Child Reporters Engage with Ranchi DC in an Interactive Session Organized by NBJK and UNICEF Jharkhand

08 May 2025, Ranchi: Under the Child Reporters Programme run by Nav Bharat Jagriti Kendra (NBJK) with support from UNICEF Jharkhand, an interactive dialogue session was held at the Conference Hall, Block-A, Ranchi Collectorate. Ten child reporters from government schools across the district got the rare opportunity to meet and interact directly with the Deputy Commissioner-cum-District Magistrate, Mr. Manjunath Bhajantri.

During the interaction, Mr. Bhajantri motivated the young reporters to never underestimate themselves, regardless of their background or language barriers. He emphasized the importance of facing life’s challenges with courage and focusing on becoming responsible citizens. “Your success will one day make your parents feel proud,” he remarked.

The session aimed to educate child reporters on the crucial role they can play in spreading awareness about government welfare schemes and maintaining peace in society. The children were also taken on a guided tour of the District Collectorate, where they were briefed on the functioning of various departments. Ms. Surbhi Singh (District Social Welfare Officer) and Mr. Badal Raj (District Education Superintendent) explained how governance mechanisms ensure service delivery for all, including children.

This initiative provided the child reporters with a meaningful platform to understand governance and share their perspectives—helping bridge the gap between the administration and young changemakers.

Key attendees included Ms. Aastha Alang (Communication Specialist, UNICEF), Ms. Preeti Srivastava (Child Protection Specialist, UNICEF), Mr. Rajesh Jha (Communication Consultant), Ms. Debanjali Mandal (Knowledge Management Consultant), Ms. Sushmita Bhattacharya (Program Manager, NBJK), and Mr. Vivek Kumar (Assistant Program Manager, NBJK).

807 Children Served Nutritious Meals Daily by NBJK with Support from Feeding India – A Zomato Giveback Initiative

08 May 2025, Hazaribagh: Nav Bharat Jagriti Kendra (NBJK) has successfully provided daily nutritious meals to an average of 807 schoolchildren across nine school days from 28 April to 08 May 2025 at its four rural schools in Chouparan block, Hazaribagh district. These schools include Amoli Apurva High School – Mangarh, Amoli Apurva Middle School – Bahera, Amoli Apurva Middle School – Prajapat Nagar, and Chandrakala Devi Daga High School – Kewaliya.

The children, who come from 45 remote villages, received sprouted gram or moong with milk in the morning and a wholesome lunch of rice, pulse, and vegetables. This initiative was made possible through the generous support of Feeding India, a Zomato Giveback initiative, which aims to combat classroom hunger and promote education.

During this period, the schools collectively served 7,264 breakfasts and 7,264 lunches. The meal distribution figures are as follows:

• Amoli Apurva High School, Mangarh – 2,278 meals
• Amoli Apurva Middle School, Bahera – 1,910 meals
• Amoli Apurva Middle School, Prajapat Nagar – 1,476 meals
• Chandrakala Devi Daga High School, Kewaliya – 1,600 meals

NBJK places utmost emphasis on hygiene, nutrition, and health in food preparation, recognizing the significant impact of daily meals on student learning, school attendance, and retention. This initiative has also relieved families of the burden of arranging meals at home, leading to greater parental satisfaction and improved focus among students.

NBJK remains committed to nurturing the potential of rural children through such impactful programs and thanks Feeding India for its continued support in the fight against hunger and illiteracy.

NBJK Hosts “Jagte Raho” Bharat Yatra in Support of Women’s Safety and Dignity

07 May 2025, Hazaribagh: NBJK today hosted a stop of the “Jagte Raho” Bharat Yatra at its coordination office in Amritnagar. The 100-day nationwide campaign, launched on 8th March 2025 from Mount Abu, Rajasthan—International Women’s Day—is aimed at promoting women’s safety and dignity. Covering 21,000 kilometers across 21 Indian states, the Yatra will conclude in New Delhi on 7th June.

