Ananya Dodmani, a tribal rights activist, sustainable menstrual warrior, and educator, shares her vision for the future of tribal communities in the North-East.
The situation faced by indigenous communities in India is a grave issue. Government is working at its best to improve the lives of tribals these days. But many people and personalities have come up to improve the tribal lifestyle. Ananya Paul Dodmani is one of these personalities who embarked on a mission to uplift these communities. Through her story, she aims to uncover the underlying causes behind the marginalization experienced by indigenous people in India.
From Marginalization to Empowerment
Ananya was born and brought up in a small village in north-east. She has seen the lives of these people too closely.
At the begininng, 20 years ago, she didn’t have a clear plan on how to make a long-lasting and positive impact. There were so many important things that needed to be done, and she wasn’t sure which way to go. The journey ahead seemed difficult and full of challenges, but Ananya was committed to help these communities.
Education was the primary key to unlock the tribal potential and make them more empowered. During her high school times, she started teaching kids and women in her neighborhood. She collborated with different student bodies and started conducting workshops and skills related programs.
As she took her initial steps towards empowering the community, she came to the realization that she needed to develop projects that were not only sustainable but also had a significant and positive impact on their lives. It became clear that there was a need to implement initiatives that would bring about long-term improvements and create lasting change within the community.
Ananya recalls working in the villages where there were no electricity supplies, no schools, no community halls, no toilets, nothing…Ananya began traveling between different tribal habitats, gathering children in whatever space was available, whether it be under a tree or in an open area. With determination, she undertook the task of teaching them all by myself.
The results
The efforts she made did not go unnoticed by the villagers. And soon the local indigenous youth stepped forward, offering their assistance. Together, they formed a strong and united team. The positive outcomes we achieved over the years were a result of our collective actions. As she shared their story with the world, people began to recognize and understand the existence of a parallel world, acknowledging that they too deserve better opportunities and resources.
Using the income Ananya received as a psychologist, she initiated the construction of learning centers and sanitation facilities in the villages. Almost all of her earnings, around 99%, were committed to supporting the welfare of the indigenous communities.
Through the Sustainable Menstrual Program, her team is able to impact more than 80,000 women across India. They provided them with free training on creating biodegradable pads, offering a sustainable solution while also generating income for underprivileged tribal women in need.
Ananya currently runs 13 empowerment ground projects. Through her community kitchens, her team distributes ration kits to over 5 states.
Ananya was awarded the Karamveer Chakra in 2019 and continues to serve and improve the tribal life.
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