Empowering Through Education: Differently-Abled Teacher's Commitment to Ambedkarite Ideology

Jalaun- Govind Singh might seem to be another differently-abled individual, but his resolve is what differentiates him from most of us. Govind Singh, a resident of Makrandpur village in the Jalaun district of Uttar Pradesh, uses a tri-cycle to commute but aims at surpassing others with his efforts. Singh, himself a graduate, feels that he needs to augment the studies of the students who are studying in government and private colleges in the city.

Fading Hopes and Resilience

Govind Singh was born with a handicap. In 2008, a glimmer of hope emerged when he was told that a treatment in Rajasthan's Udaipur could potentially cure his condition. Unfortunately, this ray of hope dimmed as the operation proved unsuccessful. This setback forced Govind to abandon his pursuit of an MA degree. Returning to his village, he resolved to carry forward the Ambedkarite mission and dedicate himself to educating the students of his community.

Sharing his perspective with "The Mooknayak," Govind Singh stated, "Ambedkarite ideology is my driving force. Education empowers individuals." He firmly believes that a strong educational foundation paves the way for future success. With this philosophy in mind, Govind teaches students from kindergarten to 5th grade. While these children attend school, they often lack exposure to Ambedkarite ideology. In his classroom, Govind not only helps students revise their syllabus but also instils the values of Ambedkarism. He aims to familiarize children with figures like Phule and Ambedkar and their teachings. Govind believes that early exposure to these ideas equips students to navigate Brahminical thinking and avoid its pitfalls.

Bundelkhand Dalit Adhikar Manch: Catalyst for Individual Empowerment

The Mooknayak spoke to Kuldeep Kumar Baudh, an activist affiliated with the Bundelkhand Dalit Adhikar Manch, to delve into the inspiration behind such dedicated individuals. Baudh revealed, "Govind Singh is a member of the Bundelkhand Adhikar Manch, which operates the Jai Bhim Education Centre in the Jalaun district of Uttar Pradesh. Through this center, disadvantaged children receive daily lessons—1 hour of classwork and 1 hour of Constitutional studies—to address discrimination and other challenges they face in school. Numerous individuals, trained by the Bundelkhand Dalit Adhikar Manch, share Govind Singh's commitment to advancing the Ambedkarite Mission."

An Electronic Tricycle Could Ease the Travails

Living with his mother, Govind Singh sustains himself by running a small shop from his home. His manual tricycle is his sole means of transportation, necessitating a ten-kilometer journey to procure goods for his shop. Govind believes that an electric tricycle would greatly facilitate his travel. He has completed the required paperwork and submitted numerous applications, yet he is still awaiting his tricycle. Despite being denied the electronic tricycle due to a 70% disability level (as opposed to the 80% requirement), Govind has noticed that some individuals with similar disabilities have been granted the e-tricycle.

A Life Committed to a Mission

At 40, Govind Singh remains single, with no intention of marrying. His sole focus is now on imparting Ambedkarite ideology to children. He takes pride in having educated around 500 students, many of whom have gone on to become tutors themselves. "My purpose is to make a difference," Govind proudly affirms.

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