Poorbita places a strong emphasis on conducting awareness programs that address crucial aspects of health, well-being, and knowledge within the tribal communities, particularly among ST and SC individuals. The following are key components of our awareness initiatives:
EARDS places strong emphasis on awareness generation as a key strategy to promote health, well-being, and knowledge among underprivileged communities, particularly Scheduled Tribe (ST), Scheduled Caste (SC), and Other Backward Class (OBC) populations. These initiatives empower individuals with the information and confidence needed to make informed decisions for personal and community development. These sessions are conducted in collaboration with government departments, corporate partners, schools, and local NGOs. The major areas of intervention are highlighted below:
1. Mental and Physical Health Awareness
Poorbita organizes seminars and workshops on both mental and physical health, with a special focus on puberty-related changes among adolescent girls. The programmes ensure that SC and ST school-going girls receive accurate guidance on emotional well-being, personal hygiene, and self-care during adolescence.
2. Menstrual Health and Hygiene Management
Comprehensive awareness sessions are conducted to educate adolescent girls and adult women on menstrual health and hygiene. These programmes break taboos, encourage open dialogue, and provide practical and accurate information to promote safe menstrual practices. The goal is to protect health, restore dignity, and improve the quality of life of tribal women and girls.
3. Combating Alcoholism, Drug Addiction & Promoting Public Health
To address the rising challenge of substance abuse in tribal regions, Poorbita conducts awareness drives on the harmful impacts of alcoholism and drug addiction. These initiatives promote healthier alternatives, encourage positive behaviour change, and support family well-being and community health.
4. Dispelling Superstitions and Misconceptions
Many tribal communities continue to be influenced by superstitions and irrational beliefs. EARDS conducts targeted campaigns to challenge practices such as fear of snakes, reliance on “Ojhas” or self-proclaimed healers, and other harmful customs. These programmes promote scientific thinking, rationality, and confidence in evidence-based knowledge.
5. Science Awareness and Life-Skills Education
Interactive sessions on science and general knowledge are an integral part of our awareness programmes. Participants also receive training in essential life-saving skills such as water safety, first aid for drowning, and response during cardiac emergencies. These sessions not only enhance practical knowledge but also strengthen community preparedness and resilience.
Through these multifaceted initiatives, EARDS strives to build a healthier, informed, and self-reliant tribal society. By integrating health education, scientific awareness, and social reform, the organization works towards the holistic empowerment of ST, SC, and OBC communities - enabling individuals to lead dignified, confident, and productive lives.