A Bal Gram Sabha for kids

By imparting values of democracy and leadership, Bhata Dungariya, a nondescript village in Mandla, is grooming Gen Alpha to take on governance roles in the future.

The morning of November 18, 2024, at the government school in Bhata Dungariya, was different from other days. The usual cacophony of students had an unmistakable ring of excitement. 

The kids rushed to the school grounds to assemble, barely able to contain their excitement. It was the day they could freely express their opinions about everything associated with their school, education, and more. It was the day their voices would be heard in debates and discussions that were planned well in advance.  

The children of the government school in Bhata Dungariya display their creative abilities. (Photo courtesy Transform Rural India)

The non-descript village of Bhata Dungariya in Mandla district has carved a niche for itself by taking a significant stride towards inclusive governance, by involving its youngest residents in shaping the future of their village. 

With the support of Transform Rural India (TRI) Bijadandi, the block recently conducted a series of Bal Gram Sabhas (children’s assemblies) across schools to amplify the voices of children in the Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP).

This initiative, rooted in the principles of child participation and decentralised planning, provides a platform for children under 18 to actively engage in discussions about their village’s development.

These Bal Gram Sabhas weren’t just symbolic gatherings. They were dynamic forums where children confidently voiced their concerns, needs, and aspirations.

Children speak, leaders listen

The Bal Gram Sabhas witnessed enthusiastic participation from children across various schools in Bijadandi block. Guided by trained facilitators, these young minds delved into critical issues impacting their lives, including education, the need for separate toilets, safety and protection. 

PRI members, members of the CBO and kids jointly discuss the children’s problems. (Photo courtesy Transform Rural India)

Recognising the importance of quality education, children expressed their desire for improved school infrastructure, access to libraries and computer labs, and enhanced teaching methods. They spoke about the need for more spacious classrooms, extra rooms, better sanitation facilities in schools, and a greater focus on extracurricular activities. They also expressed the need for separate toilets for girls in schools.

In the safe space provided by the Bal Gram Sabhas, the children discussed sensitive issues related to their safety and protection. They expressed concerns about child labour, child marriage, and the need for greater awareness about child rights and protection mechanisms.

Emphasising the importance of play in their overall development, children voiced their desire for safe and accessible play areas, playgrounds with equipment, and opportunities for sports and cultural activities. They asserted the need for spaces where they could freely engage in recreational activities and develop their talents.

Brainstorming over the state of affairs 

The children didn’t just identify problems. They took an action-oriented approach by proposing solutions for their problems. Some of the key suggestions that emerged from the Bal Gram Sabhas included constructing a dedicated playground with swings, slides, and other play equipment.

They also demanded a children’s library and reading room with a diverse collection of books. Most importantly, they asked for building separate toilets for boys and girls in schools and ensuring access to clean drinking water.

Children display their artwork after the Bal Gram Sabha. (Photo courtesy Transform Rural India)

The sarpanchs (village heads) and Gram Sangathan leaders actively listened to the children’s concerns and suggestions. They assured the children that their voices would be integrated into the GPDP, demonstrating a commitment to child-centric development.

Not just a talk shop 

The Bal Gram Sabhas weren’t just about discussions; they were also filled with fun and engaging activities. Children participated in painting competitions, recited poems, and showcased their creativity through rangoli making. PRI (Panchayat Raj Institution) members and teachers distributed prizes to encourage and motivate the children.

Moving towards inclusive governance

By organising these Bal Gram Sabhas, Bijadandi block has set a positive example for other regions to follow. This initiative recognises children as active citizens and provides them with opportunities to participate in decision-making processes that impact their lives.

It is empowering children to express their views, contribute to solutions, and take ownership of their community’s development. This approach ensures that the GPDP reflects the diverse needs and priorities of all community members, including children.

In doing so, it is building a foundation for sustainable development by incorporating the perspectives of future generations.

Cluster Level Federation’s resource person facilitates the Bal Gram Sabha. (Photo courtesy Transform Rural India)

The Bal Gram Sabhas in Bijadandi block are a testament to the power of child participation in local governance. By amplifying young voices, the block is paving the way for a more inclusive, child-friendly, and sustainable future. 

Bijadandi Block’s Bal Gram Sabhas demonstrate how prioritising children’s voices in local governance fosters inclusive, child-centric, and sustainable development.

The lead image on top depicts school children making rangoli (floor designs) after the Bal Gram Sabha. (Photo courtesy Transform Rural India)

Ashish Kumar Yadav is an Associate Practitioner at Transform Rural India, working to drive sustainable development in rural communities in Madhya Pradesh.