SC to boot. I was very unsure of myself, and did not know the procedures
and regulations of running a Panchayat. My insecurity also stemmed from the
fact that I had only studied up to Class III, and felt I lacked the knowledge of
what a President was meant to do. I felt that I would look foolish if I asked
questions. I remember wondering why I had consented to doing this at all,
and how I was going to survive the experience.
My decision to undertake training was crucial, as it provided me with the
tools to be a productive and effective President. The training programme
helped me in realizing the full powers of a President - powers that cannot be
countermanded by others. I feel that knowledge is power and this realization
has been critical for me. I subsequently felt confident enough to argue with
the male Members and push my decisions through.
I learnt to read and write during my first term in office. In 1993, in the early
days of my term, I had refused to sign a cheque of Rs. 20,000 since I had not
seen the work for which the payment was due. After the training, I find myself
in control. I keep abreast of all issues and am in control with regard to accounts
and the budget. I was able to change five Secretaries on grounds of their being
uncooperative in my first term; and have had two Secretaries changed since
- I did this by writing to the Zilla Panchayat on the matter.
When I was first elected, there was no office for the Panchayat, which
subsequently I had built. I have facilitated the building of 30 houses for the
Scheduled Caste community under the Ambedkar Scheme. I have sanctioned
20 percent of the Panchayats’ revenue for the Scheduled Caste community, of
this Rs. 50,000 has been used for repair work.
I have also had gutters and roads made; installed street lamps and arranged
for drinking water facilities. I believe that education and knowledge are the
key to empowerment hence I have arranged for books for school children, and
made sure that every single child attends school. I have also ensured that there
is no more bonded labour. The Panchayat has also contributed towards two
Aanganwadis and Health Centres.