Bhil Seva Mandal’s Tribal Schools Transforming Lives in Gujarat
In the heart of Gujarat, the Bhil Seva Mandal, founded by pre-independence social reformer Thakkar Bapa, is making a significant impact on tribal communities. This organization runs Ashram Shalas, or residential schools, dedicated to uplifting tribal children.
These schools have become beacons of hope and progress, thanks to unwavering government support through scholarships and grants. These scholarships cover tuition fees, books, uniforms, and other essential materials, leading to a remarkable increase in school enrolments and a renewed sense of optimism among tribal communities.
Combining traditional wisdom with modern education, these schools focus on preserving cultural heritage, imparting vocational skills, and integrating digital literacy. They boast a 100% success rate in Class 10 examinations, reflecting their commitment to academic excellence.
Mukesh Parmar, Secretary of Bhil Seva Mandal, stated, “The Bhil Seva Mandal operates approximately 60 institutions, including 20 Ashram Shalas, providing education and residence to around 15,000 students. These schools have significantly improved the education ratio in the border areas of Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh. The main factor is the provision of free food and lodging facilities. Many of these students come from families of laborers, small-scale farmers, or migrant workers. I, too, benefited from these opportunities, made possible through government schemes.”
Nirali, a student, shared, “Boys from our village who studied here have gone on to become teachers and even doctors, which is why my parents sent me here for a better future. We receive many facilities, including lodging and meals, and the teaching here is excellent. Learning with smart boards is particularly exciting for me.”
Free education and hostel facilities motivated Jaggabhai Damor, a small-scale tribal farmer, to enroll his grandson, Vikram, at the Varuna Ashram Shala in Sukhsar village. He is hopeful that education will bring positive changes to their family and notes that the initiative has already transformed many lives in the region.
Vikram Damor, a student, said, “My name is Vikram. I study in Class 9 at the Varuna Ashram, where I receive all facilities free of cost. I aspire to become a high-ranking officer in the future.”
Jaggabhai Damor, a tribal farmer, expressed, “Our child studies at the Varuna Ashram. He receives food and other necessary facilities at the school, all free of cost. We are deeply grateful to the government for these opportunities.”
By providing quality education while preserving the cultural heritage of the communities, the Bhil Seva Mandal, with government support, is not only shaping the future of these students but also contributing to the overall development of Gujarat’s tribal communities.
Doubts Revealed
Bhil Seva Mandal -: Bhil Seva Mandal is an organization that helps tribal people, especially in Gujarat. They focus on improving education and living conditions for tribal children.
Tribal -: Tribal refers to groups of people who have their own unique cultures, traditions, and ways of living. In India, many tribal communities live in rural areas and forests.
Gujarat -: Gujarat is a state in western India. It is known for its rich culture, history, and economic development.
Thakkar Bapa -: Thakkar Bapa was a social worker and freedom fighter in India. He dedicated his life to helping tribal communities and improving their living conditions.
Ashram Shalas -: Ashram Shalas are special schools in India that provide free education, food, and lodging to children, especially those from tribal and rural areas.
Government support -: Government support means that the government helps by providing money, resources, or other assistance to make projects successful. In this case, it helps the schools run by Bhil Seva Mandal.
Class 10 exams -: Class 10 exams are important tests that students in India take at the end of their 10th grade. Doing well in these exams is crucial for their future education and career opportunities.
