In the month of August, on 17th, 20th, 21st and 26th capacity building programs were organized in Alamuru, Ravulapalem, Ateyapurama and Kothapeta mandals respectively for the village committee members. They were trained on MGNREGA, PwDs Act, Govt Schemes, Gende Equality and Health and nutrition topics. These trainings were organized to bring transformation in the villages in all aspects of their life.
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.
Distribution of Aids for CwDsDirector of PARA_Caregivers training
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.
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 3rd 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.
