Programs and Services
BGI’s work with the Banjaras has involved several key components:
CHILD CARE: Children are viewed as heavy unwanted burdens in most Banjara villages. People cannot afford large families and there is absolutely no concept of birth control. They cannot feed or cloth their children, yet more and more are born. Because of these conditions, children are sold for these three purpose: Boys as field worker/slaves for $50 in US money, Girls for child prostitution for $75 in US money. With literally No Education, Banjaras are a staggering 80% illiterate. Most villages have NO schools or education opportunities of any kind. People are ignorant of even the basic things, such as the idea of child conception and birth, primary health care, and hygiene. Our safe haven for kids will give the necessary holistic care for abandoned and orphaned kids.
EVANGELISM and CHURCH PLANTING: BGI missionaries have been involved in sharing the Christian faith with the Banjara people. This has included distributing literature, conducting Bible studies, and establishing small house churches within Banjara communities. Our vision is to establish churches in each Mandal of the project areas. For this, we rely upon the Lord Jesus and the financial support of His saints. Currently we are associate with more than 10,000 adults and some 7,000 children. These numbers represent local churches in 70 different locations, housed in 15 permanent buildings and thatched grass-roofed, open-air buildings. The focus is not on buildings but on souls. Also, our Bible Training Centre provides the necessary training for young men/women who want to share the burden.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT: Recognizing the socio-economic challenges faced by the Banjara Gypsies, BGI has initiated various community development projects. These have included educational programs, (KG to PG), vocational training, Nursing, Healthcare initiatives, and efforts to improve basic living conditions. BGI has also been involved in advocating for the rights of the Banjara people, helping them gain access to any government resources and fighting against social injustices and discrimination faced by the community.
EUDUCATION & LITERACY: BGI has placed a strong emphasis on education, particularly for Banjara children. Establishing schools and literacy programs has been a significant part of their strategy to empower the community and break the cycle of poverty. It is also through these young hearts we can plant the seed of Good news into their lives and their extended families (if any).
HEALTHCARE INITIATIVES: Healthcare is a critical area of OM's work with the Banjara people. They have conducted medical camps, provided basic healthcare education, and worked to improve access to medical facilities.
