A Humble Beginning in Amba Village
Born in 1940 in Amba village of Rishabhdev tehsil, Udaipur district, Shri Poonamchand Dama's journey of service is nothing short of remarkable. His life has been dedicated to the betterment of his community, overcoming obstacles with sheer determination and unwavering commitment.

Empowering Adults Through Education
In 1984, Poonamchand joined Seva Mandir as an instructor at the Adult Education Centre. He firmly believed that education was the key to transforming lives. Through his relentless efforts, he taught more than 35 adults to read and write, opening doors to new opportunities for them.

Planting the Seeds of Change
Understanding the importance of environmental conservation, Poonamchand encouraged 18 farmers to plant trees on their land in 1986-87. His vision for a greener future took root, and his community started seeing the benefits of sustainable practices.

Championing Informal Education & Water Security
When informal education programs started in 1991-92, the village group unanimously chose Poonamchand as their instructor. He worked tirelessly to bring deprived children into the fold of education. Recognizing the urgent need for clean drinking water, he also led efforts to deepen nine wells, ensuring a sustainable water source for the village.

Greening the Barren Lands
In 2001, Poonamchand launched another environmental initiative by planting trees on the barren lands of 12 farmers under the Mini Chak model. Today, these lands flourish with greenery, yielding ample fodder for livestock and reinforcing the benefits of afforestation.

Standing Firm Against Land Encroachment
Poonamchand's resolve was tested when he fought for the restoration of 10 bighas of illegally occupied pasture land in 2001-02. Facing resistance, he rallied the entire village and applied social pressure on the encroachers. His perseverance paid off-the land was reclaimed, developed, and transformed into a lush green pasture, benefiting the entire community.

A Tireless Force for Social Good
Despite his age, Poonamchand remains actively involved in community welfare. As a member of the Regional Development Forum, Sagwara, he continues his mission. He is now working towards opening a kindergarten in his village and advocating for a paved road to improve transportation.

A Well-Deserved Honor
For his outstanding contributions, Shri Poonamchand Dama was honored with the Umed Mal Lodha Environmental Award in 2021. His story serves as a beacon of inspiration, proving that one person's dedication can transform an entire community.