HT Correspondent
Jodhpur, March 10,2003 Hindusthan Times
JUST a few days back residents of Village Vishnoian, a small hamlet about 20 km from Jodhpur, was struggling to come to grips with the severe drought. Like other villages of the region, its residents felt that they were destined to a life of cursing their fate.
of Marwar Medical and Relief Society, the local tour managers.
"At village Village Vishnoian, the team worked on several projects including renovation of village temple and primary school," said Gehlot. Even as the villagers are busy organising a farewell for the team, the scence at the village school is an indication of the success they have achieved within a few days of work.
(Hon. Chief Minister Mr. Ashok Gehlot)
But today they are a determined lot, eager to contribute towards the overall development of the village. The credit for this transformation goes to a team of 25 students from England who had organised a two-week social service programme at the village.
The students, as part of a pre-university of venture, a UK-based organisation, had come to India to experience its rural life and prepare themselves for university courses, said surendra Gehlot Honorary President
Every student was busy completing the task the tem had designated to him. The work would be evaluated by the team leader 'Saroj'--- the name given by the villagers to Rose Young, the team leader. Young said that the students had enjoyed their stay at Jodhpur and learn a lot in the process.
They have constructed an approach road to the village temple, organised a medical camp and even a survey to learn about the life in Thar.