Puja & Rekha

Puja and Rekha, though only 7 and 5 years old, must walk long distances to collect water from a far away pond and help feed their goats and cows. These chores prevent Puja and Rekha from being able to devote their time adequately to attending school.

Thanks to the generous support of Brad Feld and Richa & Atul Aggarwal Foundation, Puja and Rekha’s family will soon have a rainwater harvesting tank with bio-sand filter. Also, the family will be able to plant a garden using the Khadin method. The Khadin method uses rainwater for agriculture.

As a result, Puja and Rekha will be able to go to classes and spend time in school. Furthermore, they will receive new bicycles, school supplies, and tuition.

Akla Devi, Puja and Rekha’s mother, felt utterly helpless when her husband passed way two years ago. She manages to earn about $2 per day by working at nearby farms to provide for her 3 children. Pooja and Rekha, her daughters used to help her with water collection and household chores. Akla Devi was aware that these responsibilities were affecting Pooja and Rekha’s education but she was helpless to change the situation.

Now, thanks to the construction of a brand new taanka next to her home, Akla Devi’s family has clean water. A full tank (20,000 L) can meet the family’s needs for 7-8 months. Afterwards, the tank can be easily filled from pond water using a camel cart.

Akla is very happy to have a Khadin which is an earthen wall across her field. The wall collects rainwater during the summer monsoon and percolates into the soil. Akla Devi will be able to double her income within one year by growing cereal grains like wheat and millet, as well as many nutritious vegetables and fresh fruits.

Pooja and Rekha speak with great excitement about the day they received their brand new bicycles and school supplies. They aspire to hold government positions after completing their higher studies. Akla Devi and her family are so touched by everyone’s kindness and are thankful for the support they have received.