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Rapporter från Indien Reports from India |
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NEWS BULLETIN : DHARAMPUR & KAPRADA
TUFF – SWEDEN : SUPPORT
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Bhikhu Report May 2013 |
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GENEROUS TUFF
CONTRIBUTION
CONGRATULATIONS : STRANDSKOLAN
Mango Program
Kari retired from
Finninge - not from Dharampur
[From
the letter of Kari] :
Renovation &
Repairs
2
former Students join Charity Hospital & Health – Care in
Villages
Sofie : One of the
Pillars of Tuff
The first [1984] was our meeting her, off and on; while we were staying with Lena. Several times we went by her residence, to Centrum. She greeted us warmly with open hands. It was a surprise for us that her house was never locked. Still more astonishing, we could dare to go to her place any time, uninformed - very rare. Many a times she cheerfully typed my notes. We have seen Sofie working hard for Dharampur. She was so keen to understand the dynamics of poverty and other problems that the Rural India was facing in general and our work in particular. It was exciting to see her dressing Sari, to behave as an Indian lady, during OODW in Kumla. .
[Summary from a
mail written to Ann & Lena : Daughters of late Sofie]
EDUCATION Innovative
Teaching From next week we will have in Tamachhdi School 3 days coaching camp of around 175 students, for our 8/9 graders, for prime school subjects. A group 5 of reputed educationists, working in city slums as well as some of their students will join It will be sharing and the teachers as well will conduct classes – forming groups. They have activity oriented approach. They mainly will teach through drama – story – games and other activities. Three experienced teachers for Maths Science- English will follow class – room teaching. About 20 such teachers & experts guided our chosen students [Talent School], turn by turn in special Talent School camps as well as infrequent classes at our other schools. This is what we call quality education. Our regular teachers got in - class training. There were special library lessons. We are keen that the kids should develop reading [extra] habit from the very start. All the schools have class - wise books - corner. Some primary knowledge of computer was also given - to bring the kids closer to computer culture - a must, now - a - days. We are getting remarkable support all the year round, as indicated above from many visiting teachers.
Teaching through
Activities
Talent School
Planning for New
Year
The Guardians’
Meeting
Final Exams
Trips
Guidance from
Ex-student
Conclusion
“We can modestly state that our schools are performing rather well, compared to the given figures. We are making intensive efforts in this field [see news above] in Dharampur Block, where word and counting culture is a new concept and Gujarati is almost like a foreign language. Of course, the situation is far better than what it was 2.5 decades ago, when VPSS initiated work in this Block.
AGRICULTURE & EMPLOYMENT |
They still have interest
in soil - bunding - on increasing scale, on their own fields. So their
joining earlier for the program was more out of crying need In this
situation, they are not happy with the wages [like in the start] of RS
60 [7 SEK] per day [food - grains of RS 30 per day], according to Santu.
Again, the cost per dam has increased from RS 20000/25000 per dam to
around 30000.
