A Women's Empowerment Project
Funded by
The Global Foundation for Humanity, U.S.A.
BIENNIAL REPORT
(2012-2014)
HIS HIGHNESS MAHARAJA HANWANT SINGHJI CHARITABLE TRUST
UMAID BHAWAN PALACE
JODHPUR 342 006
RAJASTHAN, INDIA
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Message from the Maharaja of Jodhpur
Message from the Maharani of Jodhpur
Message from Jacqueline de Chollet & Anne Vincent
From the Desk of Director cum Coordinator
Introduction
01
Mission of the Veerni
02
Village Activities Discontinued
02
The Veerni Institute
04
Visits by Dignitaries
10
Events & Celebrations
12
Case Stories
16
Photo Gallery
22
Conclusion & Financial
26
Impact of the Veerni Institute
31
Veerni Board and Staff
32
Biennial Report 2012-2014
UMAID BHAWAN PALACE
JODHPUR - 342 006
RAJASTHAN
A Message from the Maharaja of Jodhpur
The Veerni Project, brain child of Ms Jacqueline de Chollet, being implemented by His Highness
Maharaja Hanwant Singhji Charitable Trust with financial support from the Global Foundation for
Humanity, Association de Veerni Project (Switzerland), MoneyGram Foundation, Queen Anne's Gate
Foundation & EADS France is a replicable model for empowerment of women through education.
The project has established Veerni Institute where presently 90 deprived and poor rural girls are
getting education from Class VI to XII at no cost to the parents.
It is heartening to learn that girls have done well academically as also in sports & extra curricular
activities. One can note the change in the overall personality of girls from shy, weak, somewhat
withdrawn; the girls are now more confident and sure of themselves.
The Veerni Institute has immensely benefitted from the personal interest being taken by Her Highness
Maharani Sahiba, Ms. Jacqueline de Chollet, & Mrs. Anee Vincent.
I wish all the girls a bright future.
GAJ SINGH - II
Maharaja of Jodhpur
Biennial Report 2012-2014
UMAID BHAWAN PALACE
JODHPUR - 342 006
RAJASTHAN
A Message from the Maharani of Jodhpur
The Veerni Institute has proved to be a cradle for empowering poor & deprived rural girls; developing
overall personality and to make them good citizens of a democratic society.
The Veerni Project has been able to achieve the results due to support of donors and tireless efforts of
Ms. Jacqueline de Chollet, Mrs. Anne Vincent and the Veerni team.
I wish all success to Veerni girls and a very bright future for the Veerni Institute.
HEMLATA RAJYE
Maharani of Jodhpur
Biennial Report 2012-2014
A Message from Jacqueline De Chollet & Anne Vincent, Board Members
of the Global Foundation for Humanity (USA) & of the Association
Of The Project Veerni (Switzerland)
"Each of us has a mission, each us is called to change the world, to work for a culture forged by
love and respect for the dignity of each human person."
- Pope Benedict XVI
The name “Veerni” has embodied the soul of the project meaning “girls and women of strength and
fortitude, confident and determined”.
It is now 21 years since Veerni started on its journey through Rajasthan villages. We continue to reflect
how Veerni can build on its rich experience and where the future lies to maximize its impact. Over the
years, the Project has constantly adapted to the changing needs of women and girls in rural villages
and the focus on education has shown to be the most important contribution to women's
empowerment. The results have been heartwarming.
The education of adolescent girls continues to be a priority in the world. There is no social
transformation without the full participation of women and we have to continue our work to ensure
this vital outcome. According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization,
(UNESCO), providing girls with an education is “the key to health and nutrition; to overall
improvements in the standard of living; to better agricultural and environmental practices; to a higher
gross national product; and to greater involvement and gender balance in decision making at all level
of society.” In short, educating girls is the greatest poverty-reduction strategy around.
Veerni continues to be at the forefront of educating girls of mixed castes in a boarding facility next to a
secondary school. The main mission of the project continues to be to empower adolescent girls
through a formal secondary education curriculum, helping them to access further studies and to the
job place if they so wish. Their rights to realize their dreams are to all-embracing in the philosophy of
Veerni. India will benefit from these wonderful young women in the future.
The last two years has seen graduates in science for the first time. All of these girls are continuing in
higher education. All of the graduates in arts and commerce are also pursuing further studies.
Biennial Report 2012-2014
Let us all work together to ensure a bright future for the wonderful girls of the Veerni Project. For if you
educate a woman, she will know her rights and have the confidence to stand up for herself; she will
choose when to marry and have fewer children; they in turn will be healthier and better educated than
the previous generation. She will have economic security. She will spend 90% of her income on her
family, compared to 35% that an educated man would spend. She will help support her parents. She
will not forget where she came from.
We would like to express our special thanks to the Patrons of Veerni, His Highness Maharaja Gaj
Singhji and Her Highness Maharani Hemlata Rajye. We are very grateful to the Maharani for her
commitment to the Veerni Institute. Our deep appreciation goes to Brig. Shakti Singh, Director and
Co-coordinator, for his on-going involvement in Veerni. We would like to thank the Principal of the
BJS school, M.S Ranawat; Reena Bhansali, visiting counselor to the girls; Importantly, we wish to
convey our gratitude to the Veerni team: Mahendra Sharma, Veerni Project Manager, Vimlesh Sharma,
the Veerni nurse, Parbat Singh, the wardens and tutors and all members of staff involved in the welfare
of the Institute's girls. They are key to the continued success of Veerni.
