SAMAGRA SEVA KENDRA

ANNUAL REPORT

2016-2017

At & P.O. BARACHATTI, DIST. GAYA, () PIN - 824201 Phone: 09934235635 E-mail: [email protected] Contact Person: Chhedi Prasad, Secretary

SSK Annual Report 2016-17 1 From the Secretary’s Desk “You must not worry whether the desired result follows from your action or not, so long as your motive is pure, your means correct” - Mahatma Gandhi

Dear all, Social change is constant, continuous, unavoidable and inevitable. Social transformation is the result of positive actions to improve the environment in which marginalized/afflicted/affected are assisted to progress. Samagra Seva Kendra (SSK) is a Change Maker and the Communities which we benefit are change recipients. The true participation of our stakeholders with improved collaborations in the development sector has made gigantic strides since its inception and SSK is continuously marching ahead each year that is more eventful than the previous year. We always believe in peoples’ movements to bring desirable changes for the promotion of basic human rights and sustainable changes in people’s life in Gaya and Nawada districts in Bihar. SSK is recognized by its committed efforts over the years and has received awards and recognition from local bodies and administrations for its excellent work in Rural Development. The year 2016-17 was a success for us and this annual report outlines our good progress to end poverty, social exclusion & discrimination. The efforts made by SSK through meeting, training, advocacy and consultative dialogues have opened up yet another chapter of unmatched success in the field of socio-economic development for the poor and marginalized. In this successful endeavor, we sincerely appreciate, recognize and laud the financial contributions made by our funders like IGSSS, Save the Children, FVTRS, PFI and individuals whose technical guidance and advices always helped us to move forward in a right direction. For all these achievements, I would like to thanks our Board members who govern, staff who produce results and recipient communities who consume, appropriate and change to depict a model.

At last, my sincere and honest pledge to all of you and request the continuation of supports in the coming years as well. Together, we would reach new heights and make productive changes in the lives of the poor and deserved.

Chhedi Prasad Secretary

SSK Annual Report 2016-17 2 ANNUAL REPORT ■Genesis Samagra Seva Kendra (SSK) is a non-government organization (NGO) came into existence in 1980 by a group of social activists and social workers who were inspired by the ideologies of great freedom fighters like Mahatma Gandhi, Jai Prakash Narayan and Bhim Rao Ambedkar to work for Gram Swarajya. Initially, the group worked with reputed social organizations like Samanvaya Ashram & NBJK in Bihar and Jharkhand to take experience of this field. Later on, SSK was registered under the Society Registration Act in 1993 and FCR Act in 1999 to work for bringing social justice and equity to all.

■Vision SSK visualize a self-reliant, progressive and egalitarian society based on mutual understanding, help and trust.

■ Mission To promote an empowered and self-reliant society where each and every individual of the marginalized sections could develop their abilities of making self-decision and leadership to lead a dignified life. ■ Major Objectives

a. To educate, organize and empower rural poor to ensure social justice, economic growth and self reliance. b. To make people aware of their rights, duties and initiatives meant for their overall development. c. To initiative and implement various socio-economic activities for the development of the poor and disadvantaged. d. To improve the precarious state of the villages and slums in Bihar through improves agricultural practices, health and nutrition, proper education, environmental conservation etc. e. To improve community health emphasizing on women and child health, mental health etc. ■ Legal Status

▪ Registered under the Society Registration Act, 1860. Reg. No. 756 dated 03.03.1993. ▪ Registered under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act, 1976. Reg. No. 031090042 dated 26.11.1999.1 ▪ Registered under the Section 12 (A) of Income Tax Act 1961. Reg. No. 12A/2000- 2001/ 2819-21 dated 23.11.2000. ▪ PAN AAAAS5315F. ▪ Service Tax No. AAAAS5315FSD001. ▪ Niti Aayog’s Unique ID No. BR/2017/0167452. ■ Our Bankers

• For National Fund  Punjab National Bank, Barachatti Branch. A/c No.1205000100073388.  State Bank of India, Bumuar Branch. A/c No. 11842063176.  Central Cooperative Bank, Barachatti Branch. A/c No. 445. • For International Fund (FCRA)  Punjab National Bank, Barachatti Branch. A/c No. 1205000100056053.