Welcoming the Yatra, NBJK Secretary Mr. Satish Girija described it as a timely and essential initiative in light of growing concerns around women’s security. He emphasized that while women must be empowered to stand up for their rights, support from both society and the government is equally important. Mr. Girija also highlighted NBJK’s long-standing commitment to women’s empowerment through initiatives such as microcredit, Usha Silai Schools, and advanced agricultural practices, which have enabled thousands of women to achieve economic self-reliance.

A moving moment came when 75-year-old participant Ms. Jammuben from Gujarat performed a heartfelt song centered on peace and human compassion, earning admiration from the audience.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Shatrughan Jha, Bihar Coordinator of the Yatra and a noted Gandhian activist, spoke about the historical significance of women’s power in Indian culture. Quoting the Vedas, he noted that over 200 female sages have been mentioned in the scriptures. He stressed the importance of nurturing strong values in children, sharing the example of Rukmini Devi, mother of Vinoba Bhave, who raised three sons who all became scholars and ascetics.

Mr. Rajendra Yadav, National Coordinator of the Yatra from Haryana, commended NBJK for upholding timeless values such as compassion and love. He also addressed the grim reality of gender-based violence in India, where over 90 incidents of rape or sexual assault are reported daily, many ending in death. Recalling Mahatma Gandhi’s belief that the safety of women reflects a truly independent nation, Mr. Yadav called for urgent societal change and stronger legal measures to protect women’s dignity.

The event also saw participation from community members, including Anganwadi worker Ms. Aarti Devi from Rola and Self-Help Group member Ms. Meena Devi, who shared their perspectives on women’s issues.

The event was moderated by Mr. Rajeev Singh, Senior Program Manager at NBJK, and concluded with a vote of thanks by Ms. Geeta, Jharkhand Coordinator of the “Jagte Raho” Bharat Yatra.

SPBPS Alumnus Makes His School Proud on National Stage

03 May 2025, Bahera, Chouparan (Hazaribagh): Surekha Prakash Bhai Public School (SPBPS), Bahera—run by Nav Bharat Jagriti Kendra (NBJK)—is proud to share the remarkable achievement of its former student Mr. Amit Kumar Dangi, who has brought immense honor to the school and his community.

Amit Kumar Dangi, hailing from Daihar village in Chouparan block, completed his Plus Two from SPBPS. He then graduated from Annada College, Hazaribagh, and pursued a professional course in Physical Education Teaching from Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University, Uttarakhand. Deeply passionate about service and discipline, Amit joined the National Cadet Corps (NCC), which proved to be a turning point in his life.

Thanks to his outstanding performance in NCC, Amit was selected to participate in the prestigious Republic Day Parade held on 26th January in New Delhi, where he had the rare opportunity to march before the Hon’ble President of India and was awarded a medal in recognition of his excellence.

Recently, Amit returned to SPBPS to complete his internship. The school welcomed him with pride and affection. On this occasion, Ms. Rina Pandey, Principal of SPBPS, felicitated Amit with a citation for his inspirational journey. She also announced that the school will honor Amit’s parents, Mrs. Anita Devi and Mr. Ajit Dangi, for their support and encouragement in shaping such a dedicated young achiever.

SPBPS and NBJK celebrate Amit’s achievements as a shining example for all students and youth in the region. His journey is a testament to hard work, discipline, and the value of education.

Local Youth Becomes Entrepreneur with Support from NBJK-SIDBI and PMFME Scheme

29 April 2025, Hazaribagh: Saurabh Kumar, a young resident of Hazaribagh, has successfully transformed from a street marketer of whole spices to a budding entrepreneur, thanks to the support of NBJK-SIDBI’s Micro Enterprise Promotion Program (MEPP) and the PMFME scheme under the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), Government of India.

After completing his intermediate education, Saurabh worked for over seven years delivering spices to households and shops in and around Hazaribagh to support his family. A turning point came when he met Mr. Anurag, Supervisor of the MEPP program, who introduced him to the PMFME scheme and helped him prepare necessary documentation.

Saurabh received a loan of ₹1.4 lakh, which enabled him to start Shree Enterprises, a packaged spice manufacturing unit. Today, his brand is gaining popularity, and he employs five support staff.

