Field Visit to Kot Jewar

Activity Report

Title of the event:  Field Visit

Type of Event: Education tour

Date: 15 September, 2023

Venue:  Kot Jewar

Organised by: Department of Sociology and Social Work in collaboration with Internal Complaints Committee (ICC)

Activity Coordinator – Dr. Pragya Sharma

No. of Participants/Beneficiaries: 50

Objective of the Event:

•   To foster a deeper understanding about the villagers and Kalbelia communities, their traditions, rituals, art and way of living.

•   To create awareness about local people especially women to take an active role in analysing their living conditions, problems, and potential to seek change in their situations.

Summary: Department of Sociology and Social Work organised an educational opportunity for students of semester I and III. The students of department recently had the opportunity to visit Kot Jewar, a village in Rajasthan. During the visit, the students conducted a Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) to gain a comprehensive understanding of the community's needs, challenges, and strengths. They engaged with the local residents in open discussions and group activities to gather valuable insights into their livelihoods, healthcare, education, and environmental concerns. The PRA was instrumental in forming the basis for their subsequent interactions with the community.

The students also got a opportunity to visit to the local Blue Pottery industry. They learned about the intricate and time – honoured process of Blue Pottery making. Artisans graciously shared their knowledge, demonstrating the delicate art of shaping clay, applying vibrant blue glazes, and firing the pottery in traditional kilns. This not only provided them with a deep appreciation for their craftsmanship but also an understanding of the economic significance of this industry to the village.

The event concluded with a transect walk in Kot Jewar, where the students had the privilege of interacting with the Kalbelia community. This unique community is known for their vibrant dance forms and traditional nomadic lifestyle. They observed their distinctive houses and engaged in conversations to learn about their rich cultural heritage and the challenges they face in preserving their traditions in a rapidly changing world.

Outcome of the Event: This educational tour to Kot Jewar was a valuable experience, providing the students with insights into the issues of women artisans, local culture, economy, and social dynamics. The Participatory Rural Appraisal enabled them to identify areas where support and development initiatives can make a positive impact, while their interactions with the Blue Pottery industry and the Kalbelia community enriched their understanding of the region's heritage.