Chhavi Rajawat: The MBA Sarpanch Transforming Soda Village

From Water and Roads to Education and Digital Literacy: A Story of Progress and Promise

Under the visionary leadership of former sarpanch Chhavi Rajawat, Rajasthan’s Soda Village has undergone a remarkable transformation. Rajawat, who made headlines as India’s first sarpanch with an MBA degree, has brought significant improvements to the village’s infrastructure, including water supply, road construction, and education. Currently, she is focusing on establishing a digital literacy center to further enhance the community’s progress.

In the heart of Soda village lies a bustling road in the main bazaar chowk. While it may seem ordinary to outsiders, locals view it as a symbol of development. Ladu ji, a local farmer, vividly recalls the days when the road was a mere two feet wide, barely allowing two bicycles to pass simultaneously. Today, it accommodates trucks, buses, and bullock carts, a testament to Rajawat’s efforts. “Now trucks can drive on this road!” he exclaims, crediting Rajawat for this phenomenal change.

Rajawat’s impact extends beyond infrastructure. Before she took office in 2010, Soda was grappling with severe drought. Rajawat ensured every household received a pipeline, reviving ponds and providing water to both homes and fields. Ladu ji’s thriving crops are a direct result of the steady water supply she facilitated. Her tenure from 2010 to 2020 saw the implementation of numerous projects, including the installation of 800 pipelines, construction of 800 toilets, revival of ponds, and building of 100 roads.

Rajawat’s dedication to Soda village goes beyond physical infrastructure. She has revived a defunct college, now offering BEd, D El Ed, and BA programs, with 550 students enrolled. Geeta, a local teacher, shares how Rajawat’s encouragement helped her pursue a Diploma in Elementary Education, securing a teaching job and changing her life. Rajawat’s focus on female education aims to empower women, impacting future generations and breaking stereotypes.

Despite challenges, including limited resources and the COVID-19 pandemic, Rajawat’s team has made significant strides. They employ teachers from Jaipur and have established a computer lab, a precursor to the planned digital literacy center. Rajawat believes technology can bridge educational gaps, ensuring rural students are not left behind.

Rajawat’s journey began with addressing the severe drought of 2009. She led efforts to desilt the village reservoir, resulting in sufficient water supply for an entire year. This initiative not only boosted agricultural productivity by 75% but also strengthened the villagers’ trust in her leadership.

In 2010, Rajawat launched a sanitation campaign, raising funds and encouraging community participation in constructing toilets. Her approach fostered a sense of ownership among villagers, contributing to the project's success.

Chhavi Rajawat’s story is a testament to the power of committed leadership and the impact of progressive policies. Her work in Soda village underscores the belief that the progress of a country is measured by the progress of each of its citizens. With her ongoing efforts in digital literacy and agriculture education, Rajawat continues to drive Soda village towards a brighter, more prosperous future.

Reference:

www.thebetterindia.com