Saurabh credits the timely support of NBJK-SIDBI and Anurag for this positive transformation in his life.

Nav Bharat Jagriti Kendra Organizes Free Health Camps at Vegetable Markets in Hazaribagh

28 April 2025, Hazaribagh: Nav Bharat Jagriti Kendra (NBJK) organized free health camps today at the vegetable markets located in Korrah and Gandhi Maidan, Hazaribagh. Through the Mobile Medical Unit operated by the organization, a total of 60 patients were examined and provided with free medicines. The beneficiaries included men and women suffering primarily from diabetes, hypertension, and gynecological ailments.

The initiative proved to be highly beneficial for both vendors and customers frequenting the vegetable markets.
The health camp team comprised Dr. Banshidhar Pandey, pharmacist Harishchandra Yadav, lab technician W. Kumar Paswan, ANM Roma Ragini Tirkey, and van driver Surendra Yadav. Chandan Kumar and Program Manager Shailesh Kumar played key roles in organizing the camps.

Program Manager Shailesh Kumar informed that NBJK currently conducts regular free health camps in 80 villages across the districts of Gaya, Chatra, Pakur, Godda, and Jamtara, offering on-site pathological tests and free medicines.

NBJK and Feeding India Ensure Nutritious Meals for Rural School Children in Hazaribagh

26 April 2025, Chouparan (Hazaribagh): Nav Bharat Jagriti Kendra (NBJK), in collaboration with Feeding India, a Zomato Giveback Initiative, has successfully provided breakfast and lunch to the students of its schools in Chouparan block of Hazaribagh district, Jharkhand.

The beneficiary schools include:

• Amoli Apurva High School, Managarh
• Amoli Apurva Middle School, Bahera
• Amoli Apurva Middle School, Prajapat Nagar
• Chandrakala Devi Daga High School, Kewaliya

Most of the students enrolled in these schools come from economically disadvantaged rural backgrounds. Along with quality education and a low-fee structure, the meal program has significantly benefited the children by improving their school attendance and reducing the financial burden on their families.

Between 17 and 26 April 2025, a total of 6090 meals were served. The students received sprouted gram or moong with milk for breakfast, and rice, pulses, and vegetables for lunch. The school-wise distribution of meals was:

• 1976 meals at Amoli Apurva High School, Mangarh
• 1515 meals at Amoli Apurva Middle School, Bahera
• 1249 meals at Amoli Apurva Middle School, Prajapat Nagar
• 1350 meals at Chandrakala Devi Daga High School, Kewaliya

Parents and community members have expressed their deep appreciation for the initiative. Many have noted that such a nutritious meal program has created a positive impact that is praised even among private schools.

NBJK sincerely thanks Feeding India for their generous support in making this vision a reality, nourishing the children and paving the way for a brighter, healthier future.

NBJK’s Vimla Ramkrishna Bajaj Eye Hospital Conducts 15 Free Eye Screening Camps in Jharkhand-Bihar

22 April 2025, Deoghar: In a major outreach initiative aimed at eliminating avoidable blindness, Nav Bharat Jagriti Kendra’s (NBJK) Vimla Ramkrishna Bajaj Eye Hospital, Deoghar successfully conducted 15 free eye screening camps between 26 March and 21 April 2024 across Giridih, Jamui, and Bhagalpur districts of Jharkhand and Bihar.

During this period, the hospital’s Vision Center at Jamua (Giridih) played a crucial role in enhancing rural eye healthcare, operating for 19 working days and catering to underserved villages in the region.

The combined outreach efforts led to:

• 359 OPD consultations
• 118 patients diagnosed with cataract
• 190 individuals treated for refractive errors
• 80 people provided with spectacles
• 5 cases of pterygium identified
• 6 referrals made to the base hospital
• 26 patients provided with medicines

All patients diagnosed with cataract underwent free-of-cost surgeries at the base hospital. They were also provided with accommodation, meals, transportation, medicines, and follow-up care—ensuring comprehensive and compassionate eye care.

