Advocacy: Empowering Marginalized Communities to Claim Their Rights

Advocacy for Sugarcane Cutter Labourers: In the heart of Beed district lies a significant community of sugarcane cutter laborers, comprising nearly 50% of the population. These hardworking individuals migrate to western Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and other states in search of work opportunities. However, they face numerous challenges due to their unregistered status, depriving them of essential facilities and benefits available to registered laborers. To address this injustice, Janvikas Samajik Sanstha (JVSS) is dedicated to advocating for the rights of these laborers.

Organizing for Change: JVSS has actively organized sugarcane cutter laborers at the block level and facilitated their engagement with local administration. With their collective strength, the laborers submitted applications for registration at various levels, demanding official recognition of their status. The persistent efforts bore fruit when, on 29th January 2016, the government issued an order to register these laborers. More than 10,276 laborers from 60 villages were successfully registered at the Gram Panchayat level. Bonds were established between 7,765 laborers and contractors, and proposals for government-level registration were submitted.

Empowering Through Identity: With successful registration in hand, the laborers gained an essential identity as recognized laborers. This acknowledgment not only provided them access to government benefits but also instilled a sense of empowerment and security within the community.

Establishing Mahamandal for Sugar Cane Cutters: Building on this success, JVSS has further plans to establish the Mahamandal for Sugar Cane Cutters, which will serve as a platform to address multiple issues faced by these laborers. This organization will continue to advocate for their rights, amplify their voices, and bring their concerns to the attention of the state government.

Advocacy for Other Issues: Beyond sugarcane cutter laborers, JVSS recognizes that rural communities face numerous challenges, such as unemployment, migration, and low agricultural yields due to water scarcity. Illiteracy and lack of information further exacerbate their struggles, preventing them from accessing government relief and benefits. For the past 27 years, JVSS has been a driving force in advocating for the rights of the poor and marginalized. The organization engages in constructive advocacy with active participation from the community, offering hand-holding facilitation support to help them navigate the complexities of claiming their rightful share in development.

Empowering Voices, Transforming Lives: Through its unwavering advocacy efforts, JVSS is empowering marginalized communities to assert their rights and access opportunities for a better life. By amplifying their voices and facilitating their engagement with authorities, the organization is working towards a more just and inclusive society where every individual can flourish and lead a life of dignity and prosperity. Together, through constructive advocacy, we can bring about transformative change and build a brighter future for all.