Mid-Day Meals Empower Rural Students at NBJK Schools in Chouparan Block

05 August 2025, Chouparan (Hazaribagh): With the generous support of Feeding India – a Zomato Giveback initiative, Nav Bharat Jagriti Kendra (NBJK)has successfully provided 12,097 breakfasts and an equal number of lunches to students in its schools across the Chouparan block of Hazaribagh district between 19 July and 04 August 2025.

The initiative covered four schools:

Amoli Apurva High School – Mangarh (4,015 meals)

Amoli Apurva Middle School – Bahera (2,959 meals)

Amoli Apurva Middle School – Prajapat Nagar (2,681 meals)

Chandrakala Devi Daga High School – Kewaliya (2,442 meals)

For breakfast, students were served sprouted gram or green gram with milk, while lunch included rice, pulses, and vegetables – ensuring a nutritious and balanced diet.

Most of the students hail from rural, economically challenged backgrounds. The regular provision of wholesome meals at school has brought relief to parents who are now able to dedicate more time to agricultural activities, knowing their children are fed well.

Teachers have observed that serving the same food to all students promotes a sense of equality and togetherness among them. The initiative has not only enhanced nutrition and health but also contributed to better attendance and concentration in classrooms.

NBJK sincerely thanks Feeding India by Zomato for supporting this impactful initiative and looks forward to continued collaboration for the betterment of rural education.

Centenary of All India Charkha Sangh Celebrated at NBJK Ranchi Office

30 July 2025, Ranchi: To commemorate 100 years of the All India Charkha Sangh, a special workshop was organized on  30th July 2025 at the Ranchi office of Nav Bharat Jagriti Kendra (NBJK) under the aegis of Sarva Seva Sangh, Sevagram (Wardha). The event was supported by Jharkhand Sarvodaya Mandal, Pradesh Lok Samiti, and Chhotanagpur Khadi Gramodyog Sangh, Ranchi.

The workshop was inaugurated with floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi’s portrait and lighting of the ceremonial lamp by Shri Ashok Sharan (National Coordinator of the Centenary Celebrations), Shri Girija Satish (President, Rashtriya Lok Samiti), Shri Abhay Kumar Choudhary (President, Chhotanagpur Khadi Gramodyog Sangh), Shri Shankar Rana (President, Jharkhand Sarvodaya Mandal), and Shri Wazir Ahmad (Vice-President, Jharkhand Sarvodaya Mandal).

Delivering the keynote address, Shri Ashok Sharan highlighted that the All India Charkha Sangh, established by Mahatma Gandhi in 1925, has completed a century of service to the nation. He emphasized the need to reimagine khadi in the context of modern challenges while preserving its essence, tracing its roots back to Vedic times.

In his presidential address, Shri Girija Satish stressed the importance of using improved spinning wheels and solar energy in khadi production. He also called for restructuring of the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) to reduce bureaucratic interference and empower grassroots institutions.

Shri Abhay Kumar Choudhary pointed out serious concerns regarding delays in rebate payments owed to khadi institutions and urged the government for immediate disbursement. Shri Wazir Ahmad drew attention to the financial hardships faced by weavers in Jharkhand and advocated for easy access to grants and low-interest loans.

Prof. Shailendra Mishra proposed mandatory use of khadi uniforms in government departments, schools, and colleges to promote the khadi movement.

Other prominent contributors during the workshop included Shri Rampravesh Pathak, Shri Parshuram Singh, Dr. Sita Soren, Shri Manzoor Ansari, Shri Vasudev Sharma, Shri Vimlesh Thakur, and Shri Shyam Narayan, who shared constructive suggestions to strengthen the khadi sector.

The workshop witnessed active participation from representatives of khadi institutions in Ranchi, Jamshedpur, Deoghar, and Dhanbad, along with Sarvodaya Mandal members from 10 districts of Jharkhand.

The event was moderated by Shri Shankar Rana, and the vote of thanks was delivered by Shri Sukhchandra Jha, President, Singhbhum District Sarvodaya Mandal.

