On 10^th April 2025, under the aegis of the PARA organization, a Caregivers Training Program was successfully conducted at the Bhavitha Center in Lolla, Atreyapuram Mandal. The session was thoughtfully coordinated by Mr. Badugu Mahima Rao, the Regional Coordinator for Children with Special Needs.

The training focused on empowering parents of children with disabilities, guiding them on how to nurture self-dependence in their children. Mr. Mahima Rao provided practical insights into encouraging children to independently manage their daily activities and responsibilities. He also facilitated hands-on practice sessions with the parents to reinforce these learnings.

The program was further enriched by the presence of Ms. Badugu Subbayamma, a distinguished Rights Activist for Persons with Disabilities, who served as the resource person for the session. She delivered a comprehensive overview of the rights and welfare schemes available for persons with disabilities, fostering awareness among the participating parents.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. P.B.K.S.S.V. Raman, MPDO, assured the gathering that he would take up the concerns of children with disabilities and represent them to higher authorities. He emphasized his commitment to being a voice for the unheard and to facilitating better access to services and support.

Fr. Thomas Pallithanam, Director of PARA, in his address, highlighted that empathy is not a weakness, but a powerful strength of humanity. He stressed that genuine societal progress is possible only when individuals extend support and compassion toward one another.

As part of the program, Teaching-Learning Material (TLM) kits were distributed to the children by the dignitaries present.

In recognition of their contributions, IERPs Ms. Aruna and Ms. Janaki were felicitated by the parents. The event also witnessed the active participation of Mr. Prabhakar, Block Coordinator for Atreyapuram, along with several enthusiastic parents.

People’s Action for Rural Awakening (PARA), in collaboration with Bosco Seva Kendra, Hyderabad, has been successfully organizing disaster preparedness programs in the flood-affected regions of Alamuru and Kothapeta blocks for the past seven months. Under the leadership of Mr. Andrew, the program Coordinator, and with the dedicated support of volunteers, awareness initiatives were conducted in four villages. These sessions targeted elders, youth, and local officials, educating them on critical safety measures to be followed during floods.

As the project reached its conclusion, a final program was organized on March 24, 2025, at Ekalavya Training Centre, bringing together villagers and youth from four flood-prone Lanka villages. The event was graced by Sri Bandaru Satyananda Rao, MLA of Kothapeta Constituency, as the chief guest, with Mr. Louis Manohar and Fr. Sarat as guests of honor.

Fr. Thomas Pallithanam highlighted the humanitarian services rendered by the Don Bosco Mission during the 1986 Godavari floods. Following this, Mr. Louis Manohar elaborated on the project’s vision, emphasizing the shift from providing temporary relief to fostering long-term preparedness. Rather than solely offering food and essential supplies during crises, this initiative focuses on equipping villagers with life-saving materials, enabling them to safeguard themselves during floods.

Addressing the gathering, Sri Satyananda Rao, MLA of Kothapeta, commended PARA’s initiative in raising awareness and providing essential emergency equipment. He emphasized the importance of preparedness and swift action during disasters. On this occasion, he also distributed vital flood-response materials, including:

• First Aid Boxes
• Life Jackets and Life Buoys
• PP Ropes
• Dragon Lights
• Chain Saws for tree cutting
• Stretchers
• Hand-Operated Sirens
• Walkie-Talkies
• Megaphones

This initiative marks a significant step toward ensuring the safety and resilience of communities in flood-prone regions, reinforcing the need for proactive disaster preparedness rather than reactive relief efforts.

A series of Women’s Day celebrations took place in the Kothapeta constituency within PARA’s working region. The celebration of International Women’s Day has become a significant event for all departments, dedicated to honoring women on this special occasion. As part of its current project, PARA is actively working to uphold the rights of women, persons with disabilities (PwDs), and pregnant and lactating mothers, with strong participation from women in the community.

The Women’s Day celebration on March 8th was observed by all departments, although PARA had to make adjustments to the dates. Special recognition was given to women in various villages on the following dates.

The program commenced around 11:00 AM across all four mandals, coinciding with the arrival of participants. Attendees included representatives from the ICDS department, Panchayati officials, and women leaders from the village.

