MAHMADAPUR (NIZAMABAD DT.): People of this remote village turn good Samaritans in case of HIV/AIDS patients. Enthused by the `Guppedu biyyam' concept mooted by the Indira Kranthi Patham, the villagers, particularly members of Self-Help Groups have begun collecting `guppedu biyyam' (fistful of rice) to provide food to destitute, HIV-affected people and orphans.

They put aside a fistful of rice every day when they are about to prepare food for themselves. The rice thus saved is collected by women members and keep it at the `gram samakhya' office twice a month. Later, it is distributed among destitute persons on 6th and 16th of every month.

Chivuluri Pentavva and Bondala Kalavathi in the village live with the help of villagers.

Pentavva's husband died of HIV some time ago leaving behind her and a handicapped daughter. Moreover, Pentavva has also been affected by the disease. The SHG members stood behind her and her daughter.

The condition of Kalavathi, a 16-year-old girl is still worse. Both of her parents died due to the killer disease. She has none to take care of her. If the SHGs have not come to her rescue she would have been in dire straits.

Lakshmi, leader of a self-help group in the village, says the members derive utmost satisfaction in the task.

Minister for Information, Mohd. Ali Shabbir, on his visit to the village, on Monday, gave away rice collected by SHG members to Pentavva and Kalavathi at a public meeting.

IKP Project Director P. Chinatataiah has said the `guppedu biyyam' concept evoked good response from people.

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