1 Renewed till 2021.

SSK Annual Report 2016-17 3 ■ Members of the Executive Committee Sl. Name Address Designation Occupation No. 1. Mr. Nageshwar Vill. Nawadih P.O. , President Teacher Ravidas Dist. Chatra, Jharkhand 2. Mr. Chhedi Prasad Vill. Sagarpur, P.O. Basarhi, Secretary Social Work Via: , Dist. Gaya, Bihar 3. Mr. Shashikant Jha At & P.O. Belari, Treasurer Teacher Dist. Bhagalpur, Bihar 4. Mr. Tula Prasad Vill. Mattihani, P.O. Itwan, Member Farmer Dist. Gaya, Bihar 5. Mrs. Gita Devi Vill. Baradih, P.O. Barachatti, Member Social Work Dist. Gaya, Bihar 6. Mr. Saryunandan Vill. Sagarpur, P.O. Basarhi, Member Service Prasad Via: Bodh Gaya, Dist. Gaya, Bihar 7. Mr. Rampati Ram At & P.O. Bansila, Member Ex- Service Dist. Chandauli, Uttar Pradesh 8. Mrs. Sudam Devi Vill. Kahudag, P.O. Barachatti, Member Social Work Dist. Gaya, Bihar 9. Mr. Bindu Giri Vill. Gajragarh, P.O. Barachatti, Member Social Work Dist. Gaya, Bihar ■ Internal Management Structure

Governing Body

Executive Body

Secretary

Project based Accountant Consultant Coordinators

Supervisors Master Trainers

Field Motivators Volunteers

SSK Annual Report 2016-17 4 ■ Our Operational Area

Gaya District in Bihar Blocks Panchayats Villages Barachatti All 13 Panchayats 91 Village

Mohanpur All 18 Panchayats 198 Village

Dobhi All 13 Panchayats 82 Village All 09 Panchayats 53 Village Gurua All 16 Panchayats 96 Village

Imamganj All 05 Panchayats 30 Village

Nawada District in Bihar Coverage: 18 Slums

Note: SSK is also operational in Riga block in Sitamarhi district in Bihar. ■ Issues of Intervention

The priority issues of intervention of SSK are as follows:

•Women Empowerment Entitlement • Gender Equity Capacity realization of Development Dalit & Women

Livelihood Promotion SHG Promotion ISSUES

Adolescent’s • Agriculture Reproductive & •Irrigation Sexual Health Development Networking & •Education Advocacy • Prevention of Social Evils

SSK Annual Report 2016-17 5 ■ Target Groups Women, Children, Youth, Aged, Mentally & Physically Challenged People and Farmers. ■ Human Resources SSK has good combination of professionals and volunteers who works with sincerity and commitment since long to achieve the goal of SSK. At present, 22 full-time staff, 6 part- time staff and 38 volunteers are associated with us.

Distribution of Staff as per Salary Structure (As on 31.3.2017) Slab of gross salary including Male Female Total benefits < Rs. 2000 0 0 0 Rs. 2000-Rs. 5000 0 1 1 Rs. 5000- Rs. 10000 8 13 21 > Rs. 10000 2 1 3 > Rs. 20000 3 0 3 Total 13 15 28

■ Our Donors So Far

{ SSK have so far been supported by Save the Children, IGSSS, Forrad, NABARD, Ministry of HRD, CAPART, Action Village India, NBJK/Basic Needs, FVTRS, Andheri Hilfe, WDC, Samadhan, Adithi, DRDA, Pathfinder International, UNFPA, PFI, BVHA, Urban Development and Housing Department, Govt. of Bihar, DFID and State Health Society.

PROGRESS DURING THE YEAR

PROGRAM 1: SOUL PROJECT

SSK has been supported by Indo German Social Service Society (IGSSS) under “Sustainable Options for Uplifting Livelihood (SOUL)” project since 2013 in 10 villages of the Rohi Panchayat in Barachatti block in in Bihar. The project is playing a significant role in: (i) reducing the food insecurity of the poor families by promoting economic activities in farm based and non-farm based activities (ii) facilitating their access to government social security schemes and (iii) formation and strengthening of CBOs/Alliance and Networking.

Activity Details

(I) Work shop on Right to Information Act for VAT member and CBOs: A workshop on “Right to Information” for VAT member and CBOs was organized by SSK on 24-06-16, 25-06- 16 and on 07-07-2016 in Padumchak, Darwar and Banke villages with the support of Indo Global Social Service Society (IGSSS), New . A total of 127 members participated in this workshop. Objects of RTI

“The basic object of the Right to Information Act is to empower the citizens, promote transparency and accountability in the working of the Government, contain corruption, and make our democracy work for the people in real sense. It goes without saying that an informed citizen is better equipped to keep necessary vigil on the instruments of governance and make the government more accountable to the governed. The Act is a big step towards making the citizens informed about the activities of the Government.”

SSK Annual Report 2016-17 6 The workshop started with self-introduction of the participants and with a traditional cultural song by VAT members and CBOs. Workshop sessions were conducted by Mr. Gopal Chaudhari, Trainer, PRI, . Mr. Chaudhari briefly discussed about Right to Information Act and said that the Act which was launched in 2005 is a strong weapon for common man that empowers a citizen access to any types of information related to government schemes and departments. He also told about the method of writing an application under RTI.

