special subject classes like Maths, Science, Political Science, English and Accounts.

But what is the point of teaching these subjects if the school does not count these subjects as part of their course curriculum, I asked. Urvashi smiled, `who said school did not count these subjects in their course curriculum’? Once Hindustan Zinc arranged these remedial classes, the schools came forward and regularized these subjects as part of their regular course curriculum. These classes became at par with regular classes in the school.

Astonishing, it is just simply unbelievable. An organization gets in the teacher from external sources and provides regular classes to students appearing for board examination so that they not only improve their grade but also go for streams which they actually want to.

`But from where these teachers came? When schools were unable to get teachers, how come Hindustan Zinc arranged them?’, I asked. Urvashi informed that Hindustan Zinc contacted the educated youths in the near-by villages who were unemployed and struggling to get jobs, in spite of getting a good degree.

I wanted to believe every word that she was saying. On one hand the problem of students was being resolved and on the other hand, the unemployed youths were getting employment. Perhaps some of them must have taken teaching as their profession later.

I was inclined to meet students and ascertain myself before I could conclude anything. Urvashi sensed my restlessness. She smiled, `I know it is difficult to believe. Let’s go to my school in Gulabpura tomorrow, as such I am leaving tomorrow morning’. I agreed, perhaps this is what I only wanted.

Even though the day was quite satisfying, the sleep only understand tiredness. I slept to be woken by Chanchal at 5.00 AM. It was time to leave for Gulabpura. About 2 hours of travelling and we reached Urvashi’s school – the Rajkiya Uach Madhyameek Vidyalaya, Hurda. She introduced me to her Principal, Dr. Rupa Pareek.

Dr. Rupa seemed quite grateful to Hindustan Zinc for the helping hand in a structured manner as the Shiksha Sambal project has been running successfully for the past about 4 years now. The Shiksha Sambal project has been introduced under the Self Finance Scheme and is being funded by Hindustan Zinc. The teachers are also appointed by Hindustan Zinc. Dr. Rupa was proud to mention that her school has now the distinction of being the only government school in the nearby villages that offers Physics, Chemistry and Maths.

Dr. Rupa also informed that Hindustan Zinc also arranges for career counseling and special attention is given to weaker students. `I do not need private coaching classes for my students any more’, she proudly mentioned. The company has also provided help in building infrastructure like physics lab, library, playground, computer lab and even class rooms. To strengthen the computer education, Hindustan Zinc has provided 5 computers.

But what about the result, I asked her? `Oh that has been just unbelievable. In 2007-08 the grades were less then 40% and now the students touch upon 90-92%.

Urvashi took me to her class where I could see about 50 students. Urvashi introduced me to some of her friends who were also from Gulabpura. Pooja informed that she wants to become engineer and Aditi wants to become Doctor. Anita wants to become architect like Urvashi. The stories of all girls seemed same as they would have either left the education due to house pressures or left the city to pursue their dreams, if Hindustan Zinc had not come forward to provide these remedial classes.

I could not find Urvashi as she had mixed up with her friends in the class.

Hindustan Zinc is reaching out to more than 50 schools in about 35 villages in Chittorgarh, Bhilwara, Rajsamand and Udaipur and by now more than 5000 students have been benefited. The pass percentage of schools which was just about 45% in 2007 has gone up to 85-87% now.

One question that kept me awake whole night was, what if you don’t get a partners in prosperity like Vedanta’s Hindustan Zinc to partner with the government’s vision of bringing prosperity in rural and tribal areas?

When you see the smiling and satisfied faces of these children, who are budding for their career, you actually appreciate and understand the healthy relationship between private and government sector.

It was time to leave.. My Journey will continue….

(The story published in `Down to Earth' magazine - issue 16-29, 2012)

Hindustan Zinc Organizing Regular Health Camps In Deep Rural Areas In Rajasthan

Health & Medical Facilities in Villages

(In continuation of the story "Welcome to the Land of Women Entrepreneurs")

My thoughts were engaged still with the people I have been meeting in rural Rajasthan. Children of Anganwadi Centres, youths being imparted training, women learning vocations skills and the simplicity of acceptance of being simple. We often feel that as these people belong to rural India, they may have deficiencies of skills and caliber. I feel they only lack the opportunities.

When you travel distance alone, the silence within makes you a thought leader.

My mind was thinking of basic facilities that these remote villages either have or thrive for. Health and medical attention are the primary ones, clubbed with safe drinking water and sanitation. It is easier for the villagers to reach out to city hospitals where the villages are located near towns but how are the health and medical related problems addressed in remote villages? I was sure, Government takes care of well being of the villagers at the remotest places, but what has been the role of private companies in enhancing these efforts, my question was direct.

Remote villages do suffer from most of the seasonal diseases like fever, throat infection, stomach infection, malaria, diarrhea, skin diseases and deficiencies of calcium / iron or may be other vitamins. Though these diseases may be seasonal but certainly cannot be ignored.

I do not recollect when I slept but I was awake with the first ray of sun. Women in villages get-up much early then us who live in big cities, may be I was also adapting to this culture.

I reached the house of Chanchal around 8 AM. She was waiting for me with few other women and I could see two of them were pregnant. I greeted them with a warm hug. Before I could speak to Chanchal about my queries, she informed me that there is a 3-day `Health & Medical Camp’ being organized in the village and today is the second day. All these women are going for the regular health & medical check-up and I can accompany them. My questions and queries were being addressed before I could ask.

Traveling a small distance, we all reached the `Medical & Health Camp’ organized for the villagers of nearby villages. I could see a huge number of people, from small children to old people, standing in the queue to meet their respective doctors.

The people did not seem to be suffering from any chronic disease and seemed like visiting for regular check-ups.

Chanchal took me to a lady doctor who was seeing children and women. I could see a broad refreshing smile on the doctor’s face, perhaps this is the satisfaction of working for these villagers who have very little resources. On enquiring, she told her name as Dr. Sonia Jain, a doctor employed in Hindustan Zinc. She is a regular visitor to these villages.

I sat near her and waited for the right time to speak to her. Small children, women all were narrating their small & big health issues. The women who came along also showed her. In a temporary shed built separately within the shelter, Dr. Sonia did a thorough check-up of both these pregnant women. Everything was fine, the mother and the child were in good health. She prescribed some medicine and a lady sitting next to the doctor simultaneously handed over those medicines to these women. I realized, the medicine is being distributed free of cost.

