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Strengthening Partnerships and Community Impact in Jharkhand
Bal Raksha Bharat (BRB) has continued to solidify its presence and impact in Jharkhand through the strategic interventions led by Program Implementation Unit 6 (PIU 6), Bal Raksha Bharat. Operating in Gumla and West Singhbhum districts, the unit has been instrumental in building strong relationships with various government departments, enhancing educational outcomes, improving child nutrition, and developing livelihood opportunities for women and adolescents. These efforts have been particularly focused on ensuring that vulnerable children receive the care, protection, and resources they need to thrive.
In collaboration with the Education Department, the Women and Child Development & Social Security (WCD&SS) department, Health & Nutrition (H&N) department, and the State Livelihood Mission, BAL RAKSHA BHARAT has not only deepened its impact but also worked to ensure sustainability by embedding technical support within government frameworks. Here’s a detailed look at the work done in these regions, emphasizing the progress made, challenges faced, and the long-term benefits for the community.
Geographical Focus and Key Interventions
Education Interventions in Gumla and West Singhbhum Districts
BAL RAKSHA BHARAT’s most extensive educational interventions have been in Kamdara Block of Gumla District and Khuntpani Block of West Singhbhum District. Across these areas, BRB worked with 108 Anganwadi Centers (AWCs) and 90 primary schools, providing technical support to improve foundational learning outcomes for young children.
144 teachers and 99 Anganwadi workers (AWWs) received training under the “Ready to Learn” program. This initiative aimed to build capacity among educators by introducing innovative teaching methods and improving engagement with children.
To ensure children had the tools necessary for foundational learning, BAL RAKSHA BHARAT distributed Educational Learning Material (ELM) kits, as well as Big Books and storybooks, to 108 AWCs and 90 schools. These materials were specifically chosen to support early literacy and numeracy, fostering a better learning environment for children aged 3-6 years.
Protecting Children through Workforce Development in Chakradharpur Block
In Chakradharpur Block, West Singhbhum, Bal Raksha Bharat supported 15 panchayats as a technical support agency under the “Protecting Children through Capacitated Workforce” initiative. The aim was to empower local government and child protection workers with the tools and knowledge to effectively safeguard children’s rights. By training government officials and integrating child protection mechanisms into the local workforce, we ensured that vulnerable children were better protected from harm and exploitation.
Nutrition and Livelihood Initiatives in Sonua Block
In Sonua Block of West Singhbhum, BRB worked to improve access to essential nutrition interventions for women, children, and adolescents. Recognizing the critical link between nutrition and livelihood, the program focused on empowering communities through sustainable income-generating activities.
Sun Groups Formation: To boost local livelihoods, 10 Sun Groups were developed. These groups, composed primarily of women, were trained and supported in generating sustainable income through various agricultural and non-agricultural activities.
Cost of Diet Study: A comprehensive “Cost of Diet” study was conducted to assess the affordability and availability of nutritious food in the region. The findings were disseminated to local government stakeholders, helping shape future interventions aimed at improving food security for vulnerable populations.
Development of a Child-Friendly Juvenile Home in Chaibasa, West Singhbhum
Responding to a request from the government, we successfully developed a child-friendly juvenile home in Chaibasa, West Singhbhum. This facility was designed to provide a safe, nurturing environment for children in conflict with the law, focusing on their rehabilitation and reintegration into society. The project was completed on time and handed over to the district authorities, marking a significant step toward protecting the rights and well-being of children in the justice system.
Relocation of the ECCE Resource Centre in Gumla
Another significant milestone was the relocation of the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Resource Centre from Sisai Block to the District Social Welfare Office (DSWO) in Gumla. This strategic move expanded the reach of the ECCE program, allowing BRB to engage with a larger number of Anganwadi centers and schools, ultimately benefiting more children with early childhood development services.
Sustaining Educational Excellence through Capacity Building
PIU 6 placed a strong emphasis on building the capacity of educators and Anganwadi workers. The following are some key initiatives undertaken to ensure high-quality educational outcomes:
Learning Through Play: In both Khuntpani and Kamdara blocks, two-day training programs on “Learning Through Play” were organized for 35 government officials, 158 teachers, and 105 AWWs. These programs were designed to introduce interactive, play-based learning methods, fostering an environment where children could develop critical thinking and social skills in a creative way.
Storytelling as a Pedagogical Tool: Recognizing the power of storytelling in education, BRB coordinated online and face-to-face storytelling training sessions in collaboration with Katha. These sessions, held in March 2024, involved 20 teachers, 19 AWWs, and various government officials, equipping educators with new methods to engage children more effectively.
Impact of Technical Support and Brand Recognition
Bal Raksha Bharat’s strategic engagement with the local government in Jharkhand has significantly elevated the organization’s reputation as a trusted partner. By embedding technical support within government systems, BRB has been recognized as an integral contributor to child welfare initiatives in the state.
Government Orders and Collaboration: The Jharkhand government issued official orders recognizing BRB’s role in providing technical support during cluster and sector meetings, GURU Gosthi (teacher’s forums), and monthly ICDS meetings. This collaboration not only strengthened our brand but also deepened the organization’s reach and impact on child education and protection.
PIU 6’s work in Jharkhand has laid the foundation for sustainable, long-term improvements in child welfare, education, and nutrition. With plans to continue interventions in Gumla and West Singhbhum districts until December 2025, BRB is committed to deepening its impact through continued technical support, capacity building, and resource mobilization. By fostering strong relationships with government partners and empowering local communities, PIU 6 is ensuring that the children of Jharkhand have a brighter, more secure future.