(II) Training cum Demonstration on SRI Vidhi: Training cum demonstration on SRI Vidhi was organized by SSK on 09-06-2016 and 14-11-2016 at Bhaghar village. 87 farmers of 5 villages namely Bhaghar, Padumchak, Rakshi, Tiwari Chak, and Sarwa Khurd successfully participated in it. Training was provided by Jai Ram Prasad- Trainer of ATMA organization who discussed on investment and profit under SRI Vidhi. He also demonstrated briefly on best practices and multiple benefits of SRI Vidhi.

Important Points Discussed •Seed treatment • Plant transplant in 8 to 12 days • Carefully transplant one by one in row • Use of Hand-weeded during weeding • Plantation should be in a row and 10 inch Gap between two Plants. • Use of organic manure/vermin compost.

(III) Training of SHG, ASHA & AWW on Women and Child Nutrition Rights: Training of SHG, ASHA & AWW on Women and Child Nutrition Rights was organized by SSK on 11-06- 2016, 04-07-2016 & 7.10.2016 in Banke, Padumchak and Darwar villages. A total of 108 participants comprising women of SHG, ASHA & AWW, Adolescents, Lactating Mothers and Married Women participated in the training program successfully. Ms. Gita Kumari-Trainer of Agragami India, Gaya and Ms. Jaylata Kumari, Asha Facilitator, Barachatti participated in the training program as resource persons. The trainings started with the introduction of the participants and discussions were made on what malnutrition is and how it comes in our body. The Resource persons explained that malnutrition is a chronic disease and we always see cases of malnutrition in child and mother. It happens because of lack of nutrition in our body. Nutrition is a complete balanced element that controls our body and provides extra power to work. Important Points Discussed •Malnutrition •Nutrition •Source of Nutrition •Government Services MDM/ICDS facilities • Types of meals and • Excusive breast feeding etc.

(IV) Meetings with VAT Members: Quarterly meetings with VAT members were organized at village Bhaghar, Banke and Darwar villages in Bara Panchayat at community halls on 22- 06-2016, 22.10.2016, 21.12.2016 and 25.02.2017. These VAT meetings were organized on quarterly basis by SSK that were participated by 25 VAT members at each occasion. During the meeting, VAT members shared their experiences of the changes that happen after SSK intervention in the village. They told that they are now taking benefits of government

SSK Annual Report 2016-17 7 schemes like Kishan Credit Card, Pension Scheme and Subsidy Scheme and able to understand social issues in a better manner. In the meeting, VAT members shared their experiences of organic pesticides, seeds and manures and how to use green organic manure, pesticide and seed in the agriculture lands for improved productivity. Resource persons also discussed that farmers should use quality seeds judging the climate and weather previous condition otherwise it will affect their production and income. Information were also shared on how to use 27p-31p, Sonalika, Pan Mansuri, Paddy Breed and Papaya Farming on low investments and earn good profit per Kattha (1360 square fit) of lands.

(V) Exposure Visits: (i) Exposure visit of farmers was conducted on 12-12-2016. Main objective of the exposure visit was to motivate farmers for seed production, adoption of

different types of cropping and information on crop rotation, vermin-compost production and organic farming practices. A total of 31 farmers as well as seed producers visited “National Agriculture Research Centre Plandu” in Ranchi under Soul II Project. Mr. B.D. Das, Agriculturist shared important information with the participant during the visit.

(ii) One day exposure visit of the producers of vermin compost was organized by SSK on 30- 12- 2016. This exposure was organized “Nandani Bio Fertilizer Institute” in Bodh Gaya. A total of 31 farmers were benefitted by exposure visit. Mr. Prem Kumar, Agriculturist shared information with the participants on seed production on the spot. (VI) Training cum Demonstration on SWI: Training cum demonstration on SWI was organized by SSK in Bhaghar. A total of 42 participants participated in the training program with good success. Mr. Jay Ram Kumar-Trainer of PRAN (Preservation and Proliferation of Rural Resource and Nature) informed participants on: ▪ How to improve productivity of wheat and other crops based on environment friendly agricultural practices.

▪ How to improve crop production in a small scale of land by SWI technique &

▪ How to cope up with changing climate condition.

SSK Annual Report 2016-17 8 (VII) Training of PRI Representative on Social Security Scheme: Training for newly elected PRI Representatives on their Rights and Social Security Scheme was an important activity of IGSSS project. The activity was conducted in Bhaghar and Bhatbigha villages on 15-02-2017 and 20-02-2017. A total of 71 PRI Representatives (male and female) participated in the training. During the sessions, discussion was made on Social Security Scheme as well as rights, role, function, duties and responsibilities of PRI Representatives. Mukhiya, Ex-Mukhiya, Sarpanch and Ward Member participated in the training program. Ms. Poonam Devi, Panchyati Raj Trainer, Patna discussed in details on important topics like Panchayat Raj Amendments, Importance and Rights of Gram Sabha & Ward Sabha, Formation of Monitoring and Functionary System with the participants.

