Background of Bihar

Bihar is one of the poorest states in India. It ‘prides’ itself in being the most corrupt state, with the highest crime rates and the lowest literacy level in the country. The state also struggles with other significant problems - one of which being child labour. It is estimated that an average of 150,000 children each year are involved in child labour, out of which 20,000 or so are victims of work related injuries.

The fact that Bihar is one of the poorest states in India, with an average family sometimes surviving on just 60 rupees (i.e. RM6) a month, only magnifies the problems faced by the people of Bihar. It’s estimated that approximately 56% of Bihar’s children are malnourished.

Background on the school in Ranipathra, Bihar

Five years ago, AYA and ACTS Church partnered with Harvest Apostolic Ministries, Chennai, India, under the leadership of Ps Kumar, to buy land and build a school in Ranipathra, Bihar. Known as the poorest state in India and also the “missionaries’ graveyard”, connecting with the people in Bihar seemed like a distant dream. Now, Harvest Mission School is a thriving private school with over 150 primary school students receiving proper education with school uniforms, shoes and study materials and committed teachers.

In recent days, the school has added hostel facilities and is taking care of students whose homes are distant from the school. A great opportunity for the missionaries to disciple them in the Christian faith! In the past year we have contributed two additional cycle rickshaws, which function as their “school bus.”

The school has also become a bible-training centre to raise missionaries to be sent into different districts in Bihar. Many of these missionaries cycle into the remote villages to share the gospel. We have supported 18 of these graduates with new bicycles for their ministry.

Putting our hands into the plough, we believe God for a mighty wave of transformation to sweep across this nation – a harvest of souls!

Updates coming soon!