The event began with the ceremonial garlanding of Savitribai Phule and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar by the distinguished guests from the department. Following this, the guests addressed the participants on various important topics.

The major subjects that were spoken during the program were on the issues women face and acts related to them.

1. Violence faced by women:

ICDS supervisors, teachers and sarpanches spoke about different violence against women face in the society. This remains a grave concern worldwide. It manifests in various forms, including:

• Domestic Violence: Physical, emotional, or psychological abuse within households.
• Sexual Violence: Includes rape, molestation, and sexual harassment.
• Honor Killings: Women being killed by family members in the name of “honor.”
• Human Trafficking: Forced labor and sexual exploitation of women.
• Cyber Violence: Online harassment, stalking, and abuse.

• Acts and laws for women protection:

The guests have also spoken about the laws and acts protecting women from different violations they face in the society.

• The Equal Pay Act: Ensures equal pay for equal work, preventing wage discrimination.
• The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act: Provides legal protection against domestic abuse and ensures shelter and support services.
• The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act: Safeguards women from harassment in professional environments.
• The Maternity Benefit Act: Grants paid maternity leave and protects employment during pregnancy.
• The Hindu Succession Act (Amendment): Grants equal property rights to women.
• The Dowry Prohibition Act: Prevents the giving and receiving of dowries to curb harassment and violence.
• Women’s Reservation Bill: Proposes reservation of seats for women in legislatures to ensure their political participation.

• Freedom of Women at Stake

Fr Thomas Pallithanam, Director of PARA concluded the program by saying that freedom of women is at stake. Despite significant progress in gender equality, women’s freedom remains at risk due to social, cultural, and political factors. Many societies still impose restrictions on women’s education, career choices, and personal freedom. To uphold their freedom, continuous efforts in legal reforms, education, and societal awareness are necessary to challenge deeply rooted stereotypes and prejudices.

• Women’s Participation:

Women leadership and participation bring diverse perspectives and foster economic and social growth. Women such as Malala Yousafzai, Indira Gandhi, Mother Teresa, and Kamala Harris have exemplified the power of women in leadership roles. Encouraging women’s participation in all domains ensures a more inclusive, progressive, and balanced world.

Empowerment through education, financial independence, and policy-making positions helps women break barriers and redefine societal norms. The future of a prosperous society lies in gender equality, recognizing the immense potential of women, and providing them with the platform to lead and inspire.

On Thursday, 13th March 2025, a highly successful Caregivers Training Program was conducted at Bhavita School, Alamuru, under the initiative of PARA. This significant event was meticulously organized by Badugu Mahima Rao, the Coordinator for Differently Gifted Children, with the primary aim of equipping parents with the essential skills and knowledge necessary to support their children’s independence and daily activities.

Program Highlights

The training included practical, hands-on sessions led by CBR Coordinator Badugu Mahima Rao, who provided valuable guidance to parents on fostering self-reliance in their children’s daily routines. Additionally, renowned rights activist Badugu Subbayamma educated participants on the rights and welfare schemes available for differently gifted children, ensuring that they are well-informed about the various support systems designed for their benefit.

Key Addresses and Commitments

Several key officials and dignitaries addressed the gathering and made important commitments to improve the lives of differently gifted children:

• Mandal Education Officer (MEO), B. Appaji, assured parents that special teachers would be assigned to assist students with disabilities during examinations by providing scribe services.
• MDO, A. Raju, acknowledged the concerns of parents and committed to relaying their needs to higher authorities. He also promised to ensure the completion of necessary drinking water facilities at the Bhavita Center.
• PARA Director, Thomas Palitanam, took a significant step towards enhancing learning opportunities by distributing Teaching and Learning Material (TLM) kits to the children.

Participants

The training program witnessed active participation from various stakeholders, including:

• IERT Teacher: Vijaya Kiran
• Alamuru Block Coordinator: G. Durga
• Parents and Caregivers

Objectives of the Training

The primary objectives of this training program were to:

• Educate parents on fostering independence and daily living skills in their children.
• Provide practical insights into early intervention and disability management.
• Raise awareness about government welfare schemes and support services available for differently gifted children.

Key Topics Covered

The program comprehensively addressed several crucial aspects related to caregiving for differently gifted children, including:

1. Practical Training for Parents

• Effective strategies for encouraging self-reliance in daily activities.
• Hands-on guidance to help children with their daily routines.

2. Awareness on Rights & Welfare

• Detailed information on legal rights and entitlements for differently gifted children.
• An overview of available government welfare schemes and financial assistance programs.

3. Educational Support Initiatives

• Provision of special teachers for exam assistance through scribe services.
• Addressing challenges in inclusive education and accessibility.

4. Infrastructure & Resource Enhancements

• Commitment towards improving facilities at the Bhavita Center, including better access to drinking water.
• Distribution of TLM kits to aid in children’s learning and development.

Conclusion

The Caregivers Training Program at Bhavita School, Alamuru, proved to be an outstanding initiative that empowered parents with vital knowledge and resources to support their children’s growth and development. The active involvement of educators, government officials, and community leaders underscored the importance of inclusive education and the empowerment of differently gifted children.

With ongoing efforts by PARA and its stakeholders, there is a firm commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where every child has the opportunity to thrive and achieve their full potential. This initiative marks a crucial step in enhancing the quality of life and education for differently gifted children and their caregivers.

The National Dalit Christian Watch (NDCW), a dedicated national forum advocating against discrimination faced by Dalit Christians within churches, convened a state-level meeting on March 6, 2025, at the Ekalavya Training Centre in Ravulapalem. The gathering aimed to shed light on the systemic discrimination faced by Dalit Christians in both religious and social spheres. The event was attended by pastors, Dalit Christian leaders, activists, and community members committed to fostering social justice and equality.

Inaugural Session

The meeting was presided over by Sr. Manju, National Secretary of NDCW. It commenced with an invocation, seeking divine guidance, followed by a recitation and analysis of the Preamble to the Indian Constitution. This session provided attendees with a deeper understanding of constitutional values, particularly those related to equality, justice, and non-discrimination.

The event featured a panel of distinguished speakers, including Mr. Jyothi Neelaiah, Chairperson of MGNREGA (Andhra Pradesh) and Mr Samuel Anand Kumar IAS Retd, alongside Dr. Deenabandhu, a constitutional expert.

Legal Safeguards and Constitutional Protections

Dr. Deenabandhu delivered an insightful address on constitutional guarantees for minorities, emphasizing legal provisions designed to safeguard the rights of marginalized communities. He underscored the importance of utilizing constitutional mechanisms to challenge and dismantle systemic discrimination.

Personal Narratives on Caste Discrimination

Mr. Neelaiah provided a deeply personal account of his experiences with caste-based discrimination, recalling how, as a child, he was denied basic rights such as sharing meals and drinking water alongside upper-caste individuals. He spoke of his journey in overcoming these barriers and ultimately earning a position of respect. While he expressed pride in his Dalit identity, he strongly asserted that caste should not define an individual’s worth.

Mr Samuel Anand Kumar IAS Retd, shared similar experiences, highlighting the prevalence of caste-based discrimination in churches across Andhra Pradesh. He exposed the entrenched caste hierarchies within religious institutions, where Dalit Christians often face exclusion from communal meals and religious rituals. He also narrated specific incidents illustrating the challenges faced by Dalit priests aspiring for higher leadership roles. Despite constitutional provisions and reservations, he emphasized that Dalits must strive for excellence beyond affirmative action, proving their capabilities through merit and perseverance.

Caste-Based Discrimination in Churches

The discussions illuminated the persistence of casteism within Christian denominations. Several key issues were raised, including:

• Segregation in seating arrangements during church services
• Discriminatory practices in receiving the Holy Communion
• Caste-based biases in appointing leadership positions

Speakers unanimously condemned these practices, stressing that caste-based discrimination contradicts the core values of Christianity and must be eradicated from both institutional structures and individual mindsets.

Testimonies: Personal Experiences of Discrimination

Several participants shared personal experiences, reinforcing the urgency for collective action. Many spoke of exclusion, marginalization, and the struggle for equal participation in church affairs. Their testimonies highlighted the widespread nature of caste-based oppression within Christian communities and the need for structural and attitudinal change.

