Specially-abled Bhanu Patel has brought many development projects
to Jesar village.
Her legs can't support her, she uses crutches, but she is the support of a whole village. It's a classic case of a woman, Bhanu Patel, rising above her limitations to achieve what many men would envy.
By the dint of sheer willpower, Patel has become the sarpanch of Jesar village of Mahuva taluka in Surat district. She has actively transformed the situation in the village by undertaking many development works. Surprised by her enthusiasm, chief minister Narendra Modi even honoured her with an award.
Bhanu Patel, 50, probably is the first woman in Gujarat, who despite being specially abled, is serving as a sarpanch of her village. Patel was elected for the post three years back and since then has been continuously working for uplift of her village.
Due to her efforts, Jesar with a population of 25,000, has received many development projects that were pending for a long time. Few of her works include starting '108' ambulance services and bus services, building college for youth, generating employment for widows and much more.
"When I was elected in 2007, many people questioned my ability of addressing village problems. But with the support of my family and other villagers, I began raising issues, which were resolved by government departments concerned. Many government officers are surprised when they find a sarpanch being physically challenged. My health has never created any hurdle for me," Patel says.
The state government has also appreciated Patel for the work she has done in her village. She has been awarded Rs1.5 lakh cash at a function by chief minister Modi. Residents of Jesar also feel proud for their sarpanch, who has done so much for their village in a very short span of time.
Patel's husband, who is also specially abled, is a doctor by profession. Both jointly work for the betterment of their village. Interestingly, due to continuous therapy and medical treatment, Patel's legs have got cured partially.
"After going through four operations, I can walk and stand, but not completely. Even if I am not sarpanch of Jesar, I will continue working for my village. In these three years, I have learnt many things, which I will try to include in my life," Patel added.
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