Jonny Rapo, a 26-year-old from the small town of Daporijo in Arunachal Pradesh's Upper Subansiri district, had never ventured beyond her hometown. Despite her dreams, she feared leaving the familiar. However, her passion for learning drove her to attend the Art of Living Training in Bangalore. The journey was daunting, and she recalls sitting at the airport in tears, overwhelmed by fear of the unknown and large crowds. Today, Rapo is proficient in basic computer skills and trained in solar installation at the Art of Living International Center in Bangalore. She has not only conquered her fear of crowds but also conducts training sessions in her village. Her newfound confidence enables her to support herself and her family financially. Rapo's transformation is part of a broader impact by The Art of Living in the Upper Subansiri district, an area prone to harsh climates and landslides. The region often faces prolonged power outages due to washed-away electric poles during torrential rains, leaving residents in darkness and isolation for extended periods. The Art of Living has made significant strides in this region. Over 80 households, government offices, and police stations now have solar panels installed through local collaboration. Women have been trained in natural and mushroom farming, moving away from the rampant use of urea to healthier, zero-cost natural inputs. The initiative has led to the creation of bank accounts and self-help groups, enhancing economic independence and stability. Local unemployed youths have received training in solar installation and designing, allowing them to collaborate with district power plant authorities to set up street lights and solar power plants, eliminating the need for outside technicians.The Digital Literacy Project, implemented in over five schools, has revolutionized teaching methods and learning experiences. Youth empowerment programs have helped students handle pressure effectively and fostered a sense of social responsibility, leading to improved school attendance. With better access to technology, teachers deliver more effective instructions, and students learn more proficiently. Corporates like BYJU'S and Amazon have provided desktops, television sets, and set-top boxes, significantly enhancing education quality. Inspired by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's vision of a one-world family, Ashok Harishchandre, project manager of The Art of Living's Human Development & Skill Development programs in Arunachal Pradesh, embarked on a 15-hour bike journey across 239 kilometers to reach the border district where the Mishmi tribe lives. Despite the community's wariness of outsiders, Harishchandre spent 15 days convincing village leaders of the need for development projects. His persistence, along with the trust-building facilitated by The Art of Living Happiness Program, helped connect with the community, making them feel uplifted, stress-free, and fostering a sense of belonging.
Jonny Rapo: A Beacon of Change in Arunachal Pradesh with the Art of Living
July 12, 2024
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