Celebrating National Unity Day!!

31 October 2023, Chouparan (Hazaribagh): On the 148th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the first Home Minister of India, NBJK’s Surekha Prakash Bhai Public School in Bahera (Chouparan, Hazaribagh) came together to celebrate National Unity Day with great enthusiasm and pride!

Our students and teachers engaged in various activities like Taking the Unity Pledge, Essay Writing and Running to commemorate the “Iron Man” of India, who played a pivotal role in the political integration of our nation.

It was a day filled with reverence, unity, and inspiration, reminding us of the importance of staying together as one nation. Let us all carry forward Sardar Patel’s vision of a united and prosperous India.

#NationalUnityDay #SardarPatel #IronManOfIndia #UnityInDiversity #NBJK #SurekhaPrakashBhaiPublicSchool #Hazaribagh #EducationForAll #Patriotism

Lok Samiti organizes women’s conference

29 October 2023, Silaunja (Bodhgaya), Gaya: Bihar State Lok Samiti has organized women’s conference over the issues of their empowerment, education, unemployment and reservation for them. The conference held at the premises of Komal Pujan Public School, Silaunja (Bodhgaya) and it initiated with garlanding the photographs of LS founder Loknayak JP and BSLS president late Jagannath Babu who left for heavenly abode on 26th October 2023. The people offered rich tribute to him.

On this occasion, National President of Lok Samiti Mr. Girija Satish, National Convenor Mr. Kaushal Ganesh Azad, Barachatti MLA Mrs. Jyoti Manjhi, Dr. Amita, Teacher of Journalism and Mass Communication Department at Guru Ghasidas Central University-Vilaspur, Mrs. Raju Ranjana, Mrs. Sonamani Kujur, Many dignitaries including Mrs. Neera Kumari, Engineer Mahendra Yadav, General Secretary of Bihar Pradesh Lok Samiti Mr. Shivji Singh, Mrs. Kusum Devi were present.

The keynote speaker of the conference, Dr. Amita, stressed the need for social protection along with reservation from the government for women and said that we have to avoid two-tone policies. Underlining the importance of education and struggle, he said women’s consent in village schemes, encouraging them to come out of the house, social awareness and respecting them and appealed to women to face the challenges.

Hon’ble MLA Jyoti Manjhi said that it is important for women to have self-confidence, freedom from superstition and being equipped with scientific thinking. Supporting the power of the organization, women’s access to society’s resources and women’s participation at every level, she said that I give credit to Lok Samiti for the changes that have taken place in my life.

In order to introducing the theme, Mr. Kaushal Ganesh Azad welcomed the women’s reservation in the Lok Sabha by the Central Government, demanded to remove the obstacles related to its early implementation and said that along with Legislative Assemblies-Councils, all political parties should provide at least 33 percent reservation for women in their committees-units from block to state & national levels. He said that a lot of work to be done towards gender equality and there is a need to protect women-children from all kinds of violence.

Addressing the conference, National President of Lok Samiti and noted Gandhian ideologue  Mr. Girija Satish said that today women’s participation has increased in every field but conservative thinking needs to be removed with positive cooperation of family and society. Discussing the impact of women’s reservation in Bihar Panchayat elections, he considered employment as a major tool of women empowerment and said that mothers and sisters have contributed a lot in bringing the prohibition law that should be implemented properly. Describing alcoholism & drug addiction and superstition as a serious problem, Shri Girija Satish pointed to huge expenditure in religious events, the tendency to take credit, being superstitious even in this scientific age as sad and said that instead of building a temple in the house, we should make the home a temple, because Gandhiji saw God everywhere. He said that there is compulsion of proof in logical thinking of science but superstition spreads confusion and stops our development. Considering political polarization based on communalism and casteism as wrong, Mr. Girija Satish said that the government should remain secular, its agencies should not be misused and we must vote wisely. Referring to more than seven thousand deaths and about thirty thousand injured without any medical facilities in the Hamas-Israel conflict, he said that today instead of armies, innocent civilians are targeted and there should be a peaceful resolution to this dispute. Mr. Girija Satish said that the objective of the Lok Samiti is to organize the people, give them correct information and show the path of development so that our home, family and society become better.