Recasting Check Dams Plan
I M
P O R TA N T D A T A :
We have discussed this change of approach with a delegation of ‘Friends of Dharampur’ which t visited Dharampur block. They promised support for agricultural programs [better livelihood project], once the plan is finalized. Our coordinator visited one village in another cluster to conduct a survey, to help them to construct few dams, before it starts raining. We recently [beginning of April] visited several spots, taking third crop of vegetables, as they have now close - by water - source. VPSS has just provided 3 e. motors [220 totally] as well as supporting PVC pipes at half the original price. These and many other farmers earlier got training in an Agricultural Science Center in the neighboring cluster. The scientists of the Center are guiding our farmers. They are as well introducing better seeds & vegetables plants. In the beginning the farmers were reluctant, but a few came forward, motivated by our village coordinators. The first was only monsoon crop of paddy and second was winter crop of pulses. First two years, fewer went to the Center to receive new seeds and plants, as they were not quite sure of the outcome. After observing the results this year, there was a big rush - creating scarcity for those farmers who were bit late. Over and above this, VPSS has directly given away better 5800 kg seeds [pulses] costing RS 311000 [50 % contribution from farmers = to farmers in = villages, for winter crop. The development now is rather faster. Both our coordinators attended a training course guided by experts. Accordingly quite new crops would be introduced here hopefully, next year. Both of them, along with some progressive farmers – who have joined our program were invited by one NGO of neighboring state to guide the community for check – dams & soil - bunding. We also saw a big crowd was repairing a check - dam. I found a toy - cart, with them There were some young boys around. I thought it is a toy cart for fun. But no. The people have manufactured the cart with local materials, to carry big stones from the site, where they were digging, to carry them to the dam – site. Wonderful common - sense, from an illiterate group! At one place where they were constructing the dam, there were not enough stones for building it. One resident of the hamlet has his own tempo. he offered it, to carry stones form a distance. There were four rounds of transportation. The dam is ready by now. What an involvement and spirit ! Only recently, One village leader came to Bilpudi asking for a new check dam - cum – well in his remote hamlet. We want now people coming forward with such requests for water conservation. Additional Benefit
of Check - Dams
Progress on Livelihood
Front
At one place, a resourceful farmer was irrigating his vegetable crops by fixing underground PVC pipe, by making tiny hole in the hill. The existing check - dam is on the other side, having good amount of water. He found the way and took the third crop.
Holistic Approach Also by chance we visited a cement house [novelty in this area] of a poor farmer. In one village VPSS has initiated a pilot - project for reconstruction of existing bamboo cottages. The wooden poles there are destroyed by insects on account of heavy rain and moisture. So the common practice here is to rebuild bamboo - houses, every 2 or 3 years; with new poles, indirectly disturbing forest. We came to know of this problem and designed a program to provide plinth level cement construction and poles at concession rate, with labor work, by the beneficiary families. They have their materials [tiles etc.] from their old houses, which they reuse. These families some how manage to stay for a year with relatives or friends. After pooling resources, they construct new permanent houses [cement] of their choice. The rural face is changing in Dharampur, step - by - step.
Rehousing
Visitors
NEWS IN BRIEF · A well - wishers’ gathering was held in Bombay, to get information of project. Work. Koki – Bhikhu –Rrajesh from VPSS thanked the donors, explained the approach and spoke about the on – going as well as future plans. It was very stimulating to find nice attendance and genuine interest in this meeting. · In the last Bulletin has been give news of exchange visit of our students, in a big city school. A series of 3 articles appeared in widely - red Gujarati N. Paper. One of the friends red it. I got his call asking permission for publishing the whole [rather long] series, on his web – site. We readily agreed. · One well-wisher learnt of Talent School from N.B. & sent donation for the same. · A mixed camp of Tamachhdi students & those from Bombay was held in Shrimad Rajchanra Aashram of Dharampur. There was lively exchange of experiences and cultural programs. Some educative films also were shown · A 5th grade could not hear. He was found totally deaf, when examined by a doctor. The only option was to use hearing aid, costing RS 16000 [SEK about 2000]. Some friendly doctors helped us and provided aid with good concession. The family and relatives also contributed good amount. [saving from their earnings a casual labor] The boy is now using the aid and attending the school. · A girl [now married lady] from Holand worked in VPSS Balwadies [child centers] about 2 decades ago. She keeps in touch, regularly. She sent support recently. · Both of us are visiting Himalayas [2/10 May] We will stay in Swami Vivekanand Ashram at Mayavati, deep in the forests. Swami Vivekanand meditated there, long back. This year, the world celebrates his 150th birth anniversary:
Student in Night Shift
in Bakery to carry on Study |
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VEDCHHI PRADESH SEVA SAMITI [SISTER TRUST : VAN PATH – BILPUDI: DHARAMPUR] Project Office : Tuff Friendship House - Vedchhi [T. Valod] 394641 [Branch of Vedchhi Pradeha Seva Samiti – Udyogvadi : Valod] Mo: 9429871070 [Ko.] & 942985232 [BH.] |
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Bhikhu Report February 2013 |
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SWEDISH
SISTER SCHOOLS WORKING FOR MANY POOR SCHOOLS : The primary focus of VPSS is value - based education. It started getting support from Tuff, close to 3.5 decades ago, without a break,. Few Primary & Secondary residential schools were supported for small requirements in the initial years. With the passage of time, the support reached on ever increasing scale ,to about 50 schools, one after the other. During the first 2 decades many class- rooms, hostel - buildings, laboratories, wells etc. were constructed and engines/electric motors with equipments, sports material, books & teaching aids were given. Tuff provided timely help, during critical times to many a schools around Borakhadi Block. [First phase] Then the focus got changed to miserable camps of migrant labor, scattered around our schools. During day time, there were no body to look after small kids . So VPSS started child centers [Koyata Balwadies], fully supported by Tuff. The number reached to 50, having 2500 kids of 2/5 age - group. The salaries of part - time teachers and money for make - shift tent - schools, snacks and material for preliminary learning as well as creative activities [Greeting cards to mention a few ] were provided by Tuff. Then there was the third and final departure. Far away from the original base of Borakhadi Block [visited by many Swedes], we shifted to villages of new & remote area [Dharampur], suffering from abject poverty [that was the reason of the shift] and illiteracy, amidst challenging logistics. This thrust took place , some 25 years ago,. Our dependable partner Tuff joined hands there also. We began with education, as there were no functioning primary schools in that large block selected by VPSS. So many Tuff activists visited this new block [started with Ake - Gunnar] continuously. With generous support generated through OODWS ,.today we have 6 primary schools, 2 high schools [with hostels], a hostel for girls for Gymnasium and an ambitious program of vocational training, finally leading to university courses, with an emphasis on quality education [special coaching classes for that]. For the first decade of our work in Dharampur for all the schools/cum/hostels , Tuff only was our partner, taking care of A to Z requirements like buildings - wells - food - salary of teachers and other day - to - day requirements. In the mean while It inspired some local Trust bodies & individual well-wishers [after the first decade] to follow suit, leading to a comprehensive rural development project, in Dharampur Over and above schools, many agricultural/economic development plans were added, targeted to all-round development. VPSS is now operating in close to 100 remote villages, having a population of around 80000 poor people. Not taking any government funds, to maintain our creative freedom, finance obviously was a critical problem. Let me mention with gratitude that VPSS overcame this situation rather smoothly, mainly with the support from Tuff, followed by local support. The beauty of the project is that the poor community also happily contributed in form of labor and small amount of cash. For example, an ambitious mango plantation [115000 trees] program has been undertaken during the period, exclusively with Tuff support and equal contribution of the beneficiaries. Ours is a caravan, fast moving on two wheels of Education and Economy. VPSS is proud for the long - drawn partnership with Tuff. GOOD WISHES TO STRAND SKOLAN FOR THE OPEN HOUSE ON 7TH MARCH We are very happy to learn that Strandskolan will have its 'Open House' for our schools, on March 7. I remember Mia Tranehed very well. Along with two other teachers, she was with us in Valod & Dharampur, 4 years back. I am pretty sure, those teachers must have given a verbal picture of our schools and other activities. Strand has a wonderful track - record of OODW in past few years, with imaginative programs that they efficiently arranged. We had been to the school two years back and felt the warmth of the students and as well teachers. We had an interesting meeting with them. At that time, I narrated the positive gains for our schools, on account of the quality contribution [novel way of collecting funds depicts quality] of Strand and also other Sister Schools. Right now 2 of our primary schools - having 4 to 7 grades [200 students] attached with hostels are run with the total financial support of the Swedish Schools, All the expenses for teachers, food, teaching aids, drinking water and lighting facility, uniform dress etc are met with the support of these schools The rest of the 4 schools are also getting bridging support for library books - sports material and for the administration, as well as the emerging needs, from time to time. We are quite sure that Strand as always will perform very well this time also. We have received generous support from Tuff a few days back. What ever supplementary contribution which is coming from Strand will strengthen our schools here.