We wish to express our gratitude to the board of the Global Foundation for Humanity and to the many
contributors who provide financial and moral support to ensure the continuing success of Veerni in
the USA, in Great Britain, India and Switzerland
Jacqueline de Chollet and Anne Vincent
Biennial Report 2012-2014
From the Desk of Director cum Coordinator
"If we dig deep enough within the great earth of each person's life, we find flowing there the
same underground channels of empathy compassion."
- Daisaku Ikada
Women's education in desert region of Rajasthan has remained neglected for long, which resulted in
women always remaining dependent on men. this lack of education deprived the women of all
opportunities in a democratic society. To mitigate the prevailing illiteracy amongst women andto
improve their quality of life, His Highness Maharaja Hanwant Singhji Charitable Trust and Global
Foundation for Humanity signed an agreement in shape of Veerni Project. Over a period of time, the
activities of Veerni were streamlined to obtain better results.
Today, the Veerni Institute a hostel run by the Veerni Project, is an established educational institution
for poor & deprived rural girls of all castes & religion wherein girls are educated from Class VI to XII at
no cost to the parents. There is no discirmination of any kind and the girls live in a happy, joyful &
cordial environment under the guardianship of the Project. Our emphasis is on overall development
of a child's personality through organised sports and extra curricular activities. Extra tutorial classes
are conducted to ensure that their academic performance is at par with their urban compatriots.
Students are exposed to more developed world through frequent interaction with foreign volunteers.
As a result, the meek, shy, and silent girls pass out of the portals of Veerni Institute as confident & self
assured women; ready to face challenges of modern democratic world.
The Project is supported by Global foundation for Humanity, Queen Anne's Gate Foundation,
Association du Veerni Project (Switzerland), MoneyGram Foundation, EADS France and other
donors/philanthropists.
His Highness Majaraja Hanwant Singhji Charitable Trust is grateful to all donors for their support and
assures them that the Trust will endeavour to fulfill verson.
BRIGADIER (RETD.) SHAKTI SINGH
Director cum Coordinator
Biennial Report 2012-2014
THE VEERNI PROJECT
BIENNIAL REPORT
April 2012 to March 2014
INTRODUCTION
The Veerni Project funded by the Global Foundation for Humanity (USA) and the Association du
Project Veerni (Switzerland) is entering its 20th and 21st years of service for the empowerment of
adolescent girls from the rural villages of the Thar Desert in Western Rajasthan, India.
Initially launched in 1993 in collaboration with a Delhi based organization, the Project operated in 16
villages located at a distance of approximately 50 kilometers from Jodhpur.
On 14 January 1999, an agreement was signed between the Global Foundation for Humanity (U.S.A)
and H.H. Maharaja Hanwant Singhji Charitable Trust, a trust founded by Maharaja Gajsingh of Jodhpur
in memory of his father. The basic parameters of the project implementation were agreed upon by
both parties. Policy guidelines and financial oversight were laid down by an Advisory Council, with
representatives from the Trust, the Global Foundation for Humanity (U.S.A.) and since 2012, the
Association du Project Veerni (Switzerland).
This Report gives a complete overview of the Veerni Project from April 2012 till March 2014.
Biennial Report 2012-2014
1
MISSION OF THE VEERNI PROJECT
The name “Veerni” embodies the soul of the Project meaning “Lioness” “Women of Strength and
Fortitude, Confident and Determined”.
•
Veerni's mission is to educate and empower adolescent girls from the desert areas around
Jodhpur enabling them to lead healthy and productive lives free from poverty, coercion and
disease.
•
To this end Veerni provides a high quality secondary education in a safe and supportive
environment.
•
Veerni believes there can be no true democracy without the full participation of women in their
communities, and that education is the most effective tool to this end.
Veerni strongly believes that education will lead to the empowerment of adolescent girls. These
young girls will become confident and independent, resulting in their active and responsible
contribution to their communities. In addition, it is Veerni's hope that they will continue to educate the
next generation thus leading to a change in the future of India.
Veerni believes that by providing adolescent girls with access to education, they will be empowered
and as a result will become more independent and confident. This will further enable them to
become active and contributing members of their community.
VILLAGE ACTIVITIES
Until 2008 Veerni was actively involved in 16 villages, providing medical, social, educational,
vocational and sports activities on a daily basis. Today, on visiting any of these villages, the name
Veerni still rings loud and clear and fond memories of its activities are recounted by many villagers.
For example, in one village a water cistern is known as Veerni Water and in another a new village
school is still called The Veerni School. Representatives from all the villages still keep in touch with
and often visit the Veerni office in Jodhpur.
However, as a result of improved access to government facilities in most villages, Veerni decided to
discontinue its activities in all villages except for one, Meghwalon ki Dhani, that was retained for
education and social awareness purposes. Focus has been placed on encouraging the village girls to
join the Veerni Institute in Jodhpur.
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Biennial Report 2012-2014
To this effect Veerni established a Literacy Center in the middle of the village:
LITERACY CENTRE AT MEGHWALON KI DHANI
The Literacy Centre was managed during the
years 2013 and 2014. The idea behind
establishing this education centre was to assist
Meghwlaon ki Dhani's girls with their studies in
English, Mathematics, and Science so as to
improve these subjects
during their vacation
time.
Veerni appointed two teachers for this purpose
as well as one of the Veerni graduates from a
previous year. All stationery, books, note-books,
pens, blackboards, etc were provided to the school. In total 62 girls have enrolled in and benefited
from this school. A few have already joined the Veerni Institute in Jodhpur.
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3
THE VEERNI INSTITUTE
Mission Statement of the Veerni Institute:
The mission is to provide young women from the rural region of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan, India,
with quality secondary education in a safe and supportive environment. Veerni believes that by giving
these girls access to education, health, and ultimately the work place, they can be empowered to gain
confidence and economic autonomy, thus enabling them to participate fully in their communities.
