Ganjam: Gram Vikas, a leading organization in rural development, marked a significant chapter in Jagriti Yatra 2024 by hosting 500 young changemakers at its campus in Mohuda, Odisha. This stop on the 15-day, 8,000-kilometer entrepreneurial train journey highlighted the transformative impact of grassroots innovation and sustainable development.
For over four decades, Gram Vikas has been at the forefront of community-led initiatives, impacting over 600,000 individuals in 1,500 villages. Its work spans critical areas such as water and sanitation, renewable energy, sustainable livelihoods, and education, establishing itself as a model for rural transformation. The Yatris, participants in the Jagriti Yatra, delved deep into the organization’s innovative approaches, gaining firsthand insights into its efforts to ensure universal access to clean water and sanitation. They explored how Gram Vikas has harnessed renewable energy to empower rural communities and witnessed the power of local leadership and collective problem-solving in addressing pressing challenges.
The day was filled with immersive workshops, field visits, and interactive sessions led by Gram Vikas experts. These engagements provided the Yatris with practical knowledge about scalable solutions for rural issues, while also fostering a profound understanding of the aspirations and resilience of communities in Tier 2 and Tier 3 regions. The narratives shared by local leaders and villagers resonated deeply, inspiring the participants to translate these lessons into actionable change.
The event also drew significant media attention, offering a unique opportunity to capture the essence of grassroots innovation. Gram Vikas leaders shared their vision and strategies through interviews, while Yatris and community members reflected on their collaborative experiences and the tangible impact of these initiatives. The vibrant interactions between changemakers and rural innovators created a compelling visual narrative, showcasing the transformative power of collective action.
This stop at Gram Vikas emphasized Jagriti Yatra’s mission to shed light on the untold stories of Middle India, where enterprise and resilience shine bright. For the Yatris, the visit was more than an educational experience—it was a powerful call to action. As the entrepreneurial train continues its journey, the lessons learned at Gram Vikas will remain a source of inspiration, underscoring the potential of sustainable development to create a more equitable future for India.