Bithari Disha

The high arsenic levels in North 24 Parganas prompted collaborative efforts with the West Bengal Government and international organizations. This partnership led to the establishment of a Water Treatment Plant. Bithari Disha consistently conducts water testing and shares reports, ensuring the provision of safe drinking water to the community.

The organisation’s effort is focused on enhancing the project's efficiency and adhering to strict timelines for completion. This has led to successful involvement in institutional and household sanitation projects.

Migration and trafficking have emerged as significant challenges in the region. As a response, Bithari Disha has undertaken initiatives to address livelihood concerns within the area. The primary thrust is on promoting local handicraft industries to uplift the community. The efforts are particularly directed towards the welfare of villagers residing in regions bounded by international borders on one side and water bodies on the other, leaving limited land for cultivation.

The devastating Aila Cyclone of 2009 had a significant impact on West Bengal, particularly in the Sundarban region. The cyclone led to the conversion of a substantial amount of land into barren areas due to heightened salinity levels. Consequently, local communities were compelled to migrate in search of sustainable livelihoods. The focus is on the Nazat area of Sandeshkhali I Block.
Within this context, the organisation has identified specific families facing these challenges. These families have been engaged in various activities aimed at enhancing their livelihoods and restoring their environment. Initiatives include repairing river embankments, introducing azolla cultivation, promoting vermicomposting, fishing, undertaking mangrove plantation, and establishing nutrition gardens, among others.

The absence of viable livelihood opportunities in villages caught between an international border and a water body, compounded by limited cultivable land, is evident. The organisation advocates the implementation of improved livelihood projects as the core solution to address the challenges of migration and trafficking.

The organisation aims to activate community demand groups for improved health outcomes, ensuring timely primary treatments, and extending financial assistance during health crises. Additionally, the objective is to halt the exploitation of money lenders for healthcare and foster self-reliance through micro savings, thereby building capacity for independent access to treatment.

The fundamental aim of providing education to society, communities, children, and youth is to foster comprehensive life development and equip them with essential survival skills to navigate various life situations. This includes the intent to guide them towards suitable livelihood options throughout their lives.
Bithari Disha established a consistent connection between the community, Gram Panchayat, school staff, and students to collaboratively work on school development initiatives. The primary emphasis lies in adopting a hands-on learning approach and bridging the gap between textbooks and real-world environmental context.