The Veerni Institute was established in the year 2005. It is located in the premises of Brigadier Zabar
Singh Senior Secondary School, Jodhpur and is being run by BZS Society in co-operation with the
Veerni Project.
The Veerni Project provides stationery, books, bedding, uniforms, food and medical care to its
students as well as access to a secondary school. In addition to classes, when required in specific
subjects. Veerni provides extra, individualized attention in the form of tutoring. Apart from standard
academics, Veerni's students are educated in arts, crafts and sewing.
In the first year, 39 girls were enrolled from class five to class 10. Following the success of the first
session, many families in non-Veerni villages approached the Veerni team to find out how they could
enroll their daughters. In the year 2006-2007 Veerni's enrollment grew to 60 girls, in 2007-2008 it
increased yet again to 86 girls and from 2009 to 2012 it reached its maximum capacity of 100 girls.
During 2013 and 2014 the Institute registered only 90 girls in an attempt to reduce overcrowding in the
dormitories and adjoining facilities. However, Veerni receives many more demands every year by
parents wishing to enroll their daughters and it has become necessary to consider expanding the
Veerni Institute in order to accommodate more students.
Academics
The Veerni Institute program provides secondary education from classes 6 to 12. Girls are enrolled in
a full and challenging curriculum that prepares them for university. The school now offers three
streams for class 11 and 12: Arts, Commerce and Science.
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Biennial Report 2012-2014
Extracurricular Activities
In addition to the standard academic program Veerni students are encouraged participate in various
extracurricular activities including:
•
Sports
•
A sewing program
•
Art courses
•
Cultural activities
•
Computer education
•
Career Counseling by Psychologist
•
Health education lectures
Desired outcome of the Veerni Educational Program:
•
The building of self esteem and confidence
•
Access to college and to vocational training
•
A path towards economic and social independence
Life in the Institute
All Veerni students stay in the Institute throughout the academic year. The building includes
dormitories and other amenities such as a large dining hall, a sports ground and a general recreation
room with computers. The staff includes a full time nurse who looks after all the girls medical issues.
Veerni funds all aspects of their life in the institute: school fees, health care, meals and housing
expenses as well as pastoral care.
The Veerni Institute encourages girls to focus on their education without the distractions of village life.
Matrons live with the girls and help them learn self-care. The Institute environment encourages
confidence and facilitates a sense of community among the Veerni students.
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5
OTHER ACTIVITIES AT THE VEERNI INSTITUTE
Tuition Classes
The girls receive additional help with their school work. This has been very successful and has
resulted in the achievement of better grades at school.
Sewing Class for hostel girls
Sewing Classes are conducted regularly at the Veerni Institute.
Art Program
We have introduced the girls to art classes. They enjoy being creative and enjoyed making story
books.
Psychologist's Visits
Dr. Reena Bhansali, Psychological and Career Counselor, visited the Veerni Institute
Health Camp at the Veerni Institute
Regular health camps are conducted at the Veerni Institute.
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Biennial Report 2012-2014
SPORTS ACTIVITIES
These are a regular feature at the Institute and many girls are actively involved in playing badminton,
handball, basketball and tug-of-war. As a result of their enthusiasm Veerni is proud to announce that
three of our students were selected by the Sports Council of Rajasthan at Jaipur. These girls have been
provided free college education for three years, full board and lodging, study material, school dress
and all other educational facilities at no additional cost. The girls selected were:
S. No.
Name
Village
01.
Usha Bhati
Rajwa
02.
Priyanka
Khudiyala
03.
Sonu Kanwar
Rajwa
Participation in District Handball Tournament
32 girls from the Veerni Institute participated in the District Handball Tournaments in Sept. 2012. This
tournament was held at Chopasni School, Jodhpur.
Participation in State Handball Tournament at Alwar (Junior Girls)
Six girls below the age of 14 were selected to participate in the State Handball Tournament at Alwar.
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YEAR-WISE GROWTH OF THE VEERNI INSTITUTE
From 2005 to 2014, a total number of 252 girls were enrolled in the institute, out of them 70 girls had
completed their class 12th. Details are given below: Year Wise Passed out
Year
No. of Students
2005-06
-
2006-07
3
2007-08
3
2008-09
4
2009-10
14
2010-11
10
2011-12
12
2012-13
20
2013-14
04
Total
70
Currently two girls are doing private jobs and earning money. Details are given below: Year
01.
Name
Sunita Rathore
Village
Remarks
Shathin
Working at BZS College,
As a coordinator
02.
Shobha
Rajwa
Doing B.Ed. & Teaching at Jaipur
Academe Results
8
Year
No. of Girls Enrolled
Passed
2005-06
39
20
2006-07
60
47
2007-08
86
74
2008-09
100
79
2009-10
100
92
2010-11
100
100
2011-12
100
84
2012-13
100
87
Biennial Report 2012-2014
Result for academic year 2013-14
Number of Girls
Passed
Failed
th
15
14
1
Class 7th
10
10
-
Class 8th
17
16
1
th
11
9
2
9*
7
2
th
12
12
-
th
7
7
-
th
5
5
-
th
4
4
-
90
84
6
Class
Class 6
Class 9
Class 10th
Class 11 (Arts)
Class 11 (Science)
Class 11 (Commerce)
Class 12
Total
Biennial Report 2012-2014
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VISITS BY DIGNITARIES
Over the past two years we were pleased to welcome a large number of visitors and funders,
some of whom have visited Veerni several times in the past and others who were newly
introduced to our Institute.
