SALT with the Community of Bhatpara Tea Garden

[Nityam Ghosh]

On 14th September 2025, the SALT process (Stimulate, Appreciate, Learn, Transfer) was conducted with the vibrant community of Bhatpara Tea Garden (Nichhe Line). The session turned into a meaningful exchange where people of different age groups—youths, parents, senior citizens, and even an ASHA worker—came together to share stories, strengths, and perspectives about their lives and community.

 

Beginning with Togetherness

The discussion began with a simple yet powerful icebreaker: participants were asked how they were feeling and what activities they enjoyed most. This welcoming question helped set the tone for an open and engaging dialogue. Smiles, laughter, and personal stories quickly created a friendly space where everyone felt comfortable to speak.

 

Discovering Strengths through Stories

The participants were divided into smaller groups and asked to share personal experiences that made them proud or happy. Each group then nominated a member to present their reflections. From these stories, major themes emerged:

 

Parents shared concerns about the lack of educational support for their children.

 

There was deep reflection on careless parental behavior, such as sending children to buy tobacco, cigarettes, or alcohol—habits that could harm the future of the next generation.

 

Stories of courage and compassion stood out, such as a woman supporting her pregnant sister during childbirth, despite being heavily pregnant herself.

 

Community solidarity surfaced strongly, where people support each other during marriages, last rites, and cultural programs.

 

Reflections that Inspired Change

Individual reflections during the SALT process brought out powerful realizations. One man candidly admitted that after hearing the stories, he felt motivated to quit alcohol and support his family better. A woman noted that although men may appear absent during meetings, they are quick to extend help when needed. These honest observations revealed the hidden layers of community strength and willingness to change.

 

Health Insights from the ASHA Worker

A special highlight of the session was the contribution of ASHA worker, Aslita Baraik, who shared knowledge from her health training. Her talk deeply resonated with the participants, focusing on two critical issues:

 

Youth Mental Health

 

Many young people silently face anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts, often triggered by relationship issues or personal struggles.

 

Parents were encouraged to adopt a friendly approach, respecting their children’s individuality and speaking openly with them.

 

This preventive communication, she explained, can also reduce cases of early marriage.

 

Clean Surroundings and Hygiene

 

The importance of proper sanitation was stressed, with reminders to remove stagnant water, keep surroundings clean, and dispose garbage properly.

 

Preventing diseases like malaria, dengue, cholera, and filariasis was highlighted as a collective responsibility.

 

Active Participation and Motivation

Throughout the session, participants remained deeply engaged. Many expressed appreciation that, although they often talk about strengths among themselves, this gathering allowed them to learn entirely new things—especially from the ASHA worker, whom they meet often but had never spoken to in such depth before.

 

Appreciation, Evaluation, Reflection (AER)

What was good in this meeting?

The opportunity to gain valuable insights from the ASHA worker and to reflect on personal and community strengths in a structured way.

 

What can be done better next time?

Participants suggested inviting the ASHA worker again, specifically to discuss mental health and other illnesses, so the community can learn even more.

 

A Step Forward for Bhatpara T.G.

The SALT session at Bhatpara Tea Garden was not just a dialogue—it was a journey of collective reflection and aspiration. The stories, insights, and commitments shared by the community reflect a desire to grow stronger together, with education, health, and unity at the core.