Community-based efforts in rural Rajasthan to assist elders facing severe distress

By Bharat Dogra

Bheru Singh, an 80-year-old farmer from Bagruda village in Udaipur district, Rajasthan, and his wife Tulsi Bai, 78, continue to work daily on their small farm and care for their animals. Despite remaining active in old age, their work demands significant physical effort, often beyond their capacity, particularly as their nutritional levels are frequently inadequate.

Their situation recently worsened when Bheru experienced severe body pain that prevented him from working. As Tulsi Bai took on additional responsibilities, she fell on a rocky path while going to the farm and suffered a fracture in her hand. Soon after, she also experienced a paralytic stroke, likely exacerbated by stress. Neighbours tried to provide support, but the couple's situation in this remote village appeared extremely difficult.

At this stage, assistance from the Prabal Yatra (PY) programme of ARTH, a voluntary organization, proved significant. A community coordinator, Rekha, began visiting the couple regularly and arranged medical care despite logistical challenges. Gradually, their condition improved. Bheru can now collect fodder for the animals again, and Tulsi Bai’s health has also shown improvement. The return of one of their sons from Surat further eased their difficulties.

The couple values the support they have received from the initiative. Rekha has developed a close, trusting relationship with them, and is currently exploring the possibility of arranging cataract surgery for Tulsi Bai. A neighbouring elderly woman, Kamla, shared that her own vision improved after surgery facilitated through the same programme.

During a visit to the village, it became evident that many older residents require assistance. Rekha pointed out several elderly individuals experiencing serious health and support needs, including a nearly blind widow hesitant to seek treatment due to family resistance, and a poor elderly man sitting unattended. With community workers providing sustained support, many older persons in distress are receiving timely help.

Another example is Wadi Bai, 70, who suffered a hip fracture after a fall. The program supported her medical treatment and provided a walker to help her resume basic activities.

Community coordinator Nanalal Gayari shared the case of Ambia and his wife in Mohini village, both physically disabled and living in neglected conditions. Assistance included helping them obtain a ration card, solar lighting, and walking sticks.

Several local workers in nearby villages continue to suffer from long-term effects of asbestosis and silicosis acquired in asbestos mines that were closed several years ago. While some officially recognized patients have received compensation, others, including Naaru Lal, show similar symptoms but have not been identified for benefits. ARTH community workers such as Amritlal, along with village volunteers like Arjun, are attempting to support these individuals, although the scale of need is large and challenging.

Initiatives such as PY frequently encounter multiple and unexpected difficulties while supporting elderly persons living in remote areas. However, efforts continue to identify community-based and innovative solutions. The programme aims to draw lessons that may eventually contribute to broader policy development and help reduce the distress faced by a larger number of elderly citizens. These examples reflect ongoing efforts by ARTH to develop meaningful strategies and contribute to wider policy discussions through research and dialogue.

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The writer is Honorary Convener, Campaign to Save the Earth Now. His recent books include Protecting Earth for Children, Planet in Peril, A Day in 2071 and Man over Machine

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