20 neighbours have shared what matters to them — in their own words.
“Whatever forest products are available, such as साग (leafy vegetables), can be powdered and made available through PDS (Public Distribution System) in some Anganwadi centers or schools. If we provide it in powdered form, it can be used as protein-rich food.”
“ଜଙ୍ଗଲ ଜାତ ଦ୍ରବ୍ୟ କୁ ଯାହା ସାଗ ମିଳୁଛି ତାହା ପାଉଡର କରି କିଛି ଅଙ୍ଗନବାଡି ବା ସ୍କୁଲରେ ପିଡିଏସରେ ତାକୁ ଉପଲବ୍ଧ କରେ କି ପାଉଡର କରି କିରି ଆମେ ଦେଲେ ତେଣୁ ପ୍ରୋଟିନ ଯୁକ୍ତ ଖାଦ୍ୟ ଭାବରେ ବ୍ୟବହାର କରିଯାଇ ପାରିବ”
translated from Odia
In your area, citizens strongly advocate for the preservation of traditional culture and knowledge, including indigenous farming methods and local seed varieties 🌾. There's a clear call for improved basic infrastructure like electricity, roads, and internet access in villages 🛣️. Many also seek support for sustainable livelihoods and local economic initiatives, such as small businesses and integrating local forest products into public distribution systems. Concerns about environmental pollution are also present, underscoring a deep connection to nature.
“Firstly, our lifestyle is nature-centric. Forests, hills, rivers, soil—we have a daily connection with all of these. We see nature not just as a resource, but as a life-giving companion. Secondly, our customs and traditions, traditional knowledge, festivals, songs, dances, and folk tales have made our identity unique. These cultural aspects distinguish us from other tribes. Thirdly, our collective philosophy of life—“Everyone eats together, works together, and supports each other”—this is our strength. The community is considered senior to the individual. Fourthly, our intimate connection with land, forest, and water. Considering the hills as deities, the forest as life, and wildlife as fellow travelers—this is the root of our culture. Therefore, my tribe is different from others because of: Traditional forest food and medicinal knowledge, Collective way of life, Life principles based on ancestral advice and folk tales, Religious perspective based on self-realization and natural relationships, Traditional agriculture, forest livelihood, and indigenous practices. All these elements make my tribe known as a distinct cultural, identity-rich, and glorious community.”
“If we get money, it would help us to build a chicken coop and do business to support our family.”
“By 2047, every village in India needs to have electricity, roads, hospitals, and all kinds of basic facilities. Internet facilities are also needed, along with all the facilities discussed regarding digital platforms.”
“He said. Therefore, if this opportunity were available, I wish to traditionally rule the people over my caste and all my affairs.”
“Hello, hello. Okay, if a new subdivision is made, land has been bought on that side, hasn't it?”
“It is absolutely necessary to preserve what is from nature, purify temples, and perform good deeds.”
“We are cultivating a second crop based on zero irrigation. Crop production with zero irrigation is possible by conserving rainwater, retaining moisture in the soil, and using traditional methods.”
“If I had this opportunity, I would be able to revive all my traditional farming practices for my community.”
“I am cultivating unique crops with zero irrigation, so I am trying to collect seeds.”
“We should definitely preserve our culture because someday it will disappear. Currently, a DJ system is being arranged, which I don't like. As a result, the traditional situation feels better.”
“If we do nothing, all the pollution in the region will surely happen within the next 20 years.”
“Traditional songs, dances, games etc. should help the villagers.”
“I am a farmer. I cultivate every year. I also grow profitable crops. I have valuable seeds: Kandalo, Sri Kandalo, and I.”
“I am cultivating using traditional methods, which is why I am following seed preservation.”
“Songs, dances, and folktales are important mediums for transferring traditional knowledge from one generation to another. This should be preserved.”
“It would be good if Jana Kango Ghantia were included in PDS.”
“We will make turmeric papads and do business in the market to arrange for the maintenance of the house.”
“If the government provides me with 20000 rupees, then I will manage.”
“It will be a good share if Janana Kango Ghantia BDS is included.”