Social Internship

[Community Engagement and Social Responsibility]

Final Report
 Social Internship Report
27th May – 21rd June 2024

Apex Institute of Technology (AIT)

Submitted by: Submitted to:

Name: Piyush Grover

UID: 23BCA10696 Department Name: BCA/UIC

Section: 23BCA-3{B} Institute Name: Chandigarh University
Program: BCA-UIC (Social Internship)
 Acknowledgement

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the following individuals and organizations for their invaluable assistance
and contributions to this study on rural livelihoods:

1. The Residents of Sirsa: We are immensely grateful to the residents of Sirsa for their willingness to
share their personal stories, challenges, and livelihoods with us. Your honest insights and
experiences have been pivotal in helping us understand the realities faced by rural communities. Your
trust and participation have been the foundation of our research.

2. Sarpanch (Village Head) of Sirsa: We deeply appreciate your warm hospitality, guidance, and
steadfast support during our stay in Sirsa. Your extensive knowledge of the community, its history, and
its people have been crucial in shaping our understanding of the local context. Your help in facilitating
our interactions with the villagers and ensuring a smooth survey process has been vital to the success of
this study.

3. Local Community Leaders and Elders: We are thankful for the wisdom and insights shared by the
respected community leaders and elders of Sirsa. Your profound understanding of traditional practices,
cultural values, and the changing dynamics of rural life has enriched our research and added significant
depth to our study.

4. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Local Authorities: We extend our appreciation to

the NGOs and local authorities who provided valuable support, resources, and guidance throughout our
fieldwork. Your expertise, connections, and dedication to the well-being of rural communities have
been instrumental in ensuring the success of our research endeavors.

5. Research Assistants and Field Coordinators: We would like to acknowledge the tireless efforts of
our research assistants and field coordinators. Your dedication, hard work, and cultural sensitivity have
been crucial in ensuring smooth data collection, building trust with the community, and maintaining the
integrity of our research process.

6. Academic Institutions and Funding Organizations: We are grateful for the support and resources
 provided by our academic institutions and funding organizations. Your commitment to advancing
research and knowledge in the field of rural development has made this study possible.

7. Rajendra Roy Chandrama Devi Educational Trust: We are extremely thankful to RRCDT for their
unwavering support and collaboration throughout this study. The opportunities provided to engage with
various community development initiatives have greatly enriched our understanding of rural challenges
and solutions. The activities organized by RRCDT have given us valuable hands-on experience in the
field, enhancing the impact of our research.
 Index
S.No Chapter Page Page
required No.

1 Introduction 1-2 8-9

2 Review of Literature 1 10

3 Methodology 1 11

4 Day wise Activities List 1-2 12-15

5 Daily Diary Summary 2 16-17

6 Profile of Study Area 3-4 18-19

7 Addressing Various Socio-Economic 1-2 20-21

Challenges

8 Local Governance and Decentralization at 1-2 22-23

village
9 Government's efforts towards Holistic Rural 2-3 24-25
Development and Promoting Inclusive
Growth.

10 Findings 1-2 26-28

11 Suggestions & Recommendation 1-3 29-31

12 Conclusion 1 32

14 Photo Evidence 1-3 33-42

 Introduction
Social Internship: Definition & Meaning: -

Internships have long been recognized as an essential component of the educational process, offering students a
bridge between theoretical knowledge and practical experience. A social internship, particularly one focused
on rural villages and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), provides an unparalleled opportunity to
understand the complexities of grassroots development, community engagement, and the multifaceted
challenges faced by marginalized communities.
Rural areas, often characterized by limited access to essential services and economic opportunities, represent a
significant portion of the global population. According to the World Bank, about 45% of the global population
lived in rural areas as of 2021. These communities frequently face challenges such as inadequate healthcare,
poor infrastructure, limited educational opportunities, and economic stagnation. NGOs play a crucial role in
addressing these issues by implementing development projects, advocating for policy changes, and
empowering local populations.

Purpose of the Internship:

The primary purpose of this social internship was to gain a comprehensive understanding of the
socio-
economic conditions prevalent in rural villages and to evaluate the effectiveness of NGO interventions. This
experience was aimed at developing practical skills in community engagement, project management, and
sustainable development. The internship sought to:
1. Understand Rural Dynamics: Gain insights into the daily lives, cultures, and traditions of
rural communities, and understand the socio-economic challenges they face.
2. Evaluate NGO Impact: Assess the role and impact of NGOs in fostering development and
improving living conditions in rural areas.
3. Develop Practical Skills: Enhance skills in project planning, implementation, and evaluation
through hands-on involvement in various development projects.
4. Promote Sustainable Development: Learn about and contribute to sustainable development
practices that can be adopted by rural communities to improve their quality of life.