Dr. Sonia started with the health & medical condition of these villagers. Referring to the women and children she said, `though in general the villagers are quite fine in health but as the season changes the typical diseases like fever, infections, skin problem, constant headache become prevalent. This is the time where the number of people coming for the check up also increases’. On regular basis Hindustan Zinc keeps organizing such camps for routine check-ups.

But during seasonal variations, Hindustan Zinc increases the frequency of health camps. The villagers also visit Hindustan Zinc’s health posts for check-ups.
On my enquiring about the visit of external doctors, Dr. Sonia informed that doctors from Public Health Centre also visit regularly in such camps. We try to set-up these camps in as much deep rural areas where the villagers find difficulty to visit hospitals located in far cities. These camps are attended by villagers of other villages also, there is no restriction.

Who primarily organizes these camps? Whose responsibilities is it anyways? Dr. Sonia smiled, `why do we question everything, why can’t things be without any simple motive’. Government is doing its role but Hindustan Zinc is also a large corporate in Rajasthan. It is only human to look after the people residing near your business locations. Their health, sanitation, education, basic infrastructure are all necessities. The company in association with Rajasthan Government and also some time with Central Government and NGOs works towards achieving these common objectives.

Just when she was explaining, a small child came with his finger bleeding. ‘You don’t need to stand in the queue to get medical attention in such case’ she gently scolded the child. The child smiled, the pain was gone. A neat bandage dressing was given to the finger. She enquired from the accompanying mother about the child’s tetanus immunization. The mother nodded affirmative, the child has been vaccinated at regular intervals.

I wanted to meet the doctors attending the men of the villages. Chanchal took me to the other side of the camp where Dr. Surendra Srivastawa was looking after the male gentry of the villages. Dr. Srivastawa was an external doctor specially invited to attend this camp.

Most of them are suffering from mouth infection due to tobacco eating, said Dr. Srivastawa. Few had problem relating to eye infection. Chanchal told me that a dedicated effort is made to educate the male members in the villages about the ill effects of tobacco eating. Some have been eating for quite a long period that it is difficult for them to get rid of them now. But it is also true that the young population is quite aware and away from such addictions.

What happens when the case is serious and it is out of the purview of these doctors, I asked. `In such cases we refer them to the city hospitals. In the camps we are able to cater to their routine health problems but chronic cases need to be dealt at the city hospitals’, said Dr. Srivastawa.

I was also informed by villagers that specific camps like `eye care camps’, `family planning camps’, ‘cattle care camps’ are also organized to address the needs of the villages.

Identifying small concerns of these villagers and care is what is needed. More than anything it is the effort being made by Hindustan Zinc for the well being of these villagers and on the other side by the villagers who come forward and avail benefits out of these efforts is what makes the ultimate objective successful.

I had promised Chanchal that I would stay with her tonight. She promised to make makkai ke roti and raab with gud besides.

It was time to leave, but my journey will continue…

* Story also in `Down to Earth' magazine - Issue January 16-31, 2012

Welcome To The Land Of Rural Women Entrepreneurs

In continuation of earlier story `Hindustan Zinc Rural Youth Training Program’


I left my Raju Guide’s house in deep thoughts – searching replies of many questions that perhaps in my routine life, I would have just preferred skipping. Government has its own role and policies which are being implemented by government machinery. But one cannot ignore the contribution of big companies who silently keep working towards social and economic upliftment of rural masses. No, I am not talking about NGOs here, who have their own role; I am referring to large companies, like here in Rajasthan, Hindustan Zinc, who has been finding ways to connect more and more rural masses and bring them closer to the stature of socio-economic independence.

When you see these villages, it becomes easy to understand the meaning of policies and their executions. Government does make substantial plans and policies but you do need hands to effectively execute them. Quite a few private companies have come forward towards effective implementation of such policies.

My thoughts were moving faster than my mind could relate to; water, health, sanitation, agriculture, women upliftment, electricity, education, the concerns are unlimited and the sources limited. I didn’t know when I slept, as if my mind was only waiting for the sun to shine.

I got up early and my plan was to connect to some one who could take me to different villages where Hindustan Zinc is involved in implementing community development projects.

The hotel where I was staying was small and while speaking to the owner of the hotel, I could connect to one of the Block Development Officer, Rajendra Kumar. He advised me to proceed to Chittorgarh where I should meet Jamuna, who was known to him. On my request, Rajendra Kumar agreed to take me to her house.

The journey began, first on smooth highway roads, which are almost a symbol of tourism attraction for Rajasthan, and then passing through the small roads and sub-lanes we reached a small house of Jamuna. A small house but clean and well maintained.

Jamuna, 30-32 years old, a mother of 2 children, greeted me and hugged me as if she knew me from much before. I was touched. We sat in `her Angan’ only and Rajendra left for his work.

I was no journalist or some government official; I was just a human being interested to know my villages more than I knew sitting in the city. I think this honesty touched her.

Jamuna began, `I was married at the age of 20. Fortunately my husband has a good piece of land for agriculture so money was never an issue. But 3 years back when rains did not happen in Rajasthan, the financial situation became tense. Education of children, daily expenses, every thing needed money. I love my family a lot and was quite eager to do something that could bring the situation under control. I went to my village Sarpanch, Chanchal Pareekh who asked me to join a Self-Help-Group – Shiv Shankar Sahayata Samooh. I had no knowledge of its working. Sarpanch Ji explained me how small contribution, free training, thrift savings, and collective working will improve my financial condition as it has done for many more women in the village, she kept narrating.

Convincing my family, specially my mother-in-law was the most difficult task, but once so many members of self-help-group came to my house and narrated their success story, I got the permission.

You won’t believe madam ji, my mother-in-law sold her earrings and gave me 100 rupees to contribute in SHG, Jamuna said with a soaring throat. I touched her feet and promised her that I will never led her down.

I could see the droplets of tears in her eyes. I could see the bonding in a family. You do not always need words to express gratitude.

Jamuna smiled, gone are those bad days. I received training in stitching. handicrafts, block printing, weaving, metal carving etc. I learnt so many things. We are a group of 16 women and each one of us today takes home about 3000-4000 rupees per month. We get orders from shops and we work only on orders.

