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People’s Action for Rural Awakening (PARA) is about launch D B Tech - Skill Development Program monitored by Don Bosco Tech - Delhi, a central government initiative aimed at creating employment opportunities for rural youth. The primary objective of the program is to eradicate poverty through skill development and job placement. This three-month training program equips participants with technical skills and provides them with pathways to employment in emerging sectors.

The program focuses on two major vocational courses: Solar Panel Installation and Repair and Drone Assembling and Repair. In addition to these core technical skills, participants are also trained in basic computing and English language communication, ensuring a holistic approach to skill development. These courses have been chosen keeping in mind the growing demand in green energy and technology sectors, which offer long-term employment potential.

Currently, the mobilization phase is underway, targeting four key blocks of Dr B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema District. These areas have been identified based on the presence of unemployed youth and the need for economic development. To spread awareness and encourage participation, a one-month intensive campaign was carried out across 32 villages within these blocks.

The mobilization campaign was led by four dedicated block coordinators — Mr. Isaiah, Mr. Prabhakar Rao, Mr. Raja Rao, and Smt. Durga. Together, they visited each of the 32 villages, engaging with community members through various outreach activities. They met with youth, parents, community elders, pastors, and even visited government offices, emphasizing the importance of the program and its potential to transform lives. Their efforts included village meetings, door-to-door interactions, and distribution of program information.

The response from the communities has been highly encouraging. Many youth have shown interest in joining the program, while families have expressed their willingness to support them in this journey. The campaign has created a sense of hope and excitement, particularly among those who have had limited access to employment opportunities.

The D B Tech - Skill Development Program is a timely and impactful step towards youth empowerment in rural Konaseema. With PARA's strong commitment and the community’s positive response, the program is well-positioned to achieve its goal of equipping young people with meaningful skills and connecting them to sustainable livelihoods. The next steps will focus on enrollment, starting the training sessions, and ensuring effective implementation of the courses. 

Championing the Rights of Persons with Disabilities: A Community-Led Initiative at Sandhipudi

Alamuru, Andhra Pradesh – In a significant step towards promoting inclusivity and justice, a community awareness program was held at the Sandhipudi Gram Panchayat on Wednesday, focusing on the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities. The event was organized by the PARA Organization.

The meeting, presided over by Sarpanch Thota Bhavani, saw active participation from local leaders, community members, and representatives of civil society. Mare Subbayamma, Advocacy Coordinator of LAMP and Badugu Mahimarao, CBR Coordinator, led the session, stressing the urgent need for collective action to safeguard the rights of people with disabilities.

As part of the initiative, an awareness seminar was conducted to educate attendees about the various government schemes and legal protections available for the disabled. Following the session, a rally was organized to amplify the message, drawing attention to issues often overlooked in rural communities.

Speakers called on all sections of society to actively work against child trafficking, child marriages, and child labor—problems that disproportionately affect vulnerable groups. PARA representatives highlighted their ongoing efforts in identifying children with disabilities at an early age and ensuring their enrollment in specialized Bhavita Centres established at the mandal level.

It was also emphasized that the government officially recognizes 21 types of disabilities and issues appropriate certification to eligible individuals. However, it was noted that certain government schemes do not apply to tribal persons with disabilities below the 40% threshold, underscoring the need for more inclusive policy frameworks.

A symbolic gesture marked the occasion as 20 persons with disabilities were presented with subsidized bus passes provided by APSRTC, distributed by Sarpanch Bhavani.

The event witnessed the presence of local leaders including MPTC member Toleti Santoshi, village elders Dodd Subbarao, Nalla Venkateswara Rao, and Thota Venkateswarlu, among others.

A Step Forward

This community-driven effort exemplifies how grassroots engagement, and local governance can play a vital role in ensuring that the rights of marginalized populations are protected, respected, and advanced. It also sets a precedent for similar initiatives across other rural pockets in the region.

Training on Child Safeguarding and POSH Act

An insightful and participatory input session was conducted on 5th Aug 2025 at PARA, focusing on two crucial themes: Child Safeguarding and the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act. The session brought together staff, field workers, and community leaders to deepen their understanding of creating safe environments for children and ensuring dignity and protection at the workplace.

The sessions were led by Fr. Simharayulu and Ms. Sesharatnam, both experienced trainers and advocates for child rights and gender justice. They not only presented key concepts and legal provisions but also facilitated interactive discussions, group reflections, and case-based learning, ensuring active participation from everyone involved.

The discussion on Child Safeguarding emphasized the responsibility of every individual and institution to prevent and respond to abuse, neglect, exploitation, and violence against children. Participants explored ways to identify risks in community and institutional settings, and how to create protective mechanisms that are proactive and child-centered.

The session on the POSH Act (2013) highlighted the importance of safe, respectful, and inclusive workplaces. Ms. Sesharatnam outlined the core components of the Act, including the definition of sexual harassment, the formation and role of Internal Committees, and the procedures for reporting and redressal. Real-life scenarios helped participants connect legal knowledge with everyday workplace realities.

Participants appreciated the participatory approach, which allowed them to express concerns, clarify doubts, and build collective strategies for implementation within their respective contexts.

This session marks an important step toward strengthening PARA’s commitment to the safety, well-being, and dignity of all individuals, especially the most vulnerable.