Intersectional Discrimination Faced by Dalit Christian Women

Sr. Manju delivered a compelling address on “Dalit Christian Women in Andhra Pradesh: An Intersectional Perspective.” She highlighted the compounded discrimination faced by Dalit women, where both caste and gender act as barriers to equality and inclusion. She called for proactive measures to address these injustices, urging church authorities and communities to work towards a more inclusive and egalitarian religious environment.

Constitutional Protection and the Need for Vigilance

Fr. Thomas Pallithanam, Director of PARA, spoke about the constitutional safeguards available for Dalit Christians. He warned that while people look to the Constitution for protection, the Constitution itself is under threat, with efforts underway to dilute its protective provisions. He urged the community to remain vigilant and actively work towards safeguarding constitutional integrity.

Call to Action and Future Plans

The session concluded with a strategic discussion on future action plans. Participants emphasized the need for:

• Expanding awareness programs across all districts of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana
• Mobilizing communities to challenge caste-based discrimination
• Strengthening advocacy for policy reforms within church institutions

Mr. P. Chitti Babu facilitated the open forum, ensuring active participation from attendees representing North Andhra and the twin Godavari districts. The meeting concluded on a resolute note, reaffirming the commitment to justice, dignity, and equality for Dalit Christians.

On March 7, a joint conference of representatives from Uttarandhra and the twin Godavari districts was convened at the Ekalavya Training Centre in Ravulapalem to address the pressing issue of “Threats to the Constitution from the Government and the Role of Youth in Safeguarding It.” The gathering saw the participation of approximately 90 delegates from these regions.

Fr. Simharayulu, Associate Director of PARA, commenced the session with a gracious welcome to the esteemed guests and speakers of the day. Meanwhile, Durga, Isaiah, and Prabhakar invigorated the gathering with stirring melodies, evoking the indomitable spirit of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.

The distinguished keynote speaker for the event was Professor Murali Karnam from NALSAR University. He led two pivotal sessions—one dissecting the complex discourse on nationalism and another providing insights into the discussions and resolutions of the Indian Constituent Assembly. His comprehensive analysis of the constitutional drafting process underscored the fundamental importance of rights, secularism, social justice, and the federal rights of states. The inaugural session was presided over by Sister Manjula Devarapalli (NDCW), while the second session was chaired by Manchala Dinabandhu.

In the subsequent discussions, Rajesh Yedida from the Human Rights Forum (HRF) meticulously outlined contemporary threats to the Indian Constitution, illustrating them through examples of policy manipulations and systematic attacks on individuals and institutions. He emphasized the urgent need to safeguard democratic values and constitutional integrity.

In the same session, Dr. Anjayya provided a historical perspective on the evolution of suffrage in India. He highlighted that universal adult suffrage was granted only after extensive deliberation, recalling debates within the Constituent Assembly that considered restricting voting rights to landowners, taxpayers, and the educated elite—thereby excluding women and marginalized communities. Democratic forces, led by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, strongly opposed such exclusionary measures, ensuring that universal suffrage was enshrined in the Constitution. Dr. Anjayya lamented the current erosion of this fundamental right due to widespread electoral malpractices.

Another esteemed speaker, D. Ramesh Patnaik, shed light on large-scale irregularities in the 2024 general elections. Citing a report by Vote for Democracy, he alleged that the Election Commission engaged in egregious misconduct, with 4.9 million votes tampered with nationwide and Andhra Pradesh alone witnessing a 4.16% discrepancy. He contended that such manipulations had enabled individuals rejected by the electorate to ascend to power. Nevertheless, he asserted that public representatives must uphold constitutional principles regardless of electoral outcomes. He urged citizens to resist legislative measures that undermine workers, employees, farmers, and tribal communities, as well as those that threaten religious harmony, social justice, and federalism. In particular, he called for collective opposition to the Waqf Bill and stressed the need to pressure regional parties in Andhra Pradesh to prevent its passage. This intellectually stimulating session, featuring three prominent speakers, was skillfully moderated by Mr. Domathotti Abraham Master.

The conference concluded with a session on future strategies, chaired by Thomas Pallithanam. It was unanimously resolved that similar deliberative forums must be organized on a broader scale. Delegates committed to hosting forthcoming conferences in Kakinada, Eluru, and the erstwhile districts of Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, and Srikakulam.