Nancy Griffin's Visit
Mrs. Nancy Griffin, her husband Mr. Steven Ehrlich, and their friend Mrs. Laurie Simmons visited the
Veerni Institute on November 6, 2012 and saw all the activities of the Institute. Our team welcomed
and briefed them about the Veerni Project. They then visited the sewing and tuition classes. In
addition they also saw the dormitories and the dining hall of the Institute. On interacting with the girls
many questions were raised about their studies, hobbies and dreams. The girls in turn asked some
questions concerning the visitors' families. The visit ended with a performance by the girls of a
Rajasthani cultural dance, which was greatly appreciated by the guests. They were very impressed
with the work of Veerni.
Jacqueline de Chollet and her Family's Visit
Jacqueline, along with her family members including her daughter, Sophie Veronis, her daughter-inlaw Fiona and her grandchildren Louis, Maddie and Catherine visited the Veerni Project. Arriving on
19th November Jacqueline visited the Veerni Institute daily during her stay in Jodhpur. She held many
formal and informal meetings with the girls, the Principal of the BZS School as well as with the
Secretary of the BZS Educational Society.
On November 22nd a tea party was organized at the Veerni Institute. Jacqueline's family and her
guests Mr. And Mrs. Jaideep Khanna and their four daughters also attended this event. The Veerni girls
had informal chats with the guests and snacks and cakes were served to all. The girls performed local
cultural dances for them, which was appreciated by the guests. The foreign children were very
impressed with the Veerni girls. After a successful visit Jacqueline departed on December 3rd, 2012.
Ms. Edwina Sandys
On January 7th 2013 Ms. Edwina Sandys and her husband Mr. Richard Kaplan, accompanied by their
friend Ms. Veronica Boswell, visited the Veerni Project. They interacted with the girls and were very
impressed with all the Veerni Activities.
Frères de nos Frères
On February 7th Mr. and Mrs. Gilles Petitpierre and Ms. Bonnie Christen spent some time at the Veerni
Institute visiting the sewing and tuition classes as well as the dormitories and the dining hall of the
Institute where they shared lunch with the girls. A small cultural program was performed by the girls.
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Biennial Report 2012-2014
Rosalyn Wilkinson
Rosalyn Wilkinson visited Veerni for a week from February 22-March 1st . She met with the girls in the
Institute on several occasions, visited Megwalon ki Dhani and attended lunch with the class 12 girls at
their favorite restaurant, “On the Rocks”. Rosalyn will be helping with fundraising in London.
Ms. Martha Spanninger from PBS, December 19th - 21st (2013)
Martha Spanninger from PBS came to Veerni to film a follow-up documentary originally done by PBS
in 2008. The subject of the first documentary was “Child Brides” and showed how Veerni was
handling this problem. For the follow-up she interviewed and filmed 2 girls and visited one of the
Veerni villages called Binawas where she interviewed Mamta who was a child bride. Back in Jodhpur
she filmed and spoke to Sunita who is an example of a Veerni educated and empowered young lady.
Mr. Paul Zukerman and Ms. Sarah Greenall, January 21st-24th (2014)
Mr. Zuckerman who has been a friend of the Veerni Project for many years was accompanied during
this visit by Sarah Greenhall. They spent a few days in Jodhpur during which tie they were guests at
the Veerni Institute and mingled comfortably with all the girls. Sarah was so impressed by what she
saw that she decided to support the Veerni girls sports activities by giving a very generous donation
for the purchase of sports equipment. In addition Paul and Sarah visited the literacy center at
Megwalon ki Dhani and discussed teaching methods with the teacher. They also met Usha, one of our
Veerni graduates, who is an assistant to the teacher. They walked around the village enjoying the
experience and chatting to the young children who followed them around everywhere. On the
journey back to Jodhpur we held a “traditional Veerni tea party” under a big desert tree.
Mr. David L. Robinson, Director, Prodigy, 23rd February 2014
The Veerni team visited Megwalon Ki Dhani with our guest Mr. David Robinson who was keen to
witness village life and conditions. He too met Usha, our Veerni graduate, who is now both studying
at college and working as teaching assistant at the Megwalon Ki Dhani literacy center. We also
introduced him to Durga, another Veerni graduate, who is presently training for the Police Force.
David was also extremely impressed on visiting the Institute and asked many questions regarding the
caste system and how Veerni had managed successfully to combine both higher and lower castes
under one roof.
Ms. Anne Vincent and Ms.Anthea, 26th February 2014
Our team, including Anne Vincent and Marion Richardson, visited Aktali Village where Veerni worked
with the population from 2003 - 2009. We were hosted by our two promoters, Kausalya and Mangu
Singh, who asked if Veerni could return to work with them again.
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11
EVENTS & CELEBRATIONS
Annual Event
Lunch for the class twelve girls, now a yearly tradition, was held at the restaurant “On the Rocks” on
February 22nd 2013. It was a lively occasion and the girls were very chatty. The lunch was also
attended by Anne Vincent, Jacqueline de Chollet and another visitor to Veerni from the UK, Rosalyn
Wilkinson. Vimlesh, the Veerni nurse also enjoyed the afternoon with the girls.
Installation of Television and Cable Connection at the Veerni Institute
Her Highness Hemlata Rajye donated a television to the Veerni girls and cable connection was set up
and provided by the Institute itself. This now provides the girls with entertainment during their
recreation hours giving them time to relax after completing their study assignments.
