Project title: BH Amaravati Centre for Social and Youth Upliftment 2008-11 (PBFI)

Project Location: Amaravati, Maharashtra, India

Need (the wider problem that project will help to resolve):
1. 17% of people in the Amaravati district are classified as SC (Scheduled Caste) and 14% as ST (Scheduled Tribe). Most suffer from caste-based discrimination and atrocities. They also remain in the grip of castism themselves and continue to observe the various castes (22 SCs alone) and sub castes. As a result of this division they cannot effectively lobby the government to access their rights. High caste politicians take advantage of this division and maintain disharmony within these groups for political benefits.

2. The large majority of Indian Dalit youths experience caste discrimination at all stages such as gaining admission to college, facing job interviews, and engaging in sports and cultural competitions and exams. As a result many are frustrated, addicted, and suffering from mental health issues. Poverty and unemployment problems have made them powerless. 150 youths on a recent three day retreat confirmed these facts, but all were interested in finding a way to develop them.

3. Because of the poverty and ignorance many SCs and STs pray to Babas and Saddhus who exploit their fears in the name of some god or divine power. Many families are also cursed by alcohol addiction, especially amongst men.

Overall intended impact (the wider societal change to which your project is contributing)
To create society based on liberty, equality and fraternity, free from caste discrimination. Also, to see youth empowered on a cultural, educational, organisational and ethical basis, so that they participate fully and creating harmony in society.

Outcomes (changes in beneficiaries lives or behaviours if Outputs are achieved):

1. Youth self-help programme:
1. Youths more aware of human and Dalit rights and able to better access these rights.
2. These Dalit youths will emerge as a youth leaders in the movement for development.
3. Youths develop the confidence and daring to perform on the stage
4. They will strive for equality and breaking caste system
5. Youths from different castes will work together harmoniously. They will also understand the importance of social causes.
6. Youths will have greater awareness about addiction and unskilful practices.

1. Ashvaghosa cultural centre:
1. Reformation in the mentality of alcoholics and other addicts
2. People no longer practice the dowry system.
3. Reduction in superstitious practices.
4. More people marrying outside of their caste.
5. More families will celebrate Buddhist festivals.

1. Music class:
1. Students will become skilled and confident in music, passing 1st to 7th Standards in Vocal Music and Instrument Exam.
2. Some students will get good positions in singing & cultural programmes, some becoming music teachers.
3. Girls’ students will build their confidence through music.

Outputs (specifically deliverable results expected from the project to attain the Outcomes)

1. Organising youth activities such as youth meetings, retreats, festivals and moral education classes.
2. Social awareness cultural programmes on issues like dowry, alcoholism, farmer suicide, superstition, social disharmony, moral values.
3. Social gatherings and cultural events for social unity.
4. Team building of volunteers and performers to participate in drama –story telling and singing.
5. Music classes

Number and gender of beneficiaries: