I am Betibai, 45 years old. There are four people in my house. My husband passed away 8 years ago. Earlier, I used to work as a labourer with my husband, but now I do not. I was very disappointed, wondering what would happen now and how my family would survive.
I was not receiving widow’s pension because my husband’s death certificate had not been made. I asked the organization (Grameen Swalamban Samiti) for help, and they assisted me.
The organization helped me get my pension by using my husband’s 13th class card. They supported me in this effort for 25 consecutive days, and then my pension started.
The organization also got my land registered. Today, the land is in my name. We poor women are getting many benefits by joining the organization. The organization provided maternity benefits to Saroj in the village and got Sambhal cards made for Phoolmati and Ramkunwar.
A group of 12 women has been formed in the village, and they hold meetings every month. Men also attend our meetings. With the help of the organization, the problem of water and drainage in the village was solved. Through the women’s group in the village, we stopped the marriage of 8 underage girls.
Ruby is 16 years old. Her mother passed away, and her father made her leave her studies and fixed her marriage. As soon as we came to know, we went to her house and explained to her father, but he was not agreeing. Then we contacted the police, and he became silent.
Ruby’s grandfather understood our words and said that Ruby will not get married now. He promised to get her a sewing machine so she can work and earn money, and she will marry later. This is how Ruby’s marriage was stalled.
I believe that it is important to make women aware in the village. The way the organization is supporting us, all organizations should take the responsibility of raising women’s awareness. I also believe that it is important to make the men in the village understand; if they understand, then there will be change in the family soon.
Betibai
Village: Punaul Haar. Block: Jatara
District: Tikamgarh
Laxmi, Organization staff: 9589230908