I was elected as the President of my gram Panchayat in March 2003. I have
studied until Class VIII. I am a widow and take care not only of my three
children, my father, and mother-in-law but also of the Panchayat work.My strong will for the development of the village inspired me to contest the
election. After a long struggle, my dream of having a school in the village is in
the process of being fulfilled. I raised the need for our village to establish a co-
educational school, as already in the village there are two boys school. I was not
at all discouraged by the repeated non-cooperation from certain individuals
within the community and my widowhood. Despite these obstacles, I took
the gram Sabha in the right direction.Through regular trainings on leadership, I became more focused and gained in
self-esteem and the will power to work more efficiently for the development of
the village. Before, I used to hesitate to leave my home but through the training
programmes, I have participated in programmes organized in Delhi as well as
attended many National workshops organized for the EWRs. gradually, I
developed the skills as a leader and gained the knowledge of my own rights.
Now I stand as a great example and have motivated others in the village by
sharing my experience with the Panchayat members.I travel long distances to collect information regarding government Schemes
and to contact local people. I have taken a keen interest in the activities of the
Panchayat and have fought my own self-doubts and those of my community
about my abilities to lead. In all instances, I try hard to keep the members of
the gram Panchayat involved in the activities of the Panchayat so that they
know their own contribution to the development of the village, which though
outside the four walls of their houses, influences their lives in many ways.In the up-coming election, I am again, planning to contest for the post of
President.Sunita
President
Panchayat: Sukholi Talli
Block: Jaiharikhal
District: Pauri