CORD: A Bond of Love and Transformation in Rural Development

Children are not vessels to be filled, but lamps to be LIT.

- Swami Tejomayananda (Worldwide Head of Chinmaya Mission)

A Brief History

The CORD journey began with the vision of Swami Chinmayananda, who aimed to create a platform for selfless service. Inspired by the Himalayan tradition of women serving sages, Swami Chinmayananda started a rural healthcare and development program in Sidhbari. In 1985, the Chinmaya Rural Primary Health Care and Training Centre was established following a USAID proposal focused on maternal and child care services. The program aimed to train local women as multipurpose health workers, recognizing their potential.

Initially, the initiative included an Outpatient Department (OPD) clinic in Sidhbari and community-based health services through six health sub-centers. Emphasis was placed on maternal and child healthcare, including immunization, family planning, and comprehensive antenatal, intranatal, and postnatal care.


As CORD expanded its outreach, it became clear that addressing the challenges of village life required a more profound intervention. In 2003, this led to the formation of a dedicated Trust specifically focusing on developmental growth, marking a pivotal moment in the organization’s journey.

Introduction

The Baal Vihar initiative is a significant program to foster the development of children aged 6 to 12 years. It emphasizes the importance of involving children in understanding their potential from a young age.

Cord Bal Vihar is a program under the Chinmaya Organisation for Rural Development (CORD) that aims to empower children in rural communities. "Bal Vihar" translates to "Children's Group" and involves educational and social activities to support children's development and raise awareness of social issues.

Watch the Video based on Cord "Bal Vihar" on YouTube Here:

Aim of Cord Bal Vihar

  • Empowerment: The primary aim of Bal Vihar is to empower children by involving them in various activities that enhance their understanding of social issues and encourage their participation in community development.
  • Educational Improvement: The program seeks to improve primary education by making learning enjoyable through games and interactive methods, thereby increasing children's engagement with local government schools.
  • Social Awareness: Children are sensitized to social issues through a structured approach that includes forming groups known as the "Balveer" or children's army, which helps them take an active role in their communities.
Watch the Video based on Cord "Bal Vihar" on YouTube Here:

Activities and Values
  • General Knowledge Lessons: To foster mental growth, Bal Vihar includes lessons that enhance children's general knowledge and encourage participation in elocution competitions. This helps build confidence and communication skills.

  • Bal Vihar operates as a community-based organization where children participate in fun-filled learning experiences. Activities typically include
  • Games and Fun Learning: Incorporating play into education to make learning more appealing and effective.
  • Community Engagement: Encouraging children to understand and participate in local governance and community issues, fostering a sense of responsibility.


  • Skill Development: Activities are designed not only for educational purposes but also to build skills that will benefit the children in their personal and community lives.
  • Student Experience: Nishan, a 9th-grade student, shares his positive experiences in the program, highlighting how it has contributed to his personal growth and development.

Watch the Video based on Cord "Bal Vihar" on YouTube Here:

Broader Context

CORD, as an organization, has been active for over two decades in promoting holistic rural development across various states in India. It aims to facilitate integrated and sustainable development through various community-based programs, including those focused on women, youth, and children.

Bal Vihar is one of the critical components of this mission, focusing specifically on nurturing the next generation.

Cord Bal Vihar plays a vital role in empowering children through education, social awareness, and community engagement within the framework of CORD's broader objectives for rural development.



Overview of CORD

Established as the service arm of the Chinmaya Mission, CORD operates as a Trust and NGO, actively promoting holistic rural development for over 20 years. The initiative aims to facilitate integrated, participatory, and sustainable rural progress in various states, including Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh. Through careful guidance, funding, and monitoring, CORD champions initiatives that uplift rural communities.

Conclusion

The Baal Vihar initiative is a vital program that not only focuses on health but also emphasizes the overall development of children. Engaging them in various activities and fostering their understanding of personal potential, prepares them for a brighter future.

Watch the Video based on Cord "Bal Vihar" on YouTube Here:

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