Other speakers also addressed the conference and said that without women’s participation, the goal of development will remain incomplete and we all need to work together towards empowering women from our respective homes.

The program was conducted by Mr. Shivji Singh and the vote of thanks was given by Md. Naeem, Manager of Lord Buddha Home for Children.

From Darkness to Light: Adhir’s Vision Restored!

23 October 2023, Dumka: Shri Adhir Mohali belongs to a small tribal community engaged with bamboo artisanry. He is about 65 years old and a resident of village-Saharpur in the Nala block of Jamtara district of Jharkhand. Adhir was facing significant challenges due to a cataract disease that had affected his left eye. His deteriorating vision due to the cataract caused blurred vision, making it increasingly difficult for him to perform his daily activities and work efficiently. This visual impairment not only hindered his work but also led to economic difficulties, as his livelihood was dependent on his small business.

Recognizing the severity of Adhir’s condition, NBJK run LokNayak JayPrakash Eye Hospital’s local healthcare motivator visited him to assess his eye health. After a thorough diagnosis, it was determined that Adhir required a cataract surgery to restore his vision. The motivator explained the necessity of the surgery to him and the potential benefits it could bring in terms of regaining clear vision and improving his quality of life.

Adhir Mohali underwent cataract surgery on 2nd May 2023 in LNJPEH-Dumka with the support of Sightsavers India. The surgical procedure successfully removed the cataract from his left eye, allowing him to regain proper vision. With his vision restored, Adhir was able to resume his small business and work effectively, thus alleviating the economic challenges he had faced prior to the surgery.

This case illustrates the transformative impact of timely medical intervention and the positive outcomes that can result from addressing eye health issues in underserved communities.

LNJPEH-Dumka provides access of eye health care at the remotest villages of Santhal Pargana region and improving the lives of individuals like him.

Celebrating Carers Day !!

19 October 2023, Hazaribagh: Carers Day was celebrated with utmost dedication in Hazaribagh. This heartwarming event, organized by Nav Bharat Jagriti Kendra and Pragati Carers Seva Sanstha in collaboration with Carers Worldwide, shed light on the unsung heroes among us – the caregivers.

Shri Satish Girija, Secretary of NBJK, emphasized the need for society and the government to acknowledge the selfless dedication of those who care for their sick, elderly, or disabled loved ones. Their tireless commitment often comes at personal costs, impacting their psycho-social and economic well-being. Advocating for their interests is crucial.

Shri Vijay Paswan, CEO of Pragati Carers Seva Sanstha, unveiled an 11-point demand charter issued by the Carers Federation. These caregivers are seeking recognition across government departments and pushing for special allowances, integration with MNREGA, and budget allocation in local government plans. They also call for the establishment of day care centers, disability management, and essential training.

Around 50 caregivers from various districts unanimously endorsed this charter, committing to delivering it to the Deputy Commissioner and Social Welfare Department officials. This remarkable day witnessed the unwavering dedication of individuals like Smt. Meena Devi, Smt. Girija Devi, and many more who contributed significantly to the success of Carers Day.

Notably, Carers Day was celebrated not only in Hazaribagh but also in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Jharkhand, Nepal, and Bangladesh. Caregivers united to raise their voices and stand up for their invaluable work. Let’s honor these caregivers and support their cause!

Celebrating World Sight Day with a Vision for Change!

13 October 2023, Hazaribagh: NBJK’s Rural Eye Health Program – Netra Vasant, in partnership with Sightsavers India, embarked on a journey to brighten lives and open doors to a world of possibilities. World Sight Day marked a remarkable milestone in our mission for better eye health and socio-educational inclusion.

We’re delighted to share our activities on this special day as –

• 24 visually impaired children assisted with laptops, smartphones, and Braille kits.
• 195 people received eye check-ups.
• 65 individuals were provided with eyeglasses.
• 13 cataract patients were identified and referred for free surgery at LNJP Eye Hospital, Bahera.