Jamuna smiled again, `you know madam ji, in eight months I bought a new gold earring for my mother-in-law. She wears them with a lot of pride today’.

I was eager to see her Self-Help-Group and Jamuna was more than willing to take me. It was not far. Crossing some houses and lanes we reached. Amazingly, it was a full-fledged rural industry. I did not count the women but they must be about 20 working independently on some thing or the other. Two women were busy making records of payments as I could see one of them counting rupees.

I smiled, I was at the right place and I had a strange contentment and delightful satisfaction. Why ? I could see a banner fitted perfectly on the wall that said “Hindustan Zinc – Bringing Empowerment and Socio-Economic Independence in Rural Women – A Vedanta Group Company”. I was feeling home and so much proud and connected with this company.

Jamuna introduced me to Sarpanch, Chanchal Pareekh, who is actually Ward Panch of village Ganeshpura, district Chittorgarh. Chanchal spoke like a professional. She was clear that Rajasthan is known for colourful apparels, bandhani-bandhej, traditional handicrafts, heavy jewellery and various art forms, and the State has been a major attraction for traditional art lovers. People cover large distances from India and abroad to reach remote Rajasthan villages to admire the skills of these rural women.

`As always, the beginning was quite tough. The bigger challenge was to bring these women of different potential and temperament into one SHG and train them at par in different skills. This was essential to meet the objective of forming and making an SHG successful. Another important thing was to encourage the habit of thrift savings amongst these women, who would need this money for buying raw materials to make the products’, Chanchal said.

With upfront initiative by Hindustan Zinc I could form a Self-Help-Group of 15-16 women. Hindustan Zinc provided various skill based trainings in handicrafts, tie & dye, bags, cushion covers & bed-sheets, quilts, rakhi & bangle making, block printing, zardozi, terracotta products, imitation jewellery, tailoring and it also organized regular ‘Adult Literacy Camps’.
Pushpa Sharma a member of “Saraswati SHG” is now confident enough to deal with banks independently on behalf of the group. Saroj Devi, a trainer, is expert in dealing with the market and product development as per demand. Chanda Devi is expert in bringing quality in products. Jamuna is an expert in block printing and so is Radha Rani.

Hindustan Zinc has formed more than 200 Self-Help-Groups in Rajasthan and almost 4,000 rural women are linked with these groups, Chanchal informed.
Chanchal proudly recalled a proud day when Hindustan Zinc once invited her to Mumbai office of Vedanta Group. She went by airplane, first time in her life and to Mumbai. In Mumbai she was just delighted to meet the Chairman of Vedanta Group Shri Anil Agarwal himself. Shri Agarwal spent quite a time in understanding how things are happening and what more help I required. He was very happy to economic independence in Rajasthani women. His words worked magic. I came back with a new enthusiasm.

I asked Chanchal if she could take me to the round of her village and show me what more work is being done in her village by Hindustan Zinc. Chanchal agreed. We fixed up time for the next day and I left.

While leaving, I could see Jamuna working on block printing; perhaps she was making another way forward towards her prosperity and independence.

Indeed, it was a land of rural women entrepreneurs….

My journey will continue…

Story in `Down to Earth' magazine - Issue December 16-31, 2011.

Rural Youth Training Programs, An Antidote for Migration from Village

I am sure you remember my story on Vedanta Sparrows. The memories of those innocent Vedanta Anganwadi children still echoes. My next destination was to move further to Chittorgarh, to see the fort.

My bus had left and the option available was only of an auto. Auto drivers do know how to identify a tourist. Before I could approach them, one of them approached me. A small negotiation and the deal was done. He would be my guide too in showing me the fort. I was happy. My auto driver name was Raju – Raju the Guide.

In few hours we had reached the historic and mesmerizing fort of Chittor – the Chittorgarh Fort. Raju told me that this Chittorgarh Fort is considered to be the largest fort of India - spread across 700 acres and is an epitome of the courage and velour of Chittorgarh. Ala-Ud-Din Khilji, who desired Queen Padmini of Chittor, invaded the city in 1303 A.D. When the conditions got worse, Rawal Ratan Singh - the ruler of Chittorgarh, led his men donned with saffron robes of sacrifice and went on war. Inside the fort, women, including Padmini and the children, performed mass suicide or jauhar, rather than losing their honor & pride. We went on with the most famous tail of rani Padmini. I also saw Kali Mata temple, Padmini Palace and Kirti Stambh.

In between Raju received a call and he excused himself. Palaces and monuments have always excited me and I started clicking pictures. Raju returned with a broad smile on his face. I could not resist asking him the reason. He happily replied, `My younger brother Anil is settled now – he has got a job after getting one month training in Hindustan Zinc Vocational Training School’. `Anil could never pass class – V and finally left the studies. Our all efforts in making him educated, failed’, he continued.

While hearing the name `Hindustan Zinc’, I interrupted him. `Is it not the same company that is providing nutrition to children in child care centres’, I asked. `Yes madam, it is the biggest company in Rajasthan and they do a lot of work on community service for the rural poor like us’, Raju replied in gratitude.

I was eager to hear story of Anil, Raju brother. Rural youth are the backbone for upliftment of villages and if these youth are not attended constructively, in the long run, they would become reason for the downslide of any village. I asked Raju to make me meet Anil if possible, and he readily agreed.

From Chittor Fort we were now moving to Raju village, which he informed, was Azadnagar, under Gram Panchayat Khezadi. It was evening and by the time we reached, it was late. Raju had called Anil and he was waiting for us to meet. It was a traditional village house with basic amenities missing.

I also met Raju’s mother who offered me tea and also some Rajasthani food. It is said, when you hungry and see food, don’t think or talk, just eat and I was doing that.

Anil was a simple village youth of about 20 years. I could see a glow in his eyes as he was employed today. Anil told me that he was doing nothing and his time passed hanging around in the village or sitting at the only tea-stall in the village.

Anil started narrating his story. `It was an ordinary day when a Van came in the village fitted with big loudspeakers and banners & posters, almost hiding the entire Van. I was sitting with my friends having tea at the stall when this Van stopped and informed that Hindustan Zinc is organizing job oriented free training program for one month for people like us who have no qualifications and are dropouts. The training was to be given in many areas - tailoring, computer education, safety and electric work and it would be at Bhilwara’.