NBJK Organizes Bankers’ Orientation & Dialogue Workshop under SIDBI-Supported Micro Enterprise Promotion Programme

29 July 2025, Hazaribagh: Nav Bharat Jagriti Kendra (NBJK), with support from the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), organized a Bankers’ Orientation cum Dialogue Workshop at its Coordination Office in Amritnagar, Hazaribagh, under the ongoing Micro Enterprise Promotion Programme (MEPP).

The workshop began with a welcome address by Programme Manager Mr. Vikas Joseph, who shared insights into the programme’s vision. Launched in October 2023, MEPP aims to promote 1,100 micro-entrepreneurs across five districts—Hazaribagh, Ramgarh, Giridih, Khunti, and West Singhbhum—over a period of five years. So far, 453 entrepreneurs, including 170 from Hazaribagh, have successfully initiated enterprises with financial assistance from banks under various government schemes such as PMEGP, PMFME, Vishwakarma Yojana, and MUDRA.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Shirish Tripathi, Coordinator of the District Industries Centre (DIC), Hazaribagh, emphasized the critical role played by banks, particularly public sector banks, in enabling the success of government enterprise schemes. He highlighted the vast potential in packaged food production units and the attractiveness of the Vishwakarma Yojana due to its low 5% annual interest rate.

SIDBI representative Mr. Sandeep Kumar urged bank officials to extend handholding support to aspiring entrepreneurs, especially in documentation, and to ensure timely disbursal of margin money. He also stressed the importance of connecting entrepreneurs to the broader MSME ecosystem for sustained growth.

Two local entrepreneurs, Mr. Saurabh Jaiswal, a spice manufacturer, and Mr. Mukesh Sahu, who runs a bike service centre, shared their success stories. Both received financial assistance through MEPP and are now generating employment for others.

Mr. Devendra Kumar from Jharkhand Rajya Gramin Bank’s Babugaon branch acknowledged the MSME sector’s contribution to GDP and advocated for piggery as a highly profitable rural enterprise.

The workshop concluded with a vote of thanks by Ms. Girija Satish, President of NBJK. The event saw participation from representatives of 22 banks, including Bank of India, Axis Bank, Canara Bank, Central Bank, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, IDBI Bank, Federal Bank, SBI, and UCO Bank, among others.

This initiative marks a significant step towards strengthening rural entrepreneurship and building an ecosystem of self-reliant micro-enterprises in Jharkhand.

Transforming Rural Lives: Model Village Project at Chhotabanki

26 July 2025, Chhotabanki (East Singhbhum): With the vision of fostering inclusive and sustainable development, the Model Village Project at Chhotabanki under Golmuri Block, East Singhbhum district, Jharkhand, is creating a lasting impact across 246 rural and tribal households. Supported by Cummins India Foundation, the project focuses on enhancing livelihood opportunities, improving food security and nutrition, and ensuring access to clean drinking water, sanitation, and healthcare.

A key thrust of the project is to promote sustainable income-generating activities and skill development through community participation. Ground-level interventions have included:

• Renovation of 2 village ponds, repair of a branch canal, and installation of 3 solar-based lift irrigation systems to support agriculture
• Goat farming promotion among 50 women for diversified income
• Drip patch farming and exposure visits for 58 farmers to learn improved agricultural techniques
• Access to clean drinking water via the establishment of a Water ATM

To further strengthen livelihoods, the project has facilitated vocational trainings such as a 6-week Jute Bag Production Training (in collaboration with the National Jute Board, Government of India) for 20 participants and a 5-day Mushroom Production Training (with the Horticulture Department, Government of Jharkhand).

An inspiring outcome is the formation of the Sunehari Jute Bag Production Center, run by 15 trained women entrepreneurs. The center manufactures 30+ eco-friendly jute products, enabling each woman to earn up to ₹400 per day, significantly boosting their economic independence.

The project continues to encourage community-led water conservation, irrigation, and educational initiatives, aiming to build long-term resilience and empowered local institutions.