Library at the Veerni Institute
A recommendation to establish a library for the Veerni girls appeared in a report written in 2012 by a
volunteer called Kenia. Following this, Ms Jacqueline purchased some books for the new library
during her November visit. In July, Veerni established a library at the Institute. Our girls are enjoying
reading books in their spare time. The responsibility of looking after the library has been given to one
of the Wardens.
Distribution of Chocolates
Ms Jaelyne Eberle and David Taylor from Colorado sent a selection of chocolates together with a map
giving information about Colorado for Shobha , the young Veerni girl they are sponsoring, and for her
friends. These were brought to Jodhpur by Ms. Jacqueline and an event was organized at the Veerni
Institute at which the chocolates were distributed. Shobha loved the chocolates and shared them with
all her friends. In Feb 2014, they also sent some chocolates with a note book, photo album of
Colorado and some greeting cards for Shobha. Veerni team went to her village Meghwlon ki Dhani
distributed all the items to Shobha. Shobha Thanked them a lot for the gifts.
Dictionary Distribution Event at the Veerni Institute
Mahendra Sharma (Veerni Project Manager), Mr. M. S. Ranawat (Principal BJS School) & Mr. Parbat
Singh (Veerni staff) distributed English- Hindi dictionaries to the girls of class 12 as going away
presents. A form was given to all the girls requesting information about their future planning and
contact numbers. The girls promised that they would be in touch with the Veerni Project and, if
possible, would help Veerni in the future.
Teachers' Day Celebrated
The Veerni Institute girls along with the students of the BJS School participated in the Teachers Day
Celebration with great enthusiasm.
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Biennial Report 2012-2014
Writing and Drawing Competition
On September 22nd, 2012, junior girls of the Veerni Institute participated in the BJS School 's Writing &
Drawing Competition. The theme of the drawing competition was “Water Harvesting”. This event was
organized by the Central Underground Water Board.
Art Program
Veerni has introduced the girls to art classes. They enjoy these hours of creativity. The girls enjoyed
making story books and can be seen here with their work.
Annual Outing: Exhibition of Science Express Train
On December 12th, 2012, all the Veerni girls went to see the Exhibition of Science Express Train at
Jodhpur Railway station. It was a great experience for the girls to visit this exhibition. The theme of the
exhibition was Bio-Diversity and Climate Change. This was organized by the Ministry of Science and
Technology and the Ministry of Environment and Forest, Government of India.
Lecture on Safety for Girls for Classes X, XI, XII
On January 3rd, Veerni organized a very good event at the Institute with the help of Reena Bhansali,
Veerni psychologist. (We have left the report in the words of the psychologist.)
“Following the Delhi rape case, the following concerns were discussed with the girls of class ten,
eleven and twelve covering safety, security and crimes against women. This included in Indian
manner of expressing, good touch bad touch, Eve teasing, Child battering, Domestic Violence, Early
marriages and Rapes. Dowry deaths were touched upon.”
It was an interactive session during which girls openly discussed their fears, phobias and personal
experiences. They wrote about their ideas on the subject and suggested how to combat these
horrendous situations and be self reliant and empowered. The difference between being empowered
in a society which has rigid standards of behavior and specific cultural expectations and breaking
rules by reckless or unacceptable behavior, was also discussed. It is important for the girls to
understand how to deal with situations within their homes and society in general. Emphasis was
placed on tips and techniques to identify potential female abusers roaming freely in society and how
they might be able to defend themselves. The lecture was a great platform providing the girls with
satisfactory answers to all their queries.
Graduation Party
Graduation party of 12th grade Veerni girls was organized at the Veerni Institute on 26th Feb 2014 and
was attended by Anne Vincent and Marion Richardson who enjoyed watching the singing and dance
performances of all the girls and boys in the school.
The Farewell Party for Class 12th
The Farewell lunch for our 12th grade graduates was organized on 28th February 2014, which is
traditionally hosted every year by Anne Vincent and Jacqueline De Chollet. It again was held at the
lovely Jodphur restaurant called “on the Rocks”. This year guests who joined the girls included
Anthea, Marion Richardson and Vimlesh, the Veerni nurse. The weather was pleasant and the food
delicious
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13
HEALTH ACTIVITIES AT THE VEERNI INSTITUTE
Health Camps
A general health camp was organized at the Veerni Institute on September 20th. Ms. Vimlesh
examined the girls. General problems were noticed like seasonal diseases such as coughs, eye and ear
infections and skin related diseases. Medicines were distributed to them. A session on health and
hygiene was also given by Ms. Vimlesh.
A Health Camp was organized on 20th Oct 2013 at the Veerni Institute. Dr. A.S. Deora (Senior
Consultant, Physician), Mrs. Vimlesh Sharma & Mrs. Syiona (GNMs) kindly provided us with their
services.
Aims and Objectives:
Regular health check-ups of school going children are essential as they create an awareness amongst
the youth with regard to the state of their health while also providing early diagnosis of any possible
medical problem that might exist in the children from an early age. In such cases appropriate
treatment or preventative measures can be taken to stop the progression of the ailment. The Veerni
Health Camp was initiated to examine the health status of each one of the Veerni Institute girls with
the purpose of detecting any illness at a very early stage.
Materials and Methods: The Health Camp was organized around two major activities: (a)
Delivery of a lecture on “Life Style Diseases and their Prevention”.
(b)
Complete medical check-up of all the Veerni girls.