(VII) Organization of Kisan Mela: Kisan Mela was organized by SSK on 27-01-2017 & 23- 03-2017 in Bhaghar and Darwar villages in the presence of Smt. Madhawi Devi (Mukhia of Rohai Panchayat). A good number of farmers participated in the Kisan Mela. Mr. Chhedi Prasad, Secretary, SSK said that this Mela is collection of various products produced by farmers by the use of vermin compost and organic farming. He further explained that it is an important platform to motivate and divert farmers on use of vermin compost and bio fertilizers in place of chemical fertilizers and pesticides as the uses of it are badly affecting our health and environment.

On the occasion, prizes were also distributed to 35 farmers who produced their entire products like vegetable, grains and cash crop by using vermin compost and organic pesticides.

(VIII) Training of Community Para Veterinary Cadres: Training of Community Para Veterinary Cadres (CPVC) was organized on 8.2.2017 & 20.3.2017 at SSK Training Hall at Barachatti. Smt. Sunjula Kumari- Animal Husbandry Officer, Barachatti participated in the training program as resource person. Total 36 CPVC participated in the program with success. Smt. Sunjula Kumari discussed on following points:

• System of livestock rearing •System of food •Identification of good breed •Identification of diseases • Immunization • Construction of shed • Milk production & • Goat rearing.

Mr. Chhedi Prasad, Secretary of SSK also discussed on the objects of Soul II Project and CPVC. He said that the main aim of this CPVC program is creation of easy and smooth relationship between community and government hospitals.

SSK Annual Report 2016-17 9 (VIII) Micro Plan Follow-up Meetings: Micro plan follow-up meetings were organized by SSK in 5 villages. A total of 135 male and female Panchayat Representatives participated in these follow up meetings. The details are as follows: Sl Date Village Participant Proposal Proposal No. Submitted Accepted

1. 27-02-2017 Tiwari Chak 27 15 2

2. 01-03-2017 Rakshi 30 14 2 3. 02-03-2017 Sharma Khurd 27 13 2 4. 03-03-2017 Bhaghar 23 14 4

5. 06-03-2017 Padumchak 28 18 4 Total 135 74 14

(IX) Training cum Demonstration on Traditional Agriculture Practices: Training cum orientation program on “Traditional Agriculture Practices (TAP)” was organized on 23-09- 2016, 05-10-16 and 23-02-16 at SSK training hall in Bhaghar village. A total of 120 small and marginal farmers and villagers successfully participated in the program. Training was organized by Mr. Kamdev Prasad Mehta- Agriculture Monitoring & Evaluation Officer, Jeevika, Bihar. Program was started with the self-introduction of the participants. During different sessions the participants were informed that TAP is a type of farming that uses techniques developed over decade to ensure good and sustainable yield over time in a specific area or region. He also said that Traditional Agriculture is mostly practiced on small farms where crops are mixed, often using multiple varieties of the same crop.

Important Points Discussed •History of traditional agriculture practices •Types of agriculture •Old agricultural practices and pattern •Modern agricultural practices •Uses of chemical fertilizer & its harmful effects •Harmful effects of pesticides •Climate change and its effects on Agriculture •Land and water management •Crop rotation etc.

SSK Annual Report 2016-17 10 CASE STUDY

Name Profile

Suman Devi Age: 30 year W/O Jang Bahadur Prasad Education: 12th Class Vill.: Padumchak, Panchayat: Sarwa No. of dependent members: 4 Barachatti, Gaya Occupation : Agriculture Land : 15 Kattha Suman Devi is a poor woman of village Padumchak in Barachatti block. She lives in a joint family of 4 members and the family status is very weak. Limited grain production in the land and no other source of income in the village forced her husband to migrate for livelihood. During the IGSSS program in the village, she joined as a VAT member and participated in the training program sincerely. After training, she prepared organic pesticides and vermin compost in home and started using these organic products in her small piece of land. It resulted in production yield. Now, Suman is preparing organic pesticides and green manure at larger scale. She also received “First Prize” in Kisan Mela for using organic manure and pesticides for vegetable production. Now, she is saving approx Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 8,000 yearly and her poor family situation got improved. Now, she is also motivating other women for adoption of organic farming for improved production and income. PROGRAM 2: Vocational Training PROGRAM