This model village stands as a beacon of community-driven transformation, marking a significant step toward a self-reliant and prosperous rural Jharkhand.

Training on Grafted Tomato Cultivation Empowers Rural Farmers

25 July 2025, Chanho (Ranch): Under the Focused Rural Development Program run by Nav Bharat Jagriti Kendra (NBJK) with CSR support from HDFC Bank, a hands-on training session on Grafted Tomato Cultivation through Soil-less Nursery Techniques was conducted on 24th July 2025 at the Farmer Field School, Karkat in Chanho block of Ranchi district.

A total of 25 farmers from Karkat and nearby villages participated in this session. The objective of the training was to introduce farmers to grafted tomato plants, which are climate-resilient, disease-resistant, and offer higher yields. The session included step-by-step demonstrations of grafting techniques, insights into soil-less nursery practices, and an interactive Q&A to address farmers’ doubts.

The training was facilitated by Mr. Alok Kumar Kundu (Program Manager) and Mr. Avinash Kumar (Assistant Program Manager), who played a key role in delivering the content in a practical and farmer-friendly manner.

Along with technical knowledge, the farmers were also encouraged to become members of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) for better market access, shared resources, and stronger collective voices in agri-business.

This training not only enhanced the technical capacity of farmers but also inspired them to adopt sustainable and innovative farming practices in response to climate challenges.

NBJK remains committed to empowering rural communities through knowledge, innovation, and collective action.

Millet and Pigeon Pea Seed Distribution across FRDP Villages for Climate-Resilient Farming

24 July 2025, Chanho (Ranchi): In a concerted effort to promote sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture, Nav Bharat Jagriti Kendra (NBJK), with CSR support from HDFC Bank under the Focused Rural Development Program (FRDP), has initiated the distribution of high-yielding varieties of Finger Millet and Pigeon Pea seeds among farmers in 15 project villages of Chanho Block, Ranchi District.

A special convergence program was organized at Chaliyo Farmer Field School (FFS), where 30 progressive farmers from Mathatoli, Gutuwa, Choreya, and Chaliyo villages received the improved seed varieties. The initiative is being carried out under the active leadership of Village Coordinators Mr. Shravan Kumar and Mr. Gajanand Mahto, who are playing a vital role in mobilizing and guiding the farming communities.

This distribution campaign, which began in the last week of June 2025, is part of a larger strategy to ensure food and nutritional security while building resilience against climate change and reducing dependency on rain-fed monoculture.

NBJK believes that promoting nutrition-rich crops like millets and pulses is a step towards self-reliant rural communities and ecological balance. The campaign not only supports traditional farming knowledge but also encourages modern practices that enhance yield and income.

NBJK and HDFC Bank remain committed to empowering farmers through sustainable development interventions and improving livelihoods at the grassroots level.

One-Day Eye Health Training Organized for Frontline Health Workers

23 July 2025, Peto (Daru, Hazaribagh): A one-day training session was organized yesterday at the Community Health Centre, Peto, located in Daru Block of Hazaribagh district, under the joint initiative of Sightsavers India, JSLPS, National Health Mission, and the National Programme for Control of Blindness. The training was conducted under the Rural Eye Health Programme – Netra Vasant, operated by Nav Bharat Jagriti Kendra (NBJK).

The training aimed at empowering frontline health workers including Sahiya didis, ANMs, and health staff with vital knowledge related to eye diseases, their prevention, and available treatments. A total of 68 participants attended the session, including 51 Sahiyas, 6 BTT Sahiya Saathis, and BTT Coordinator.

The event witnessed the special presence of Mrs. Farzana Khatoon, Mukhiya of Harli Panchayat, along with her representative. Also present were Dr. Amresh Kumar, In-charge Medical Officer at Daru PHC; Mr. Deepak Kumar, Optometrist from Barhi Hospital; Mr. Gaurav Pandey, Optometrist from Daru; and Mr. Kishore Kumar, Mobilizer, Daru.

During the training, it was also announced that the year 2025 has been set as the target to make Daru Block free from cataract-induced blindness.

