Barmer Collector Tina Dabi’s ‘Maru Udaan’: A “Unique and Historic” Initiative

EDUCATION

Barmer Collector Tina Dabi’s ‘Maru Udaan’: A “Unique and Historic” Initiative

02 DEC 2024

In a pioneering move under the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao initiative, District Collector Tina Dabi launched the 'Maru Udaan' program in Barmer, Rajasthan. Running from November 12 to November 29, the initiative aimed to empower women by addressing critical areas such as health, education, self-employment, and financial independence. Drawing participation from over 3,000 women, the program concluded with a district-level event that was hailed as a “historic” step in women’s empowerment.

Tina Dabi, the current District Collector of Barmer, Rajasthan

Tina Dabi, the current District Collector of Barmer, Rajasthan, is celebrated for her dedication to public service and her inspiring journey as a Dalit woman who broke barriers. She made history in 2015 by topping the UPSC Civil Services Examination on her first attempt, becoming a symbol of hope for marginalized communities. Tina has often highlighted the transformative impact of affirmative action, crediting reservations for enabling her success. Known for her work in education, women’s empowerment, and sustainable development, she continues to inspire through her visionary leadership and commitment to inclusive governance.

It's a grassroots movement for change. The program's design ensured inclusivity and accessibility, conducting 12 block-level sessions across Panchayat Headquarters and one district-level dialogue. Women were encouraged to participate in small groups, creating a safe space to voice their concerns. Experts in various fields led 50 focused sessions, covering topics ranging from mental and physical health to financial management, vocational training, and career counselling.

Key experts like Dr. O.P. Dudi and Advocate Indu Tomar discussed mental health challenges, revealing that many women faced depression due to domestic issues while young girls struggled with exam-related stress. Health experts highlighted common deficiencies in iron, calcium, and hemoglobin, stressing the importance of regular checkups and proper nutrition.

Tina Dabi emphasized the program’s long-term vision. Creating a “chain system” where participants become ambassadors for women’s empowerment in their communities. These women will help disseminate knowledge about health, financial literacy, and skill development, ensuring the program's impact is sustained. Speaking about the initiative, Dabi stated, “Empowerment is not a one-time intervention but a continuous process. Through 'Maru Udaan,' we aim to inspire women to take control of their lives and help others do the same.”

Officials releasing the poster of 'Maru Udaan' in Barmer, Rajasthan (Picture credit: Photo ETV Bharat Barmer)

The program also addressed a critical which is the financial awareness. Many women revealed they kept their savings at home, unaware of investment options. Experts introduced them to schemes by the Indian Postal Service and other avenues, urging them to secure their future through investments. Vocational training sessions, led by organizations like Rajeevika, encouraged women to explore entrepreneurial opportunities.

The initiative was supported by organizations such as Cairn Vedanta, JSW, Roomadevi Foundation, and Action Aid, with coordination by Nodal Officer Savita Dahiya and Deputy Director Prahlad Singh Rajpurohit. Their combined efforts ensured smooth execution and high-quality sessions across all blocks.

Participants lauded 'Maru Udaan' as a “unique and historic” effort. For many, it was the first time their issues were addressed comprehensively. “This program has changed our perspective on health and financial independence,” shared a participant at the district-level event.

The closing event at Barmer’s Town Hall showcased the program's achievements, featuring artisan stalls and registration booths for upcoming events, including career development workshops and mega health camps.

Recognizing the success of 'Maru Udaan,' Mahendra Soni, Secretary of the Department of Women and Child Development, described it as a model for other districts. “If this initiative prevents even one woman from taking a drastic step or empowers one woman to pursue training, it will be a monumental achievement,” he remarked.

With its focus on health, education, and financial empowerment, 'Maru Udaan' has not just set a benchmark for women-centric programs but also sown the seeds of a movement that could redefine empowerment in rural Rajasthan.