Bicycle_distribution…
Adivasi girls in Badlapur live deep inside hamlets, far from the railway station. They are regular participants and emerging youth leaders at Anubhuti Trust community-based learning and development centres. These members come from centres established in various hamlets such as Rahatoli, Chon, Aghanwadi, Phanaswadi, Mulgaon, Moryacha Pada, Umbarwedha, and Lavhali.
We have repeatedly conducted campaigns, written letters, and filed complaints with decision-makers in Badlapur, highlighting that the dropout rate among girls is increasing due to lack of transportation. Colleges and higher secondary schools are located in Badlapur town, while transport facilities are very limited. We consistently demanded that some arrangements be made for the studying generation.
However, there has been no significant response as expected. Administrative follow-up will continue—but how long should we wait? Girls dropping out of school is a leakage in the overall development process.
Finally, through securing funds, bicycles were distributed to 50 girls studying in classes 8th, 9th, and 10th, belonging to the Katkari and Thakar tribal communities. Along with this, a full-day dialogue session was organized with parents, where detailed discussions were held on constitutional protection for girls and the rights granted by law.
It was also agreed that when these girls come outside the community centres, bicycles will be seen in the parking spaces and at schools. A mutual agreement was made to ensure that the bicycles given to the girls will be used by them.
Through this initiative, we also opened up discussions on complex issues and are in the process of strengthening our true Adivasi cultural heritage—one that upholds the dignity of women. It was collectively decided to move forward by considering the Constitution as a guiding force in matters of girls’ health, nutrition, and marriage.