Smt Kusum Lata Gariya - A true inspiration from a small village of Uttarakhand

Ankita_Singh - December 04, 2024

Smt Kusum Lata Gariya - A true inspiration from a small village of Uttarakhand

The prestigious National Teacher's Award 2024 has recognized Smt. Kusum Lata Gariya, a dedicated educator from Uttarakhand, for her outstanding contributions to the field of education. This annual award, presented by President Droupadi Murmu on September 5, 2024, celebrates educators across India who have demonstrated exceptional commitment and innovative practices in teaching.

Significance of the National Teacher's Award

The National Teacher's Award is one of the most esteemed recognitions in Indian education. It acknowledges educators who go beyond conventional teaching to inspire and empower students. Winners of this award receive:

A cash prize of ₹50,000.
A silver medal.
A certificate of appreciation.

This year, 50 educators from various states and educational institutions were honored, highlighting their innovative practices and impactful contributions.

My interaction with Smt. Kusum Lata Gariya Ji.

A Glimpse into the Life of an Extraordinary Educator

Those days I used to work for one of the organisations as a resource person to support the government teachers in teaching-learning process. In one of the workshops , I had the privilege of meeting Mrs. Gariya in an unexpected setting. We had a small conversation about whereabouts . Her passion for reading was evident as she delved into various literary genres, from children's books to academic texts. I kind of wanted to meet her again such was her presence and energy.

Our paths crossed again at a family wedding. Recognizing each other we exchanged warm greetings . I congratulated her for winning the pretigious national teachers award 2024 .

The moment took an even more significant turn when my mother-in-law introduced us formally. It was then that I learned Mrs. Gariya was my grandmother.On a lighter note , I must mention that she is still very young and beautiful.

Spending time with her during the wedding was enriching experience for me. Despite her numerous accomplishments she was unassuming. Her traditional attire, a Pichora and nose ring, further emphasized her connection to her roots.

At the wedding she was doing every little thing with utmost involvement which contributed to make the wedding successful as it was more of a self managed wedding (least outsourcing of resources) of our village.

When we approach our work, hobbies or any task in hand with this level of dedication, we unlock our full potential and experience a deeper sense of satisfaction. Involvement allows us to tap into our creativity, problem-solving skills and emotional intelligence. Mrs. Kusum Lata Gariya is a living testimony for all these qualities hence I couldn't stop myself from sharing about her work, so that every one of us can aspire to do well in our lives and bring joy to ourselves and everyone around . She is a true inspiration for the youths to do simple things right and make this world shine brighter.

A Spotlight on Smt. Kusum Lata Gariya's Achievements

Smt. Kusum Lata Gariya, hailing from the serene state of Uttarakhand, has been celebrated for her tireless efforts to uplift students and foster a culture of learning. Her innovative methods and student-centric approach have transformed educational outcomes in her region. By creating an inclusive and dynamic learning environment, she has not only enhanced academic performance but also nurtured the holistic development of her students.

Smt. Kusum Lata Gariya, a dedicated upper primary school teacher, has made remarkable strides in enhancing student enrollment through active community involvement.

Some of her achievements are mentioned below:-

Smt. Gariya: A Catalyst for Change

Smt. Gariya, a dedicated educator, has been instrumental in revitalizing a struggling school. Her tireless efforts have led to a significant increase in student enrollment, improved infrastructure, and a host of innovative initiatives.

Breathing New Life into the School

When the school was on the brink of closure, Smt. Gariya took the initiative to engage with the local community. Her outreach efforts successfully attracted new students, ensuring the school’s continued operation.

Embracing Innovation

Smt. Gariya has been at the forefront of educational innovation. In 2021, she introduced the QR code theme, a forward-thinking approach, which is appreciated by the education department and government.

Promoting Holistic Well-being

a) Menstrual health-

Recognizing the importance of menstrual health, Smt. Gariya has fostered open dialogue among students. By addressing sensitive topics like menstrual hygiene, she has empowered young girls and challenged societal taboos.

Menstrual hygiene awareness in India is a complex issue, hindered by societal taboos and lack of access to basic facilities. Many girls, especially in rural areas, are unaware of menstrual hygiene practices and lack access to sanitary pads and clean toilets. This often leads to absenteeism during periods, affecting their education and overall well-being. Smt. Gariya took the initiative to start the open discussions on such topics, because they are sometimes unable to share that thing with anyone, even with their family members. But being a teacher Smt. Gariya took it as her responsibility to start the open discussions on this topic.

b) Yoga practices-

Additionally, she has integrated yoga into the school curriculum, encouraging students to adopt healthy lifestyles. Yoga increases the better focus, brings peace and stability in the life of students. It also help the students to tackle with the situations, which plays a huge role in the student's life and promote their innner growth as an individual, which adds on as a part of their personality.

Fostering Community Participation

Smt. Gariya believes in the power of community collaboration. By actively engaging with local residents, she has forged strong connections that address varoius issues. This collective effort has led to positive outcomes that benefit the entire community.

Inspiring Environmental Consciousness

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Smt. Gariya organized a large-scale environmental awareness programme through painting/drawing. Over 10,000 students participated by submitting paintings and drawings through Google Forms. This initiative not only sparked creativity but also instilled a sense of environmental responsibility.

Unleashing Artistic Potential

Smt. Gariya’s passion for mandala art has inspired her students to explore their artistic talents. By guiding them in this intricate art form, she has opened up new avenues for creative expression. Moreover, she has emphasized the potential of such extracurricular activities as a source of future employment.

Smt. Gariya’s unwavering commitment to education and community development has transformed the school into a thriving institution. Her innovative approach and dedication to holistic development have left an enduring legacy.

Transforming Education in Uttarakhand

Smt. Kusum Lata Gariya's award is a moment of pride for Uttarakhand, showcasing the potential of educators from the region to lead transformative change. Her recognition not only elevates the status of teachers in the state but also serves as an inspiration for others to strive for excellence in education.

Conclusion

As the country celebrates Teachers' Day, Smt. Kusum Lata Gariya's recognition underscores the vital role of teachers in shaping the future of India. Her contributions exemplify the transformative power of education and the lasting impact a dedicated educator can have on society.

For more details about the National Teacher's Award and other recipients, visit the official website

इसे हिंदी में पढ़ने के लिए इस लिंक पर क्लिक करें राष्ट्रीय शिक्षक पुरस्कार 2024: उत्तराखंड से श्रीमती कुसुम लता गड़िया को सम्मानित किया।

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