This impactful initiative was made possible with the generous support of Sightsavers India, Vision Foundation of India, Kotak Securities, and BHEL, who continue to champion the cause of preventing blindness and promoting vision health in rural and underserved communities.

NBJK remains committed to accessible, equitable, and quality eye care for all.

Public Felicitation Ceremony Held in Honor of Jamnalal Bajaj Awardee Shri Girija Satish

18 April 2025, Patna: A public felicitation ceremony was organized on April 18, 2025, at the premises of Bihar State Gandhi Smarak Nidhi in Kadamkuan, Patna, to honor Shri Girija Satish, a prominent Gandhian social worker and the recipient of the 46th Jamnalal Bajaj Award for the year 2024. Shri Satish is the Founder and Chairperson of Nav Bharat Jagriti Kendra (NBJK) and currently serves as the National President of Lok Samiti, a non-political people’s organization established by Loknayak JayPrakash Narayan.

The prestigious award, presented by the Jamnalal Bajaj Foundation, Mumbai, on November 13, 2024, recognized Shri Girija Satish for his lifelong dedication to public and constructive work inspired by Gandhian principles. His recognition has brought immense pride and joy to Gandhian institutions, organizations, and social activists in Bihar and Jharkhand, leading to a series of felicitations across the region.

The Patna event was marked by the gracious presence of several eminent Gandhian leaders, civil society representatives, and citizens. Distinguished guests included:

• Shri Prabhakar Ji, President of Gram Nirman Mandal, Shekhodewra (Nawada) and Bihar State Gandhi Smarak Nidhi
• Shri Shubhmurti Ji, Vice-President of Gandhi Smarak Nidhi–Delhi and former President of Bihar Bhoodan Yagna Committee
• Shri Chandrabhushan Ji, President of Bihar Sarvodaya Mandal
• Shri Arvind Kumar, Pradhan Mantri of Gram Nirman Mandal
• Shri Mukhtarul Haque, Bihar State Coordinator of Bachpan Bachao Andolan
• Shri Ashok Kumar, Mantri of Nawada District Khadi and Village Industries Committee
• Shri Dinesh Singh, Senior Correspondent of Hindustan and noted activist associated with the farmers’ movement

During the ceremony, Shri Girija Satish was honored with garlands, shawls, and floral bouquets as a token of respect and admiration. Almost all speakers expressed their heartfelt congratulations and emphasized that the award is not just a personal achievement for Shri Satish but a collective pride for Bihar. They also extended wishes for his continued good health and long life in the service of society.

This celebration served as a reminder of the enduring relevance of Gandhian ideals and the power of grassroots leadership in bringing transformative change.

NBJK Schools Serve 7,894 Free Meals to Rural Students in 10 School Days with Support from Feeding India

16 April 2025, Chouparan (Hazaribagh): Nav Bharat Jagriti Kendra (NBJK) is pleased to share that from 2nd April to 16th April 2025, its schools operating in Chouparan block of Hazaribagh district served 7,894 free breakfasts and the same number of lunches to their students. This initiative, generously supported by Feeding India, a Zomato Giveback initiative, continues to make a significant impact on the nutritional well-being and academic engagement of children from rural communities.

During this 15-day period, meals were distributed on 10 school days, reaching children in the following institutions:

• Amoli Apurva Middle School – Prajapat Nagar: 1,702 meals
• Amoli Apurva Middle School – Bahera: 2,170 meals
• Amoli Apurva High School – Mangarh: 2,198 meals
• Chandrakala Devi Daga High School – Kewaliya: 1,824 meals

Each school day, students received a wholesome breakfast of sprouted moong or gram with milk, followed by a nutritious lunch consisting of vegetables, pulses, and rice. The program not only ensures improved child nutrition but also plays a vital role in supporting families, especially in rural villages, by partially relieving them of the responsibility of providing daily meals.

This initiative has encouraged better attendance and attentiveness among students, while fostering a positive and joyful school environment. Parents, too, have been able to focus more on their children’s education, assured that their nutritional needs are being met.

NBJK extends heartfelt gratitude to Feeding India for their continued support in strengthening education through food security.