Bharti Pandey, Chamoli, Uttarakhand
My childhood was full of challenges. My mother and siblings endured years of domestic violence, which impacted our physical and mental health. Somehow, I completed my schooling in the village and moved to Almora to pursue my BA. While studying, I worked as a local reporter for a national newspaper. During this time, I was introduced to the Aman organization. I joined the organization’s youth group.
After joining the organization, I shared my experiences of childhood violence. My twin sister was also struggling with depression due to the violence she experienced. Joining the group not only gave me strength but also allowed me to provide treatment and support to my sister. I also had the opportunity to join the Uttarakhand Youth Network of Youth for Ecological Sustainability. Along with my young friends, I raised issues such as environmental protection, child rights, education, and child abuse at the state and national levels.
Recognizing my understanding and commitment to child labor, my young friends elected me for the National Coordination Committee of CACL where I shared the youth perspective on child labor. TDH, provided me the opportunity to participate in national workshops, where I further broadened my understanding.
I currently work at the PHD Research Development Foundation in Delhi and am involved in water conservation programs in various states. I also work with the youth organization on other issues.
(TERRE DES HOMMES works to protect the health, hygiene, education, safety, justice, and dignity of children. Through its initiatives, the organisation has improved the lives of many children. As it marks 50 years of supporting children’s rights in India, the above case story reflects the meaningful change its work has created.)
