In the small village of Bhawardaha, the absence of an Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) centre posed a significant challenge for the community, especially for the well-being of children, pregnant women, and nursing mothers. The nearest ICDS centre was located 2-3 kilometers away, across a difficult terrain of forests and thick bushes, making it nearly impossible for the villagers to access the essential services it provided. With 61 children under the age of five, six pregnant women and 16 nursing mothers in the village, the need for a local ICDS centre was urgent.

Recognizing this critical need, Bimla Devi, a natural leader within the community, took the initiative to address the issue. Understanding that collective action was necessary to bring about change, she conducted a thorough survey to identify the exact number of children and women who would benefit from a Mini ICDS centre in Bhawardaha. Her findings confirmed what everyone already knew—the village desperately needed its own ICDS centre.

In May, Bimla Devi presented the survey results at a community meeting. The data she shared encouraged the villagers, who unanimously agreed on the importance of establishing a Mini ICDS centre in their village. With the community’s support, Bimla Devi drafted an application for the centre with the facilitation of Chetna Vikas team, and every member of the community signed it, demonstrating their collective resolve.

With the signed application in hand, Bimla Devi, accompanied by the ward member and several other villagers, took the issue to the local authorities. They first met with the Panchayat Mukhiya in Dumdumi Panchayat, who reviewed and verified their application. Encouraged by this first step, they proceeded to the Block office, where they submitted the application to the Lady Supervisor responsible for ICDS centres. They also ensured that they received official acknowledgment of their submission.

The determination and unity of the Bhawardaha community, led by Bimla Devi, sparked a movement that caught the attention of the district authorities. Their voices, once unheard, were now at the forefront of a push for change.

This story of transformation highlights the power of community-led approach and the impact of a determined leader. Bimla Devi’s initiative not only brought her community together but also set in motion the process of establishing a Mini ICDS centre that would serve the most vulnerable members of Bhawardaha. The success of this endeavour stands as a testament to what can be achieved when a community unites for a common cause, turning a shared vision into reality.