Applying skills to serve all

Miles to Go Before I Sleep: A Doctor’s Journey From Government Service to Grassroots Change

By Dr. Khushbu P. Taori Modi

I grew up in Wardha, a place steeped in the legacy of India's freedom struggle. It wasn’t just history to us—it was part of our identity. Studying at Agragami School and JB Science College, I was deeply inspired by freedom fighters and reformers from a young age. Their dedication to nation-building sowed a deep conviction in me: my life was not meant to be spent chasing earnings, but in service of something larger. With the support of my parents, I chose early on to walk a different path.

After completing my MBBS from Indira Gandhi Government Medical College, Nagpur, and an MD from TNMC Mumbai, I felt called not just to heal individuals but to uplift communities. During my college years, I got involved with Sevankur, a movement led by Avinash Saoji sir. It opened my eyes to the profound impact that passionate individuals can make at the grassroots level. Visits to Anandvan, SEARCH in Gadchiroli, and health camps in Melghat under Satav sir further cemented my resolve.

Even as a student, I organized crowdfunding campaigns for patients (long before it became a buzzword), promoted eye donation, gathered and distributed resources to those in need, and visited old age homes and palliative care centers. But perhaps my most focused work was in anti-tobacco awareness—I conducted numerous sessions for school and college students, hoping to light a spark of change early in life.

Driven by the belief that systemic change is possible through government machinery, I joined the Thane Municipal Corporation as a Medical Officer. What began accidentally turned into a purposeful journey. For the first time, I wasn’t working alone—I had a system, a team, and access to resources that could be directed meaningfully. I led efforts in school health, menstrual hygiene, and deaddiction—issues close to my heart.

Later, as City TB Officer, I could implement various projects and start initiatives which greatly benefitted the patients.  I was able to secure CSR support and ensure every rupee translated into tangible benefits for patients. Then came the COVID-19 pandemic—a testing time, yet one that allowed me to serve in ways I hadn’t imagined. I was made Covid Incharge of Thane and coordinated patient care, installed advanced medical equipment, led vaccination drives, and pushed for automated systems that would outlast my tenure.

While these years were immensely fulfilling, I began to feel a quiet dissatisfaction—a sense of untapped potential. I realized I was ready for the next leap. I had always been fascinated by environmental sustainability and solid waste management. I took a sabbatical and immersed myself again in the world of grassroots work. I also underwent formal training in Solid Waste Management at AAETI in Rajasthan, where I witnessed first-hand the commitment of individuals tirelessly working to protect our planet.

While still part of the system in Thane, I often found myself ideating ways to bring such solutions to the city. But soon I realized—if not now, then when? Rather than wait for the 'right time' or the perfect role, I decided to create the path myself. In February 2024, I took the difficult decision to step away from my government job.

I didn’t want to start a private practice or even establish another NGO. Instead, I envisioned a platform that would amplify the amazing work already being done by everyday heroes—people quietly transforming lives, often without recognition or support.

That vision has now taken form as SevaConnect.

SevaConnect is not an NGO—it is a bridge. A free, open platform connecting individuals to verified grassroots organizations across sectors like education, environment, health, women empowerment, animal welfare, and more where organizations are personally verified for the work, and helps meaningful and impactful associations in the cause of choice. 

In parallel, I’m also working on ground-level solutions in waste management—raising awareness, offering practical tools, and collaborating with communities to build sustainable, replicable models. My aim is to create a platform that thrives independently, led by capable changemakers, so I can eventually pass on the baton and continue walking toward newer challenges.

Leaving a stable and rewarding government job wasn’t easy. But I carry with me immense learnings, a deep respect for systems, and countless memories of impact. The journey so far has been humbling and joyful—and it's just the beginning.

There’s still so much to do. But I’m guided by one unwavering truth:

“Rashtra Pratham—The Nation First.”