Scheme etc. As a norm, this list of beneficiaries, once made, is fixed for 5 years;
therefore, I have begun drawing up a list of the really deserving to be included
in the existing list. The problem of availing clean drinking water affects our
women the most. Therefore, I have, at the Block Office, brought this up, and
got tube wells sanctioned for my Panchayat. However, nothing is accomplished
without the help of the community. Therefore, I have always tried to get at
least the women of my area to cooperate with me in my activities. I am glad
to say that now women are coming in great numbers to the Panchayat and
other meetings and participating in various community activities meant for
development of their area. Now women are coming forward to demand roads
to their villages and raising issues relating to monitoring and evaluation of
NREgS works, setting up a nursery for fishery in Rupra Road, repairing
of school buildings, etc. I have also raised questions about the types of
works enlisted under the NREgS scheme, so that the people can avail of
the maximum benefit. I also take up these issues regularly with the Block
Officials and undertake monitoring and evaluation of developmental works
personally.
However, nothing is done easily in our State. Those opposed to me still try
to disrupt my work and create mischief to discourage me. They came in an
inebriated state to the Panchayat office, threatened, and abused me several
times. I have now put up a notice on the Panchayat office wall banning the
entry of anyone who is drunk. I have also gathered women to fight against
the setting up, selling, and distilling of liquor in their vicinity. My struggle
continues, but I am confident of meeting any challenge that might come my
way, and shall try to live up to the faith that my people have reposed in me.