Journalism of Courage
Gram Gaurav Prathisthan,an NGO in Naigaon region,strives for equitable distribution of water and sustainable development in rural areas of the state
A number of government and non-government organisations have taken up the cause of rural development and water issues in rural areas,however,not all were able to solve the problems,because of several reasons. But the winner is not,who succeeds but one who tries relentlessly to solve the problem. Gram Gaurav Pratisthan (GGP),an NGO,is one such organisation that has been championing for the cause of equitable distribution of water and rural development since when it has been established in 1974.
After Salunkhe,his wife Kalpana Salunkhe has taken up the responsibility as the managing trustee of the NGO.
The GGP has also worked with the tribals throughout Maharashtra for the same. Widening its area and thus its reach,the organisation is working with corporate organisations such as Bilt,Suzlon and Praj. It is also carrying out a number of projects related to organic farming in rural Maharashtra.
Kalpana Tai Salunkhe has judiciously kept alive the essence of the movement. “It was not a smooth sail for the organization that faced difficulties like issues of energy and electricity. Also,there were agitations against the activities of GGP but the organisation successfully and amicably solved the problems with proper dialogue with the concerned authorities and villagers.”
GGP does not believe in the gap between the privileged class and the under privileged class. It seeks to bring about development from within for the rural areas. “Development has to be a complete circle. Unfortunately today we only look at vertical development. It should be such that natural resources should be nurtured. The nature’s cycle should remain undisturbed. There should be a balance in everything,” she adds.