Scope of the Internship:

The scope of the internship encompassed multiple dimensions of rural development and NGO activities. It
included:
 1. Field Research: Conducting surveys and interviews with local residents to gather
first-hand information about their needs, challenges, and aspirations.
2. Project Implementation: Participating in the planning and execution of development projects such
as education initiatives, healthcare camps, and infrastructure development.
3. Community Engagement: Facilitating workshops and awareness programs to engage the
community in discussions about health, hygiene, education, and sustainable practices.
4. Impact Assessment: Evaluating the outcomes of ongoing NGO projects and
providing recommendations for improvement.

Overview of the Report:

This report is structured to provide a detailed account of the internship experience, starting with an
introduction to the rural village and NGO context. It then delves into the specific activities undertaken during
the internship, including field research, project implementation, and community engagement. The findings
from these activities are analyzed to assess the impact of NGO interventions on the local community. Finally,
the report concludes with reflections on the internship experience and recommendations for future initiatives in
rural development.

The objectives of this report are to:

5. Document Experiences: Provide a detailed account of the internship experience, highlighting
key activities and learnings.
6. Analyze Impact: Evaluate the effectiveness of NGO interventions in improving the
socio-economic conditions of rural communities.
7. Identify Challenges: Highlight the challenges faced during the internship and
suggest strategies
to overcome them.
4. Recommend Improvements: Offer recommendations for enhancing the impact of future
development projects and internships.
 Review of literature
In this insightful book, a thorough evaluation of the sustainable livelihoods approach is presented, highlighting
both its benefits and drawbacks. The proposed expansion of this methodology builds on the political economy
tradition within agricultural and development studies. Supporting impoverished individuals in achieving
sustainable livelihoods requires more than merely acknowledging their remarkable abilities for survival, which
include finding secure homes, climbing obstacles, and diversifying their income sources. It also involves
establishing their homes within supportive networks and reducing their vulnerability to threats like land grabs,
natural disasters such as droughts and floods, corporate exploitation, and corrupt politics. —Simon Batterbury,
University of Melbourne

This book holds immense importance and is poised to become a seminal work. Every development
professional should own a copy. It offers an expert analysis and summary of the development and elements of
the sustainable livelihoods approach, breaking new ground in the fields of political economy, political ecology,
and livelihood politics. The book is a valuable contribution to development thinking and practice due to its
concise yet comprehensive nature, interdisciplinary perspectives, accessibility to all readers, professional
presentation, and original analysis. I hope it gains widespread readership and influence. —Robert Chambers,
University of Sussex, Institute of Development Studies

Ian Scoones has crafted a book that masterfully balances being highly useful and intellectually stimulating;
theoretically insightful and remarkably readable; historically informed and forward-thinking, offering
recommendations for professional and academic goals. It contextualizes livelihood thinking, examines its
applications, explains its limitations, and—crucially—convinces the reader that being both political and
practical in development is not only possible but essential. This book is invaluable for both students and
practitioners. —Anthony Bebbington, IDPM, University of Manchester; Graduate School of Geography, Clark
University

In this exceptionally comprehensive, clear, and valuable review, Ian Scoones makes a compelling case for
reintroducing an expansive perspective on livelihoods, informed by the political economy of agrarian change,
to the forefront of contemporary discussions about eradicating rural poverty and inequality.
 Methodology
The methodology for this social internship report on the work done in the rural village of Sahadai
Buzurg in collaboration with Nirmala Seva Society NGO encompasses a comprehensive approach to
gathering, analysing, and interpreting data. The aim was to provide an in-depth understanding of the
socio- economic conditions of Sirsa and to evaluate the impact of the NGO’s interventions.

Preliminary Research
● Objective: To understand the socio-economic background of Sirsa and the scope of work
conducted by Nirmala Seva Society.
● Sources: NGO reports and previous studies on rural development and NGO activities.

Fieldwork
● Objective: To gather demographic and socio-economic data about the village.
● Activities: Collection of data on population, age distribution, education levels, occupation,
income levels, and living conditions.

Surveys and Questionnaires

● Objective: To collect quantitative data on various socio-economic indicators.
● Activities: Designing and administering structured surveys to a representative sample of
households.

Observation
● Objective: To gain a first-hand understanding of the living conditions and day-to-day
challenges faced by the community.
● Activities: Participant observation in various community activities and NGO projects.