In India, 70% of the population is below 35 years of age coupled with the existing range of dropout, one can only imagine the youth who are in need of skill training to make a living on their own. Vocational training is the only panacea for the unemployed youth to find a proper expression in their life. But, India is yet to take advantage of the demographic advantage of its young population to convert them in fine human capital. There is a need to pay attention to this vast section of the youth in the unorganised sector by empowering them through skill training initiative. Skill education and skill diversity need to lay emphasis on linking skill education with livelihood. Poverty and school dropout is highly prevalent in Barachatti and Mohanpur blocks in Gaya district in Bihar. Here the youth of the SC, BC and Dalit/Mahadalit communities are unable to continue education because of poverty and remain unemployed. School dropout rate of youth is more than 15%. In the changing job market scenario now, it demands only the skilled people. Due to poverty and unemployment, youth of the target blocks and those of the selected villages are frustrated and indulge in playing cards and alcoholism. In the project area, some of the unskilled workforce is in unorganized sector, where their exploitation is high with no career growth hence the inherent leadership quality of youth is subdued.

SSK Annual Report 2016-17 11 In 2016-17, SSK has been supported by Functional Vocational Training Forum & Research Society (FVTRS), Bangalore to impart “Functional Vocational Training” to 120 school dropout youth (male-30 and female-90) in Computer, Ready Made Garment, Electrician and Beautician trades. Project Objectives a. To generate skill of the school dropout youth for assured livelihood support. b. To assist them to become employed/self-employed at the local and regional level.

c. To improve socio-economic status of unemployed youth in the society and their integration into the mainstream of development.

Under the project, quality training was imparted to male and female youth successfully. Qualified and experienced instructors were recruited for training. Youth were also informed about the schemes/loans through EDP training and also about loan facilities provided by NABARD, DRDA and Banks to start self-employment venture after training.

Highlights of Accomplishment • PC and trainers helped beneficiaries know about the importance of the training and the income generation opportunities after training. Periodic evaluations by SSK make project strong.

• Emphasis has been made on keeping the motivation of the beneficiaries intact during the training period with periodic EDP training classes. It helped in quality skill generation among the beneficiaries with improved know how on self-employment opportunities.

• 100% self-employment to beneficiaries generated. Average per month income increase in the range of Rs. 3,000-Rs. 5,000 helped in enhancing their dignity and status in the family and society at large.

CASE STUDY Case Study-I: Garment Making Poonam Kumari, age 22 years, caste SC lives in Vill. Kendua in Barachatti block in Gaya district in Bihar. Her father’s name is Raju Paswan. She lives with her family. Father is a farmer and mother is a housewife. But, family is facing poverty. When Poonam knew about the skill training program of SSK & FVTRS, she took admission in Garment making training program free of cost. She attended training classes for a period of 6 months and learnt the skill of garment making sincerely. After training, she has started a ready-made garment shop in her home. Now, she is earning Rs. 2,500-Rs.3,000 per month. She has become self-dependent and her family status got improved. She gives all credit to SSK and

FVTRS, Bangalore for her self-employment.

SSK Annual Report 2016-17 12 CASE STUDY

Case Study-II: Electrician Trade Lalu Kumar S/O Tetar Prasad is a 25 years old boy belongs to Itra village of Mohanpur block in Gaya district in Bihar. He is younger in his family. His father earning is not enough to feed the family well. Seeing the poor condition of the family, Lalu left school after 8thclass. He was admitted in the electrician training course of SSK and FVTRS at village Bumuar. He sincerely attended classes for 6 months and generated skill in the electrician work. Now, he is doing electrical fittings in the buildings and homes at Mohanpur and earning Rs. 6,000-Rs. 7,000 per month. He is assisting his family economically to lead a good life. He gives all credit to SSK and FVTRS, Bangalore for his self-employment. CASE STUDY

Case Study-III: Beautician Trade Rupa Kumari D/O Chandeshwar Saw is a 19 years young girl belongs to Paroriya village of Mohanpur block in Gaya district in Bihar. She is living with her family. Her father sells Golgappa and his income is low. Rupa is educated up to class IX but unable to read further because of the poverty. She wants to help her family economically but lack any skill to earn. One day, she came to know about SSK and FVTRS “beautician” training course in the village and she immediately enrolled for training. She attended training classes for a period of 6 months and learnt beautician skill very sincerely. Now after training, she is doing beautician work from home and earning Rs. 2,500-Rs.3,000 per month. Her income helped her family to live a good life. She gives all credit to SSK and FVTRS, Bangalore for his self-employment.

PROGRAM 3: MKBKSH PROJECT SSK has been supported by Population Foundation of India (PFI) for promotion of entertainment education TV serial “Main Kuch Bhi Kar Sakti Hoon” (MKBKSH). Women empowerment was its central theme. The project covered 50 villages of 6 Panchayats namely Binda, Bajarkar, Sarwan, Bara, Rohi and Kahudag in Barachatti block in Gaya district in Bihar.

