Beyond home work

Homemaker Vineeta has set a goal for her life: working for women who need help

If there is a will there is a way, the age-old adage goes. Housewife-turned-social worker Vineeta Chhabra has proved this right. She and a group of homemakers are working against female foeticide, for female literacy, the environment and the underprivileged section of the society.
Vineeta says, "Any housewife can play a significant role in developing the society. A housewife works selflessly for her family, the same thing she can do for her society."
Vineeta has formed a group called 'Prerna' with 15 housewives as members. A resident of Sector 10, she works for those women who need help and has dedicated her life towards her goal. In 2010, Vineeta was honoured with Samaj Ratna award by Jansanskriti for her contribution as a social worker.

The beginning
Wife of Captain RK Chhabra (merchant navy) and mother of Gadharva and Mrinal, Vineeta says, "I had lot of time after my routine work at home so I decided to go out and do something for the society. Earlier, all things were for just for killing time but with time I became passionate to do something potential. After shifting to Dwarka in 2009, I took the initiative and through the local media, I sent my message to the housewives to join hands and work for the society. That was the beginning with three members and now we are 15.

Prerna and its work
Every month, Prerna members decide beforehand what to do next month. "We make pamphlets and jute bags for free distribution in markets to support the environment. We make cartoons to send message for female literacy, female foeticide etc. We work as a team," says Vineeta. 

Pre-planning is must
The team sets small targets and fixed a concept for each year. For the year 2011-2012, the concept is to work for the cause of the girl child. Vineeta says, "We have planned to target migrated labourers' families who live in the surrounding villages of Dwarka, like Pochanpur, Ambarhi, Bagdola, etc. By organising meetings, taking help from the villagers and by going door to door, we would spread our campaign for the girl child. Our focus is to make the people understand the importance of the girl child in the society."

Dedication for Hindi
The group focuses on Hindi language. They generally spread their messages in Hindi but in specific cases they use English as well. "We use English only when it's compulsory. In this way we promote the Hindi language also."

Ideas come in the kitchen
When at home, she loves to spend time in the kitchen. Vineeta also loves doing embroidery work and painting. She designs pamphlets and writes slogans. She says, "I am in my creative best while cooking.  I get most of the designs and slogans while cooking. I first write it then share it with other members of the team. If they give suggestions, I modify them before finalising."

--Akhilesh pandey