Documentation
● Objective: To compile and document the findings of the internship.
● Activities: Writing the internship report, including methodology, findings, analysis,
and

recommendations.
 Day Wise Activities List
Week 1:

S.No Day Dat Activity Brief Description Objective of Outcome of

e Name ofActivity / visit Activity / Activity / visit
visit

1. 1 27th Understa Communicated To examine and Done an activity with

May nding with villagers to understand the help of villagers and
Villag understand problems of extracted plastics.
e their
Problems major and minor village
problems.
Observed
that
plastic waste is a
significant issue,
leading to
the
death of
many
domestic animals
who ingest it.

2. 2 28th Noted the impact of To make people The villagers are

May Addressing a heat wave on the aware about heat significantly
Heat Wave villagers' lives. wave’s affected by extreme
Effects Conducted a seed weather conditions,
planting drive with and tree planting is
the help of locals as a viable long-term
a solution to provide solution.
more shade and
combat heat.
3. 3 29th Examining Examined the village To examine the The village
May Infrastructure infrastructure. life style of the infrastructure needs
and Lifestyle Communicated with rural area and improvement, and
villagers about their also examining the villagers have a
lifestyle and living the facilities simple yet
conditions. provided to community-focused
Visited several homes them by lifestyle.
to get a deeper government.
understanding of their
daily life.
4. 4 30th Rural vs. Discussed with To understand Rural society is
May Urban villagers the how urban and characterized by strong
Culture differences rural area people communal ties and a
between rural and are different and collective approach to
living, unlike the more
urban what make
isolated urban lifestyle.
culture.Learned them different.
about the sense of
community and
lack of personal
property
boundaries in rural
areas, contrasted
with urban
individualism

5. 5 31st Understandin Visited the village to Deep understanding The Panchayat

May g the understand the of justice provided system is an
Panchayat Panchayat justice by panchayat justice effective local
Justice system. system justice mechanism,
System Learned about the role leveraging the
of senior intellectuals wisdom and
as judges who listen to fairness of
disputes and provide experienced
judgments. community
members.
Week 2:

S.No Da Date Activity Brief Description Objective of Outcome of Activity

y Name of Activity / visit Activity / / Visit
visit

1. 6 3rd Assessing Visited the village to Gather insights Most of the

June Village gauge the satisfaction from villagers villagers
Satisfaction and happiness of the and condition expressed
and residents. of villagers satisfaction and
Happiness Engaged in happiness with
conversations with their living
various villagers conditions.
to understand
their perspectives.

2. 7 Understanding Investigated the extent Examine the Approximately 85%

4th
Farming to which villagers Farming of the villagers are
June Dependency depend on farming for Dependency directly or indirectly
their livelihood. of villagers dependent on
Conducted surveys on farming farming for their
and interviews with income.
farmers and other
villagers.

3. 8 Exploring Micro Explored the micro Exploring The village has a

5th
Businesses businesses operating Micro Business variety of micro
June within the village. which is businesses that
Visited several local running in the contribute to the
businesses to village. local economy and
understand their provide
operations and impact alternative
on the community. employment
opportunities.
4. 9 Observing Observed the Observed the Government-provid
6th agricultural
Agricultural agricultural facilities ed agricultural
June Facilities provided by the facilities of the facilities are
government. villagers and beneficial to the
Interacted with also the benefits farmers, aiding in
farmers to understand and facilities their productivity
provided by
how these facilities and efficiency.
government.
support their farming
activities.
5. 10 Visiting a Local Visited a local Had a tree The students
7th actively participated
Coaching Center coaching center with 9 plantation drive and
June to 10 students. aware them about in the tree planting
Conducted a tree it. drive, showing
planting drive with the enthusiasm for
students to promote
environmental
environmental conservation.
awareness.
Week 3:

S.No Da Date Activit Brief Description Objective of Outcome of Activity

y y of Activity / Activity / / Visit
Name visit visit

1. 11 Municipal Visited the Municipal Analyzed the schemes Identified the

10th Office office and surveyed the provided to urban schemes provide
June Visit urban informal informal workers to urban informal
workers schemes workers

2. 12 Challenges in Collected information Analyzed the Identified the urban

11th accessing social about schemes provided difficulties faced by informal workers
June welfare to urban informal urban informal problems
schemes workers and challenges workers due to lack
faced by them while
accessing it of awareness of
various schemes
3. 13 Getting to know Surveyed the urban Analyzed the needs of Identified the
12th about needs of informal workers to know urban informal basic needs of
urban informal about their needs and workers urban informal
June workers
basic requirements workers

4. 14 Solutions On my fourth day, I Finding potential Identified solutions

13th for focused on addressing solutions of to improve the
June identified the identified challenges addressed accessibility of
and finding solutions to challenges urban informal
problems them workers beneficial
schemes