MKBKSH project increased awareness of youth in urban and rural areas on issues of sexual and reproductive health and rights, mental health and right age of marriage through digital intervention. The project inspires women to fight for their rights and helped them to believe that they can achieve anything. Achievements of the Project in 50 Villages • 326 adolescent girls have delayed their marriages. • 163 married young women have delayed their first child birth. • 324 married young women have adopted condoms to put spacing between 2 children. • Formation of “Sneha Clubs” helped in popularizing the serial. 899 meetings organized participated by 9708 members.

SSK Annual Report 2016-17 13 • Change in mind set of the mother in law, adolescent girls and parents of 0-3 child towards early child bearing, SRH and spacing between 2 children.

• Reduced myths and misconceptions on SRHR, mental health and early marriages. • Increase in institutional deliveries. • Small family planning norms emphasized. • 94 Kishori Groups formed in 50 project villages. 1130 meetings organized participated by 10880 members. • 5 videos screened on the issues of child marriage, killing of female feticide, family planning and women empowerment. • 100 members of “Sneha Clubs” imparted capacity building training. • 69 Swasthya Mela organized reached to 827 villagers. • 71 Sas-Bahu Samellan benefitted 1609 participants. • 450 adolescent boys and girls received “Awards” for excellent work in social cause.

SUCCESS STORIES (I) Delay in Marriage: Nagmanti Kumari D/O Rampravesh Mandal belongs to Mahadalit community lives in Ganguar village with her father, mother, 2 sisters and 2 brothers. Her age is 18 years and she is 5th class pass. The only source of the income of family was agriculture and that was also not profitable. Thus, family lives in poor condition. The village literacy percentage is very low and because of this, parents still consider daughters burdens and do their marriages early. The parents also want to marriage Nagmanti at an early age. At that time, SSK organized a meeting under the project MKBKSH in village Ganguar and in that meeting Nagmanti also participated. In the meeting, discussion was made on the “harms of early marriage” that impressed Nagmanti very much. She also brought her mother in these meetings and learnt about the harms of early marriages by watching Television Serial MKBKSH. After attending several meetings her mother got aware on the harm of early marriage. She changed the decision of Nagmanti marriage. She now promoting her daughters studies despite financial crisis. Now, Nagmanti is very happy and confidently said that she will not marry before completing graduation and becoming self- dependent. She has full support of her parents now. She now also suggests her friends not to opt for early marriages.

(II) Spacing between 2 Children and use of Condoms: Soni Kumari (19 years) W/O Guddu Kumar lives in Vill. Noagardan in Barachatti block. Soni is a housewife and Guddu is a farmer. Soni was physically weak after marriage but her parents in law were eager for “Grand Son” soon. After some time, Soni get involved with MKBKSH project in which she came to know about family planning norms like spacing between 2 child, foods habits during pregnancy and use of contraceptives. Soni discussed all information of pregnancy restraining tools with her husband. After sincere thoughts both Soni and Guddu decided that they will use Condoms that have no side effects. Today, they are feeling safe in using condoms and decided not to have a child till 21. Soni now give advices to other young women about family planning. She is thankful to MKBKSH project. (III) Differences between Son and Daughter: Babita Devi (23 years) W/O Dinesh Ravidas belongs to SC community lives with her family in Vill. Chainpur in Barachatti block. Dinesh have a joint family with all family members are involved in labor activities for livelihood. Babita have a daughter but the family members of the view that a son is necessary to promote clan. Therefore, Babita became pregnant soon after the birth of the first child but once again she gave birth to a daughter. The families of Babita were not happy at all as they want a Son. After some time, Sonam joined meetings of MKBKSH project in the village and was a part of discussion on topics like differences between Son and Daughter and spacing between 2