The above lecture was given to the girls by Dr. A.S. Deora who emphasized the fact that life diseases
such as obesity, hypertension, diabetes mellitus and coronary health diseases are more prevalent in
Indian society and occur here in younger ages as a result of a faulty life style starting from childhood
itself. The girls were advised to do regular physical exercise and participate in sports activities of their
choice for 30-40 minutes every day. They were also reminded to eat natural foods rich in fiber, green
leafy vegetables and fruits as well as milk in an appropriate quantity. Emphasis was placed on
maintaining ideal body weight and avoiding obesity. This was an interactive session and the girls
participated very enthusiastically.
Medical Check-up: Each girl underwent a thorough medical check-up which comprised a general physical examination
as well as a systemic examination.
Detailed health cards have been registered and filed for each girl for follow-up purposes.
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Health Lecture
A lecture was delivered on the topic of Worm infestation in children by Dr. A.S. Deora on 21st Nov
2013. The aim of the talk was to educate the children about the menace of intestinal worm infestation
which leads to chronic ill-health, anemia, growth retardation and even intellectual impairment
amongst children if not treated properly. The role of observing proper personal hygiene and living
under good sanitation environment was emphasized. Special emphasis was also placed on washing
hands with soap and water keeping nails short and clean and not walking barefoot when in the
villages or countryside. At the end of the lecture an interactive session was held in which all the
children actively participated and remembered important Do's and Dont's to prevent worm
infestation.
Ms. Jacqueline, David and Jean (volunteers), Mr. Mahendra Sharma and Ms. Vimlesh were also
present during the talk.
Vaccination Camps
Two Vaccination Camps were held at the Veerni Institute on 04 Jan 2014. All the girls were vaccinated
for Hepatitis-B, Typhoid and Tetanus.
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CASE STORIES
Tinku Tanwar
Tinku Bhati is 18 and graduated (class 12) from the Veerni institute in the
year 2013 in the science stream.
Tinku is from Aktali, a village that was adopted by the Veerni Project in
2006 and where Veerni was closely involved for a period of 7 years. The
project is still closely connected with the village and villagers continue to
seek our help when needed. It was, and still is, a very backward and
conservative place where Veerni worked hard to make inroads.
Aktali was one of the most difficult villages in which to persuade parents
to allow the girls to be educated in the Institute. Two Veerni representatives in the village, a woman
named Kausaliya and a man, Mangu Singh, put in more than 3 years of hard work before convincing
the parents to allow their daughters out of the village.
Nutrition programs were conducted for several years as the children of the village suffered from
malnutrition and both village representatives performed well in the program.
Tinku belongs to the General caste, her father is farmer and her mother is a housewife and both of
them are illiterate. She has one older sister and one younger brother. Her family's monthly income is
about 8000/- Rs. (USD $145), which is very low for a six member family.
Convincing her parents to allow her to attend the Veerni Institute was a challenge but Tinku finally
joined Veerni 5 years ago at the start of Class 9. She remembers her village days, saying that 'her school
was almost 3 miles away from her home, she used to try to travel this long road to school each day
starting at 6.00 a.m. with her few friends, but due to distance and lack of safety it was not always
feasible. She said it was very tough for her to travel everyday but she wanted to study further for her
better future'.
She adds: “When I joined the Veerni Institute in Class 9, it was a totally new experience for me: Veerni
provided me with many things such as quality meals, a school uniform, study materials, extra tuition,
computer class, sports and many other services and it almost seems that I forgot all hardship that I
went through. I had everything there, the only thing I had to do was to study hard to get good results
which I did and achieved good result in class 12 and that too in Science stream”. Tinku praised the
great teachers and help she had received from her tutoring classes; she says the massive improvement
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in her English skills has been one of her biggest accomplishment since arriving at the Veerni Institute.
She says, “Veerni changed my parents' attitude towards me, and now they understand the importance
of girls' education, I'm very happy to see this change.”
When Tinku graduated from senior secondary school, she was determined to continue her studies.
But, due to her parents' weak financial condition, her family was thinking of stopping her higher
education because they could not afford the college expenses. Tinku came to the Veerni office and
asked for help with her college fees. Seeing her keenness and good academic results, Veerni has
decided to support her. However, we are looking at 3 years of fees for her to achieve her degree.
Tinku is now in her first year Bachelor in Science with Public Health in a college called Lachoo
Memorial College of Science and Technology, Jodhpur. She says “I consider myself lucky to have
Veerni support”.
She concludes, “The Veerni has helped to change my live beyond my wildest dreams, and I would like
to thank them for this opportunity.”
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Reetu Tanwar
Reetu Tanwar is 18 years old; she graduated in 12th grade from the
Veerni Institute in 2012-13. Presently she is in her first year of Bachelor in
Science in Public Health in the Lachoo Memorial College of Science and
Technology, Jodhpur.
Reetu was born to a poor family of farmers of the general caste. She is
from the village of Kelawa which is a very backward village where there
are no basic living facilities. Migration rate is on the high side with a low
literacy level among the women.
Reetu's mother is a housewife and she is educated up to grade 5th. Her father is educated to class 8th.
He is a farmer but he does not own his land.
Reetu says “I love my father very much; he does the best he can to make my life better”. She also told
us that “my uncle came to know about the Veerni Project and told my family about the Veerni
Institute.” Reetu's father approached the Veerni project for her enrolment at the institute. After finding
her family's weak economic conditions, the Veerni staff agreed to her admission in the Veerni Institute
in 2011.
Reetu was enrolled in grade 11th and finished her grade 12th in science stream with a first division
marks. She said “the two years which I spent at the Veerni Institute were the turning point of my life, I
have learnt how to become a responsible person; I also learnt the importance of education. I see
education as a safeguard. It is helping me face new challenges. I think that no person can flourish in
life without education”.