5. 15 Getting to know On my fifth day, I spent Provide details of the Successfully noted
14th about lifestyle my time while observing living conditions the area of livelihood
June of urban informal the lifestyle of urban and locality of urban of urban informal
workers informal workers and workers
migrants
informal workers
and migrants
Week 4:

S.No Day Date Activity Brief Description Objective of Outcome of

Name of Activity / Activity / Activity /
visit visit visit

1. 16 18th June Food Distributed food at Providing good Successfully

Distributio Basoli village protein and nutritious distributed the
n with with the NGO food at central food and the
NGO workers ground of the village purpose is
accomplished

2. 17 19th June Hosting Health Hosted a health Provided the health Basic medications
Camp with checkup camp at checkup and some supply; Basic
NGO the panchayat office basic medications health checkup is
of the village to the villagers done

3. 18 20th June Cleanliness NGO staff and few Done the cleaning Pasted few posters
local volunteers of roads and the to support
Campaign take participation in parks in the cleanliness;
with cleaning activities village arranged dustbins
NGO

4. 19 21st June Tree Organized group of Promote tree Benefits of trees and
plantation few volunteers and planation by importance related
with start planting trees planting trees at posters are pasted;
NGO at few selected park and side of the trees are planted
places road

4. 20 22st June Yoga Organized a camp to Make villagers Successfully spent

Camp with make villagers aware about Yoga day giving Yoga
NGO know about Yoga positions lessons and doing
and few fun activities
importance of
meditation
 Daily Diary Summary
Week 1:

My name is Piyush Grover, UID – 23BCA10696. I am from Chandigarh University.

So according the rules and protocols I have performed five tasks and activities on the
five days of the Social Internship of Week 1. So, as per the rules I have gone through, I
have surveyed their Rural house infrastructure. I havealso gone through the link roads
and the village roads infrastructure which gave them the ability to get connected. And
so on. On the first day of week 1, I have taken a deep dive into the drainage system of
the village and how its worst condition is impacting villagers. On the second day of
week 1, I have made few conversations with the native villagers to have a better idea of
the water supply given to them. On the third day of week 1, I have gone through the
medical facilities provide to villagers. On the fourth day of week 1, I have taken a delve
into their road conditions. On the fifth day of week 1, I examined the Anganwadi center
of the village and surveyed about facilities provided by them to villagers.

Week 2:

My name is Piyush Grover, UID – 23BCA10696. I am from Chandigarh University.

So according the rules and protocols I have performed five tasks and activities on the
five days of the Social Internship of Week 2. So, as per the rules I have gone through, I
have surveyed Anganwadi center and observe the services being provided. And so on.
On the first day of week 2, I inspected the infrastructure of Anganwadi center. On the
second day of week 2, I inspected food supplied at Anganwadi center. On the third day
of week 2, I surveyed the education system provided to children. On the fourth day of
week 2, I inspected nutrition provide to pregnant ladies. On the fifth day of week 2, I
did comprehensive study of health checkup provided at Anganwadi center.
Week 3:

My name is Piyush Grover, UID – 23BCA10696. I am from Chandigarh University.

So according the rules and protocols I have performed five tasks and activities on the
five days of the Social Internship of Week 3. So, as per the rules I have gone through, I
have surveyed the schemes provide to urban informal workers. On the first day of week
3, I visited Municipality office to know about schemes provide to urban informal
workers. On the second day of week 3, I explored challenges faced by urban informal
workers. On the third day of week 3, I analyze needs of urban informal workers. On the
fourth day of week 3, I find the potential solution to challenges faced by urban informal
workers. On the fifth day of week 3, I analyzed the lifestyle of analyze needs of urban
informal workers and migrants.

Week 4:

My name is Piyush Grover, UID – 23BCA10696. I am from Chandigarh University.

So according the rules and protocols I have performed five tasks and activities on the
five days of the Social Internship of Week 4. So, as per the rules I have gone through, I
worked with NGO and organized various social welfare camps. On the first day of
week 4, I organized food distribution camp with NGO workers. On the second day of
week 4, I hosted health camp with NGO workers. On the third day of week 4, I
organized cleanliness camp with NGO workers. On the fourth day of week 4, I
organized tree plantation camp with NGO workers. On the fifth day of week 4, I
organized Yoga camp with NGO workers.
 Profile of Study Area [Village and NGO information]

Village Profile:

• Village Name: Sirsa

• Location: Sirsa, Haryana
• Population: Approximate 5000
• Demographics: gender ratio with 1968 females for every 3,032 males.
• Livelihoods: many people held business, many held private shops and many does farming
•Infrastructure: Panchayat Raj System: The three-tiered Panchayati Raj system, which is
well established inUna as well, oversees rural development programs. When it comes to
organizing and carrying out infrastructure projects, this framework is essential.
❖ Electrification: Rural electrification has advanced significantly, with many communities now
havingaccess to electricity. To power residences, companies, and vital services, this is required.

