Dear Mr. Suman Jile,
We appreciate your provided information. We will thoroughly examine these aspects and take the necessary steps to ensure that workers can receive the benefits.
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Behavioural Change
Mr. Hanamantharaya, a small business owner in Kollur M village, Yadgiri district, faced a pressing waste management issue. His shop, situated 300 meters away from the town, had been resorting to open waste burning, which was not only detrimental to the environment but also posed health risks to the community.
Recognising the gravity of the situation, Saahas stepped in to initiate a comprehensive intervention. Their approach began with awareness campaigns and continued with sustained efforts to bring about positive change in Kollur M village. The central objective was to educate the community about the significance of waste segregation and responsible waste disposal. Furthermore, they drew inspiration from existing waste management initiatives within the Gram Panchayat.
The outcomes of Saahas’ interventions have been promising. The Kollur M village community, including Mr. Hanamantharaya, now actively segregates dry waste. They have embraced a more responsible approach towards waste disposal. This shift in behavior has led to the contribution of dry waste to the Swachha Vahini Vehicle operated by the Gram Panchayat. This collaborative effort ensures cleaner and more sustainable waste management practices in the region.
Saahas’ tireless work not only mitigated the environmental hazards caused by waste burning but also fostered a sense of community responsibility. By empowering individuals with knowledge and offering them practical solutions, they have set a commendable example of grassroots environmental conservation. The transformation in Kollur M village serves as a testament to the power of awareness and collective action in addressing critical issues.
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HONOURED WITH GANDHI GRAMA PURASKAR 2022-23
Kolluru (M) Gram Panchayat, located in the Shahpur taluk of Yadgir District, Karnataka, has been bestowed with the prestigious Gandhi Grama Puraskar award for the year 2022-23. This recognition stands as a testament to the relentless efforts put forth by the Grama Panchayat in fostering holistic development within their community. Kolluru Grama Panchayat was one of eight Panchayats that received guidance and support from the Saahas organization, in collaboration with the Rain Matter Foundation, to enhance their Solid Waste Management (SWM) practices.
The Gandhi Grama Puraskar awards, a symbol of Gandhian principles and sustainable rural development, were presented to 233 Grama Panchayats hailing from 31 districts across Karnataka. The presentation ceremony took place on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, celebrated on October 2nd, at the Banquet Hall of the Vidhana Soudha, the state’s legislative headquarters in Bengaluru.
These awards are a recognition of the outstanding work done by Grama Panchayats in implementing key developmental initiatives. These include the effective execution of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), providing clean drinking water, implementing housing schemes, improving sanitation facilities, efficient solid waste disposal, and conducting regular Grama Sabha meetings. The assessment criteria for these awards encompass various aspects that contribute to the overall welfare and progress of rural communities.
Kolluru Grama Panchayat’s achievement serves as an inspiring example of dedicated community leadership and partnership with organizations like Saahas and Rain Matter Foundation. It highlights the positive impact that coordinated efforts in areas like solid waste management can have on the quality of life in rural regions. The recognition through the Gandhi Grama Puraskar is not just a celebration of their efforts but a call to action for other Grama Panchayats to emulate their success and contribute to the sustainable development of our villages.
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STEPPING STONE
The project MISSION SWACHCH KALYAN KARNATAKA has initiated its second-year intervention in 110 Grama Panchayats (comprising 8 existing and 102 newly added Panchayats). A stakeholder meeting and an initial capacity-building session were organized for the PDOs, Presidents, Vice-Presidents, and GPLF President from these 110 Grama Panchayats. The workshop was inaugurated by the CEOs of the respective Zilla Panchayats, and it was attended by all EOs, SBM, and NRLM consultants from both districts.
During the workshop, workshop kits were distributed to the Grama Panchayats, which included a cloth bag, notebook, pen, important notices related to SWM implementation by the State department, as well as operation and maintenance logbooks. Additionally, the workshop featured a recognition ceremony where the best-performing Grama Panchayat SHGs (Self-Help Groups) of women and Panchayat Development Officers were honored. The workshop covered various topics, including:
- Detailed planning for the successful implementation of SWM.