Drinking water scarcity Now
the wells are ready there It is our modest claim that our schools provide some sort of a model. They have now come to stay. The patients who used to visit witch doctors, now approach nearby schools.. Better facility is available for clean drinking water in some villages now, on account of wells dug by the community and the financial support that followed from the Project. Pure Drinking water is an ideal health-care program according to us. When there was an out-break of a sort of Cholera about 5 years back, 5 village hamlets of Dharampur Taluka [ County ], having new wells, were not affected. WATER v 106 wells built with the initiative and labor contribution of the community. v 3 rain water harvesting underground tanks constructed. We found people rather more interested in wells. At the same time, our experiments with low-cost tanks also did not succeed. Eventually, this program was discontinued. v 2 successful bore-wells and 6 hand-pumps set up. v 1 lake got deepened\repaired by voluntary donation and govt. support, solving drinking water problem of the concerned hamlet and expanding irrigation facility. To sum up, all this in totality resulted in providing safe drinking water, amidst the hamlets of the tribal community of Dharampur, for about 25000 people. It was a great solace, particularly for women, as they now do not require to take long-long walks and to climb hills for finding drinking water.
OIL-ENGINES \ IRRIGATION |
LAND
DEVELOPMENT
(Updated figures will be added later on) Takinglast 5 years together, 45000 man-days work on soil-bunding was done in 19villages. A little over 1000 families received 165000 kilograms of wheat duringthe period, when hardly they could get any paid work. Though this self-generatedlocal employment is a short-term result - attacking hunger to some extent.Regarding long-term benefits, erosion of precious soil was stopped. Also emergedmore land and moisture got preserved. The beneficiaries roughly must havecontributed about half a million rupees as labor contribution, during last 5years. New and better crops are being taken up now. A little over 400 hectares of
land either reclaimedor improved during this period
MANGOPLANTS
WATER-SHEDPATTERN &OTHER PROGRAMS Wewill simply list out other extension programs, which are executed in last 7\8years: For example, they must have drawnmore than 15000 Greeting Cards. We usually send them to Swedish Sister Schools.It generates some income no doubt, but more importantly, they have proved abridge between Indian [developing] and Swedish [developed] schools.
CONCLUSION
Total: 1000 students in remote hilly
- forest villages of Dharampur - Kaprada Block]
[1] Check Dams - Soil - Bunding &
Land - Levelling 50 teachers & community workers [all locals] implement these programs. The yearly budget of the Project is a little over RS. 10 million. No government support sought. |
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VEDCHHI
PRADESH SEVA SAMITI |
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NEWS BULLETIN November – December : 2012 DHARAMPUR & KAPRADA BLOCK |
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Summary of a letter written to Gunnar]
STUDY-TRIPS
AGRICULTURAL
PROGRAM FOR MORE PRODUCTION & EMPLOYMENT For the current season, planning for new check - dams and other programs is prepared, in consultation with the beneficiaries. Accordingly, 15 more dams will be constructed and 20 existing dams will be repaired, during this year. 1200 families in 20 new villages will take up soil – bunding in their sloppy land, finally converting them into productive fields. 400 families in 18 villages will take up land - leveling in their fields. It will result in to increase in production. The work on all these programs is progressing well. The cost of the project in toto [4 programs] will be close to 4 million rupees, with 50 % contribution of the concerned families, in form of labor. Rest 50 % will be given away in form of food – grains [about 125000 kg], as a remuneration of work, for these programs. The money required for purchasing food – grains earlier was received from ‘ Friends of Dhaarampur ’ from Bombay and other sources. A big group [8] of well - wishers from Bombay came to the Girls’ Hostel, to discuss all the above - mentioned development programs, with an offer of support. It is to be finalized in a Donors’ Meeting, to be held in Bombay, in a couple of days Some economists are coming forward with an idea that if a patch of land is given away to the landless, it may solve the problem of poverty. It could only be a staring point, if land is available, for distribution. But more