❖ Road System: Villages are now connected to towns and marketplaces by a growing road
system. But there are differences in the quality of roads, particularly in smaller villages.

❖ Irrigation Projects: To enhance water management for agriculture, a crucial source ofincome
in rural regions, Himachal Government has implemented irrigation projects.
•Social Services: Infrastructure in rural areas and social services are closely related. In rural
areas,a strong infrastructure is essential for providing social services in an efficient manner,
and a strong social service sector helps to build and maintain that infrastructure.
• Challenges: Geographic Dispersion: It might be challenging and
time-consuming to contactevery citizen of rural communities because they are
frequently geographically distant.
❖ Restricted Transportation: In remote regions, there may not be as many public transportation
choices.As a result, researchers may need to organize participant transportation or rely on their
own automobiles.
❖ Weather: Severe weather, such as intense downpours or extremely high temperatures, might
causefieldwork and survey schedules to be disrupted.
Profile of Rajendra Roy and Chandrama Devi Educational Trust:
- Focus Areas: Community development, education, health, and livelihoods

- Beneficiaries: Underprivileged children, elderly residents, and rural communities

Operations:
- Structure: Efficiently organized with close collaboration with local authorities.

- Facilities: Dedicated offices and centers for health camps, workshops, and skill development.

- Volunteer Network: Strong volunteer network ensures wide community reach.

Programs:
- Healthcare: Regular health camps, hygiene awareness, and medical assistance.

- Education: Interactive sessions, educational materials, and vocational training.

- Livelihood Support: Business assistance, agricultural programs, and modern farming techniques.

- Community Development: Environmental initiatives, elderly care, and recreational activities.

Challenges:
- Geographic Reach: Strategic planning required due to dispersed communities.

- Transportation: Organized transport needed due to limited public options.

- Weather Impact: Disruptions possible due to severe weather conditions.

Impact:
- Health Awareness: Improved hygiene practices and health outcomes.

- Education: Enhanced learning opportunities and school enrollment.

 Addressing Various Socio-Economic Challenges
1. Education
a. Improving Access to Education
● Infrastructure Development: Building and renovating schools to provide a conducive learning
environment.
● Scholarships and Financial Aid: Providing scholarships and financial aid to encourage school
attendance, especially for girls and economically disadvantaged students.
● Transportation Facilities: Arranging transportation facilities for students who live far from schools to
reduce dropout rates.
b. Enhancing Quality of Education
● Teacher Training Programs: Conducting regular training sessions for teachers to improve teaching
methodologies and subject knowledge.
● Learning Materials: Supplying adequate textbooks, stationery, and digital learning resources.
● Extracurricular Activities: Introducing sports, arts, and cultural activities to foster all-round
development.

2. Healthcare
a. Access to Medical Facilities
● Health Clinics: Establishing and equipping local health clinics with necessary medical supplies and
staff.
● Mobile Health Units: Deploying mobile health units to reach remote areas and provide essential
healthcare services.
● Health Insurance: Promoting affordable health insurance schemes to cover medical expenses.
b. Preventive Healthcare
● Vaccination Drives: Organizing vaccination campaigns to protect against diseases.
● Health Awareness Programs: Conducting workshops and seminars on hygiene, nutrition, and preventive
health practices.
● Regular Health Check-ups: Arranging periodic health check-ups for early detection and treatment of
illnesses.
3. Livelihood and Employment
a. Skill Development
● Vocational Training: Offering vocational training programs in areas like carpentry, tailoring, and
computer skills to enhance employability.
● Entrepreneurship Development: Providing training and resources for small-scale entrepreneurship and
self-employment.
● Agricultural Training: Educating farmers on modern farming techniques, sustainable practices, and crop
diversification.
b. Employment Opportunities
● Job Fairs and Placement Services: Organizing job fairs and connecting villagers with potential
employers.
● Microfinance and Credit Facilities: Facilitating access to microfinance and credit facilities to support
small businesses and agricultural ventures.
● Cooperatives and SHGs: Promoting the formation of cooperatives and self-help groups (SHGs) for
collective economic activities.

4. Infrastructure Development
a. Basic Amenities
● Water Supply: Ensuring access to clean and safe drinking water through wells, boreholes, and water
purification systems.
● Sanitation: Constructing toilets and promoting proper sanitation practices to improve public health.
● Electricity: Expanding the electricity grid and promoting renewable energy solutions like solar
panels.
 Local Governance and Decentralization
Introduction to Panchayati Raj:
The Panchayati Raj system is a decentralized form of governance in India, where local self-governments are
established at the village, intermediate, and district levels. This system aims to empower rural communities by
involving them in the decision-making process and ensuring that development initiatives are tailored to their
specific needs. The term "Panchayati Raj" is derived from the Sanskrit words "panch," meaning five, and
"ayat," meaning assembly, reflecting the traditional practice of village councils being composed of five
respected elders.