- Resolution for passing user fees.
- Calculations related to operations and maintenance.
- Preparation of action plans.
- Bookkeeping practices.
- The significance of strengthening VWSC (Village Water and Sanitation Committees) and monitoring.
SUCCESS STORY
In a transformative move, Sagar B Gram Panchayat, situated in Shahapur Taluk, Yadgiri, has revolutionized its waste management practices. Initially, Swachata workers collected wet and dry waste together, contributing to inefficiencies in the waste collection process. However, a positive shift occurred with the intervention of Saahas, a catalyst for change in sustainable waste management.
Saahas implemented a training program for the collection workers, emphasizing the critical importance of segregating dry and wet waste. The impact was immediate—the workers began segregating waste on the spot during collection. They took the initiative to educate households about the disparity between wet and dry waste, urging residents to use separate bags for each category.
This simple yet effective change has streamlined the waste segregation process within the Solid Waste Management unit, eliminating the need for additional segregation time. Workers report significant benefits, including time savings and heightened efficiency in their operations. This success story from Sagar B Gram Panchayat showcases the power of education and community involvement in creating a more sustainable and efficient waste management system.
Saahas Initiative Marks Milestone in Waste Management: Pattana Leads the Way
In Pattana village, waste disposal has been a persistent challenge, leaving residents uncertain about the proper methods for managing dry waste. Recognizing this issue, the Saahas team has been actively involved in providing support for a year, working towards a cleaner and more sustainable environment.
With ambitious plans to extend their assistance to 50 additional Gram Panchayats (GPs), including Pattana, Saahas aims to tackle the prevalent waste management problem head-on. In the second year of the initiative, Saahas is set to implement door-to-door (D2D) collection of dry waste in these 50 GPs, offering a proactive solution to streamline waste management practices.
A pivotal moment occurred during a recent body meeting organized by the PDO in Pattana, where the Panchayat president, members, self-help groups (SHGs), and the Saahas team gathered. It was officially declared that Pattana GP would be the first among the 50 GPs in the Kalaburgi district to initiate D2D collection of dry waste. This significant accomplishment marks a source of pride for Pattana GP as they pave the way for enhanced waste management practices in the district.
Saahas’s commitment to fostering sustainable waste management practices is making a tangible impact, and Pattana’s proactive approach sets a precedent for positive change in the region. The journey towards a cleaner, greener future has begun, with Pattana leading the way for other villages to follow suit.
PROGRESS IN SCALE-UP GPs
Out of a total of 110 Gram Panchayats, including the scaled-up GPs, 107 have successfully established their collection route mapping, a crucial initial step in waste collection. Route mapping plays a pivotal role in facilitating the work of waste collection staff and enhances monitoring processes.
Thanks to these meticulously prepared maps, 100 GPs in both Yadgiri and Kalaburagi districts have implemented door-to-door collection services. Specifically, by the end of December 2023, 29 GPs in Kalaburagi and 32 GPs in Yadgiri have actively participated in this initiative.
It is heartening to observe the keen interest exhibited by the Gram Panchayats in initiating waste collection efforts and developing their monitoring systems.
Savitri’s Inspiring Journey: From Financial Struggles to Waste Management Success
Savitri, a 32-year-old resident of Pattana village in the Kalaburagi district, who, alongside her husband Sanjay, was facing financial challenges while raising their two children. Despite the hurdles, Savitri’s determination led her to an unexpected opportunity that changed her life.
One day, Savitri discovered that her Gram Panchayat (GP) needed a female driver for the Solid Waste Management (SWM) vehicle. Recognizing this as a chance to make a difference, she reached out to SLRM members. Impressed by her enthusiasm, they directed her to the Saahas Field team, seeing her potential to contribute to the community.
The Saahas Field team was quick to recommend Savitri to the PDO. Following this, she underwent training provided by the NRLM team and Saahas team. This training equipped her with the necessary skills to efficiently operate the SWM vehicle, turning her into a capable waste management professional.
