The challenges
Prior to ACF, there was a large drug problem in the community, which is also prevalent across Punjab. Women faced a lot of health issues from the drudgery of collecting water and were not very involved in the political or social decisions of the community. With free electricity, farmers were using excess water on their crops, which was affecting groundwater levels. Additionally, crop residue burning was creating air pollution and there was an overuse of pesticides.
In relation to the differently abled, there was a wide misconception across society, as well as in families, toward these children. It was also difficult to find employment for differently-abled youth for their engagement in society and rehabilitation as useful member members of society.