SSK Annual Report 2016-17 14 Children. It was told in the meetings not to differentiate between Son and Daughter as they are equal. Sonam was influenced by the discussion in the meetings and decided to give appropriate care and affections to his both daughters. She also told this to her husband and family members who realized their faults. Now, the daughters are getting true care and education. Sonam is very thankful to MKBKSH project. PROGRAM 4: MARRIAGE-NO CHILD PLAY PROJECT Project entitled – “Marriage-No Child’s play” is being implemented by SSK in partnership with Save the Children in Mohanpur block of Gaya district and with CHARM in Riga block of Sitamarhi district in Bihar to stop child marriages and improve status of adolescents. Bihar bears the highest burden of child marriages with 68.2% women in age group 20- 24 years married before the age of 18 years (DLHS 2007-08). Bihar is one of the poorest states in India with 40.7% of population living below the poverty line. Child marriage perpetuates poverty over generations and is linked to poor health; curtail education and violence against children, especially girls. However, its effects are harmful not only to girls but also to families, communities and economies. In Gaya (NFHS 2015-16), child marriage prevalence in rural area is 40.18%. In Mohanpur block of Gaya district and in Riga block in Sitamarhi district there is a social acceptance to this menace which is harmful to girl children. At the village and Panchayat level, awareness is low and also elected PRI representatives do not give priority to the issue. In Mohanpur block, more than 45% of marriages are before the age of 18. It is a major social concern that deny the basic rights to health, nutrition, education, freedom from violence, abuse and exploitation and deprives the affected child of his/her childhood. The project aims to influence young people to decide when to marry and how to pursue their sexual reproductive health rights in supportive environment. The key stakeholders of the project were Adolescents (10-19) years (Who are at risk), In-laws, Front line health workers (health, education, ICDS, livelihood, birth registration, protection etc), CBOs (SHG, CPC, VPMC), Traditional Leaders, Officials of Department of Education, Representatives of PRI, Media Personnel, Legal Officials, Marriage Registrar and likeminded NGOs and CBOs. KEY PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS ▪ “Adolescent Health Day” was organized in Mohanpur block and Riga block. Project team of SSK brought members of education, health, and ICDS department at the block & panchayat level at one platform and engaged children in different life skills activities.

▪ CHC-Mohanpur provided a room for organizing adolescent friendly health services after a long advocacy with MOI/c. Save the Children also provided needful support for it.

▪ Supported block administration in making 12000 km long Human Chain across the State in support of liquor ban in Bihar on January 21, 2017.

SSK Annual Report 2016-17 15 ▪ Save the Children has been invited as a member of “District Advisory Committee (Youth Programs)” in Sitamarhi district. The meeting presided by District Magistrate, Sitamarhi. He appreciated project initiatives and requested concerned departments to support the project and work closely.

▪ ANMs of intervention area and “Adolescent Friendly Health Clinics” were capacitated on Anemia screening using non-invasive TouchHb method. 6 handsets were handed over to PHC-Riga.

▪ Cluster meetings conducted with DL to start Lalita & Babu sessions in the field. It helped building confidence of DL to facilitate sessions on Life skill education.

▪ Adolescents’ engagement in different platform was one of the most important aspects of this project. Social mapping with participation of DL and adolescents were organized so that they may identify those pockets that are prone to child marriages. ▪ District Child Protection Unit was formed. The members of Block level Child Protection Unit were capacitated on their roles and responsibilities, need of CPC and its basic structures. Representation of adolescents in these committees had promoted. Now representative of adolescent will also become the members of block level CPC.

▪ ANMs of Mohanpur block were trained on Non-invasive ToucHB techniques for anaemia screening. ANMs on ARSH capacities were built by organizing 2-day training for them. Training generated great impact on the block level health functionaries.

▪ On 3rd Nov 2016, a block level stake holder’s consultation on elimination of child marriage –with the leading slogan “Marriage No Childs Play” (VIBAH KOI BACHHO KA KHEL NEHI”) was organized. The consultation improved sensitization and access of adolescence to different govt. departments to stop child marriages. Stake holders like Adolescents, BDO, Member-Jila Parishad, BEO, MOIC-PHC, Coordinator-BRC, CRC- Schools, Principal, Teachers and Program Officer-MNREGA successfully participated in it.

▪ UNCRC week organized in Mohanpur block on November, 2016. On the occasion, children spread messages through Nukkad Natak and Rally on ill effects of child marriages and to stop it. Adolescent groups (10-19 years) formed in 14 villages of Mohanpur block to stop child marriages.

▪ 72 female discussion leaders and 10 male discussion leaders were selected. Discussion leaders were key players in facilitating life skill education using Lalita and Babu Module to adolescents in their respective groups. 5 days training was also imparted to discussion leaders on Lalita and Babu Module to conduct field level session as per plan. 2 days practice session of project staff on Lalita and Babu Module was also organized.

▪ 10 CPCs and 13 VMPCs were formed to create a supportive environment on protection issues of adolescents and monitoring of health services.

▪ Sensitization of peer support networks like JIVIKA group, Child Helpline, Bal Sansad, Meena Manch, Puja Samiti of youth group etc. were done. It helped in sensitization of 449 peer groups in Riga and Mohanpur blocks on negative aspects of child marriage and barriers that effects overall adolescent development and also explained about the support required to fight against existing social evils. PROGRAM 5: AMPLIFY CHANGE PROJECT Project entitled – “Breaking Barriers to Achieve Results for Children” is being implemented by SSK in partnership with Save the Children in Mohanpur block in Gaya district in Bihar. The project aims to increase access to quality information and appropriate community and state support on sexual and reproductive health for adolescents in the age group of 10-19 years.