She further stated “After achieving good marks in my 12th grade, now I am confident that I will do well
in college also. I want to study and achieve more in my life, and I want my family to be proud of me
and my accomplishment”.
Reetu wants to be a Lecturer. She says “to become a Lecturer is my dream. My goal is set and I am
stepping towards it. I would definitely active my goal one day and I am thankful to the Veerni Project
for providing me this wonderful opportunity.”
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Shobha Choudhary
Shobha Choudhary was a boarder at the Veerni Institute when she was in
the 11th and 12th grades; she was enrolled in 2007 and completed 12th
grade in 2008. She is now 22, and she completed her Bachelor of
Education degree from Jaipur University. Apart from her studies, she has
been earning about 12000 rupees a month (US $200) giving tuition
classes and thus financing herself through her studies.
Shobha comes from Rajwa, one of the Veerni Project's adopted villages.
The Village is located on the route to Jaiselmer, about 33 kilometers from
Jodhpur. It is home to many quarry workers, and the standard of living is
very low. Officially classified as 'backward', of poor prospects and a lack of health facilities have lead
to depopulation. Literacy rates among women are very low, and the village has seen a number of child
marriages where many a girl has had her dreams stifled and been sent to her in-laws even before she
has had a chance to experience 'life' outside the four walls of her house. At an early age these girls are
burdened with domestic responsibilities including early motherhood often with dire consequences
for her health.
The Veerni project had adopted Rajwa in 2006, opening a sewing and a literacy centre in the village as
well as conducting several health camps. Shobha was one of the students of t Veerni literacy centre
and after completing 10th grade, she felt very deeply about it and strongly abhors this illegal custom.
When she was in the Veerni Institute, she often discussed her marriage, and her desire to get out of it.
Veerni guided her and sent her to a legal seminar, where she gained a lot of knowledge about the
child-marriage crime, which helped her a great deal.
After completing her 12th grade from the Veerni institute, Shobha gained a Post Graduate Diploma in
Computer Application with the financial support of Veerni and Ms. Cynthia Gorney. She also
completed a one year diploma in house-keeping from Taj Group of Hotels at Umaid Bhawan Palace
Jodhpur. With these qualifications, she was earning money and settled in Jodhpur. Her confidence
had grown, and she did not want to go back to the village or be forced to join her husband; she was
thinking about how to get a divorce. But because of family pressure, she broke down and was fearful
of the risk of her family being “outcasted” (thrown out of the village for not fulfilling the contract made
by her parents). She returned to Rajwa where the village elders forced her family to send her to her inlaws' house. She spent four days with her husband but finally ran away. She said “my husband and his
family have not treated me well, they do not allow me to work, and they treated me like an animal.”
Once they learned that she did not want to live with her husband, the whole community and her
family were against her but she stuck to her decision and filed a case in court against her in-laws under
the section of child-marriage. Educated, aware of her rights, and supported by the Veerni project, she
was empowered to seek help from the government authorities to have her illegal marriage canceled.
In this struggle she has appeared in articles in newspapers and on local television. Shobha's story has
become very popular case. Finally after long fight, she won and achieved what she wanted: the High
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Court of Jodhpur awarded her a divorce. In the meantime, her husband, now former husband, got
married and has a child.
Shobha is now completely free of her marriage and she can make her own choice of marriage in the
future. There are no consequences for the family now as the community has accepted her family's
decision.
She said “If I were to choose a word that describes me the best it would be independent.” I have
always wanted to be independent, fought very hard for it, and finally I have achieved it. Now I'm
completely free from my marriage and I'm settled down in Jaipur, and earning well.” She added “Now
I have become a role model for girls like me and I will continue fighting for them also”. Shobha has
herself addressed 30 lawyers on the subject of child marriage; her dream is to become a social activist
and she would like to help girls like her.
All credit of course, she says, goes to Veerni with whose assistance she could study and develop an
'identity' of her own. She said “I am extremely passionate about learning new things in life, and the
Veerni Institute is the best thing that has ever happened to me”.
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Dev Shree
Dev Shree is from a village called Thabaliyan Kalan. She belongs to the
Rajput community Although she is from the high caste in Rajasthan, her
family's economic condition is very fragile . The government of
Rajasthan has issued them a BPL (below poverty line) card, which is only
for the very poor. Dev Shree has three younger sisters and one younger
brother, a total of seven members in her family. Her father is an educated
person and has got a college degree and her mother too has been
educated up to class 10th. Her father is a farmer and mother is a
housewife.
Dev Shree is a fortunate that she got educated parents which is very rare
in her village. For this reason, her parents understand the value of girls' education. Her parents wished
for her to continue her education but because of their poor economic condition, they were planning
to stop her studies. One day, Dev Shree's father came to know about the Veerni Project and
approached to the Veerni staff, Veerni enrolled Dev Shree in class 10th in the year 2007-08. She was a
very brilliant student and in 2009-10, she had graduated from the Veerni Institute with very good
marks. After her graduation, Veerni motivated her father to let her pursue higher education. He
promised Veerni that as long as she was achieving good results in the exams they would do anything
for fund her further education; they even had taken loan from their relatives for this purpose.
After graduating, Dev Shree jointed B-STC (Teachers Training Centre) course, a two and half year
course, which she had completed. Apart from B-STC, she enrolled in the Jodhpur University and is
currently completing a B.A. (Bachelor of Arts). She completed her final year at the Jai Narayan Vyas
University Jodhpur as a private student. She is also preparing her competition examination for a
government job. Her ambition is to work in the government sector
Dev Shree says “My goal is to study hard and to one day become a RAS (Rajasthan Administration
Services) Officer. I want to bring positive change in the society and would want to create a society
that could support and respect women.” she added for that, she has to study hard and achieve a Post
Graduate degree from the University.”