Now, Savitri handles the SWM vehicle with skill and dedication, servicing 750 households daily and collecting around 50 kilograms of dry waste per day. Her efforts haven’t gone unnoticed, and in recognition of her valuable contribution to waste management, she receives a monthly remuneration of approximately Rs 5000.
Savitri’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of seizing opportunities and pursuing one’s passions. Despite the initial financial challenges, she found a meaningful role in waste management that not only benefits her community but also provides her with a steady income. Savitri’s story inspires us to embrace unexpected opportunities and make a positive impact, no matter the circumstances.
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One of the most common issues we hear from the gram panchayats is that they dont have funds for carrying out regular collection and processing of segregated solid waste. During our work in about 16 of the 31 districts of Karnataka, one feature that emerged was that the gram panchayats which have managed to start regular door to door collection saw a reduction in the money they spent on drainage cleaning. The money thus saved was used to pay the SHGs who were engaged for doing the waste collection.
Saahas carried out a survey across 22 Gram Panchayats and results have been published as a case study by SBM-G central team:
These findings have also been shared with the Karnataka Panchayati Raj Commissionerate so that they can instruct the Dist CEOs to report on the spend on drainage cleaning by the gram panchayats and divert these to meet operational costs of solid waste management.
Quoting from the article:
“Saahas’ findings also showed that other than one Panchayat, the rest of the GPs showed significant savings in the cost. The savings were primarily coming from reduced frequency of drain cleaning. The highest saving of Rs 5.6 Lakh was for Anneshwara GP with about 3000 shops and houses. In terms of percentage reduction, Sanoor GP from Karkala saw a drop of almost 94%. Both of these GPs had achieved a very high level (more than 90%) of door-to-door collection. The average savings was 34% with overall savings of Rs 29 lakhs across 23 GPs. This amount included the increase of Rs 50,000 for Bhujanganagar Panchayat.”
Organizations working in other states can also see if the villages are spending money on drainage cleaning which can be diverted to meet operational cost of regular waste collection and processing.
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Incredibly insightful, thanks for sharing Archana!
@tanmayi explore collab post for this?
@aishwarya.sudhir @warrior_vishal @SWMRT @ClimateRISE @RashmiMishra - might be of interest/relevance.
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Volunteer Call
The Lalbagh Flower Show is scheduled to take place from January 18th to 28th, 2024. As a part of this occasion, Saahas aims to raise awareness regarding the significance of prohibiting single-use plastic, discouraging littering, and advocating proper waste disposal through the use of designated bins.
Throughout the past seven Lalbagh flower shows, we have successfully managed the event while upholding cleanliness and hygiene standards. Let’s join forces once again this time and collectively contribute to transforming Lalbagh into a litter-free environment.
We kindly urge everyone to participate in our initiative. You can fill out the Google Form using the following link: [https://forms.gle/F2sZDkwC3keeN1Ff9]
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An informative one-day workshop was conducted at Kalaburagi and Yadgiri for the Self-Help Group (SHG) of 54 Gram Panchayat (GP) women involved in the Solid Waste Management (SWM) program that Saahas is supporting. The workshop aimed to enhance the knowledge and skills of the participants on various topics such as Mental and Physical Health, Financial Literacy and Financial Freedom, Menstrual Hygiene and Health Management, and Successful Tips for Implementing the SWM Program at the Gram Panchayat Level.
The workshop was conducted under the guidance of CEO ZP Kalaburagi, Sir Banwar Singh Meena, and Jagadevappa Sir Nodal office SBM Kalaburagi. In addition, Dr. Sweetha Nidhi, a renowned Gynecologist from GIMS Kalaburagi, and Dr. Santoshi, a Clinical Physiologist from DHO Kalaburagi, also graced the event to share their expertise and knowledge. The CEO, along with the dignitaries, facilitated and acknowledged the five best-performing SHGs.
In total, 170 participants actively participated in the workshop, and the women were enthusiastic about learning and applying the knowledge and skills they gained from the workshop. The workshop was a great success, thanks to the support and leadership of Yadgir ZP CEO Madam, whose motivating and encouraging words inspired the women to actively participate in the program.
