In response to the public hearing notification issued by the Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board, a significant event was held on 30th January 2025 at the Panchayat Office of Vaddiparru village, located in Atreyapuram Mandal, Dr. BR Ambedkar Konaseema District. The hearing was convened to address concerns regarding the ongoing sand mining activities in the Godavari (Gowthami) River, a crucial environmental issue affecting local communities.

Representatives from the non-governmental organization PARA, including Prabhakar, John P, and Mr. Lokesh from Visakhapatnam, attended the public hearing. The PARA team was actively involved in presenting solutions and raising awareness about the environmental impacts of sand mining. As part of their participation, they presented a newly published book on Disaster Management to Mr. Vamsidhar Reddy, the District Mines & Geology Officer, and Mr. P Srikhar, the RDO (Revenue Divisional Officer) of Kothapeta Division. The book was presented on behalf of Mr. Andres Roy and Thomas Pallithananam of PARA, demonstrating their commitment to addressing environmental and disaster-related challenges.

During the public hearing, several villagers from the affected areas voiced their concerns about the negative impacts of sand mining on their daily lives. One major issue raised was the deteriorating condition of the lone road that connects Vaddiparru to Ravulapalem and Bobbarlanka, which has been worsened by the heavy movement of sand-carrying tipper lorries. Villagers also expressed their distress over the noise and dust pollution generated by these trucks, which pose significant health risks and contribute to the deterioration of their environment.

In response to these concerns, the attending officials assured the villagers that their grievances would be forwarded to higher authorities for investigation and resolution. Despite these reassurances, the villagers, led by Mr. Veeravalli Sampath Rao, expressed frustration over what they perceive as the neglect of their village’s development by government authorities. They highlighted the lack of attention to basic infrastructure improvements, further complicating their struggle to adapt to the environmental impacts of sand mining.

The public hearing underscored the critical need for sustainable sand mining practices and better infrastructure planning in the region. It also highlighted the importance of a collaborative approach between local communities, environmental organizations, and government officials to address these pressing concerns.

As the conversation continues, it is essential that the authorities take immediate action to address the villagers’ grievances and ensure that environmental protection and community welfare are prioritized in future mining activities along the Godavari River.

The EPC Half-Yearly Meeting was a momentous occasion, bringing together members to review past initiatives, address ongoing challenges, and set the course for future progress. This gathering provided a crucial platform for discussing impactful projects and reinforcing the organization’s commitment to social and educational development.

The meeting commenced with an inspiring address by Fr. Director, who extended gratitude to all members for their dedication and tireless contributions. Recognizing the pivotal role played by the PARA staff, he emphasized the importance of collective efforts in executing meaningful initiatives. The session then proceeded with a detailed presentation outlining key activities, including SEPP initiatives.

Fostering Education to Faith

Mr. Ramesh led the discussion on initiatives aimed at nurturing spiritual awareness and reinforcing constitutional values:

• Transcendence Messages: Thought-provoking meditation sessions at meetings encouraged mindfulness and deep reflection.
• Recitation of the Preamble: Strengthening constitutional consciousness by incorporating it into public gatherings.
• Constitution Day Celebration: Honoring the legacy of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and his contributions.
• Social Media Engagement: Keeping members informed through regular updates on digital platforms.

Education and Community Empowerment

Ms. Durga presented key findings from a Baseline Survey conducted across marginalized communities, covering 7,106 households. The discussion focused on:

• Caregiver Training Programs: Empowering 51 parents with skills to care for immobile children.
• Legal Entitlements: Providing financial support to six victims in need of justice.
• Support for Children with Disabilities: Medical aid and assistive devices for 15 identified children.
• Strengthening School Management Committees (SMCs): Promoting inclusive education and advocacy against child labor and early marriage.
• Advocacy and Awareness: Engaging women in government welfare schemes and ensuring nutritional support for pregnant and lactating mothers.
• Migration and Social Challenges: Conducting workshops on safe migration and addressing issues like drug abuse and social media addiction among children.

