Ravindra and Smita Kolhe

Indian social activists and medical practitioners

Dr. Ravindra Kolhe at TEDxGEC 2019

Ravindra and Smita Kolhe are renowned Indian social activists and medical practitioners known for their dedicated service in the rural and tribal areas of Maharashtra, India. Their work primarily focuses on healthcare, education, and social development in the Melghat region, which is known for its challenging living conditions and lack of basic amenities.

Early Life and Education

Ravindra Kolhe was born in Nagpur, Maharashtra. He pursued his medical education at the Government Medical College, Nagpur, where he completed his MBBS degree. During his time in medical school, he was deeply influenced by the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi and the principles of rural development.

Smita Kolhe, originally from Pune, also pursued a career in medicine. She completed her MBBS from B.J. Medical College, Pune. The couple met during their medical studies and shared a common vision of serving the underprivileged.

Work in Melghat

In 1985, Ravindra Kolhe moved to the remote village of Bairagarh in the Melghat region of Maharashtra. This area is predominantly inhabited by the Korku tribe and is known for its high rates of malnutrition and infant mortality. Smita joined him in 1989 after their marriage.

The Kolhes established a healthcare center in Bairagarh, providing medical services to the local population. They adopted a holistic approach to healthcare, addressing not only medical needs but also focusing on nutrition, sanitation, and education. Their efforts have significantly reduced malnutrition and improved health outcomes in the region.

Healthcare Initiatives

The Kolhes have implemented several innovative healthcare initiatives in Melghat. They have trained local health workers, known as "Arogya Doots," to provide basic medical care and health education. This community-based approach has empowered the local population to take charge of their health.

They have also worked on improving maternal and child health by promoting institutional deliveries and providing antenatal care. Their efforts have led to a substantial decrease in maternal and infant mortality rates in the region.

Educational Contributions

In addition to healthcare, the Kolhes have been instrumental in improving education in Melghat. They have established schools and vocational training centers to provide quality education and skill development opportunities to the tribal youth. Their educational initiatives aim to break the cycle of poverty and empower the younger generation.

Awards and Recognition

Ravindra and Smita Kolhe have received numerous awards for their outstanding contributions to rural healthcare and social development. Their work has been recognized by various national and international organizations, highlighting their impact on improving the lives of the tribal communities in Melghat.

Related Pages

• Healthcare in India
• Rural development in India
• Tribal health in India