At just 25 years old, Deepika Karki is not only the president of the Lower Timburbong Gram Panchayat in Soreng District, Sikkim, but also a force of transformation in her community. With a sharp focus on social issues, she has taken bold steps for Building Bharat by addressing the pressing challenges of alcohol and drug abuse, which have long cast a shadow over her village.
Deepika recognized the far-reaching consequences of substance abuse, particularly its toll on the mental health of women in her community. Her determination to make a difference led her to collaborate with the Piramal Foundation, initiating awareness campaigns that targeted schools, community gatherings, and Panchayat meetings. These efforts ignited crucial conversations around the dangers of addiction and the importance of collective action.
Deepika's vision extended beyond awareness to systemic change. Working alongside the Piramal Foundation, she established the Gram Panchayat Planning & Facilitation Team (GPPFT), ensuring that her Panchayat had the tools and framework to address key developmental challenges. She also made women’s issues a priority, using village meetings as a platform to amplify their voices. Her advocacy ensured the inclusion of women-centric themes in the 2024-2025 Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP), setting the stage for more inclusive and equitable progress.
Through her tireless efforts, Deepika has not only tackled the immediate issues of addiction but has also sown the seeds of long-term change, fostering resilience and empowerment in her community. Her leadership exemplifies the transformative potential of young leaders in addressing critical social issues and inspiring collective action.
Deepika Karki’s story is a testament to the power of youth leadership. It sends a powerful message to young people across India: age is no barrier to driving meaningful change, and a committed leader can uplift an entire community.
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