Nurturing Young Lives at Ekalavya Children’s Home

A critical segment of the meeting focused on child welfare and protection:

• Child Protection Policies: Strengthening safety protocols for children.
• Nutrition and Healthcare: Providing balanced meals, medical check-ups, and health support.
• Counseling Services: Addressing trauma and emotional well-being.
• Juvenile Justice System Interactions: Educating children on their rights and protections.

Strengthening Grassroots Committees and Social Networks

Mr. Prabhakar detailed community-driven efforts:

• Village Committees: 32 village-based committees convened monthly to address local issues.
• Civil Society Partnerships: Collaborations with government bodies such as ICDS, ICPS, Health and Education Departments, and MGNREGA to support vulnerable populations.
• Transparent Communication: Regular updates on activities shared via the organization’s website and social media.

Vocational Training and Career Guidance

Mr. Isaiah highlighted PARA’s initiatives in career development:

• Guidance Sessions: Organized in 10 schools for 9th and 10th graders.
• Employment Opportunities: A job fair, in partnership with DHISHA, connected 167 unemployed youth with potential employers, resulting in 67 job placements.
• Empowering Communities: IEC materials distributed to spread awareness of government schemes and career options.

Sustaining the Environment: A Shared Responsibility

EPC reaffirmed its commitment to environmental conservation:

• Waste Segregation: Implemented within the organization with plans to extend to villages.
• Compost Pits and Green Spaces: Advocacy efforts with MGNREGA for tree plantation in community spaces.

A Collective Vision for the Future

The meeting concluded with an interactive session where members exchanged insights, sought clarifications, and offered suggestions for improvement. Fr. Director summarized the key takeaways, reinforcing the shared responsibility of fostering sustainable community development.

The EPC Half-Yearly Meeting was not just a review of accomplishments but a reaffirmation of the organization’s unwavering commitment to social change, education, and empowerment. Looking ahead, the collective efforts of all stakeholders promise a brighter future for the communities they serve.

PARA has been actively working for the rights of children over the past few years. Currently, it collaborates with the government, particularly the education, health, women and child welfare, and Panchayati raj departments.

As part of its awareness initiatives, PARA has developed wall posters to educate public about various child-related laws and rights, including the Right to Education Act, free and compulsory education, child labor, nutrition, and the importance of supporting the girl child. The campaign also emphasizes the need to prevent child marriages and highlights the benefits of the Mid-Day Meal Scheme.

On 3^rd February 2025 in a recent event, Rajamahendravaram City MLA, Shri Adireddy Srinivas, unveiled wall posters on topics such as nutrition, the Right to Information Act, and the Food for Work Scheme at the Anganwadi Centre in his office. Speaking on the occasion, he praised these efforts to raise public awareness and encouraged people to utilize government schemes for their welfare. He assured that their coalition government remains committed to the upliftment of the underprivileged and the educational development of students.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the Correspondent of Jampet Lutheran High School, Shri M. Aijaya, Headmaster Smt. N. Mary Pearls, and State Advisory Council member of Para Sanstha, Shri T. Martin Sudhakar. Members of the Martin Luther King Jr. Human Rights Club—Lavanya, Chandini, Divya, Shruthi, Prakash, and Chitti Babu—also participated. Additionally, City TDP SC Cell President, Chapala Chinnaraju, and others were present at the event.

A group of enthusiastic students from the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program at Arts College, Rajahmundry, recently visited People’s Action for Rural Awakening (PARA) as part of their academic and social exposure initiative. The visit aimed to provide students with firsthand experience in understanding the challenges faced by rural communities and the role of social work in grassroots development.

Purpose of the Visit

The visit was designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical social work experiences. Students were given the opportunity to interact with PARA team and observe how PARA’s initiatives contribute to rural development, child rights, education, and social empowerment.

