Caste Doesn\'t Matter Work Does
"We have to aid the community in moments of sorrow and joy. When issues regarding women's health, pregnancy, and childbirth emerge within the community, I offer my services even in the dead of night. Now, caste distinctions no longer exist as they did before. I have always held the belief that people should not be categorized by caste; their work is what truly matters." This statement comes from Manju Shrivastav, a dedicated female health volunteer. At the age of 60, Manju Shrivastav carries no burden of old age; she remains active and enthusiastic in her community work. Since 1988, when she commenced her role as a health volunteer, she has amassed a wealth of experiences in her service to the community.
She tirelessly provides essential health services such as distributing vitamins, administering polio vaccines, conducting prenatal check-ups, and offering postpartum care. Should anyone in the village fall ill, she visits their home to provide necessary advice and guidance. She educates families on nutrition for malnourished children and imparts knowledge about local dietary practices. In Manju's community, where a significant population consists of Dalits, she stands firmly against caste-based discrimination, even as such divisions persist in other parts of the Terai region.
Elucidating the role of a community volunteer poses challenges, but Manju remains undaunted. Her commitment to her work remains steadfast, and she consistently engages in enlightening and educating the community. Witnessing the prevalence of uterine prolapse in various Terai communities, she has also recognized the potential for cancer to arise from this condition. Such experiences have made her vigilant in keeping the community well-informed about these issues. During a mothers' group meeting, she shared her thoughts on addressing uterine prolapse, yet the attendees concealed their suffering from the problem.
Mohan Narayan Prasad Shrivastav, Manju's husband, takes pride in his wife's volunteer work. The family consistently views Manju's dedication to community service in a positive light. Mr. Shrivastav states, "We are content with her work. We provide our support as a family." With four sons and a daughter, Manju's mother takes pride and joy in her daughter's unwavering commitment. Manju herself adds, "Our duty is to aid the community in moments of both sorrow and joy. When issues concerning women's health, pregnancy, and childbirth arise within the community, I provide my services even in the darkest hours of the night."