The event was graced by the presence of district officials, including District Superintendent of Education Mr. Santosh Kumar Gupta, District Social Welfare Officer Mrs. Indu Prabha Khalkho, and Additional Chief Medical Officer Dr. Shashi Jaiswal, along with Dr. Jitendra Kumar from Sightsavers India and NBJK Secretary Mr. Satish Girija.

On this occasion,  Mr. Deepak Kumar (Optometrist), Mrs. Lalima J. Lakra (APO-JEPC), Mr. Sudhir Gupta, (BPO-JSLPS, Katkamsandi) and two self-help groups of Katkamsandi and Daru blocks were felicitated for doing excellent work in the areas of eye protection, inclusive education of blind & visually impaired children and socio-economic promotion of similar adults.

Let’s continue to make a difference, one vision at a time.

A Day of Empowerment in Hazaribagh!

12 October 2023, Hazaribagh: Hazaribagh MP Shri Jayant Sinha inaugurated the historic Swavalamban Conclave-cum-Fair under the patronage of SIDBI, a celebration of local artisans’ talent and passion. We are thrilled to announce the launch of the SIDBI-supported Micro Enterprise Promotion Program by NBJK, striving to establish 1100 enterprises in five districts over four years, fostering financial growth and unleashing creativity for local entrepreneurs.

The event also marked the success of the Rural Entrepreneurship Program (1999-2006) by NBJK-SIDBI, with 2044 enterprises created, providing livelihoods for 4700 people over two decades.

Shri Sinha emphasized empowering small entrepreneurs with technical support, marketing assistance, and innovation like business credit cards. He has unveiled other projects like CSR assistance to Akshaya Patra, cooperatives supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and the “Atmanirbhar Hazaribagh” campaign in partnership with HDFC Bank, aiming to replicate success in 20 more Jharkhand districts.

SIDBI Chairman Shri S. Ramann commended women’s active participation and promised to address the challenges faced by small entrepreneurs across districts.

We also shared about “Project Care” for Kohwar-Sohrai painter groups, mushroom production program for livelihood generation, and lac processing skill development for rural women by other NGOs.

Certificates were distributed among the beneficiaries of SIDBI-supported projects, and guests appreciated the local products on display. Hazaribagh, get ready for a brighter future!

Bicycles Distribution among School Girls

11 October 2023, Hazaribagh: Today, on the auspicious occasion of Loknayak Jayaprakash Jayanti and International Girl Child Day, NBJK organized a bicycle distribution ceremony among 400 girl students of 09 selected schools. The event held at Hazaribagh Stadium under the aegis of CSR initiative “Care Today” of India Today Group-TV Today Network in collaboration with Hazaribagh MP Mr. Jayant Sinha. The value of 400 bicycles distributed is approximately Rs 20 lakh.

On this occasion, the MP said that we want to serve the society and country through politics and we would have been happier if electric bicycles were available for these daughters. He said that the credibility of NBJK in the field of social service is well known and we are very happy to become a means of cooperation in the ongoing development work through them. The MP said that this is a cycle bank, in which after the holder girl passes 10th; her cycle will be transferred to another girl. He also took a round of the stadium ground on a bicycle with the girls.

Earlier, NBJK Secretary Mr. Satish Girija while welcoming them said that this ceremony of distribution of bicycles among school girls is an important moment in the lives of our daughters, which will help in removing their educational inconveniences, commuting from home to school. It will be convenient and they will get more time for studies. He told that the concept of cycle bank is associated with this programme, which will be successful in benefiting many girls with a single bicycle. Expressing his gratitude towards the MP and India Today Group, he said that today is the International Girl Child Day along with the birthday of NBJK mentor and great freedom fighter Loknayak Jayaprakash and through this collective effort, four hundred girl children have received bicycles, which is very important for us. It is a happy occasion.

