EKTA
About Ekta-
Ekta came into existence out of people’s expectations and sufferings in a rural & remote pockets of Koraput district, Odisha state in the year 1994 by a group of likeminded dedicated and committed youths of the locality concerned to the causes of people’s vulnerability. Behind the main reason to founding Ekta –
-Koraput was one of the most backward & underdeveloped areas which is coming under
Aspiration districts of NITI Ayoga at present.
-One of the low developmental indexes of the state.
– Despite several provisions, programs and policies, the situations of the areas and the
people were not improved.
Vision:
An Inclusive society where Adivasi and excluded communities live with dignity, equity ; justice without any discrimination in ensuring community participation
Mission:
Ekta plays the role of a catalyst and adopts a participatory approach to advance the cause of Adivasi and excluded communities by creating opportunities and fostering empowerment
2. Area of Intervention: Adivasi culture and Agriculture
The culture of tribal people is gradually deteriorating, leading to the degeneration of their traditional dance, music, agriculture, songs, food practices, costumes, and art and craft forms. In an attempt to learn mainstream languages, many tribal people slowly begin to forget their own language or dialect.
The influence of other communities has also impacted the Adivasi way of life. Especially among the youth, there is a growing inclination towards adopting modern lifestyles, practices, rituals, and festivals. This shift is pushing the community into a vicious circle of poverty, making their lives increasingly vulnerable and miserable.
The identity and self-respect of the Adivasi community are gradually being lost. Traditionally, the village council has been the cultural center of the tribal village, playing a key role in preserving customs and self-governance. However, with the introduction of the three-tier Panchayati Raj system, the traditional self-governance structures are slowly being replaced, further weakening their cultural identity.