Nestled in the rural heart of Churu district, Lachhadsar village is making headlines for its remarkable transformation, spearheaded by its dynamic woman sarpanch, Dhapu Devi. The village now boasts an international-level cricket stadium and a school with classrooms designed like train coaches, complete with a state-of-the-art digital library. This transformation, which has turned Lachhadsar into a model village, is a testament to the power of vision and determination.
The Birth of an International-Level Cricket Stadium
What stands out in Lachhadsar today is a cricket stadium that rivals those found in cities. The stadium, named after Shaheed Bhagat Singh, was developed with expertise brought in from Delhi. Bermuda grass, commonly used in international sports arenas, was planted to ensure a professional playing surface. The grass installation was overseen by specialists, and a drip irrigation system was installed to maintain it. This ambitious project, which began two years ago, utilized seven bighas of land provided by the gram panchayat and was funded through the local budget and contributions from MP Rahul Kaswan.
The stadium, which cost approximately 63 lakh rupees, includes a running track, as well as facilities for cricket, volleyball, kho-kho, and football. Additional features such as boundary walls, a main gate, community restrooms, water fountains, an open gym, swings, tin sheds, and a yoga platform have also been constructed. Sarpanch Dhapu Devi credits Mahesh Kumar Ajadriwal, an AEN (Assistant Engineer) from the Ratangarh Panchayat Samiti, for his significant role in bringing the stadium to life.
A Digital Library for Modern Learning
In addition to the stadium, Lachhadsar’s government school has undergone a unique transformation. Classrooms have been designed to resemble train coaches, creating an engaging learning environment for the students. Moreover, a digital library, constructed at a cost of 20 lakh rupees, is now a hub for educational activities. The library, spread over 200 square yards, is fully air-conditioned and equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi, a water filtration plant, and comfortable furniture. It accommodates 51 students, providing them with a conducive space for study and preparation.
The Driving Forces Behind the Change
The inspiration to build the stadium came from former District Sports Officer Ishwar Singh Lamba, whose guidance and encouragement motivated the Lachhadsar leadership to pursue this project. The stadium’s design and construction were technically supported by Mahesh Kumar Ajadriwal, ensuring that the facility meets international standards. While the stadium is already operational, plans are in place to further enhance it with spectator stands, an indoor stadium, and advanced lighting, though these developments await additional funding.
A School Like No Other
The local school in Lachhadsar, once in a dilapidated state, has been revived with a fresh and innovative approach. After being closed during a period of school consolidations, the building was reopened as a Mahatma Gandhi English Medium School. The classrooms, now designed to resemble train compartments, have become a unique feature of the school, attracting around 200 students. The school, which reopened in 2022, now has a principal and 11 teachers who are committed to providing quality education in a modern and engaging environment.
A Legacy of Change
The efforts of Sarpanch Dhapu Devi and her team have not only transformed Lachhadsar but have also set a new benchmark for rural development. The international-level cricket stadium and the innovative school are symbols of what can be achieved with vision, determination, and the right support. Lachhadsar is no longer just a village; it is a beacon of progress and a testament to the power of grassroots leadership.