Anil enthusiasm was to be seen to be believed. He was talking like a responsible earning member of the family. He continued, `initially we were not interested, nothing new, as we had the habit of sitting idle. But when they informed that the boarding and lodging is also free and it also guarantees a job, we all friends thought of giving a try’.

`I was interested in tailoring’, Anil said. `After one month of successful training, I am now working in a nearby factory with a salary of about Rs. 4,000/-.’ I could see a spark in his eyes. I asked Anil, what you would do with your first salary. He immediately replied, `I have to buy a cycle for me to travel to my factory’.

My interest was to see the training centre and Anil and Raju promised me to take me the next day. I left for a nearby Hotel at the outskirts of the city. Next morning Raju and Anil picked me from my Hotel and we traveled for Bhilwara to the Hindustan Zinc Vocational Training Centre.

It was a big building and I could see hundreds of rural youth engrossed in learning different trades of training. Anil made me meet the Head of this Centre who informed that this training program has been organized jointly by Hindustan Zinc, IL&FS and Government of India. The Centre would train about 8000 rural youths in 5 years and also get them jobs. The target was to primarily cover BPL families youth and also dropouts to make the rural families economic independent.

I could see a large number of rural females attending the training program, neatly draped into training uniform – the aprons. Their hands were working swiftly on the sewing machines.

I was sure, when you engage with rural youth for skill based employment, you actually not only uplift their social and economic status but also address a large part of migration from the villages to the cities.

We all left the place. I left for my Hotel, Raju for his daily routine auto work and Anil for his factory.

One thing is true, Government cannot alone bring prosperity and socio-economic independence in the deep rural areas. Rather, the task is too large to be handled by any one institution. It needs a close association, coordination and dedicated work by large corporates.

Vedanta’s company Hindustan Zinc was emerging as example who has attained a stature of being called a `People Company’. I decided to visit the places where Hindustan Zinc has successfully implemented community service programs.

My journey continues…

Story in `Down to Earth' magazine - Issue November 16-30, 2011.

A Different World of Vedanta Sparrows..

It was an early morning and I had to catch a bus from Udaipur to reach Chittorgarh to visit the fort. The bus was crowded and I was desperately searching for a window seat. Amidst the noises of local tea vendors and the bus conductor, I could finally find a window seat. I could see a most gorgeous lady dressed in Rajasthani attire sitting close to me. We greeted each other and then went into our own shells. The bus had started and we were heading for Chittorgarh, which is about 120kms from Udaipur, and it will take us about 2 hours to reach.

One good thing about Rajasthan is their roads. The highways are extremely good. But as it had to happen, due to some repairs the traffic was diverted through a village, a very small patch. Traveling on a bus on a rural road with all the bumpy rides was indeed an experience. The early morning feel of nature, with chirping sparrows and the smoke coming out from the chulahs of the village houses; I was passing through a true rural village. My grandmother always used to tell me, if you hear the chirping of sparrows in the early morning hours, believe that your day is going to be excellent.

While passing through the village, I could hear some thing more, more to just chirping of sparrows. Oh yes, these were the voices of small children who were singing their morning prayers on top of their voices - `Humko mann ki shakti dena, mann vijay kare - dusro ki jai se pehle khud ko jai kare’. The prayer was touching the heart of sky and it just resisted my further traveling and I got down from the bus. Following the sound and passing through small lanes between the trees, I was amazed to see a small school, written over there 'Vedanta Bal Chetna Anganwadi Centre’ and about 30-40 children, folding their hands singing the prayer.

I was very happy, this was the first time I had seen an Anganwadi Centre.

It was amazing to see these children, probably all of them below 5-6 years, well dressed in uniform, with their hair properly combed and their faces glowing. Their prayer was finished and the teacher was lining them up to be taken inside the Anganwadi Centre. My curiosity had no bounds and I could not resist meeting these children. I could meet one of the teacher `Lakshmi’ who I came to know was an Anganwadi worker. Lakshmi informed me that this is an Anganwadi Centre and every morning about 40 children from the village come here without fail to have nutritious food and to learn through creative games. Lakshmi also informed me that there is a regular health check-up of these children and their growth is closely monitored.

Suddenly I could hear a loud laughter of these children. It was a play time for them. A teacher dressed like a lion, wearing a mask of lion, was teaching these young buds about the animal kingdom. I could see a lot of teaching happening through colorful toys, colorful books and recitation of poems as the day progressed. Priyanka a child of 4 years, whose name I came to know later, is the star performer at the Anganwadi. Whether it is a small skit or a poem recitation or even a beautiful dance on a latest bollywood hit, I could see Priyanka on top of the charts.

You can only enjoy all this once you either become a child or you go back to your childhood. I was missing both.

The teacher rang the bell and it was time for the lunch. With the careful hand wash of all the children, they were made to sit in a circle and were served the hot poha with groundnuts on a clean steel plate with a spoon, a diet which is understood to be a healthy diet for these children.

My eyes were admiring the way these children were finishing off their meals. But my eyes rolled and stopped on a girl who was busy in something else.

She was very meticulously sorting out groundnuts from the poha and keeping them aside. Every groundnut was picked up delicately and kept on one side of the plate. As she segregated the groundnuts from the meal she very religiously started eating poha. I was surprised, how come she did not like groundnuts. I asked Lakshmi and she could not control her smile, `her name is Mumal’, she replied. `She is an amazing child, very selective in eating. She will first eat poha and then she will relish groundnuts, one by one’. Indeed, she did the same. After finishing the poha Mumal enjoyed every nut of the groundnut. It was amazing to see such sharp intelligence and liking in a rural girl of just 4 years old.

But who has set-up these Anganwadi Centres, I asked Lakshmi. These Centres are being run by Hindustan Zinc which is a company of Vedanta Group and these Centres are known as “Vedanta Bal Chetna Anganwadi Centres”. Lakshmi also informed that Hindustan Zinc has been running 1500 such Anganwadi Centres in Rajasthan under their CSR (corporate social responsibility) commitment and through this program 50,000 children are being attended from the deep rural areas.