Engaging in Social Work Activities

During their visit, students actively participated in various activities facilitated by PARA, including:

Awareness on PARA Activities was done. All these activities were grouped five heads which speaks

PARA core staff Mr Isaiah, Mr Raja Rao, Ms Durga and Ramesh

• SC/ST Atrocity Act:

on Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, commonly known as the SC/ST Atrocities Act, was enacted to prevent offenses against individuals belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST). The Act provides stringent punishment for crimes such as discrimination, violence, and social boycotts against these communities. It also ensures special courts for speedy trials and provides relief and rehabilitation for victims. Awareness of this Act is crucial to empower marginalized communities, promote social justice, and discourage caste-based atrocities. Government initiatives, educational programs, and community outreach efforts play a vital role in spreading awareness and ensuring the effective implementation of the law.

· Awareness on Pregnant and Lactating Mothers on Nutrition: Educating mothers on balanced diets, micronutrient intake, and breastfeeding practices is essential for maternal and child health. Awareness programs help prevent malnutrition and ensure the well-being of both mother and baby.

· Training for Block Committee Members: Capacity-building sessions equip block committee members with knowledge on governance, welfare schemes, and community development. This enhances their ability to address local issues effectively and ensure efficient program implementation.

· Advocacy with Education, ICDS, Health, and Panchayati Raj Departments: Collaboration with these departments strengthens service delivery, policy implementation, and resource allocation. Advocacy efforts help integrate programs for holistic development and welfare of marginalized communities.

· Caregivers Training Program: Caregivers receive training on childcare, elderly care, and special needs support to improve the quality of care. These programs enhance their skills in nutrition, hygiene, and emotional well-being management.

· Community Meetings: Regular meetings foster dialogue, awareness, and participation in local development initiatives. They serve as platforms for addressing community concerns, sharing information, and promoting collective decision-making.

Key Takeaways for Students

The visit proved to be an eye-opening experience for the students, as they were able to:

• Gained a deeper understanding of real-world social issues and the role of NGOs in tackling them.
• Developed essential skills in communication, problem-solving, and social work practice.
• Appreciated the importance of grassroots involvement in bringing about sustainable social change.
• Strengthened their sense of empathy, responsibility, and commitment to the field of social work.

Reflections and Future Prospects

Reflecting on their visit, many students expressed gratitude for the opportunity to witness the challenges and triumphs of social service organizations. Their experience at PARA has inspired them to take active roles in social initiatives and explore future opportunities in the field of community development.

As a follow-up, students plan to collaborate with PARA on future projects, such as conducting further research, volunteering, and spreading awareness about social issues within their own communities.

Conclusion

The visit to PARA was more than just an academic exercise—it was a transformative journey for the BSW students of Arts College, Rajahmundry. It reinforced the significance of social work and the impact that collective efforts can have on uplifting marginalized communities. The experience not only enriched their educational journey but also laid the foundation for their future contributions to society.

On January 24th, PARA, in collaboration with the Education Department, commemorated National Girl Child Day in four schools across the Kothapeta Constituency. The schools that participated in this meaningful celebration included ZPHS – Ryali in Atreyapuram Mandal, ZPGHS – Alamuru in Alamuru Mandal, ZPGHS – Ubalanka in Ravulapalem Mandal, and ZPHS – Chappidivaripalem in Kothapeta Mandal.

The National Girl Child Day program began with the dignified recital of the Preamble to the Indian Constitution by the students, teachers, and attendees. The recital served as a powerful reminder of the constitutional promise to protect and promote the rights of every citizen, emphasizing the program’s goal of raising awareness about the significance of empowering and supporting girls. The event cantered on raising awareness about the importance of the girl child and advocating for gender equality. The program saw active participation from all students and teachers of the respective schools, along with representatives from the ICDS and Health Departments. These representatives highlighted key topics such as hygiene and nutrition, emphasizing the government’s commitment to promoting the well-being of children in schools.

The program included interactive sessions where students were engaged in discussions about the value of educating and empowering girls, as well as their pivotal role in society.

Child marriage and child labour are two grave issues that disproportionately affect girls, limiting their potential and future opportunities. Child marriage often forces girls into early adulthood, depriving them of their childhood, education, and personal freedom. It often leads to a lifetime of economic dependence, health risks, and emotional and physical abuse. Similarly, child labour takes away the right to education and exposes young girls to hazardous working conditions, perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality.

