Community Reflection: Self-Assessment at Nichhe Line, Bhatpara

[Nityam Ghosh]

On 19th December 2025, the community members of Nichhe Line, Bhatpara came together for a Self-Assessment session based on the SALT and CLCP methodology. The aim of this session was to help everyone reflect on their progress toward the common dreams they had once shared and to understand where they stand today.

Before starting, the facilitators explained the purpose of the Self-Assessment: to see how much the community has grown, what changes have taken place, and how they can plan future steps to achieve their dreams together.

To make everyone feel comfortable, the session began with a light ice-breaking activity —What do you like the most in your village? This simple question opened heartfelt discussions. One woman said she valued the mutual support among neighbors, especially during good and bad times. A youth pointed out that although young people may not join meetings regularly, they are always ready to help in community matters. Another man proudly shared that the youth are free from addiction and active in sports like football and cricket.

Reflecting on Common Dreams After this, the group looked back at the common dreams that had been identified earlier. Each dream was discussed, and participants honestly shared where things stood today. For the dream of standing united in solving community problems, people rated themselves moderately. They said they do help each other during illness or emergencies, but when it comes to sensitive issues like gambling or liquor selling, participation goes down. Some efforts were made in the past, but they didn’t continue for long. The dream of having a well-educated village also received a similar response. The youth once surveyed children’s school attendance and started a child club, but now the activities have slowed down. Meetings happen only once a month, and no new steps have been planned. When discussing a healthy environment, participants agreed more could be done. Although many families live close by, only a few take part in community activities. A woman reminded everyone about the cleanliness drive carried out earlier and suggested organizing another one soon. Her idea received appreciation from others.

The dream of making the village free from addiction received the lowest score. People mentioned that some efforts had been made in the past to raise awareness, but it led to conflict with local liquor sellers. The issue remains a big challenge for the community. In contrast, the dream of maintaining an active child club was rated slightly higher. Youth members try their best to manage time for it, though many are busy with government job coaching. Parents sometimes step in to help when they can.

For the dream of keeping the village safe from wild animals, participants recalled how they had already submitted a demand for solar street lights to the local panchayat. Unfortunately, no follow-up was done, and the issue is still pending.

Reflections After the Session

At the end of the assessment, everyone joined in an After Evaluation Reflection (AER) to share their thoughts about the session.

• A youth mentioned that this activity helped them clearly see their current situation.
• One woman said it reminded them of the dreams they had once shared but gradually forgotten.
• Another woman felt happy revisiting the initiatives they had taken earlier.
• A lady suggested involving more male members and parents next time, so that everyone can understand the process better.
• A young girl who attended for the first time said she felt proud to know that her friends were also part of such meaningful community initiatives.

Conclusion The Self-Assessment session at Nichhe Line was not just a meeting—it was a moment of realization and renewal. It helped the community reconnect with their shared dreams and recognize both their strengths and areas for improvement. With renewed motivation, they now stand ready to continue their journey of collective growth and change.

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[Rituu B. Nanda]

Well documented Nityam. Does this group have a follow up plan?