importantly, it has to be followed by providing other inputs - shaping it on composite lines, which we are following In Dharampur - since last two decades. Most of the people here already have their own small patch of land. We are offering them physical inputs like check - dams [water - harvesting], soil – bunding & leveling [soil – harvesting], engines for minor irrigation, wells, mango plantation [with now marketing – a small start by Rajesh] and other tree plantation, as well as quality seeds. We are encouraging and guiding the farmers [marginal] for second [based mainly on moisture, almost without water] crop. We are also providing male - buffaloes etc. for agricultural operations. The additions are skill – training by experts, better farming practices and scientific approach. |
Our students wrote nice articles about their experience. They also sent Christmas Cards - drawn by each and every student and addressed to all their new friends, from the school. The school arranged an exhibition of the cards & invited the parents to have a look, before the cards were given away to the students. They were bubbling with joy for the rich experience they gained in the school, when they returned to their schools. Additionally, the students also went to visit a dam and for sight – seeing on river Nrmada [biggest in Gujarat] . VISITORS : TALENT SCHOOL A stream of visitors, most of then came here to teach to our Talent School students [grade 8/9], as well as final year students of our 2 high schools [10th graders] They [15] were experts of various subjects, principals, doctors and engineers The readers may get some idea about the innovative concept of Talent School from our periodical News Bulletins. We are trying to concentrate on talented students, so that they can become capable for joining advanced university or vocational courses. Hopefully, they may be quality leaders of the poor tribal society in this remote block. This idea is now being extended to 6th/7th graders, as we want to go in to the roots, To start with, 60 students were brought from 4 of our primary schools to the Girls' Hostel, for 5 days. The classes for various subjects were taken by visiting persons, along with interesting films, having some message. A lady who has left her business visited both the high schools and the Girls’ Hostel, for giving vocational guidance. A group of 16 students [mainly architecture] lead by an activist friend visited The g. Hostel and learnt about the back – ground of the project. They stayed over – night and a day in Tamachhadi. They organized camp – fire and as well took lessons. A Gujarati student from US visited schools & check dams, to study our approach. The support for higher studies [after Gymnasium] to 30 students is continuing.
A STRANGE
CHALLENGE
IMPACT OF NEWS
BULLETINS
+ A friend from Australia offered to take responsibility of the entire education of Mohan. Earlier he had been to Valod Area several times and lately to Dharampur also. So he has good grasp of the ground reality. I have thanked him and promised to keep his offer in mind, for future studies of Mohan. He is an intelligent boy. + One of the donors from Bombay [after reading the same item], called me. He wanted to provide a bicycle to Mohan, to reach his remote home [when he goes for vacations] and may be ill, as happened. I thanked him and told him, this is too early. + Two well – wishers generously contributed for the Talent School as well as any other innovative plans, which we may be devised, in future.
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PRADESH SEVA SAMITI Project Office : Tuff Friendship House - Vedchhi [T. Valod] 394641 [Branch of Vedchhi Pradeha Seva Samiti – Udyogvadi : Valod : D. Tapi] Dharampur Office: Van Path Kanya Chhatralay Moblie 9429885232 [Bh.] & 9429871070 [Ko.] |
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NEWS BULLETIN July – October 2012 DHARAMPUR & KAPRADA BLOCK SWEDEN & OVERSEAS |
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A Gujarati
Journalist In Sweden
[From a mail written to Lehte & some interested friends. Following is a portion from her reply]
‘Where all of you
get all your energy from? Traveling with such a number of young
people so far and so long?? And more over, they had practically
not been outside their own area at all. Everything must have
been so exciting and may be a bit frightening as well. While
working as a teacher, I was of course on excursions of different
kinds with students, but the huge difference is that they were
kids used to city life. It was not hard to instruct them to use
the Underground in London. I repeat it again: I am so impressed.