Historical Background:
The concept of Panchayati Raj has deep historical roots in India, dating back to ancient times when
village
assemblies played a significant role in local governance. However, the modern Panchayati Raj system was
institutionalized through constitutional amendments and legislative measures in the 20th century. The most
significant milestone was the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992, which provided a
constitutional status to the Panchayati Raj institutions (PRIs) and outlined their structure, powers, and
functions.

Structure of Panchayati Raj Institutions

The Panchayati Raj system is structured at three levels:
1. Gram Panchayat (Village Level)
Composition: The Gram Panchayat is the basic unit of the Panchayati Raj system and consists of elected
members from the village. It is headed by a Sarpanch (village head) who is elected by the members of
the Gram Sabha (village assembly).
Functions: The Gram Panchayat is responsible for the execution of various development programs and
schemes related to agriculture, water supply, sanitation, health, and education. It also resolves local disputes
and maintains village infrastructure.
2. Panchayat Samiti (Block/Intermediate Level)
Composition: The Panchayat Samiti is composed of representatives from the Gram Panchayats within a block.
It is chaired by a Block Development Officer (BDO) and includes elected and nominated members.
Functions: The Panchayat Samiti coordinates and supervises the activities of the Gram Panchayats. It also
implements block-level development programs and schemes and addresses issues that span multiple villages.
3. Zila Parishad (District Level)
Composition: The Zila Parishad is the apex body at the district level and includes elected representatives from
the Panchayat Samitis, along with officials from various government departments.
Functions: The Zila Parishad formulates and implements district-wide development plans, allocates resources
to the Panchayat Samitis, and monitors the overall progress of development activities within the district.

Objectives of Panchayati Raj:

The primary objectives of the Panchayati Raj system are:

Decentralization of Power: To devolve administrative and financial powers to local governments, ensuring
that decision-making is closer to the people it affects.
People's Participation: To promote active participation of the rural population in governance and development
processes.
Social Justice: To address issues of social inequality and empower marginalized groups, including women,
Scheduled Castes (SCs), and Scheduled Tribes (STs).
Efficient Resource Utilization: To ensure efficient and effective utilization of local resources for sustainable
development.
Transparency and Accountability: To enhance transparency and accountability in governance through
regular audits, public meetings, and social audits.

Implementation in Sirsa:

In Sirsa, the Panchayati Raj system plays a crucial role in local governance and development. The Gram
Panchayat, led by the Sarpanch, is actively involved in identifying the needs of the community, planning and
implementing development projects, and addressing local issues. Regular Gram Sabha meetings provide a
platform for villagers to voice their concerns, suggest improvements, and participate in decision-making.
The Panchayat Samiti and Zila Parishad further support Sahadai Gram Panchayat by providing technical
assistance, funding, and oversight. These higher-level bodies ensure that Sahdai’s development initiatives align
with broader district and state plans, promoting holistic and integrated development.
 Government's Efforts Towards Holistic Rural

Development and Promoting Inclusive Growth.

The government has implemented several initiatives aimed at fostering holistic rural development and
promoting inclusive growth in Sirsa village. These efforts encompass a wide range of sectors,
including infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, and social welfare, ensuring comprehensive
development and enhancing the quality of life for all residents.

1. Infrastructure Development
a. Rural Roads and Connectivity
● Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY): This scheme aims to improve rural road
connectivity, ensuring all-weather access to and from Sirsa village. Improved roads facilitate
better transportation of goods and services and enhance mobility for villagers.
b. Water Supply and Sanitation
● Jal Jeevan Mission: This initiative focuses on providing tap water supply to every household
in Sirsa village, ensuring access to clean and safe drinking water.

2. Healthcare
a. Primary Healthcare Services
● Ayushman Bharat - Health and Wellness Centres: The establishment of Health and Wellness
Centres in Sirsa provides comprehensive primary healthcare services, including preventive,
promotive, and curative care.
b. Health Insurance
● Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY): This scheme provides health insurance
coverage to vulnerable families, reducing the financial burden of medical expenses and
ensuring access to quality healthcare.

3. Education
a. Improving Access to Education
● Mid-Day Meal Scheme: The mid-day meal program provides nutritious meals to school
children, improving their health and encouraging school attendance.
b. Enhancing Quality of Education
● Digital Education Initiatives: The introduction of digital classrooms and e-learning resources
in local schools enhances the quality of education and bridges the digital divide.

