Barmer, Oct. 17 -- When Hindu families from Pakistan's Sodha community crossed the border during the 1971 war, they left behind their homes and rebuilt their lives in Rajasthan's western desert. They settled in Sirguwala village, but 55 years later, basic amenities remain elusive. Located six kilometres from the India-Pakistan border's zero line, Sirguwala is preparing to elect its first sarpanch after being granted gram panchayat status on October 24. More than 50 families live in the settlement, established by migrants from Napla village in Pakistan. For elderly residents, the election represents a long-awaited opportunity for recognition and development. "We came here with nothing, and we made this desert our home," says 82-year-old Nimb Singh, one of the earliest settlers. "But our children still walk miles for school, and our women fetch water from distant wells. This election gives us hope that someone will finally listen." For younger residents, the polls offer hope of better opportunities. Rekha, a Class 12 student, says inadequate infrastructure continues to constrain the aspirations of village youth. "We want roads, electricity, and internet. Without these, how can we compete with the world?" she asks. Despite a pipeline and an overhead tank being constructed under the Jal Jeevan Mission, residents say drinking water has not reached their homes through the network. Families, particularly those in higher-lying areas, continue to depend on distant water sources, leaving women with the daily burden of fetching water. Electricity is another concern. Solar panels installed at some homes in 2018 reportedly broke down or became unusable within five years, leaving several households without reliable power. The shortage also affects students who need electricity and internet access for their studies. Mobile connectivity is virtually absent, which residents attribute to the village's border location, inadequate infrastructure and restrictions associated with the Desert National Park (DNP) area. The settlement lacks paved roads, with only a gravel road connecting it to the outside world. The nearest main paved road is around six kilometres away. Healthcare access is particularly challenging. Residents travel about 50 km to reach the hospital at Gadra Road and nearly 120 km to Barmer if further treatment is required. Banking facilities are also around 50 km away. The distances pose difficulties during medical emergencies, particularly when pregnant women require urgent care. Poor road connectivity and the absence of mobile networks further complicate access to assistance. Although the families have obtained Indian citizenship, the village lies on government land within the DNP area, leaving residents without ownership rights over the land they occupy. Livestock sustains families With limited access to agricultural land and few employment opportunities, livestock rearing remains the primary source of livelihood. Only a handful of families have land for cultivation. Residents hope their first elected sarpanch will raise land-related concerns with the administration and push for better infrastructure, livelihood opportunities and essential services....