It is a pity that India is so far away! I would love to see all
of you and Dharampur schools as well as other development
activities, again and again’.
Galloping Mango
Program
Engine – Support
for Irrigation
A US Student
Studies Dharampur
I think that VPSS [got informed through Web : tuff.fred.se] would be the ideal program for me to join this summer [done]. As Mr. Bhikubhai indicated, I would be interested in the projects he had outlined such as learning about the irrigational foundations in the villages of rural India or helping to preserve water in a decentralized manner. I feel that this opportunity would not only broaden my intellectual expertise, but would allow me to bridge the gap between my academic and real world experiences. My sister, who got work experience at SEWA Rural [Gujarat] has inspired me to participate as well. We have now formed non-profit organization called “Vayuna” which focuses on tutoring underprivileged children in the community. [Summary] [Neil made a trip to study Dharampur Project. We were so impressed. He hopes to come again.]
Story Of A Well
GOOD WISHES TO GUNNAR [SR.] [From a letter to Gunnar, after talking with him on phone]
We have registered
a new Trust named Van Path, as wished by some well -
wishers. .Vedchhi Pradesh Seva Samiti [VPSS] - based in Valod
[80 km from Bilpudi] is nicely handling the project and will
continue to do so, till Van Path becomes strong enough. All of
us thought it wise to make this arrangement, as we did not have
Dharampur - based registered Trust so far. When we initiated
work here some two and a half decades ago, we did not have
remotest idea that Dharampur Project will take such a
comprehensive shape and expand so much – so fast, with so many
schools and other non – schools socio - economic development
programs. Of course, VPSS will not withdraw from Dharampur till
the new Trust is well set and continue its support.
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University
Education For A Tribal Girl This
is the story of the only girl [Daksha] who is studying in
Science in Bardoli now. The College is situated at 12 km
distance from Valod. As she could not get admission even in the
only Science College in Valsad, we started moves for other
distant Science Colleges. Finally Daksha got admission in
Bardoli Science college. She was escorted by one worker, as the
girl had no knowledge of this urban area, far away from
Dharampur villages – having a different culture.
Talent School &
Quality Education
University
Education
Teachers’ Training
& Performance
Innovation :
Students To Share life - Styles
Comprehensive Plan
On Food - Front
Support From
Agricultural Experts
Aforestation
Mail - Buffaloes
Stream Of
Visitors
TEARS IN MY EYES When we were about to leave our school, were informed about a boy. He was taken up ill. We decided to rush him to a doctor. On way, we heard the pathetic story. Mohan studied up to 4th grade in a pr. school in nearby town, as he was firm to get education. He lived there in a road – side hotel. He was forced to get up at 5 at that tender age [10] to start work in the hotel. He was bitten, if he was delaying. When he returned to the hotel from school, lot of hard work, including cleaning big vessels etc. was waiting for him. He was disgusted with such life, but was firm to study. Mean while he learnt about our Vaghval school which is about 100 km away from his remote village Aslona, just on the border of Maharashtra. There is also our nearby school - 50 km from his village. But he came to know that Vaghval has facility up to 10th grade. So he opted for Vaghval. Mohan had big dreams from the very start. When the doctor in Dh. knew that the boy was from remote Aslona and was keen to go home, she gave him full course of medicines for 5 days. Returning to the Girls’ Hostel for night halt, he explained how he was supposed to take medicines and complete the full course. He had a very good grasp, I could see, the way he explained. He has a father, step – mother and a sister. The family has a small patch of dry farm. The family had to work hard. His father has no other income accept when he migrated to a city and earned small cash. From that he gave his son money for traveling to Vaghval. – Poverty in its darkest form. The next day we were to visit a place from where he could get a private vehicle [no buses] for his village. We left him at the stop. When I told him that after he is fully recovered he must come back to school, he [in 5th grade] asserted that he is going to study – come what may; as he is the first and only boy from his hamlet, who has joined school. His village is far away. Even after taking a vehicle, he will have to walk for 6 km in the valley, to reach his home. |
