Akhara Construction: The Inspiring Story of Sibnatoli

Sibnatoli, a small village about 20 kilometres from Lohardaga, had long dreamed of having its own Akhara—a traditional space for dance, music, gatherings, and cultural celebrations. For years, villagers spoke about it with hope, knowing that an Akhara would help preserve their tribal identity and bring the community closer. This dream began to take shape when community leader Maheshwar Oraon, of the CCFF, took the initiative to turn they’re into reality.

On 10 January 2025, Maheshwar called a village meeting where the idea of building an Akhara was revived with full support from the community. Encouraged by this unity, he prepared an application with fellow villagers and submitted it on 28 January 2025 to Dr. Rameshwar Oraon, MLA and Minister from Lohardaga. Impressed by the community’s determination to protect their culture, the Minister approved the proposal swiftly. On 8 February 2025, a fund of Rs. 2,50,000 was sanctioned for the construction.

With joy and energy, the villagers began the work on 20 February 2025. Every teamwork, dedication, and pride. Despite limited resources. After nearly a month of collective effort, the construction was completed on 15 March 2025.

The village chose the morning of Sarhul to inaugurate the Akhara. Dressed in traditional attire, the community gathered with joy. Elders blessed the youth, leaders shared heartfelt messages, and the entire village celebrated a milestone that belonged to everyone.

Today, the Akhara stands as a shining symbol of unity, cultural pride, and the power of community action. Thanks to the leadership of Maheshwar Oraon and the support of Dr. Rameshwar Oraon, Sibnatoli now has a space where their traditions will flourish for generations.

Monu Bhagat - Organic Farming Success Story

Monu Bhagat, a farmer from Kirto Toli village, Chainpur block, is emerging as one of the most inspiring examples of rural transformation through organic farming. In a time when many villagers are forced to migrate to cities for work, Monu chose a different path to stay in his village, strengthen his land, and create opportunities at home.

Due to lack of employment and awareness, many families in his village depended on migration for survival. Agriculture was failing, incomes were uncertain, and life was becoming difficult. Monu too faced these challenges, but he believed that with the right knowledge and hard work, farming could become profitable again.

He attended training programmes on:

• Five-layer organic vegetable cultivation
• SRI paddy method
• Use of bio-inputs and natural pest control
• Soil improvement and water-saving techniques

These trainings opened a new direction for himMonu began applying organic practices in his vegetable fields. He used Jeevamrit, Beejamrit, Neemastra. Within days, the crops began to show visible improvements. When he used the SRI method in paddy cultivation, the results were remarkable. Where earlier the production was low, this time he harvested 25–30 kg per five decimal of land, far better than previous years. His confidence grew, and so did the trust of his fellow villagers.Alongside farming, Monu also started a small broom-selling business, which became another steady source of income.

He purchases brooms in bulk and then resells it in the local market for Rs.70–80 each. In one cycle, he earned Rs. 18,000 to 20,000, helping him support his family with dignity. His family, who once struggled financially, now lives with stability and hope.

A Role Model for His Village: Monu Bhagat’s dedication has inspired many. He is now one of the most active and committed members of the Jaivik Kisan Group. Other farmers visit his fields to learn from him, and he gladly teaches them every technique he has learned. He proves every day that:“Less land, less water, less cost — but greater production is possible through organic farming. “With regular training, discipline, and hard work, he has become a symbol of change in Kirto Toli

Today, Monu grows vegetables throughout the year, earns income from broom selling, and cultivates paddy successfully using organic methods. He is not only improving his own life but also guiding other farmers to adopt sustainable agriculture. His story is a powerful message of hope that opportunities do not always lie outside the village; sometimes, they grow from the soil beneath our feet.