*Name has been changed to protect her identity
In the remote villages of Rajasthan, the lives of young girls and women are scarred by a longstanding tradition that threatens their freedom and future. Amid these challenges, a ray of hope shines through the efforts of Project Rakshan.
In regions like Jaisinghpura, Ganeshpura, and Sindholiya, where literacy is at a dismal 57.12%, the dreams of many girls are clipped before they can take flight. Here, education is a distant dream, overshadowed by poverty, societal norms, and gender biases. The specter of sex slavery and trafficking looms large, casting a long shadow over their aspirations and dignity.
Since 2018, iPartner India, through Project Rakshan has dedicated itself to dismantling the cycle of exploitation while also promoting the utmost need for education and empowerment. Spanning 2 districts, 5 blocks, and 27 villages, Rakshan has been a transformative force, altering the destinies of over 380 girls.
With every passing year, iPartner India continues its concerted efforts to uplift girls from marginalized communities, especially the DNT (de-notified tribes) and the Nat community. The focus is on providing scholarships and consistent educational support to girls who are at risk of falling into the dark world of sex work. Through initiatives like Bal Panchayat and Yuva Mandal (Youth Circles), and the formation of Self Help Groups (SHGs), the campaign aims to forge stronger, self-reliant communities where women can aspire to brighter futures.
Reena Madhiwal* shares her journey of change:
“My name is Reena Madhiwal. My world is set in the small, tradition-bound village of Bheerpur. Here, where futures are often predetermined, I chose to carve out a different path for myself. Despite the prevailing norm of sex work in my community, I vowed to pursue education over a fate not chosen by me.
With the nurturing support of iPartner India, I am currently immersed in the academic pursuits of a Bachelor of Arts degree at a renowned University in Rajasthan. This institution is almost like a sanctuary for me where I’m shaping my future. Beyond the classrooms, I participate in games like Kabaddi where I have represented my university at tournaments, and participate in diverse activities that broaden my perspectives.
My dream is to wear the police uniform, not just as a job, but as a mission. I aspire to inspire the girls in my community who do not get the opportunity to pursue an education and a career. I want to be there for the families, to assure them that their daughters can aspire to and achieve greatness, to break the cycle of exploitation, and to pave the way for a future where every girl can dream freely.”
* Name has been changed to protect her identity.
