Suman Gaikwad is one among the eight women who had filed application to make Gram Sabha functional in Beherwadi village that comes under Beed district of Maharashtra.

When the previous requests fell in the deaf years, these women under the leadership of Vyshali Ugale were forced to take police protection to ensure free and fair conduct of the Gram Sabha.

According to Rukmini Tokal, a member of the women Self Help Group in the village, the platform of Gram Sabha could fetch the government sponsored ration, toilets, road and electricity which would benefit a population of more than 5.6 thousand in Beherwadi village.

Beherwadi is only 6 km away from Beed bus stand but the village is apparently devoid of any development. Only 232 people are fully engaged in agriculture. 2164 people, nearly 50 percent go out to cities looking for odd jobs.

Less than 4 percent- only 200 people’s names are listed for government’s ration scheme. No other schemes are being implemented in the village.

On 15^th August 2016, the women at Beherwadi experienced the moment of victory when the Sarpanch felt obliged to organize Gramsabha in the village.

Besides the police, the local media too played a crucial role in spreading the much needed awareness. Other than the women, 40 men and 35 youth had gathered for the Gramsabha.  The men were inspired by the women and had decided to extend the support in raising the issues.

In a dramatic turn of events, the Sarpanch dutifully responded to all queries. He also distributed the forms for housing scheme and explaining the enrolment procedures.

Thus began the change story for Beherwadi village in Beed district of Maharashtra.

This case was recorded by Jeevan-People Led Development project by Caritas India network organization.