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Tuff Friendship House Vedchhi : Taluka - Valod : 394641 : D. Tapi [Branch of Vedchhi Pradesh Seva Samiti : Udyogvadi : Valod] Phone – Valod Office: (02625) 220154 & 222451 – Dharampur: (02633) 240016 DHARAMPUR OFFICE Van Path Kanya Chhatralay : Bilpudi : 396050 : T. Dharampur : D. Valsad : INDIA Mobile : 9429885232 [Bh.] & 9429871070 [Ko.] |
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NEWS BULLETIN January - June: 2012 DHARAMPUR & KAPRADA BLOCK CONTRIBUTION FOR DHARAMPUR SCHOOLS FROM SWEDISH SCHOOLS |
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Kumla School Sister – School Cooperation pioneer Kumla Skola organized OODW (Operation One Day's Work = dagsverke) in last May. Every year Kumla celebrates the ‘DAY’, from the start of Tuff. The school has a tradition of breaking its past records. Stimulating performance by any standards, for an individual school. Final collection stands at 103 280 SEK - equivalent to a little over 800000 Indian Rupees. Dharampur will get 50 % share. How inspiring to learn that Yim Fun [retired], came to Kumla when OODW was being organized. She was giving body massage to the staff and contributed her income to OODW. What she has done is rarest of the rare gesture of generosity.
From Lisa [Kumla] I am so happy to learn about good results from Tamachhadi and Vaghval high schools. The Girls’ Hostel has really grown fast! Most of all, I am attracted by the holistic idea to take responsibility for the whole person and to help them find future. Sometimes in TUFF the older members are telling us “Youngsters” about the first contact with VPSS. Ulla-Carina, has some photos from the start of Tamachhadi School. It is amazing to recognize the places, knowing what is there now. In TUFF there is a group working to document history. Important job to tell the new members about the development. We can now save slides & photos into the computer which are taken during the visits in Valod/Dharampur during such a long time, by so many Swedes. We can make a mobile exhibition to encircle the schools, when they are organizing OODW or a book with photos and history as well as plans for the future. I have enlarged some photos from my visit. So we can show them when we have Flee Market or meetings in Centrum. People are happy to see with their own eyes, what the money is used for. Åke is struggling with the radio work, in spite of not feeling strong, as before. He made an interview with one of my intelligent and enthusiastic pupils. Really educative.
You are well aware that our friend Yim Fun [whom you met in Kumla last year] and family/friends earlier made a donation for 2 bore-wells in 2 schools [Tamachhdai] She came to Kumla during the week, when we had OODW and gave a message to the staff. [Then Lisa described the policy changes in the curriculum and administration]
Reply to Lisa Your detailed letter gives me vivid picture of the policy fluctuations of the Education Departments, termed as experiments for quality and social justice. The concern for refugee kids is befitting the enlightened policy of your government.
We try to guide and help all the students in all respects
including finance, for advanced studies. They are the first
time learners, reaching Gymnasium level & still further, in
various faculties. All of them are coming from poor
background and an illiterate society. We have to take care
of them for every thing - starting with their journey to
different places, as they have never come out from their
remote habitations. Most of them have worked in the towns
during the vacation [just over] and made income. VPSS is
providing matching fees. We direct the mediocre ones to
vocational & technical training. The teachers, though not
experts in subjects, work hard. The main qualification of
them is COMMITMENT. They live with the students for all 24
hours, on the same premises.