While I was interacting with Lakshmi, I noticed a small girl pulling my kurta and asking me to eat some of her meal. I was just touched by her gesture. `She is Prerna’ Lakshmi told me. `A very naughty child who has already had her pohas and because her stomach is full, she is asking you to finish it off’. I smiled at her and questioned. Without uttering a word, she showed me her tummy which actually looked completely full. I could not stop laughing. I knew the memory of being with these children would travel with me a long way.

It was a strange feeling. The innocence of these children did not make me realize how the time was passing, and my heart was never allowing me to leave.

It is unexplainable how my heart felt when 40 children wished me a `Good Bye’ and asked me to come again. It was a joy that also brought some tears in my eyes. I wished if I could stay with them some time more. You call them Anganwadi Children, but I will recognize them as `Vedanta Sparrows’.

I decided to alter my program. I had come to visit the famous monuments of Rajasthan but now I am inclined to see the glimpse of development of rural people in Rajasthan.

My journey continues…

Story in `Down to Earth' magazine - Issue October 16-31, 2011

Niyamgiri of Dongria Kondhs

the true story behind the scene…..

I am sure you must be wondering where I went. Well, I was in Niyamgiri - Lanjigarh meeting different people and learning various traditional art & craft. Quite aware of the scenario – things have been made to look a lot complicated. Everyone is living a life of uncertainty. But one thing is clear; people in Kalahandi including Dongria Kondhs are now looking for development and overall growth.

I’m now leaving Niyamgiri – Lanjigarh, carrying love and affection of this beautiful place and people. During my long stay here and association with Dongria Kondhs, I only wonder how much time more this place and the people have to wait for inclusive growth.

Except Vedanta, no one has bothered to look into the actual apathy of these 8,000 Dongria Kondhs living in the forests of Niyamgiri, Lanjigarh, falling in the district of Kalahandi in Orissa. Their health & medical check-ups, education to their children, livelihood opportunities, training of Dongria Kondhs youth, sanitation etc. issues, which were completely ignored, have been addressed only by Vedanta.

Things have been made to look a lot complicated. People of Orissa – Government – Industry, all living in uncertainty. The Government of India is now solving this jig-saw-puzzle, and I hope to see the solution to the benefit of all concerned.

But I need to tell you the true story of “Niyamgiri of Dongria Kondhs” before I leave this place. It is an example of how much media, politicians and bureaucrats have been mislead on Dongria Kondhs and also on the bauxite mining. It is a true story of how the vested interests mislead world about Niyamgiri and how Dongria Kondhs were made celebrity tribe and their peace was disturbed, just to halt the bauxite mining in India. This is where the talks of community engagement, displacement, legal permissions, forests acts, tribal acts, and pollution and human rights issues crept up.

Perhaps our Indian democracy, the world’s largest democracy, gives complete freedom of speech and expression, which has been misused and exploited for igniting and exploiting the sentiments of innocent and ignorant people. Most of the big companies are facing these problems in India, and we cannot ignore Posco, TATAs, and Reliance.

Bauxite mining issue became more prominent when Vedanta decided to set-up its world class 5 million tonne alumina refinery in Lanjigarh, right on the foothills of Niyamgiri and a World class aluminium smelter at Jharsuguda in Orissa with a capacity to produce 1.75 Million tonnes of aluminium.

Vedanta’s strength of investments and latest global technology was enough to understand that bauxite mining and aluminium scaling was becoming a reality after 25 years and Indian aluminium was preparing to rule the world.

To halt this move, a well thought out campaign was planned with clear cut mandate to some how stop the project - instigate the people and circulate false and fabricated information – primarily on softer issues like Tribals, Environment and Pollution and spread the fear in tribals. Further, hide the positive information, particularly in terms of what company was doing for the people of Lanjigarh.

The stories of tribal displacement of Dongria Kondh, were falsely circulated. Rather the truth was that mining project did not involve any displacement of Dongria Kondhs, as there is no habitation at the mining site. Contrary to what was said, this was never the voice of Dongria Kondhs.
As much was also circulated about their deity ‘Niyam Raja’ which has been strongly contested by Dongria Kondhs themselves.

The protest of Dongria Kondhs was also tailor made. Some of these innocent community members along with some activists were made to stand with some banner in their hand to show the protest, what protest, they till today do not understand. Every thing was being fabricated and built on breach of faith of these innocent people.

It is very important to know, what technology we have today. If the last refinery was built 25 years ago and that too does not create any pollution problem, it is more than certain that the plants built now, with utmost latest technology, will be much more cleaner and environment friendly. So where is the question of pollution when the technology has made plants ‘zero discharge’?

The irony is that such pollution is sensed, seen and believed by these vested interests sitting thousands of kilometers away from Orissa or India.

Rehabilitation colony built for the displaced people, (due to Alumina Refinery of Vedanta), was also condemned saying no one wanted to stay there. When journalists visited, they were amazed to see it fully occupied and children playing and ladies sitting out in lawns. Later one of the journalists remarked, how some one can propagate so much false information when we can see all facilities like water, electricity, community centre, play grounds, roads etc. in the Vedanta colony. The children are going to Vedanta school and they are very happy. All the eligible members of the displaced families have been given jobs by Vedanta.

If this not the meaning of inclusive growth, than what is it ?

These vested interests have gone to the extent of limiting Niyamgiri mountain range, which is actually a range spread across 250 sq. km, to a single mountain. The mining is to take place in just 4 km that also 30-35 metres from the top. Easily calculated, it is less than 1% of the Niyamgiri. Mining will be done in phases, and thus the opened blocks would be filled accordingly.

Irony is, these vested interests who have been talking about human rights and development of tribals, themselves have no agenda for development of these tribals. What they have been doing is only criticism and passing provoking statements - a thought for reputed reporters and journalists and people at large.

The company initiatives on community development work were never neither noticed nor acknowledged by these people. How can a company that has association with more than 2.5 million people of 550 villages and vast local support, has been blamed for human rights? What human rights?

I have seen Dongria Kondhs participating in the livelihood training programmes organized by Vedanta in majority. Their children are going to Vedanta child care centres, electricity has come in some villages, and there are regular medical and sanitation drives in villages where hundreds of villagers participate.

Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, former Hon’ble President of India, himself inaugurated the mid-day meal kitchen in Lanjigarh that provides mid-day meal to over 20,000 rural children.

