Introduction

Ama Prayash, For People is a non-governmental organization established in 2008 in Kendrapada, Odisha. This has become a beacon of hope for the underprivileged and people from rural villages. Dedicated to empowering youth, women, and deprived students, the organization focuses on education, health, career guidance, art, literature, culture, and sports among others. Over the years, Ama Prayas has extended its reach, touching lives not only in Odisha but across India and even internationally. This collective effort, initiated under the leadership of Dipak Kumar Das and supported by likeminded friends and professionals such as civil servants, assistant professors, doctors, engineers and bankers, showcases the transformative power of small steps taken with dedication and vision. It stands as an example of how friendship and collaboration can create waves of change.

Why Ama Prayash?

The core mission of Ama Prayash is to uplift the socio-economically and educationally disadvantaged sections of society through small and visible steps. Its major objectives include the followings:

1. Providing guidance and career counseling to students.
2. Identifying and nurturing hidden talents, particularly in education.
3. Taking health initiatives and awareness activities.
4. Promoting art, literature, culture, and sports of Odisha.
5. Offering merit-based scholarships and study materials to those in need.
6. Encouraging community participation in sustainable development initiatives.
   
   

By fostering a sense of community and responsibility, Ama Prayas exemplifies how educated individuals can give back to society, creating a ripple effect of positive change. The organization demonstrates that small efforts can lead to bigger reforms, both at the individual and societal levels.

Ama Prayash’s Annual Convention: A Celebration of Service

Every December, Ama Prayas organizes its annual convention in Koro, Kendrapada, Odisha. This event is a platform for knowledge-sharing, inspiration, and community engagement and nourish the value of friendship and collective efforts. It features:

• Inspirational and Motivational Talks: Renowned speakers share insights to inspire the youth and community
• Competitions: Debates, essays, quizzes, and other activities to encourage learning and
• Career Guidance and Life Skill Programs: Helping participants prepare for a brighter
• Health Check-ups: Ensuring the well-being of the
• Felicitation Ceremonies: Recognizing individuals who have made significant societal

• Awards: Ama Prayas provides the Guru Shree Samman and Yuva Samman to deserving individuals for their contributions in education, culture, and societal.
  
  

The annual convention not only highlights the achievements of Ama Prayas but also sets the tone for future initiatives. It inspires hope and aspirations, keeping the spirit of service alive.

A platform for Debate and Dialogue

Debates are an integral part of the convention, fostering critical thinking and public speaking

skills among participants. This year’s topics are designed to resonate with contemporary societal issues and encourage meaningful discussions.

The following topics were thought out for the Junior Group (+2 Level): 

1. (Rural life vs. Urban life): Examining the advantages and challenges of rural and urban lifestyles.
2. (Planting a tree is saving a life): Highlighting the importance of afforestation and environmental conservation.
3. (Traditional practices vs. Modern thinking): Discussing the balance between cultural heritage and progressive ideologies.
4. Preservation of art and culture: Rural vs. Urban): Exploring where the roots of cultural preservation are stronger.
   
   

The following topics were thought out for the Senior Group (UG and PG Level): 

1. 75 Years of Indian Constitution, has it delivered on its promises?: Reflecting on the achievements and challenges of India’s constitutional
2. COP2G and India’s Role in Climate Negotiations for Global South: Analyzing India’s leadership in addressing climate challenges and representing developing.
   
   

These topics have been carefully chosen to align with Ama Prayas’ mission of fostering critical awareness, promoting sustainability, and encouraging youth to engage with societal and global issues. The junior-level topics focus on nurturing values and environmental awareness, while the senior-level debates tackle significant national and international concerns.

Ama Prayash Themes for the Year 2024

This year, Ama Prayas has chosen four key themes that align with its mission of sustainable development and community empowerment:

1. Traditional and Modern Water Conservation Techniques for Sustainable Rural Development : Water is the lifeline of rural communities. This theme focuses on reviving traditional methods of water conservation, such as step wells and rainwater harvesting, while integrating modern techniques like drip irrigation and water recycling. Such a hybrid approach ensures sustainable water management, vital for agriculture and daily life.
   
