01May2024
Solar Lamp Initiative
Beneficiary Name: Barnali Bargayari
Class: 8
Age: 14
School: Nikashi High School
Beneficiary's Brother: Bikram Bargayari
Age: 8
Class: 2
Father's Name: Ranjit Bargayari
Mother's Name: Junu Bargayari
Background
Barnali Bargayari's family lives in a remote village without access to electricity due to financial constraints. The household income, primarily from her mother Junu’s occasional sales at the weekly market and her father Ranjit’s daily wage labor, totals approximately ₹60,000 annually. This modest income has not allowed them to afford an electricity connection. Consequently, Barnali had to rely on kerosene lamps for studying.
Intervention
In the fiscal year 2023-24, the family received a solar-powered lamp from "Gramya Vikash Mancha" under the Holistic Rural Development Programme supported by HDFC Bank. This intervention aimed to improve the quality of life for rural households by providing a sustainable and cost-effective lighting solution.
Impact
- Educational Benefits:
The solar lamp has significantly enhanced Barnali’s ability to study after dark, providing a steady and reliable light source that is much better than the flickering kerosene lamps. - Economic Benefits: With the price of kerosene at ₹100 per liter, the family used to burn 250 grams of kerosene every two days. This was a substantial recurring expense. The solar lamp has eliminated this cost, allowing the family to save money that can be used for other essential needs.
- Household Benefits: Beyond aiding Barnali’s studies, the solar lamp has facilitated various household tasks, improving the overall quality of life. Tasks that were difficult or unsafe to perform in dim kerosene light can now be done more easily and safely.
- Environmental and Health Benefits: The reduction in kerosene use decreases indoor air pollution, which has positive health implications for the family. It also reduces the family’s carbon footprint, contributing to environmental conservation.