On this day, it is crucial to reflect on these issues and work towards creating a safer and more equal environment for girls. Empowering girls with education, ensuring legal protection, and raising awareness about the harmful effects of these practices are vital steps toward a more equitable world. Ending child marriage and child labour isn’t just about protecting individual girls—it’s about fostering a society where all children, regardless of gender, can grow, learn, and thrive. The sessions aimed to inspire the school community to recognize the potential of every girl child and work towards a society that nurtures their growth and success.

In 2015, Joseph Thambi embarked on a life-changing journey, spending two months immersed in the daily life of People’s Action for Rural Awakening (PARA). During his time with us, he forged profound connections with the children at Ekalavya Children’s Home, providing invaluable support in documenting the selfless work of Sisters Mary Arokiya and Sangeeta at Surakshita, PARA’s shelter for women in distress. Joseph quickly became an integral part of the PARA family, learning from the staff as he assisted with various documentation efforts.

A Joyous and Inspiring Return

Today 23rd January 2025, Joseph returned to PARA, this time as a fully ordained priest in the Salesian Order. Accompanied by Fr. Ubbana Suresh and Fr. Kadiyam Prasanna Kumar, Joseph’s homecoming was a momentous occasion, marking the first time priests had visited PARA’s campus. The air was filled with joy and gratitude as the priests’ brought blessings and renewed spiritual energy to our ongoing commitment to marginalized communities.

A Celebration of Service and Compassion

The priests’ presence served as a poignant reminder of the values that underpin PARA’s mission: service, compassion, and dedication to those in need. They took the time to learn about PARA’s diverse programs, including our initiatives in human rights, child protection, and community development. The day’s highlights included a heartfelt Eucharistic celebration, uniting the PARA family in a shared moment of gratitude and reflection.

A Message of Hope and Encouragement

During their homily, the priests praised PARA’s transformative work in supporting vulnerable communities and encouraged us all to continue pursuing justice and equality. Their words were a powerful reminder that our collective efforts can bring about meaningful change in the lives of those we serve.

A Blessing and a Renewed Commitment

The visit concluded with the priests offering their blessings and affirming their support for PARA’s mission and vision. The occasion left everyone uplifted, reaffirming our collective commitment to empowering the underprivileged. As we continue on our journey, we remain grateful for the priests’ presence and the values they embody. Their visit will remain etched in our hearts, inspiring us to strive for a more just and compassionate world.

Reported by Fr. Sebastian Muthalakuzhy

PARA organized another major flood preparedness awareness program for the local youth in Sathamalanka village, Kothapeta Mandal. The program aimed to educate and empower young people to take proactive steps during flood situations. The session was attended by 11 young women and 32 young men, who actively participated and contributed to the discussions.
The session covered the following key topics:

1. Understanding Floods
2. Evacuation Procedures
3. Safety Measures
4. Government Support
   The session was led by experienced resource persons Dr. Pragnan, Dr. Sheetal, and Prakasa Rao, who made the topics informative and easy to understand. Their interactive approach ensured that the youth gained practical knowledge and skills to respond effectively during flood emergencies.
   The event was a success, with the local youth gaining confidence and awareness on handling floods, protecting their families, and promoting preparedness within their communities. PARA NGO remains committed to building resilient communities in Sathamalanka village, Kothapeta Mandal through education and awareness initiatives.

PARA NGO organized a one-day awareness program on flood preparedness at Netaji School in Alamuru Mandal to educate students on important safety measures and preparedness strategies. The program was attended by 27 girls and 20 boys, who actively participated and gained valuable insights on staying safe during floods. 

The session covered the following key topics: 

1. Understanding Floods: Students learned about the causes and risks of floods, the vulnerabilities of certain areas, and the most affected locations, including districts and villages prone to flooding. 

