DREZEAPPEAL FOR STUDENT VOLUNTEERS
With large parts of the country affected by drought, the National Food Security Act (NFSA) is more important than ever for rural households. Plans are afoot for a detailed survey of the NFSA in six states: Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha and West Bengal. The survey will be followed by local public hearings.

The proposed dates are 1-15 June 2016, including training and debriefing workshops in Ranchi. All volunteers are expected to stay for the entire duration. They will be working in teams of 5-6 volunteers, with each team covering two Blocks in one state.

Volunteers should be prepared to work in rural areas for 10-12 days without modern comforts. Prior experience of fieldwork is preferred but not essential. Fluency in at least one of the following languages is desirable: Hindi, Odiya, Bengali. Travel and subsistence expenses will be covered, but there will be no remuneration. On the other hand, you may learn something, and even enjoy the experience!

If you are willing to volunteer for this survey, please fill this simple online formbefore 21 April 2016. Alas, it is not always possible to involve everyone, but if you sign on, we will send you further information and keep you posted.

Please help to circulate this appeal through email, social media, word of mouth, etc. Thank you!

Jean Dreze and Reetika Khera