Notable participants in the conference included Penki Chittibabu (Vizianagaram), Sheikh Ansari (Ravulapalem), Kuppili Anil (Srikakulam), Mr. Ramachandra Kishore (Vizianagaram), J. Chinna Rao (Visakhapatnam), Meera Moinuddin (Rajahmundry), and Narasimhamurthy (Kakinada). Unfortunately, K.M.A. Subhan (Meluko Andhra Pradesh), whose presence would have been a valuable addition, was unable to attend due to unavoidable circumstances.

People’s Action for Rural Awakening (PARA) successfully conducted a Caregivers Training Program on 4th March 2025 at Bhavitha Centre, Ravulapalem, aimed at equipping parents of children with disabilities with essential skills and knowledge to support their children’s development and independence.

The program, coordinated by Mr. Badugu Mahima Rao, CBR Coordinator for Differently-Abled Persons, provided practical training on daily living skills, early identification of developmental delays, and disability-specific care techniques. Ms. Badugu Subbayamma, a Differently-Abled Rights Activist, educated parents on government welfare schemes and the rights of children with disabilities, emphasizing the importance of inclusion and breaking societal myths.

The event was attended by key officials including Mr. Srinivasa Raju, Education Officer of Ravulapalem Mandal, Mr. D. Ramesh Babu, ALSE Coordinator, and Mr. Thomas Palitanam Garu, PARA Director, who distributed wheelchairs, rollator walkers, and TLM kits to children.

Practical demonstrations on feeding techniques, wheelchair transfers, and personal grooming empowered parents with hands-on caregiving skills. Sessions also focused on counseling parents, promoting positive attitudes, and exploring vocational training opportunities for the future.

The Caregivers Training Program successfully equipped families with tools to nurture independence and self-confidence in their children, while encouraging a more inclusive and supportive community for children with disabilities.

The plight of migrant workers remains a pressing concern in India, demanding consistent efforts and advocacy. On February 18, 2025, PARA, Ravulapalem, hosted a crucial Zoom meeting, bringing together key stakeholders from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Facilitated by Thomas Pallithanam, the discussion revolved around empowering migrant workers through policy implementation, advocacy, and grassroots interventions.

A significant focus of the meeting was establishing a toll-free helpline and conducting data mapping to identify and assist migrant workers more effectively. The session also highlighted the importance of civil society coordination and government collaboration to ensure proper access to health, education, and legal aid.

Fr. Francis Bosco, the National Director, DB4M, the migrant worker initiative of SPCSA, lauded the commitment of the DB4M Forum members and provided insights from recent national-level discussions. Meanwhile, representatives from BSK Desk, Hyderabad, and Warangal shared their plans to strengthen fieldwork through increased staffing, help desks, and awareness campaigns.

Among the crucial takeaways was the need for migrant workers to possess essential documentation such as E-Shram Cards and Ayushman Bharat Cards. The initiative also aims to introduce recreational activities and educational materials for migrant children, ensuring their holistic development despite migration challenges.

A unique aspect of the meeting was the proposal to engage university students as volunteers in data collection and advocacy efforts. Strengthening partnerships with civil supply departments, labor commissioners, and child welfare agencies will be instrumental in ensuring sustainable outcomes.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous decision to conduct bi-weekly Zoom reviews to track progress and reinforce collective efforts. With strong determination and strategic implementation, PARA and its partners reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to the welfare of migrant workers.

By fostering collaboration and prioritizing the needs of this vulnerable community, the stakeholders strive to create a more inclusive and supportive environment, ensuring that migrant workers receive the dignity, rights, and resources they deserve.

In PARA’s continuous efforts to enhance disaster preparedness and community resilience, we have launched a Mass Awareness Campaign in flood-affected villages. This initiative leverages the power of cultural performances and interactive sessions to effectively educate and engage local communities on essential flood safety measures.

Key Focus Areas of the Campaign:

✔ Preparedness of Emergency Bags – Guiding families on assembling essential survival kits, including food, water, first-aid supplies, important documents, and other necessities.
✔ Important Toll-Free Numbers – Providing quick access to emergency contacts for timely assistance during flood situations.
✔ Mental Preparedness for Families – Equipping individuals with strategies to stay calm, make informed decisions, and ensure safety before, during, and after a flood.

