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Yuvoday: The Rise of Youth Empowerment in Chhattisgarh
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Yuvoday: The Rise of Youth Empowerment in Chhattisgarh
Yuvoday: The Rise of Youth Empowerment in Chhattisgarh
In Chhattisgarh, a youth-driven movement called Yuvoday—which translates to "Rise of the Youth"—has been quietly transforming communities since its inception in Bastar during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Initially aimed at promoting COVID-appropriate behaviors, Yuvoday has evolved into a multifaceted program addressing critical social challenges, including malnutrition, climate action and resilience, mental health, parental engagement in education, and key health-seeking behaviors.
Starting with just 500 volunteers, Yuvoday now boasts a network of over 18,000 volunteers across ten districts, including Kondagaon, Bijapur, Jashpur, Bilaspur, Janjgir-Champa, Durg, Rajnandgaon, Dantewada, and Kabirdham. These volunteers, known locally as Kondanar Champs, Durg ke Doots, JAYHO, KAVIR, and Bijaduteer, are at the forefront of community engagement, driving meaningful change.
Many of these champions hail from remote, access-compromised areas where trust deficits and social norms were significant barriers to change. Through their efforts, they are fostering connections and transforming lives in their communities.
Bridging the Gap Between Communities and Governance
Yuvoday volunteers do more than implement community programs—they serve as a vital link between the government and the people. In several districts, they actively participate in community feedback mechanisms, a localized version of accountability to affected populations. By gathering feedback directly from communities and presenting it at district-level meetings with collectors, they ensure grassroots concerns are addressed.
This role as connectors not only strengthens trust between communities and the administration but also contributes to more responsive and inclusive governance.
Supporting Key Development Goals
Yuvoday’s mission has expanded far beyond its initial focus on COVID-19. Volunteers now contribute to a wide array of initiatives, including:
Raising awareness about nutrition and promoting healthier behaviors.
Encouraging parents to actively participate in their children’s education.
Assisting families in accessing social security benefits and government cash transfers.
Anchoring and Scaling the Program
This initiative is anchored by the Alliance for Behavioral Change in collaboration with UNICEF and district administrations. The program’s efforts are streamlined through the Yuvoday mobile app, available on Google Play (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.biu.yuvoday) , which helps volunteers manage data and track progress effectively.
Under the leadership of district collectors, administrations are leveraging the dedication of these youth volunteers. By engaging them in high-priority service delivery programs, governments are amplifying the reach and impact of these young influencers.
The Spirit of Volunteering
What motivates these young individuals to dedicate their time and energy to this cause? Their answer is simple yet profound: “Accha lagta hai” (It feels good). This response, echoed across districts, reflects the intrinsic satisfaction they derive from serving their communities.
Their efforts prove that youth are not a problem but a solution. When guided and empowered, young people can drive transformative change at the grassroots level.
Join the Movement
As we celebrate International Volunteers Day, let’s recognize the inspiring efforts of Yuvoday and its volunteers. Their commitment exemplifies the power of collective action and the transformative role of youth in community development.
If you want to support or learn more about this initiative, visit www.yuvoday.org. Better yet, plan a visit to Chhattisgarh to witness these changemakers in action. Whether in Kondagaon, Bijapur, Durg, or any other district, you’ll find young individuals dedicated to building a brighter future. And if you meet a Yuvoday volunteer, take a moment to thank them for their incredible work—they’ll surely appreciate your encouragement.
Together, let’s celebrate the rise of youth and their pivotal role in creating stronger, healthier, and more resilient communities.