She further said “I am happy that the Veerni has supported me and would want to thank the Veerni
Institute for all the facilities. At the Veerni Institute, I have not only learned about the importance of
education but also gained lot of knowledge on my personal health, now I'm much more confidant
then I was before.”
Her father said “Veerni has changed her life entirely. Before Veerni, my daughter was leaving in
darkness but Veerni has brought light in my daughter's life and has shown a path of success to her”.
He added “now, I can dream of my daughter for higher studies, getting a government job and earning
on her own, she won't have to live like us.”
Dev Shree told us that when she becomes a RAS Officer, she will fund the Veerni Institute for rural
girls' education so that more girls like her become confident and independent hence that they could
live qualify life.
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PHOTO GALLERY : VEERNI INSTITUTE
Veerni Institute Girls
Veerni girls attending extra tuition classes
Art and Craft Class at Veerni Institute
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Veerni girls attending computer class
Veerni girls in Science Lab
Dinning Hall: Veerni girls at meal time
Veerni girls performing culture dance
Sports activities: Girls playing handball
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Mrs. Nancy Griffin, Mr. Steven Ehrlich and Mrs. Laurie Simmons
interacting with the girls at the Veerni Institute
Ms. Jacqueline de Chollet and her family along
with the girls at Veerni Institute
Mr. & Mrs. Jaideep Khanna and Ms Jacqueline de
Chollet interacting the girls at Veerni Institute
Ms. Edwina Sandys, Mr. Richard Kaplan and
Ms. Veronica Boswell at the Veerni Institute
Mr. and Mrs. Gilles Petitpierre and Ms.Bonnie
Christen at the Veerni Institute
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Mr. Paul Zukerman and Ms. Sarah Greenall visiting sewing and
computer class at Veerni Institute
Mrs. David L. Robinson, Director, Prodigy visited village Meghwalon ki Dhani
and interacting with Veerni graduated girl.
Ms. Anne Vincent at the Veerni Institute
Ms. Anne Vincent and Ms. Anthea gave farewell
lunch for Veerni class 12th graduates at restaurant.
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CONCLUSION
We are very proud of Veerni's achievements this past year. The girls all passed their exams and
academic results are heart warming. Additionally, there are now science graduates and the Veerni girls
in that stream passed with good results.
Veerni has achieved diversity in the school and girls of different castes are living together as one
community and befriending each other. The older girls are mentors to the younger ones.
Veerni will ensure that these young women take their rightful place in India and contribute to the
development of a strong Civil Society.
As Hilary Clinton so eloquently states, "Women are the largest untapped reservoir of talent in the
world. It is past time for women to take their rightful place, side by side with men, in the rooms where
the fates of peoples, where their children and grandchildren's fates, are decided".
FINANCIAL
Veerni keeps a systematic record of funds and proper accounting systems are followed, to ensure that
all the activities undertaken are properly backed up by the funds required.
A summary of the accounts for the financial year from April 1st, 2012 to March 31st, 2013 and from
April 1st, 2013 to March 31st 2014 appear on the following pages.
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IMPACT OF THE VEERNI INSTITUTE
AMONGST STUDENTS
All for one, one for all became a stance of the Veerni girls. Girls who come from different communities
in the Veerni Institute learnt that unity is important. All the girls at the Veerni Institute are united in
their efforts to educate themselves; they are together in their venture for a better life.
Veerni being a residential institute it is important that the girls get along. Girls at the Veerni institute
share everything. If a girl is of frail constitution and falls sick often, others take extra care of her along
with the matrons. If a girl is weak in a subject, the ones who are good at it will help her. If one feels
home sick others make sure she is cheered up. Veerni believes the camaraderie is very important and
they are together working to educate themselves, it is enough to be thrilled about!
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VEERNI BOARD AND STAFF
PATRONS
His Highness Maharaja Gaj Singh II of Jodhpur
Her Highness Maharani Hemlata Rajye
ADVISORY BOARD
Brig. (Retd.) Shakti Singh, Director Cum Coordinator
Ms. Jacqueline de Chollet, Director (UK,USA)
Ms. Anne Vincent, Director (Switzerland)
Dr. K.C. Joshi, Medical Director
VEERNI TEAM
Mr. Mahendra Sharma, Manager
Mr. Parbat Singh, Administrator cum Field Supervisor
Ms. Vimlesh Sharma, Health and Sanitation In-charge
Mr. Multan Singh, Office Worker
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SUPPORT VEERNI
Veerni can only reach out to the rural villagers of Rajasthan because of the support of our sponsors.
We are extremely grateful for their generous support year after year.
Women's health is a human right. Every day we are helping more village women and families to
become healthy and economically productive, and village girls to receive daily education.
Your donation will help us keep these programs viable. Any amount is significant and your donation
is fully tax-deductible, to the extent allowed by law.
If you are interested in sponsoring a hostel student, please contact us and let us know the amount and
the term of your sponsorship. We will select a student and send you updates on her progress.
Contact :
Ms. Jacqueline de Chollet
- Email: [email protected]
Ms. Anne Vincent
- Email: [email protected]
Brig. Shakti Singh
- Email: [email protected] and [email protected]
Mahendra Sharma
- Email: [email protected]
Website:
- www.veerni.org
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PROJECT
THE VEERNI PROJECT
10, Hanwant Vihar, Raika Bagh, Jodhpur 342 006 Rajasthan, India
Tel.: +91 291 251 0310, Fax : +91 291 251 0928
E-mail : [email protected] or [email protected]