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In the month of January, the Pattan Gram Panchayat of Kalaburagi taluka and Kalaburagi district witnessed the success of the local Self Help Group (SHG) women. They collected 2000kg of waste in December and January, out of which 1050kg was sold to a recycling vendor. This helped the Gram Panchayat to earn 12500 rupees. The CEO facilitated the SHG women to motivate other women to take up similar activities.
In February, in Yadgiri district’s Shahapur taluk, the borewell drilling was successful in several Gram Panchayats including Ibrahimpur, Kollur M, Kanne Kollur, Naganatagi, Shirwal, Kakasagera, Gogi P, Ukkinal, and Khanapur. The borewell was drilled near the Solid Waste Management (SWM) unit in each Panchayat.
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During a meeting led by the Panchayat President, Vice President, PDO, and GP members, Diigaow Gram Panchayat of Kalaburagi District passed a resolution to implement a user fee, becoming the first to do so.Here are the pics of the event.
We have been engaged in managing solid waste in Yadgir district for more than a year now. At the request of the PDO of Biranur Gram Panchayat, we offered guidance and training on segregation and collected garbage four days a week. The waste is then transported to the solid waste management unit of Kollur M gram panchayat for proper storage.
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Location : Mskk Kalaburgi.
Date: 13-03-2024
Name of GP: Chowadapur.
Taluk Name: Afzalpur
Event: Sale of scrap.
Amount earned: 5000 INR.
The sale of scrap took place in the presence of the Secretary and Saahas staff. The scrap that was sold belongs to Chowadapur GP. Since Chowadapur GP does not have a Solid Waste Management (SWM) unit, they rented a small room. However, the room got full, so they decided to sell around 650 kg of dry waste. As a result, they earned 5000 INR.
this shows that the amount of waste being managed effectively is increasing.
MSKK KALABURAGI
GP: Chinchansoor .
Taluka: Aland
During the scrap selling activity, there were several participants present including GP staff, SHG women, and Saahas team. Together, they managed to sell a total of 1000kg of scrap, which is an impressive feat in itself. As a result of their hard work, they generated a revenue of Rs. 9,444 which will undoubtedly provide a significant boost to the financial well-being of GP. It is encouraging to see such collaborative efforts in the community, and it is hoped that such initiatives will continue to thrive in the future.
Jagadevi, a resident of Kamanatagi in Hunasagi Taluka, and Sumangala, from Sagara Grama Panchayat in Shahapura Taluk, both hailing from Yadgiri district, were among the participants who attended the Women’s Day celebration organized by Panchayat Raj (RDPR) department in Bangalore.
The event, which was organized to celebrate the International Women’s Day, was graced by the presence of ACS Smt. Uma Mahadevan and Commissioner Smt. Priyanka Mary Francis. They felicitated the best women drivers in the Grama Panchayats (GPs) of every district, and provided them with words of encouragement to help them strengthen their abilities and continue to excel in their work.
The event was a great success, and the award winners were applauded for their excellent work and contribution to society. The initiative taken by the RDPR department was a step towards recognizing and appreciating the efforts of women drivers, who have been working tirelessly to ensure the smooth functioning of the solid waste management system in rural areas.
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Sustainable Initiative for Waste Reduction in Kalaburagi and Yadgiri Districts
In a significant move towards environmental sustainability and community empowerment, Saahas has initiated an impactful project in the Kalaburagi and Yadgiri districts. This initiative focuses on establishing cutlery banks in Kalaburagi Taluk (specifically in Pattan Gram Panchayat) and Tanagunda Taluk of Yadgiri district. The primary goal is to support women in Self-Help Groups (SHGs) while promoting sustainable practices by reducing waste from large functions and events.
The Cutlery Bank Concept
The cutlery banks provide an alternative to single-use plastic utensils, offering reusable cutlery for events. This helps in drastically cutting down the amount of waste generated during large gatherings such as weddings, festivals, and community functions. By renting out reusable cutlery, the initiative aims to instill a culture of reuse and reduce dependency on disposable items that contribute to environmental pollution.
