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Green Army Fights Village Evils with Saris and Lathis
22 Sep
Summary
- Women in green saris patrol villages, tackling gambling and domestic violence.
- The movement, born from personal struggles, has expanded across Uttar Pradesh.
- The Green Army celebrates the birth of girls to combat discrimination.
In villages across Uttar Pradesh, women known as the 'Green Army' undertake Sunday patrols, equipped with lathis and wearing distinctive green saris. Their mission is to address pervasive social problems including gambling, alcohol abuse, and domestic violence. This grassroots initiative originated from the members' shared experiences of personal struggle, violence, and poverty.
The movement has expanded significantly from its beginnings in Kushiyari village, Varanasi district, evolving into a women-led force for change. The Green Army actively intervenes in cases of child marriage, advocates for girls' education by encouraging families to send children to school, and works to ensure continued learning.
Beyond confronting social ills, the Green Army has initiated campaigns to change village attitudes towards the birth of daughters, celebrating new arrivals with traditional songs. Recognizing the link between economic independence and safety, the group has also ventured into livelihood initiatives like slipper-making and sewing centers.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the Green Army's impact in December 2024, bringing national attention to their work. Yet, every Sunday, these women continue their patrols, united by the belief that collective strength can foster a better future for their communities.
