A project of SEVAA — Society for Envisioning Vivekananda in Awareness and Action

About SEVAA Ukhra

Empowering education and community development in Ukhra village, Paschim Bardhaman

Ukhra, Paschim Bardhaman
~900 children

About the Ukhra Project

Ukhra village is an ancient hamlet of Paschim Bardhaman. Rich in Shaivite-Shakta-Vaishnava akharas and temples, the village is not identified as a poor one, but SEVAA identified specific developmental challenges that needed to be addressed.

SEVAA's comprehensive survey found that despite the presence of more than 15 primary schools and 5 high schools, 50% of children lack proper reading ability and 80% struggle with writing skills. This alarming gap in educational quality became the catalyst for SEVAA's intervention.

Our Approach

SEVAA works across existing schools in Ukhra -- 5 primary schools and 1 girls' high school -- through innovative teaching methods, digital tools, creative programs, and community engagement, reaching approximately 900 children in the village.

Challenges We Address

Understanding the unique developmental needs of this century-old semi-urban settlement

Education Quality

Although there are more than 15 primary schools and 5 high schools, 50% of children lack proper reading ability and 80% struggle with writing skills.

Health Awareness

Limited health awareness among residents, with common diseases like diabetes and hypertension being prevalent due to lack of preventive care knowledge.

Environmental Challenges

Rapid soil degradation and deforestation due to coal mining activities in the area, affecting the quality of life.

Infrastructure

Poor drainage system causing flooding during monsoons due to inadequate water management in this century-old semi-urban settlement.

Cultural Heritage of Ukhra

An ancient hamlet with deep spiritual and cultural roots

Ukhra is an ancient hamlet rich in Shaivite-Shakta-Vaishnava akharas and temples. While the village is not identified as a poor one, SEVAA recognized that this cultural wealth was not translating into educational and developmental outcomes for its children.

The coal mining activities in the surrounding area have caused environmental degradation, while the century-old infrastructure struggles to meet modern needs. SEVAA's mission is to preserve this heritage while building a brighter future through education and community empowerment.

Our Partners

SEVAA

Society for Envisioning Vivekananda in Awareness and Action (SEVAA), Kolkata

Service Place

Service Place has taken special steps to help SEVAA Ukhra in health matters and is implementing a telemedicine system through SEVAA.

Join Our Educational Mission

Be part of transforming education for 900 children in Ukhra village.