Udaipur,The Kalbeliya settlement of Leelawas village in Jhadol, long known for its role in waste collection and community sanitation, has taken a historic step towards social awakening. Traditionally burdened with large families leading to poverty, malnutrition, illiteracy, and health challenges—including cases where women bore up to 17 children—the community is now embracing change.

On Wednesday, a delegation from the Rajasthan Child Advisory Group (R-KAG), accompanied by local representatives and officials, visited the settlement. R-KAG President and social worker Chandrap Gupta Singh Chauhan led a community dialogue emphasizing that smaller families ensure better health, education, and livelihood balance. He affirmed, “We will make every possible effort to safeguard the rights of underprivileged children.”

Child rights expert Dr. Shailendra Pandya, former member of the Rajasthan State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, raised concerns over more than 100 children not attending school or Anganwadi centers. He called for the urgent opening of a Maa-Badi or Anganwadi center in the settlement.

The breakthrough came as the Kalbeliya families collectively resolved to adopt a two-child pledge, symbolizing a move towards a healthier, educated, and empowered future. Alongside counseling, R-KAG distributed rations, conducted health check-ups, and assured treatment for children with visual impairments at Maharana Bhupal Hospital, Udaipur.

During the visit, Chauhan discussed the issue with Tribal Development Minister Babulal Kharadi, who immediately announced the opening of a Maa-Badi center in the settlement and assured full government support.

Local leaders including Pradeep Rawani, Ashok Malviya, Sakharam Meghwal, Amit Rao, Ranveer Singh Ranawat, Sanjay Mehta, Bansilal Vadera, Dharamchand Kharwad, and Leelawas Sarpanch joined the initiative, marking the beginning of a larger movement for community empowerment.

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