Creating Smart and Sustainable Villages
While 75% of India’s population resides in rural areas, the pace of growth and development in these regions remains disparate. Achieving inclusive progress necessitates a concerted effort towards bolstering rural economies and enhancing living standards in villages. Recognizing this imperative, Prayas Trust, in collaboration with Hand in Hand India, has embarked on a transformative journey towards holistic village development.
In a strategic initiative, three Gram Panchayats comprising seven villages within the Thirukazukundram block of Kanchipuram district have been identified for the Smart and Sustainable Village Development Programme. Nestled along the banks of the Palaar River, adjacent to the East Coast Road, these villages represent a microcosm of rural life. Notably, the panchayats of Irumbulicheri and Edaiyathur form an enclave enveloped by the meandering flow of the Palaar River, presenting unique opportunities and challenges for development.
Smart And Integrated Village Development Program Phase I and II
In the initial phase of the project, Prayas Trust, in collaboration with an NGO, identified three Gram Panchayats comprising seven villages within the Thirukazukundram block of Kanchipuram district for the Smart and Sustainable Village Development Initiative. These villages are situated on the banks of the Palaar River, just off the East Coast Road. Remarkably, the seven villages are adjacent to one another, while the panchayats of Irumbulicheri and Edaiyathur create an island enclave enveloped by the tranquil currents of the Palaar River.
As part of this initiative, five Child Learning Centers (CLCs) were inaugurated to provide tailored coaching for slow learners from 2nd to 5th grade. The teachers of these CLCs underwent comprehensive training in effective teaching methodologies for Tamil and mathematics, facilitated by handbooks and educational kits.
Furthermore, a series of health camps and anaemic screening sessions were conducted across all Gram Panchayats, with a dedicated focus on enhancing healthcare facilities. Continuous follow-up mechanisms are in place to ensure that individuals identified with health issues receive on-going care and support. Additionally, necessary referrals are made to PIMS or nearby government hospitals, ensuring access to the highest quality care and treatment for all patients.
Following the resounding success of our inaugural phase of the “Smart & Integrated Village Development” program, which positively impacted over 1050 families and enhanced the lives of more than 3500 beneficiaries, we are poised to embark on the second phase of the project.
Prayas Trust will spearhead the implementation of the second phase, extending its reach to 7 Gram Panchayats in the Chengalpet district, encompassing over 19 villages meticulously selected based on demand-driven criteria. This phase will encompass a comprehensive approach, addressing interconnected sectors such as education, healthcare, sanitation, and economic advancement. Our initiative will collaborate closely with local communities to foster robust rural development by augmenting educational resources, empowering youth, promoting digital literacy, and ensuring access to healthcare services. Additionally, we will prioritize women’s empowerment by fortifying their livelihoods through the creation of job opportunities utilizing locally available resources. Strategic interventions along the agricultural value chain are also envisaged. The launch of this transformative project is slated for the end of this year, marking another significant milestone in our mission to cultivate thriving rural communities.