4. Agriculture and Livelihoods

a. Agricultural Support
● Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY): This scheme promotes efficient irrigation
practices and ensures water security for agriculture, enhancing crop productivity.
b. Livelihood Diversification
● Skill India Mission: Various skill development programs are conducted to equip villagers with
vocational skills, enhancing their employability and promoting entrepreneurship.

5. Social Welfare and Inclusion

a. Women’s Empowerment
● Beti Bachao Beti Padhao: This initiative promotes the education and empowerment of girls,
addressing issues of gender inequality and ensuring equal opportunities.
● Mahila E-Haat: An online marketing platform that provides women entrepreneurs with a
means to showcase and sell their products, fostering economic independence.
b. Financial Inclusion
● Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY): This scheme aims to ensure financial inclusion
by providing access to banking services, including savings accounts, credit, insurance, and
pensions.
● Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT): Subsidies and financial aid are directly transferred to
beneficiaries’ bank accounts, ensuring transparency and reducing leakages.
 Findings
Week 1 Findings
● Day 1: Drainage System
o Observed severe issues with the village drainage system.
o Villagers expressed concerns over stagnant water breeding mosquitoes and spreading
diseases.
● Day 2: Water Supply
o Engaged in discussions with villagers regarding water supply.
o Noted the dependence on borewells and hand pumps, with occasional municipal water
supply interruptions.
● Day 3: Medical Facilities
o Visited local health facilities.
o Noted the lack of essential medicines and medical equipment.
● Day 4: Road Conditions
o Inspected the village roads and link roads.
o Villagers reported difficulties in commuting, especially during the rainy season.
● Day 5: Anganwadi Centre
o Examined the infrastructure and services of the local Anganwadi centre.
o Noted the provision of early childhood education, nutrition, and basic healthcare.

Week 2 Findings
● Day 1: Anganwadi Infrastructure
o Inspected the physical condition of the Anganwadi centre.
o Noted issues with building maintenance and space constraints.
● Day 2: Food Supply
o Evaluated the food distribution process at the Anganwadi centre.
o Found that the food provided is generally nutritious but sometimes insufficient.
● Day 3: Education System
o Surveyed the educational activities conducted at the Anganwadi centre.
o Noted the dedication of staff despite resource limitations.
 ● Day 4: Nutrition for Pregnant Women
o Inspected the nutritional support given to pregnant women.
o Noted the need for more comprehensive nutritional programs.
● Day 5: Health Check-ups
o Conducted a comprehensive study of health check-up facilities at the Anganwadi centre.
o Noted a shortage of medical supplies and trained healthcare providers.

Week 3 Findings
● Day 1: Municipality Office Visit
o Visited the local municipality office to understand schemes for urban informal workers.
o Noted the need for better communication and outreach efforts.
● Day 2: Challenges Faced by Urban Informal Workers
o Explored the challenges faced by urban informal workers.
o Noted the significant impact of these challenges on their quality of life.
● Day 3: Needs Analysis
o Analyzed the specific needs of urban informal workers.
o Identified the necessity for skills training and educational opportunities.
● Day 4: Potential Solutions
o Explored potential solutions to the challenges faced by urban informal workers.
o Suggested the implementation of more inclusive social protection programs.
● Day 5: Lifestyle Analysis
o Analysed the lifestyle and daily struggles of urban informal workers and migrants.
o Found that many live in inadequate housing and face health risks due to poor living
conditions.

Week 4 Findings
● Day 1: Food Distribution Camp
o Organized a food distribution camp in collaboration with the NGO.
o Distributed essential food items to underprivileged families.
● Day 2: Health Camp
o Hosted a health camp with NGO workers.
 o Provided medical check-ups and basic healthcare services to villagers.
● Day 3: Cleanliness Camp
o Organized a cleanliness drive to promote hygiene and sanitation.
o Engaged community members in cleaning public areas and spreading awareness about
hygiene.
● Day 4: Tree Plantation Camp
o Conducted a tree plantation drive with NGO support.
o Planted saplings in various parts of the village to promote environmental sustainability.
● Day 5: Yoga Camp
o Organized a yoga camp to promote physical and mental well-being.
o Conducted yoga sessions and educated villagers about the benefits of regular practice.
 Suggestions & Recommendation

Week 1: 27th May to 2nd June

Drainage System
● Implement a comprehensive drainage improvement project to address waterlogging issues.
● Regular maintenance and cleaning of drainage channels to prevent blockages.
Water Supply
● Upgrade and maintain water supply infrastructure to ensure consistent and reliable water distribution.
● Explore alternative water sources, such as rainwater harvesting, to supplement the existing supply.
Medical Facilities
● Increase the number of medical staff and ensure the availability of essential medicines and equipment.
● Establish a mobile health clinic to provide regular medical services in remote areas.
Road Conditions
● Repair and maintain village roads and link roads to improve connectivity.
● Construct proper drainage systems alongside roads to prevent water accumulation and damage.
Anganwadi Centre
● Ensure a consistent supply of educational materials and nutritious food for children.
● Regular training programs for Anganwadi workers to enhance their skills and knowledge.