Impact So Far:

We have successfully conducted awareness programs in three villages—Thokalanka, Sathamalanka, and Aadankivarilanka—engaging and educating 140 community members. Through interactive performances, group discussions, and hands-on demonstrations, we are empowering families with critical knowledge to safeguard their lives and livelihoods. This campaign is a significant step toward building a well-informed and resilient community that can respond proactively to flood emergencies. We remain committed to reaching more villages and ensuring that every household is equipped with the necessary resources and information to face future challenges.

On February 11th and 12th, 2025, Ms. Macarena Rodríguez-Losada and Mr. Miguel Carballo from the donor agency Manos Unidas visited the Ravulapalem region to assess and engage with the ongoing initiatives supported by their organization. They were accompanied by Fr. Sarat, Director of BSK. The visit aimed to review the progress of the project “Empowering Human Rights, Fostering Gender Sensitivity, and Enriching Inclusive Cultural Environments for Individuals with Disabilities,” which is being implemented by PARA in Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema district, Andhra Pradesh, with the support of Manos Unidas, Spain.

Community Interaction in Rajavaram Village

As part of the field visit, the delegation travelled to Rajavaram village in Atreyapuram Mandal, where Prabhakara Rao is in-charge of the mandal, they interacted with members of the village committee and MGNREGA laborers. The discussions focused on the initiatives undertaken by the community, including employment under MGNREGA, issuance of job cards, management of society lands, pension schemes, and other social welfare programs. The engagement provided an opportunity for the visitors to gain firsthand insights into the impact of these efforts on the local population. Beyond the committee members, the team also interacted with other villagers, gaining a broader perspective on community participation and grassroots empowerment.

Interaction with PARA Staff and Partner Institutions

On the following day, the visiting team met with PARA staff members, allowing for mutual introductions where Director of PARA Fr Thomas Pallithanam and Fr Simha extended a warm welcome to the guests and explained on the roles and responsibilities of the team. This interaction fostered a deeper understanding of the organization’s on-the-ground efforts.

The team then proceeded to the Bavitha Centre in Ravulapalem arranged by Mahima Rao, where children with physical disabilities receive education and specialized support, with active involvement from their parents. The visitors observed the learning environment and engaged with the children and their parents, gaining insight into the inclusive education initiatives being implemented.

Following this, the delegation visited the ICDS (Integrated Child Development Services) department in Kothapeta arranged by Ms Durga and Prabhakar. The ICDS representatives acknowledged their strong collaboration with PARA, particularly in addressing nutrition-related concerns for children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers. The discussion emphasized the importance of joint efforts in ensuring holistic child development and maternal well-being.

Engagement with Students and Government Officials

The visit continued at ZPHS, Palivela, arranged by Mr Isaiah where the delegation interacted with students to discuss critical issues such as child rights, child marriages, child labor, and school dropouts. The students shared their perspectives and experiences, highlighting the importance of education and awareness in tackling these challenges.

Before lunch, a formal meeting was held with committee members from four blocks, along with Mr Anand APO of MGNREGA and Ms Gajalakshmi CDPO of ICDS departments. The committee members provided updates on the activities being carried out in their respective villages, sharing their successes and ongoing challenges. The discussions reinforced the significance of collaborative efforts between community stakeholders and government institutions.

Project Presentation and Future Scope

In the afternoon, the PARA team presented an overview of the project’s activities, using the SEPP model as a framework to integrate additional initiatives. Each team member elaborated on different thematic areas, including:

• Education and Faith – Promoting inclusive and value-based education.
• Cultural Enrichment – Preserving and fostering cultural heritage.
• Social Engagement – Strengthening community networks and advocacy.
• Vocational Guidance – Empowering individuals through skill development and career support.
• Environmental Sustainability – Encouraging eco-friendly practices and responsibility towards nature.

The visiting team appreciated the structured and dedicated approach taken by PARA and commended the organization for its remarkable contributions to social empowerment. They emphasized the need for continued collaboration and innovation to sustain and expand the impact of the initiatives.

Overall, the visit was a meaningful exchange of ideas, insights, and experiences, reinforcing the shared commitment to empowering communities and fostering an inclusive, rights-based society.