The entire training program was coordinated by Ms. Kirti Rawat, District Manager of the Netra Vasant Programme.

Empowering Farmers through Collaborative Efforts: NABARD and HDFC Bank Support FPO Development

22 July 2025, Taranga (Chanho, Ranchi): A significant milestone in rural development and farmers’ empowerment was marked at the office of Taranga Rural Farmer Producer Company Limited (FPO) at Taranga under the HDFC Bank-supported Focused Rural Development Program. A collaborative meeting was held with the gracious presence of Mrs. Neetu Kumari, District Development Manager (DDM), NABARD, alongside dedicated members of the FPO.

The session provided a platform for in-depth discussions on enhancing agricultural productivity, exploring sustainable farming practices, and developing strategies to improve farmers’ income. The meeting also reviewed the FPO’s current sales performance, notable achievements, and future growth plans.

A key highlight of the event was the formal handover of the Certificate of Incorporation from NABARD to the Board of the Taranga FPO, symbolizing official recognition and a new phase of institutional growth for the farmer collective.

Mrs. Neetu Kumari, DDM-NABARD, shared valuable insights on ground-level agricultural challenges and encouraged farmers to adopt innovative techniques for sustainable agriculture. Her interaction was deeply appreciated by the attendees for its practical relevance and motivational tone.

This initiative aligns with the larger objective of strengthening rural economies by empowering farmer groups through capacity building, institutional support, and access to modern agricultural practices.

The FPO board, along with the implementing team, extended heartfelt thanks to NABARD and HDFC Bank for their unwavering support and commitment to rural transformation.

Together, we move forward — building a sustainable and profitable future for farmers.

Inclusive Eye Health Program Reaches Children in Observation and Children’s Homes of Hazaribagh

18 July 2025, Hazaribagh: As part of the Inclusive Eye Health Program supported by Sightsavers India, Nav Bharat Jagriti Kendra (NBJK) organized a comprehensive eye screening camp at the Observation Home, Hazaribagh, for children and staff members.

The initiative was supported by the Mobile Medical Unit of LNJP Eye Hospital, Bahera (Chouparan), run by NBJK. The medical team was led by optometrists Mr. Deepak and Mr. Virendra, who conducted thorough eye examinations. A total of 67 OPD consultations were carried out at the Observation Home, including 59 children (one of whom is a child with disability) and 8 staff members. Of these, four individuals were found to have vision impairment or refractive errors.

Following this, another eye screening camp was conducted at the Children’s Home, Barhi, operated by Jan Jagran Kendra. Here, 15 children including 10 children with disabilities were examined. One case of refractive error was detected.

All individuals identified with visual issues during these camps will soon be provided with free spectacles under the Inclusive Eye Health Program.

The event was graced by the presence of Ms. Nivedita, Assistant Director of Social Security, and Mr. Sanjay Prasad, District Child Protection Officer, Hazaribagh. The camps were effectively coordinated by Ms. Kirti Rawat, District Program Manager of the Inclusive Eye Health Program.

This initiative reflects NBJK’s ongoing commitment to accessible eye care for all, especially children and persons with disabilities in institutional settings.

9,000 Nutritious Meals Served to Children in NBJK Schools

17 July 2025, Chouparan (Hazaribagh): Nav Bharat Jagriti Kendra (NBJK), with generous support from Feeding India, a Zomato Giveback initiative, has successfully served 9,360 breakfasts and an equal number of lunches between 7th and 17th July 2025 to schoolchildren in its four educational institutions across Chouparan block of Hazaribagh district, Jharkhand.

The beneficiary schools include:

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

The breakfast menu consists of sprouted gram and milk, while rice, pulses, and vegetables are served for lunch, ensuring a balanced and nutritious diet for the children.

This initiative has been met with enthusiastic response from students and their parents, who are grateful that schools are not only imparting education but also caring for their nutritional well-being.

NBJK acknowledges the critical role played by Feeding India in making this initiative possible and reaffirms its commitment to holistic development of rural children.