Empowering Women through SHGs
One of the core aspects of this initiative is the involvement of women from Self-Help Groups. These women are given the responsibility to manage and operate the cutlery banks. This not only provides them with a steady income stream but also empowers them with management skills and a sense of community leadership. The SHGs can earn through renting out the cutlery, ensuring the financial sustainability of the project while promoting eco-friendly practices.
Environmental and Social Impact
The environmental benefits of this initiative are substantial. By reducing the use of single-use plastics, the project contributes to lowering the community’s carbon footprint and decreasing plastic waste in landfills. The initiative aligns with broader environmental goals and sustainability targets, making a significant impact at the local level.
Socially, the project fosters community involvement and awareness about sustainable practices. It encourages local residents to participate actively in reducing waste and supports the economic empowerment of women. The initiative serves as a model for other communities, demonstrating how local actions can have wide-reaching benefits.
It highlights the importance of local actions in achieving global sustainability goals and improving the quality of life for communities.
Below are the photos capturing the enthusiasm and pride of SHG women in Kalaburagi taluk Pattan gram panchayat and Yadgiri district tanagunda taluk as they launch their newly established cutlery banks.
On June 11, 2024, on the occasion of World Environment Day, the Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Rural Energy and Development felicitated the women drivers and helpers of Swachh Vahini for their significant contributions to the cleanliness of Gram Panchayats. The event was graced by the presence of Dr. Gayathri Reddy K., Hon’ble Executive Director of the Institute, Smt. Srividya P.I., I.A.S., Commissioner of the Karnataka Panchayat Raj Commissionerate and Campaign Director of Sanjeevini-KSRLPS, and Smt. Uma Mahadevan, I.A.S., Additional Chief Secretary (P.R.), Government of Karnataka. During the ceremony, the women drivers and helpers of Swachh Vahini were honored with letters of appreciation and presented with saplings.
Bhimawwa from Naganur GP,Surupur(T), Yadgir(D) was invited and felicitated.
Pramodini from Harsoor GP,Kalburagi(T), Kalaburagi (D) was invited and felicitated.
Yadgiri District :
Over the past two years, with support from the Rain Matter Foundation, our initiative in Yadgir district has made significant progress in Solid Waste Management (SWM) across 52 Gram Panchayats (GPs). Among these, the Model Panchayat Kollur M, located in Shahapur Taluk, has achieved remarkable success, earning the prestigious Gandhi Grama Puraskara award in October 2023. This October, an SHG worker from Kollur M was selected to represent the district at the Swachhata Hi Seva Divas held in Delhi, a recognition that has inspired other GPs across Yadgir district to strengthen their SWM efforts.
In response to this progress, the Executive Officer of Wadagera Taluk organized an exposure visit for SHG workers from all Grama Panchayats to Kollur M. This visit allowed SHG members to observe firsthand the effective waste segregation, dry waste collection, and income-generating activities achieved through SWM initiatives in Kollur M. The visit was a source of pride and motivation for SHG workers, as it marked a significant milestone for Yadgir: while previously SHG members traveled outside the district to learn from model villages, now their own district is setting the standard. Kollur M GP’s success has established it as a model Gram Panchayat for SWM across Yadgir district, fostering a sense of accomplishment and commitment among SHG workers to replicate this progress throughout the region.
Kalabuaragi District :
On October 11, 2024, MSKK Kalaburgi celebrated Dussehra with a series of community-centered events. In a notable gesture of service and commitment, members of the local Self-Help Group (SHG) visited the Gram Panchayat to conduct a thorough cleaning and washing of the Solid Waste Management (SWM) vehicle, followed by a ceremonial pooja. This act symbolized their respect for the roles they perform and underscored their dedication to public hygiene.
The Project Director praised the SHG’s dedication and proactive partnership with local governance in promoting environmental cleanliness. This initiative highlights the SHG’s leadership in fostering community responsibility and encouraging sustainable practices, setting a strong example of social and environmental stewardship for the broader community.
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