2. Evacuation Procedures: The importance of early warning systems, safe evacuation routes, and protocols was discussed. Students were informed about shelter locations and how local, state, and federal agencies coordinate during emergencies. 

3. Safety Measures: The program emphasized the importance of protecting essential documents such as certificates, IDs, insurance papers, and bank records during floods. Students were also advised on safeguarding personal valuables and belongings. 

The session featured group discussions that allowed students to share their thoughts and ideas on flood preparedness. These discussions encouraged active participation, helped students clarify doubts, and promoted teamwork to understand the solutions better. 

The program was led by Dr. Sheetal and Prakasa Rao Sir, who served as resource persons. Their expertise and interactive approach made the topics engaging and easy to understand for the students. 

The event was a great success, as students learned practical steps to prepare for floods, protect their families and belongings, and work together during emergencies. PARA NGO remains committed to creating awareness and empowering communities in Alamuru Mandal to face natural disasters effectively.

On December 3 and 4, 2024, the DB Forum hosted a two-day program at JMJ School in Kantabanji village, Odisha, focused on the challenges faced by migrant workers from Odisha who move to other states for work. Representatives from Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh participated in the event. Fr. Gandala Simharayulu and Mr. Ameer Muhammad who is tasked to coordinate the DB4M chapter of Hyderabad province were part of the delegation to Kantabanji.

You know very well that migration is a complex and significant global phenomenon that affects millions of people each year. According to the United Nations, over 280 million people, or 3.6% of the global population, were international migrants in 2020. Migration is often driven by factors such as economic opportunities, conflict, environmental disasters, and social factors like education and family reunification.

In India, migration is particularly pronounced, with millions of people moving from rural to urban areas or across states in search of better livelihoods. The 2011 Census of India recorded over 450 million internal migrants, and this number has likely increased in recent years. A significant portion of these migrants comes from economically underdeveloped regions, seeking employment opportunities in more industrialized states. Many of these individuals work in sectors such as construction, agriculture, domestic labor, and manufacturing.

Migrant workers from Odisha, a state in eastern India, form a substantial part of this workforce. Each year, a large number of people from rural areas of Odisha migrate to other states in search of employment, often facing challenges such as exploitation, lack of legal protection, and limited access to welfare programs. The impact of migration on these individuals and their families has become an urgent issue, requiring focused efforts from both government and non-governmental organizations to ensure their rights and well-being are protected.

The visit to Kantabnji was an effort to have a first hand information regarding this situation. The Program began at 10:00 AM with Father Francis Bosco offering an overview of the geographical context of migrant workers from Odisha. He explained that Odisha is a resource-rich region from which people migrate to other states—”destination points”—in search of livelihood opportunities.

DB4M sought the collaboration of Aid et Action to understand better the issues faced by migrant workers, explore the reasons behind their migration, and identify potential solutions. Representatives from Aid et Action shared valuable insights:

• Umi Denial, Director of Aid et Action, participated remotely via video call.
• Saroj Kumar Barik, Program Manager, and Dayasagar presented a comprehensive PowerPoint highlighting their efforts and strategies.

Their presentation included government data revealing that around 21,000 individuals migrated from Odisha to other states in 2023 as migrant workers. They emphasized the importance of identifying hotspot villages where migration is most prevalent and raising awareness about government welfare schemes and resources, including toll-free helplines.

The program also focused on providing migrant workers with guidance on necessary precautions before migrating. Strategies for connecting migrants with key stakeholders—such as panchayats, police stations, Anganwadi centers, and other government departments—were discussed to ensure support and address issues faced by workers.

Representatives from the DB Forum who attended from other states shared their experiences and asked questions that were addressed during the session. Their input further enriched the discussions and provided diverse perspectives.

The event aimed to raise awareness and offer practical solutions to the challenges faced by Odisha’s migrant workers, fostering improved coordination among various entities and stakeholders involved

The exposure helped the participants to explore the challenges faced by migrant workers from Odisha, specifically those who move to other states for work and helped to raise awareness, share experiences, and develop practical solutions to improve the lives of migrant workers and enhance coordination between various stakeholders.