I have seen the employees of this company working day and night when diarrhea broke down in these tribal villages. They were the only one who provided health services at the door steps of these villagers including Dongria Kondhs. None of these vested interests were available for any help; rather, even they were treated by Vedanta doctors.

Apathy is that these innocent people have been equated with characters like ‘Avtar’. Their popularity has been encashed for traveling by air, staying in 7 star hotels and building their names by writing columns in eminent magazines.

What ever has been done, the belief is that truth will finally prevail. Dongria Kondhs – Lanjigarh - Kalahandi will see the development and people will have better living conditions.

Who are these vested interests? I leave the question to you.

But I have only one request, staying away from my house for days together, I have tried to know the truth from close. Now I leave it to you to ensure that it is heard.

Post your comments and circulate to all you know.

Let, at least Indians know the truth.

Source : http://spareamomentandthink.blogspot.com/2010/07/niyamgiri-of-dongria-kondhs.html

“Niyamgiri of Dongria Kondhs “

the true story behind the scene…..

I am sure you must be wondering where I went. Well, I was in Niyamgiri - Lanjigarh meeting different people and learning various traditional art & craft. Quite aware of the scenario – things have been made to look a lot complicated. Everyone is living a life of uncertainty. But one thing is clear; people in Kalahandi including Dongria Kondhs are now looking for development and overall growth.

I’m now leaving Niyamgiri – Lanjigarh, carrying love and affection of this beautiful place and people. During my long stay here and association with Dongria Kondhs, I only wonder how much time more this place and the people have to wait for inclusive growth.

Except Vedanta, no one has bothered to look into the actual apathy of these 8,000 Dongria Kondhs living in the forests of Niyamgiri, Lanjigarh, falling in the district of Kalahandi in Orissa. Their health & medical check-ups, education to their children, livelihood opportunities, training of Dongria Kondhs youth, sanitation etc. issues, which were completely ignored, have been addressed only by Vedanta.

Things have been made to look a lot complicated. People of Orissa – Government – Industry, all living in uncertainty. The Government of India is now solving this jig-saw-puzzle, and I hope to see the solution to the benefit of all concerned.

But I need to tell you the true story of “Niyamgiri of Dongria Kondhs” before I leave this place. It is an example of how much media, politicians and bureaucrats have been mislead on Dongria Kondhs and also on the bauxite mining. It is a true story of how the vested interests mislead world about Niyamgiri and how Dongria Kondhs were made celebrity tribe and their peace was disturbed, just to halt the bauxite mining in India. This is where the talks of community engagement, displacement, legal permissions, forests acts, tribal acts, and pollution and human rights issues crept up.

Perhaps our Indian democracy, the world’s largest democracy, gives complete freedom of speech and expression, which has been misused and exploited for igniting and exploiting the sentiments of innocent and ignorant people. Most of the big companies are facing these problems in India, and we cannot ignore Posco, TATAs, and Reliance.

Bauxite mining issue became more prominent when Vedanta decided to set-up its world class 5 million tonne alumina refinery in Lanjigarh, right on the foothills of Niyamgiri and a World class aluminium smelter at Jharsuguda in Orissa with a capacity to produce 1.75 Million tonnes of aluminium.

Vedanta’s strength of investments and latest global technology was enough to understand that bauxite mining and aluminium scaling was becoming a reality after 25 years and Indian aluminium was preparing to rule the world.

To halt this move, a well thought out campaign was planned with clear cut mandate to some how stop the project - instigate the people and circulate false and fabricated information – primarily on softer issues like Tribals, Environment and Pollution and spread the fear in tribals. Further, hide the positive information, particularly in terms of what company was doing for the people of Lanjigarh.

The stories of tribal displacement of Dongria Kondh, were falsely circulated. Rather the truth was that mining project did not involve any displacement of Dongria Kondhs, as there is no habitation at the mining site. Contrary to what was said, this was never the voice of Dongria Kondhs.
As much was also circulated about their deity ‘Niyam Raja’ which has been strongly contested by Dongria Kondhs themselves.

The protest of Dongria Kondhs was also tailor made. Some of these innocent community members along with some activists were made to stand with some banner in their hand to show the protest, what protest, they till today do not understand. Every thing was being fabricated and built on breach of faith of these innocent people.

It is very important to know, what technology we have today. If the last refinery was built 25 years ago and that too does not create any pollution problem, it is more than certain that the plants built now, with utmost latest technology, will be much more cleaner and environment friendly. So where is the question of pollution when the technology has made plants ‘zero discharge’?

The irony is that such pollution is sensed, seen and believed by these vested interests sitting thousands of kilometers away from Orissa or India.

Rehabilitation colony built for the displaced people, (due to Alumina Refinery of Vedanta), was also condemned saying no one wanted to stay there. When journalists visited, they were amazed to see it fully occupied and children playing and ladies sitting out in lawns. Later one of the journalists remarked, how some one can propagate so much false information when we can see all facilities like water, electricity, community centre, play grounds, roads etc. in the Vedanta colony. The children are going to Vedanta school and they are very happy. All the eligible members of the displaced families have been given jobs by Vedanta.

If this not the meaning of inclusive growth, than what is it ?

These vested interests have gone to the extent of limiting Niyamgiri mountain range, which is actually a range spread across 250 sq. km, to a single mountain. The mining is to take place in just 4 km that also 30-35 metres from the top. Easily calculated, it is less than 1% of the Niyamgiri. Mining will be done in phases, and thus the opened blocks would be filled accordingly.

Irony is, these vested interests who have been talking about human rights and development of tribals, themselves have no agenda for development of these tribals. What they have been doing is only criticism and passing provoking statements - a thought for reputed reporters and journalists and people at large.

The company initiatives on community development work were never neither noticed nor acknowledged by these people. How can a company that has association with more than 2.5 million people of 550 villages and vast local support, has been blamed for human rights? What human rights?

I have seen Dongria Kondhs participating in the livelihood training programmes organized by Vedanta in majority. Their children are going to Vedanta child care centres, electricity has come in some villages, and there are regular medical and sanitation drives in villages where hundreds of villagers participate.

Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, former Hon’ble President of India, himself inaugurated the mid-day meal kitchen in Lanjigarh that provides mid-day meal to over 20,000 rural children.

