Community meeting with Paharaia PVTGS was held on 28th November at Kosi Gora village under Littipara block in Pakur. The meeting brought together around 50 community members from villages including Kosi Gora, Litti Pahad, Danda Kuria, and Chhota Ghaghra.
The meeting began with a traditional song by community members. Dinbandhu Vats from PAIRVI briefed about the organisation and prospect of future engagement with the community members. PAIRVI has been working with the Paharia community to ensure access to social security, enhance economic empowerment, develop local leadership and create a community led formal association. Participants discussed on socio-economic issues, agriculture, and strategies to empower the community. Key discussions revolved around agricultural challenges, with community members highlighting water scarcity and the need for improved farming practices. Jitendra Dubey from Samadhan Foundation provided insights and practical solutions to enhance agricultural productivity. Additionally, the importance of integrating marginalized Paharia community members into the mainstream was emphasized. Social worker Subhash Dubey encouraged systematic efforts to connect the community, especially youth, with government schemes and other opportunities. Village head Jabra Paharia and others voiced local issues, resulting in a decision to collaboratively develop action plans with the help of government programs.
The meeting also focused on youth empowerment, advocating for the formation of youth groups to lead development initiatives. Participants asked for training programs to strengthen the community’s socio-economic and political capabilities. Villagers also shared their experiences and challenges in accessing government schemes, including the Forest Rights Act, Ayushman Bharat, pension schemes, and MGNREGA. It aimed to raise awareness and enhance access to these benefits. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to uplift the Paharia community, with organizer and participants alike expressing their dedication to achieving these goals. Local youth Samuel Malto facilitated the discussion.