KEY PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS

SSK Annual Report 2016-17 16 ▪ Enhanced adolescent knowledge and positive attitudes towards SRH and healthy behaviors through working with Discussion Leaders (peer educators) and used Lalita and Babu Life Skill module. A total of 208 girls groups and 28 boys groups formed that attracted 4023 adolescent girls and 627 boys. ▪ Capacities of 472 “Discussion Leaders” on Lalita and Babu Life skill module enhanced. They are now playing multiple roles such as facilitating discussion sessions in group, engaging adolescents through different community level activities for eliminating barriers, disseminating information materials, mentoring or referring and accompanying adolescents to health centres. ▪ Empowered adolescents on SRHR, build confidence to raise their voices against exploitation, provide social support or an access point for information and care related to SRH through discussion sessions using Lalita and Babu Module and different exercises in groups. Adolescent groups offered safe spaces where adolescents can meet friends, engage in discussions, access informational materials, seek help, or participate in training and sports. A total of 246 discussion sessions organized involving 1316 adolescent girls. ▪ Engaged adolescents in developing scripts for street play, songs, wall writing slogans against the child marriages and SRHR rights. These messages as well as street theatre performances conducted by adolescents were effective and well received by community. ▪ Build supportive environment for adolescents through community mobilizations exercises such as meeting of parents and CBOs. Gradually, community got aware of ill effects of child marriage and now treating SRH as social taboo. 33 parents meetings attracted 1136 parents overall. ▪ Strengthened CBOs (Village level Planning and Monitoring Committee, Child Protection Committee, Members of Panchayati Raj Institutions) by arranging quarterly meetings. It is helping in addressing myths and misconceptions, beliefs, fears on SRH issues and services and increasing awareness of ASRH issues. They were engaged through different activities for improving healthcare services. ▪ Developed strong liasoning with DCPU to strengthen child protection mechanism from ward level to district level. It resulted into formation of CPC at Block, Panchayat and Ward level in the intervention area. In government guidelines, adolescents are not part of this committee. With the project initiatives, representations of adolescent in this committee are accepted. Now representatives of adolescent also the members of block level CPC. ▪ Engaged media on different occasions for highlighting the SRHR issues and encouraging supporters for raising their voices and fight against this social evil. ▪ Provided health and/or counselling services specific to SRH. The capacity of FHWs (ANM, AWW and ASHA) increased. Participation of adolescent at VHSND site improved where they received SRH services like anaemia screening, counseling, IFA, TT etc. ▪ 2 days training of 27 ANMs, 57 AWWs and ASHAs on SRHR that also focused on Adolescent Friendly Health Services (AFHS) organized. ▪ ANMs on non-invasive technique using TouchB device to screen anaemia. Project staffs provided handholding support to ANM at VHSND site where ANM provided services to the community. ▪ Facilitating inter-sectoral coordination with government departments. Block and district level consultation meetings with different stake holders (government officials, PRI members, MLAs, Adolescent and Discussion Leaders) were conducted on child marriages. 55 important stake holders at block level and 46 members along with District Magistrate at district level participated in it. An appeal from all government officials were made to support the initiative to make Mohanpur a Child Marriage free block. Rally and Nukkad Nataks were also organized to promote mass awareness to stop child marriages. ▪ Conducted study on menstrual hygiene and practices.

Case Study

SSK Annual Report 2016-17 17 Supriti Kumari is an 18 years old girl live with her family in Dharhara village in Mohanpur block in Gaya district. Supriti is studying at standard 12th at Sobh College situated at 16 km from Dharhara village. Dharhara is a remote village situated at a distance of 55 km from district town and 10 km from Mohanpur block. Supriti’s mother is a house wife and father is a hawker in Ranchi, Jharkhand. The family average income was Rs. 8,000/- per month. The economic condition of the family is poor. Supriti wants to continue study and become self- dependent. Supriti is vocal and possess good potential to become a discussion leader (DL). Project staff of Amplify Change Project able to convince her after a long discussion. Now, Supriti is a very active and potential DL. She is now playing multiple roles such as facilitating discussion sessions in group, engaging adolescents through different community level activities for eliminating barriers, disseminating information materials, mentoring or referring and accompanying adolescents to health centers. One good thing was that parents want their child to study but marriage of daughter was also on the floor of discussion. In Mohanpur block, marriage of girls after 16 years is very common. But seeing the talent of Supriti, their parents supported her ambition to study and become self- dependent in life.

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SSK Annual Report 2016-17 18 FINANCIAL DETAILS

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SSK Annual Report 2016-17 19