I have seen the employees of this company working day and night when diarrhea broke down in these tribal villages. They were the only one who provided health services at the door steps of these villagers including Dongria Kondhs. None of these vested interests were available for any help; rather, even they were treated by Vedanta doctors.

Apathy is that these innocent people have been equated with characters like ‘Avtar’. Their popularity has been encashed for traveling by air, staying in 7 star hotels and building their names by writing columns in eminent magazines.

What ever has been done, the belief is that truth will finally prevail. Dongria Kondhs – Lanjigarh - Kalahandi will see the development and people will have better living conditions.

Who are these vested interests? I leave the question to you.

But I have only one request, staying away from my house for days together, I have tried to know the truth from close. Now I leave it to you to ensure that it is heard.

Post your comments and circulate to all you know.

Let, at least Indians know the truth.

An Aesthetic World of Dongria Kondhs

Its already 4 in the morning. Dongria Kondhs are early birds. I can see a lot of their community members gathering at center location of the village. Soon they will disperse for their daily work. The whole family works and eats together in the field. They generally travel to their orchards and collect fruits, which are either for sale or for their own consumption. The younger generation is more inclined to help their parents in the field or at home. Kumtadi, who was standing just behind me informed that Dongria Kondhs normally practice shifting cultivation. 'Agyan', Dongria grow a variety of crops which include fruits, vegetables, pulses and cereals. A Haru (piece of land) is cultivated for about four years and than left for another 4-5 years for it's regeneration. What a natural process.

I saw Majhi coming from a distance along with 4-5 members of his community. All of them were carrying a small basket on their head. When he came close I could see these baskets filled with fruits and vegetables. Majhi was looking very happy, as he was returning a favour by handing over these fruits and vegetable to one of the Dongria friend in the village. Majhi smiled and said, 'Agyan' you too have got up very early, like us. He showed me the quality of fruits which were very good. Kumtadi told me that not all fruits are used for consumption or barter, some of them are sold in market also, but they are very less. We normally exchange fruits in our own community only. Barter is quite famous in Dongria community, Majhi informed.

Kumtadi wanted me to meet some of the women of her community in another village. She asked me get ready fast, as they would be waiting for us. I got ready and moved with Kumtadi. On the way Kumtadi told me that Dongria Kondhs live in close harmony with nature, and that is the reason that they have developed natural arts within them. The colours , lifestyle, our dresses, ornaments, dance, music and in our crafts, you will find a theme directly resembling nature. The Dongria women are extremely good artist, and they make beautiful embroidered shawls called "Kapda Ganda". This embroidery is very neat and has sharp piece of needle work and is always filled with bright natural colours. The Dongria women also like playing traditional musical instruments called "Goani". Dongria women like singing, dancing and celebrating the occasions. Suddenly I could hear Kumtadi singing. It was like a singing of Humming Bird that hums during rains. Kumtadi was custodian of a soft voice, which had a heart of simplicity, honesty and rhythm of nature. She was smiling and continued singing till we reached the near by village. I tried matching her voice so many times, but failed to come up to her level. This was very rare, that I enjoyed loosing to a traditional woman.

I could see 7-8 women of Dongria Kondh community waiting with scores of Traditional Embroidery Work, Earrings, Bangles, Goani, Dhapu (a drum instrument) and colourful costumes. What an amazing collection and combinations. They are world class designers of their own traditional art.

I was amazed to see the minute work the women of Dongria Kondh were doing. They were working in groups like a Self Help Group and producing the best of their traditional art. The colour combinations of the minute work and finishing were enough to compare them with any professional hand. I could easily make out that given a chance their traditional art can surely become a strong alternate source of their income. When asked Kumtadi informed that like fruits, theses pieces of traditional art are used for barter only but a small number is also sold in the market.

Why confine this tremendous art only within the community, and why not it be admired and shared with millions of art appreciators. I was thinking of a mode through which their traditional art would get them better economic results. What they need is an organized way of marketing and promotion of the products. I decided to speak to Majhi about this issue. I was sure he would able to convince them.

I wanted to see the songs and dances of Dongria women in a group. Kumtadi smiled and said, 'Agyan' they will not dance in front of the elders. I noticed few elderly people were sitting and adjusting the drums and other traditional music instruments. Perhaps, they could hear me and they instantly left.

I could see my request of a group dance being accepted. Their voice echoed in the Niyamgiri Hills and the rhythm of their steps actually blossomed the land.

It was so divine to be with the community which is practically away from all controversies, but dragged into it by some very mean and selfish interests.


The journey continues....................

What prompted so much interest in Dongria Kondhs?

It will be a long night, with the people you hardly know, but still feel safe with them. Kumtadi made me sleep inside her house. The house was clean and well ventilated. Majhi had left for his village by now. Before leaving Majhi had told me that I should be careful about mosquitoes as deadly malaria is quite prominent in this region. He had also informed me that recently there were many cases of malaria and help came from only Vedanta for the treatment.

Kumtadi was sleeping next to me on the floor. "It's a strange feeling to be with the unknowns and yet feel quite secure because of them only". Kumtadi in her broken language tried to explain me the different notions flowing around about their community. "We are made international figures, though we clearly don't allow people to peep in our community life". It was very clear that, like her, none of the Dongria Kondhs like the way they were being presented and paraded in various forums, particularly by International NGOs.

The night was getting darker and as usual, I was going into my thinking mode. So many question and their temporary replies, but one question that still traces my mind is that what prompted so much interest in Dongria Kondhs? A primitive tribe, not written by anyone so far about their habits, liking and disliking, their temperaments and their actual culture, but only about their resentment towards Vedanta project . Is it a spread of perception by International NGOs against Vedanta Bauxite project or is it their actual concern about the Dongria Kondh tribe. My heart does not allow me to believe that these International NGOs are actually concerned about Dongria Kondhs tribe at all. To be honest Dongria Kondhs have become a subject of their survival and livelihood by way of funding. The issues are directly connected with Bauxite mining in India forget about Orissa. Vedanta happens to be only the company who is putting a lot of investment to built up Bauxite mining in India after a gap of good many years.

Then why Dongria Kondhs have been involved in the entire issue ? My mind is searching for most convincing reply.