Week 2: 3rd June to 9th June

Anganwadi Infrastructure

● Improve sanitation facilities to ensure a healthy environment for children and staff.
● Regular maintenance and inspection to keep the infrastructure in good condition.

Food Supply

● Implement monitoring systems to check the quality and quantity of food being provided.
● Introduce nutrition education programs for parents to encourage healthy eating habits at home.

Education System

● Provide more interactive and engaging educational tools and resources.

● Organize training workshops for Anganwadi teachers to adopt innovative teaching methods.
Nutrition for Pregnant Women

● Regularly distribute nutritional supplements and conduct health check-ups.

● Educate pregnant women on the importance of nutrition and healthy practices during pregnancy.

Health Check-ups

●
● Ensure the availability of medical supplies and trained healthcare providers.
● Establish a follow-up system to monitor the health status of children and pregnant women.

Week 3: 10th June to 16th June

Municipality Office Visit

● Enhance awareness campaigns about government schemes available for urban informal workers.
● Simplify the process for accessing these schemes to encourage more participation.

Challenges Faced by Urban Informal Workers

● Develop targeted programs to address job insecurity and improve working conditions.
● Implement social security measures to provide a safety net for informal workers.

Needs Analysis

● Conduct regular needs assessments to stay updated on the requirements of urban informal workers.
● Provide skills training and educational opportunities to enhance employability.

Potential Solutions

● Collaborate with local NGOs and community organizations to implement inclusive social
protection programs.
● Introduce microfinance schemes to support entrepreneurship and small business
development.

Lifestyle Analysis

● Improve housing conditions and provide basic amenities to enhance the quality of life.
● Organize health and wellness programs to address common health issues.
 Week 4: 17th June to 23rd June

Food Distribution Camp

● Establish regular food distribution programs to ensure food security for underprivileged families.
● Partner with local businesses and donors to sustain food supply initiatives.

Health Camp

● Organize periodic health camps to provide ongoing medical services.

● Collaborate with healthcare professionals and institutions to enhance the quality of services offered.

Cleanliness Camp

● Implement regular cleanliness drives to maintain hygiene and sanitation in the village.
● Educate villagers on the importance of cleanliness and proper waste disposal.

Tree Plantation Camp

● Continue tree plantation drives to promote environmental sustainability.

● Involve schools and community groups in tree planting and maintenance activities.

Yoga Camp

● Organize regular yoga and wellness camps to promote physical and mental health.
● Train local instructors to sustain yoga activities within the community.
 Conclusion
The comprehensive survey and 4-week social internship program in rural Sahadai
Buzurg, conducted by Piyush Grover under various NGOs and local communities,
provided detailed insights into the region's socio-economic challenges and potential
solutions. The comprehensive assessment and engagement in Sirsa village over four
weeks provided valuable insights into the socio-economic challenges and opportunities
for holistic rural development. Through a series of targeted activities, including
infrastructure surveys, healthcare evaluations, educational assessments, and community
engagement, it is evident that while Sirsa faces significant hurdles, there are numerous
avenues for improvement and sustainable growth.

The focus is on infrastructure, water supply, medical facilities, road conditions. The
drainage system's poor state, inconsistent water supply, inadequate medical facilities,
and deteriorating road conditions significantly impact the villagers' quality of life.
Addressing these issues through comprehensive infrastructure projects, improved
maintenance, and enhanced community awareness can lead to substantial
improvements in living conditions. The Anganwadi centre’s services underscored the
importance of early childhood education, nutrition, and healthcare. The need for better
infrastructure, consistent food supply, enhanced educational resources, and
comprehensive health check-ups was evident. The challenges faced by urban informal
workers provided crucial insights into the socio-economic struggles of this vulnerable
group. Issues such as job insecurity, lack of social security, and poor living conditions
are prevalent. Addressing these challenges through targeted programs, skills training,
affordable housing projects, and inclusive social protection measures can enhance the
livelihoods and well-being of urban informal workers.

The collaboration with the NGO to organize various social welfare camps demonstrated
the power of community engagement and collective action. Food distribution, health
camps, cleanliness drives, tree plantation, and yoga camps had a positive impact on the
community, promoting well-being, environmental sustainability, and social cohesion.