
Baseline Study at Mahad Village, Pride India
The Seventy-third Constitutional Amendment Act has been instrumental in establishing local self-governance in rural India through the Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI). Comprising Gram Panchayats, Panchayat Samiti, and Zila Parishads, this three-tiered system is crucial for the development of over half of India’s population residing in villages. However, the potential of PRI to drive progress is hindered by a lack of resources. PRIDE India, a Non-Governmental Organization, recognizes the need for comprehensive rural development. In Mahad, Raigad, a baseline study was conducted to assess the village’s current conditions, including demographic, socio-economic, and governance aspects. Using a census method with a sample size of 623, the study achieved a 100% confidence level. Semi-structured interviews, including closed and open-ended questions, were conducted through in-depth interviews and Focus Group Discussions (FGD). Analysis of the data revealed insights such as the predominance of the male population, migration for employment to cities, and inadequate toilet facilities for 64 out of 650 individuals. Additionally, 23% of the population exhibited low sanitation and hygiene standards. Education indicators highlighted a gap, with less than 50% of children attending school. The lockdown resulted in significant livelihood loss, emphasizing vulnerability. Basic facilities like electricity, safe drinking water, education, health, sanitation, and hygiene were lacking for a substantial portion of the population. Addressing these issues is imperative for achieving holistic village development and improving residents’ daily lives. PRIDE India’s holistic approach, spanning education, health, livelihood, disaster relief, and women empowerment, is pivotal in creating sustainable change in marginalized rural communities.