According to me, in a democratic country like India, the softer issues like Environment & Forest , Pollution, Tribal, Land acquisition, Displacement etc. become more of political issues rather than issues of concern. The International Activist NGOs have understood to exploit these issue to their advantage and stall big projects in India, thereby halting the entire development process. The hidden agenda is, not to allow India to prosper and position itself globally. But it is pathetic to involve such peace loving, Dongria Kondh tribe for their personal agenda. You can see every other International NGO or people having no connect with tribal issues, getting unnecessary media attention and prominence.

I can bet that none of the Dongria Kondh tribe member would be able to relate to film like "Avatar", rigorously promoted by international activist NGOs.

I would like to strongly request my friends to support the thought of Financial Auditing of International NGOs Funding in India and necessity of this being made Public. On one hand this would act as a tool for scrutiny of their funds, in the interest of India , and on the other hand, the NGOs who are genuinely involved in the social development of the society, would get genuine prominence. At this moment, I feel I have this solution for minimizing the damage being done.

Oh God !! Its already 4 in the morning. Dongria Kondhs are early birds. I can see a lot of their community members gathering at center location of the village. Soon they will disperse for their daily work. The whole family works and eats together in the field.

Their silent communication is more to be understood from heart, rather than to be demonstrated and paraded in various forums.

The Journey Continues ................................

"Dongria Kondhs have not authorized any person to talk on their behalf", Majhi

Kumtadi hugged me and insisted on taking me to her house, which I gladly agreed. . The night was approaching. Kumtadi was holding my hand, I was deeply touched. The tears rolled over my smile as we all three walked into the woods, Majhi was following me as the lanes were not that wide. I was very excited to know the social life of Dongria Kondhs (Kandhas). Kumtadi was narrating and Majhi was actually translating. My ears were hearing Majhi but my eyes never moved from Kumtadi.

Kumtadi said, "Dongria Kondhs are very peaceful people and the families remain united. We care for people around us and have high mutual respect. Though the man of the house earns, but we females have equally important role. The eldest of the family and village elderly are highly respected. You will not find our children, dis-respecting their parents or village elders". It was amazing to feel the organized family structure of Dongria Kondhs. I wanted to know about Kumtadi's marriage, she blushed. "Haidi" (marriage) is very auspicious and we prefer marriage, only once we become adult. My instant question was weather she had a love marriage? Kumtadi started laughing, and refused "No No...No love marriage, it is all arranged marriage. I got married 3 years back". What about your children, I asked laughingly. "Two, both girls, the darlings of their father", she said.

We could now see some structures like a village from a distance, it was where Kumtadi lived with other people of her community. As we reached close, we could see some ladies and a few male members sitting under a tree. We walked straight towards Kumtadi's house. Her house was like a hut, built on a strong floor and had two partitions. Majhi told me there is one big room and a "Dhapa" (small room). There is also one small balcony in the front. Kumtadi took me inside her house. I could see a small kitchen with many utensils, clean drinking water stored in metal pots, a small "chulah" and a "lantern". The house was clean and well ventilated. Her kids were being taken care by mother-in-law, "Kustaddi", who was sitting next to a cowshed, which Majhi told me is called 'Hada Sala'.

Kumtadi introduced me to other Dongria females, I can recollect only two names, 'Rami and Rinjai'. My mind was ticking towards so many questions. Is it the same Dongria Tribe that is being projected for blood shed and demonstration by a number of NGOs and individuals. I can bet, these NGOs would have never interacted with them and now I'm also sure they have a different undisclosed agenda. Majhi told me, "Dongrias do not interact with strangers and are very simple. Our innocence and non-connectivity with other communities deprive us from correct information. We believe what people tell us. We are known for living in our own system". This was strange. Then how come so much is available on the net and in print about Dongrias speaking about so many things - pollution, demonstration & protests and violent behaviour? For the first time I saw Majhi, a visibly disturbed person.

He moved and sat at a distance and asked, "Are you afraid of me?, Did I harm you?, Did any of my community member questioned you? My reply was a strong 'No'. I believe in what you say Majhi and also any other member of your community. "We trust you too Agyan and that's why I am moving with you for the last few days", said Majhi. "You must be referring to some photographs being circulated where Dongrias are holding some banner against Vedanta factory. These banners with slogans are completely misleading . Dongrias have held some banners, but Dongrias do not know what is written on them. If you see who all are holding the banners, you would understand what I mean." continued Majhi.

"Dongrias do not know who talks about them, their desires, their issues, and their sentiments to the outside world. Dongria Kondhs have not authorized any person to talk for Dongrias. So much is being spoken but so far we have just laughed it away. But now it is affecting us. Dongrias privacy is being exposed by these NGOs. We have lived in poverty for years, with no schools, no medicines, no doctors and over and above the epidemics. Today, Rami's daughter goes to a nearby Vedanta Child Care Center with my son and daughter. Two females from this village learnt making Leaf-plates. They are getting more money now and their living standard has changed, we have medical facility", said Majhi. Then who is this Kumuti? who has been advocating on behalf of Dongria Kondhs. "Oh Kumuti, he is from a village called Kendubardi, and has two sons and two daughters. We heard he has been talking to a lot to foreigners and NGOs and has also travelled abroad. He has been talking on his own, and we do not support him. I told you, Dongrias are shy and do not engage in day to day conversation with outside world. Perhaps the NGOs and few people are taking advantage of it", said Majhi.

Majhi, Kumtadi, Tudu, Rami, Rinjai, Kustaddi and so many Dongria Kondhs I met. Perhaps their innocence is being taken for granted. I did not find any person other than their community member interacting with them, or Dongria Kondhs engaged in any kind of conversation with any stranger. This made me accept that the voice of Dongria Kondhs circulating all over the net and the world, is actually the voice of certain NGOs and people, with an agenda of their interest, and certainly, not for the benefit of Dongria Kondhs.

It's late and Kumtadi is not allowing me to leave, she has cooked dried fish with rice for me. She has also brought "Irpi Kalu" (it's a natural liquor) in a bowl which I politely refused. By that time Majhi had brought "Mada Kalu", which he described as palm juice. Kumtadi is a good cook, more so, I could feel her warm hospitality. I have to spend the night in this beautiful village with so very much genuine people.


The Journey Continues .............................


I would like to thank for the overwhelming response that I am getting from a number of people from India and Abroad and a large support from various Indian NGOs who perhaps were unaware, misinformed and worried about the community.