Borogobal, West Garo Hills: In a remote tribal village nestled in the Meghalaya‘s West Garo Hills district, a unique story of women’s empowerment unfolds. Here, a group of dedicated women, primarily homemakers, have become the guardians of their community’s safety. Their weapon of choice? A solar-powered fence.
This single-strand fence, installed in November 2023 by Aaranyak and the British Asian Trust with support from the Darwin Initiative, shields the village of Borogobal from the constant threat of wild elephant invasions. These nighttime raids used to disrupt daily life and cause fear among the villagers living in the village bordering Assam’s Goalpara district.
Women on Watch:
The villagers formed the Solar Fence Management Committee, with three women at the helm: Ayan Debi Rabha (Vice President), Saima Rabha (General Secretary), and Jayanti Rabha (Treasurer). This committee, trained by Aaranyak, ensures the fence’s proper functioning and maintenance. Their vigilance extends to even switching on the power source in emergencies, as one woman’s quick action recently saved a villager from a charging elephant.
A Life Transformed:
The fence has brought a sense of peace and security to Borogobal. “Before the fence, we would all huddle together every night, fearing elephants,” says Jayanti Rabha. “Now, we can sleep soundly and enjoy our evenings without worry,” she said.
The change is evident in the village atmosphere. Gone are the anxious afternoons. Villagers now go about their daily routines with a newfound confidence. Women chat in courtyards, children play freely, and men rest after a day’s work in the fields. Saima Rabha, who works at the local Anganwadi Centre, highlights the return of vibrant social life after dark.
Beyond Protection: Empowerment Takes Root
The solar fence project has yielded more than just security. It has empowered the women of Borogobal. They not only manage the fence but also contribute financially, with each household chipping in Rs. 50 for maintenance. Some women have even learned basic repairs, further strengthening their sense of responsibility and self-reliance.