Founding
Jan Swasthya Sahyog (JSS) was setup in the year 1996 by a group of like-minded health professionals who were doing their post-graduate studies at the All-India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Dehli. They had a common desire to do something to change the health situation in rural India through their own efforts.
The members of the group decided on developing a model of low-cost, effective, community-based health care system, which would be readily accessible to the rural poor.
Finding a Home
Run down buildings in Ganiyari
There were two main criteria which were employed in assessing an area for work. Firstly, it had to be an area that was classified as 'backward' by the government. Secondly, it should be an area with some history of a people's movement, or with active groups with an similar analysis and perspective.
The members of the group, in their effort to locate a suitable area to work in, spent two years travelling around the country. During the course of their travels they visited selected places in Jharkand, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh. Finally, in the year 1998, they decided to settle down in the eastern part of Madhya Pradesh state, in the district of Bilaspur. The Bilaspur district was categorized as one of the 'backward' districts of the region, and the population wass predominantly tribal and backward castes. This area is now a part of the new Chattisgargh state.
Building a Community
A rebuilt, active campus
In May 1999 a lease agreement was signed with the Government of Madhya Pradesh for use of the land and the buildings of the irrigation colony in Ganiyari village. For the last 18 years the buildings had been lying vacant and abandoned to the mercy of the elements. This complex, named the Arpa Irrigation Colony, consisted of some fifteen built structures not fit for use because of neglect and vandalism.
The local leaders at Ganiyari village welcomed JSS and assured them of support, as the organization would fulfill a need of the people of the area. Outpatient services started in Ganiyari February 3, 2000, and mobile clinics were started the next month in Shivtarai. An operating theatre complex was opened in June 2001.
