Social change is not the work of a single day. It requires patience, perseverance, and the dedication of individuals willing to challenge norms. Mrs. Mumtaz Ben, the founder of Mahila Mandal Barmer Agor (MMBA), was one such remarkable individual. Hailing from an orthodox Muslim family in Indira Colony, Barmer, she transcended traditional barriers, becoming a powerful voice for equality and basic human rights in the Thar Desert of western Rajasthan.

In those days, the need for potable water, healthcare, education, and basic infrastructure laid the foundation of what would become Mahila Mandal Barmer Agor. The situational silent victim, Late Ms. Mumtaz Ben, coming from an orthodox Muslim family, committed to change not only her own life but also that of Indira Colony. With a thought to establish an egalitarian society, she convinced her family to look beyond barriers and restrictions. She started motivating her fellow residents toward the right to have access to basic needs.

In a male-dominated society, she found it difficult to materialize her thoughts. However, through sincerity and concerted efforts, she organized her fellow residents, which turned into a movement, raising demands for their basic needs to the district administration. Her selfless and emancipated approach and attitude of getting things done made Indira Colony residents proud, resulting in a primary school, drinking water, basic healthcare facilities, and proper infrastructure.

After success in the initial struggling period, she won the confidence among people. With that confidence, she always looked forward to rendering selfless services and problem-solving. Meanwhile, society came to identify Late Ms. Mumtaz Ben as a woman philanthropist in nature, deeply concerned for the rural poor.

The success story moved and was acclaimed by the District Collector of Barmer, Shri Sohan Lal. With his guidance, the movement took its shape and was formally registered as an NGO under the Rajasthan State Society Registration Act 1958 in January 1991, in the name of Mahila Mandal Barmer Agor (MMBA). Since then, the organization has been constantly striving for the upliftment of deprived communities, Dalits, girl children, and women empowerment through basic healthcare services, education, social and economic interventions.

During her journey of upliftment of women, the National Women’s Commission graced Late Ms. Mumtaz Ben with the prestigious “Women Excellency Award” in 1997. By then, MMBA had also been honored at district and state levels many times. Mrs. Mumtaz Ben’s tireless journey in women’s empowerment left an indelible mark on western Rajasthan. Her legacy lives on through MMBA’s continued efforts, as the organization remains an enduring force for change, honored at both district and state levels for its impact and dedication to social progress.