The MP garlanded the picture of Loknayak and congratulated his unmatched patriotism. Advocate Mr. Swaroop Chand Jain, who has been a JP agitator, described JP’s disappearance from Hazaribagh jail during the British era, his leadership abilities after independence, student movement, emergency etc. and described his devotion to democratic values ​​as exemplary.

NBJK President Girija Satish said that we work on the ideas of Gandhi, Vinoba, JP and the solution to the current global unrest lies only in Gandhism. Mr. Shankar Rana was conducting the dais and Mr. Rajiv Singh proposed the vote of thanks.

41 women got tailoring training, will open Usha Silai School

06 October 2023, Hazaribagh: Under the Usha Silai School program run by NBJK in collaboration with Usha International Ltd., rural women have been provided inclusive training in new sewing machine along with its working, servicing, designing of clothes, cutting, sewing on machine and making various dresses.

In this sewing training organized at the NBJK coordination office premises from 25th September to 03rd October, two batches of total 25 women from two blocks like Tandwa of Chatra and Mandu in Ramgarh districts were trained separately. 15 trainees from Tandwa were sponsored by NTPC, while 10 women from Mandu participated in this residential training under the Usha Classical mode. Along with them, a woman from Aurangabad (Bihar) also received training in the Adopt mode. Earlier, during the period of 21-29 September, 15 women of Lakhisarai Sadar block in Lakhisarai (Bihar) were given similar training in Usha Classical Mode.

Each of these 41 women has received a new sewing machine along with accessories, certificate, guidebook and signboard of Usha Silai School so that they can increase their income by running a sewing school in their home or locality.

On behalf of UIL, Mrs. Sandhya Agarwal, Mrs. Meera Tripathi, Mrs. Sarita Devi (trainers), Mr. Kamaljeet Sharma, Mr. Gopal Mishra, Mr. Himanshu Pandey (Service Engineers), Mr. Ritesh Lohani (Program Officer-Bihar), Mr. Felix Tirkey (Program Officer-Jharkhand) were involved in the training. Along with them Mr. Shailesh Kumar (Program Coordinator), Ms. Neelu Kumari (Local Coordinator, Lakhisarai) and Mr. Mithilesh Kumar (Branch Manager) from NBJK had commendable contributions.

NGO Leadership Award to NBJK

04 October 2023, Kolkata: We are thrilled to announce that Nav Bharat Jagriti Kendra (NBJK) has been awarded the prestigious NGO Leadership Award!

Mr. Girija Satish, the founder and President of NBJK, proudly received this honor on behalf of our organization at a grand ceremony held at Taj Bengal, Kolkata, on 4th October 2023.

This recognition is part of the Eastern India Leadership Awards Series, presented under the esteemed banner of EIILM-Kolkata. The award acknowledges NBJK’s consistent excellence in various domains, including sustainable resource mobilization for public utility programs, effective management, ethical operations, transparency, impactful communication, community collaboration, and environmental protection.

We are truly grateful to the event organizers for this recognition, and we want to assure you that we remain committed to striving for even greater excellence in the future, Mr. Girija Satish said.

Thank to all for continued support, and let’s continue to make a positive impact together!

Outreach Eye Screening Camps by Vimla Ramkrishna Bajaj Eye Hospital

03 October 2023, Deoghar-Giridih-Jamui: NBJK’s Vimla Ramkrishna Bajaj Eye Hospital-Deoghar, with support from Sightsavers India and SBI Foundation, recently organized 15 eye screening camps from 23rd Sept to 3rd Oct 2023. These camps reached remote villages in Deoghar, Giridih, and Jamui districts of Jharkhand & Bihar.

In total, 290 individuals received crucial eye check-ups, with 130 diagnosed with cataracts. Additionally, 62 cases of refractive errors, 13 with pterygium, and 1 case of glaucoma were identified. Medicines were distributed to 48 patients, while cataract patients were referred to our base hospital.

We also conducted eye care training for ASHAs in Mohanpur (Deoghar) and Gandey (Giridih) on 23rd and 27th Sept. Together, we’re making a difference in eye health!