A new Soochna Seva Kendra was inaugurated with the support of Oracle in Itki, Ranchi
Rajendra Negi, Block Manager of Soochna Seva in Tehri Garhwa and he has been working in the social sector since 1996. He was the first coordinator of community radio ‘Henvalvani’
Following are the excerpts as told to Swati Choudhary when he visited our DEF office on 30 July2015:
What are the problems that people face in Tehri Garhwal?
Tehri Garhwal is a literate state compared to other four locations where Soochna Seva is working. Still there is lack of development because of poor road connectivity. People are not aware of the latest technology and there is a huge lack of awareness on government schemes. Another reason behind this lag is that there is no proper mode of communication within the state. Uttrakhand does not have a radio station and the other nationalized radio stations do not broadcast information which could add value to the community.
How is the Soochna Seva project different from other projects?
There is a saying that, ‘do not give fish to a man. Rather teach him how to catch a fish.’ Similarly, Soochna Seva informs people and also enlightens them about other schemes so that in future these people can help their family members or their well-wishers how to avail any scheme.
Share your experiences while working with Soochna Seva.
Many non-profit organisations have fooled people in the name of social service and this has resulted into mistrust among the masses. In our case, we first kept community radio as a medium to share information about various Government Schemes and policies daily how Soochna Seva can help. We did not approach with a tagline or promoted DEF. After the people have gained some confidence on us, we ventured out in the villages and started the ground work. Now, Soochna Seva is one of the most trusted names in Tehri Garhwal in social work. Locals as well as government officials seek our help in their difficult times.
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