Priya Nadkarni, founder of Mrida Education and Welfare Society, gained crucial insights while working with PRADAN’s grassroots program for tribal youth in Mandla, Madhya Pradesh. She observed that standardized education often hindered rural youths from fully engaging with their environment and themselves. Additionally, many faced severe malnutrition, with 90% of participants being anemic. Priya found that despite receiving skills training, many youth struggled to adapt to city life, returning home after a short period due to poor education and job readiness. This realization led her to focus on providing holistic education for underprivileged children, starting at a young age.
Mrida chose the Mahakaushal region, known for its tribal population and high poverty levels, to address key challenges like malnutrition, school dropouts, and migration. Historically, the Gond and Baiga tribes have demonstrated resilience and skill, including in sports like football. Mrida’s programs tap into this cultural context, developing sports and technology pathways for children while empowering agrarian families through sustainable livelihoods. Through these efforts, Mrida aims to enhance education, revive inherent skills, and contribute to poverty eradication in the region.