   

2. Community-Based Disaster Management for Resilient Villages : Odisha, being prone to natural disasters, requires robust disaster management strategies. This theme emphasizes creating resilient communities through local participation, early warning systems, and innovative housing designs. Empowering villagers with knowledge and tools can mitigate the impact of disasters and ensure quicker recovery.
   
   

3. Self-Sustaining Villages through Local Resource Utilization : Sustainable rural development lies in leveraging local resources. This theme promotes a holistic approach to making villages self-reliant by using indigenous knowledge, agriculture, and renewable energy sources. Such initiatives not only enhance economic stability but also preserve cultural heritage.
   
   

4. Women-Led Entrepreneurship and Local Resource-Based Development : Empowering women to lead local businesses is a cornerstone of sustainable development. This theme focuses on using natural and cultural resources to establish enterprises, fostering economic growth while promoting gender equality. Women’s leadership in entrepreneurship ensures a more inclusive development process.

Ama Praysh Projects for the Junior Group 2024

To nurture young minds, Ama Prayas has outlined the following project topics for students:

1. Develop Sustainable Energy Sources for Your Locality: Encouraging students to explore renewable energy solutions tailored to local needs.
2. Creating Bio-Fertilizers from Agricultural Waste: Teaching the importance of converting agricultural by-products into eco-friendly fertilizers.
3. Water Crisis and Its Solution: Inspiring students to address water scarcity through innovative and practical solutions.
4. Reviving Traditional Medicinal Plants: Promoting the use of indigenous medicinal plants for better health and well-being.
5. Solid Waste Management System: Encouraging students to devise effective ways to manage waste and keep their communities clean.
   
   

These projects not only educate students but also instill a sense of responsibility and innovation.

Impact and Achievements

Over the years, Ama Prayas has made significant strides in empowering communities:

• Educational Support: Distributed scholarships, study materials, and career counseling to thousands of students.
• Community Engagement: Organized programs to promote cultural heritage and local
• Women Empowerment: Initiated skill development programs, enabling women to contribute to the local
• Youth Development: Conducted sports and art competitions to nurture talent and
  
  

One of the standout achievements was last year’s G20-themed drawing competition, which received nationwide recognition. This initiative inspired educational institutions to adopt similar creative engagements, bridging global themes with local communities.

Ama Prayash A Model of Collective Effort

What sets Ama Prayas apart is its unique model of collaboration and friendship. The organization’s members include civil servants, assistant professors, doctors, engineers, bankers, and other professionals, all working together to make a difference. Their collective effort demonstrates how educated individuals can pool their resources, skills, and networks to uplift society. It is a testament to the idea that small efforts, when combined, can pave the way for significant reforms.

The organization also serves as a model for alumni engagement, showing how individuals can give back to their schools, colleges, and communities. By doing so, Ama Prayas has built a legacy of service and friendship that continues to inspire others. It also holds the potential to expand its influence across Odisha, providing hope and aspirations to countless individuals.

Looking Ahead

As Ama Prayas celebrates its 17th year, it remains committed to its mission of empowering the underprivileged. The organization plans to expand its initiatives, focusing on:

• Enhancing educational
• Promoting sustainable development
• Strengthening community
• Encouraging more friends and professionals to join its
  
  

Conclusion

Ama Prayash is more than just an organization; it is a movement of hope, service, and transformation and combined efforts. By addressing the needs of the underprivileged and fostering a sense of

community, it has created a model for sustainable development. Its journey from a small effort in 2008 to a widely recognized organization in 2024 proves that collective efforts, no matter how small, can lead to significant change. With its dedicated members and visionary leadership, Ama Prayash is poised to continue making a meaningful impact for years to come.