Tyreso School We got the good news that your school organized OODW for Dharampur and raised SEK 39 357. Let me thank your nice students and teachers for their continuous support. This reminds me of our visit to your school in the middle of May - last year. We had encouraging sessions with the students and also a meeting with the teachers. 2 years ago, a group of teachers [including you] from your school also visited our schools and other community development activities. Over and above normal teaching, this is another focus of our holistic project; as we are working not only in an illiterate society, but extremely poor as well. How nice that your teachers were with us, when we were dreaming of Talent School [referred elsewhere], which is now a reality and a success! During the academic year: 2012 - 2013, the bridging support of your school will be utilized for our Vananchal [means amidst woods] Primary School. Your funding will take care [50 %] of the salaries of 5 teachers, library, computers & teaching material as well as running the hostel [40 %] for all the students of the school: mainly food, clothes & other day - to - day requirements. The rest of the support is coming from another School, with wonderful coordination of Tuff. The Swedish support has motivated many Indians to help us. Yours has proved an inspiring example by all means. [Summary from a letter]
Alle School Happy to learn that the school has collected SEK 38815, through OODW. While converting Kronor into Indian Currency, it becomes a flat figure of a little over 300000 rupees. The prices of goods are about 20 times less here and the salaries are comparatively modest. So the amount will multiply many - fold, when we put it to use. For this noble gesture, let me thank the school community.
This reminds me of my several visits of your wonderful school. Obviously most of the teachers who were active in school - cooperation may have retired; but this beautiful idea of OODW never vanished from your agenda. What a commitment! Precisely for that reason, your gesture is all the more inspiring and touching.
About 2.5 decades ago we started with zero. After grasping the needs, we started primary schools with hostels for the kids - wandering here and there, with no purpose. The march is on, with more and more students joining VPSS schools in Dharampur and faculties of higher learning of late, at distant places, outside the area and getting jobs.
During the academic year : 2012 - 2013, the support from Alleaskolan will be utilized for bridging the expenditure of Primary School - cum - Hostel, in one farthest village [Virkshetra]. Your funding will take care [40 %] of the salaries of 2 teachers, library, computers and teaching material, as well as running the hostel [100 %] for all the students. There are 92 students in this school. Our teachers work with dedication, not only through class-room teaching; but by taking up creative programs like drawing, singing, gardening, tree plantation, social services when required & study - trips etc. This approach makes the subjects interesting and the schools attractive for the students. [The summary of a letter written to the School]
Ake’s Birth Day & Mangograms Ake’s 80th birth – day was celebrated, where Dharampur was not forgotten. The gifts coming from family and friends got converted into Mangograms. [Pl. visit Tuff web for M. Plan]. From the collection mainly from Tuff members so far 108500 mango plants have been distributed to poor families in last 2 decades. From this support from Tuff circle, more saplings will be distributed in at half the price in August, when we will have ample rain. Totally 108500 mango saplings have been distributed in last 2 decades, making big impact on mango production in particular & economy in general. As the local market forces are not so friendly, we were searching alternative, with no success. But with the initiative taken by Rajesh for the very first time an export to Bombay has started with much better pricing. Rather complicated but advantageous to the farmers of Dharampur.
Margaretha Square The nicely designed 'Margaretha Square' [costing RS 70000 – 9000 SEK] on the vast ground floor [open space] amidst the living rooms of the Girls’ Hostel at Bilpudi and upcoming new garden around is now ready. [Pease visit Tuff Web - site]. It is in memory of late Margaretha - one of the pillars of TUFF, our close friend and true lover of Dharampur. The contribution is made by her family circle, friends, Tuff members and VPSS – in a small way. The students also contributed labor. The ‘Square’ is very useful for occasional meetings, evening prayers, for doing lessons and distribution of materials to all the 9 schools – hostels, every week. Used also as an open place for taking meals in the evening [not in monsoon]. Looks colorful & adds to the beauty of the Girls’ Hostel.
Success Story : Girls’ Hostel The number in the Gymnasium Hostel is increasing, year after year. 5 years back we had 35 girls – after we put some efforts; while at present, there are 70 girls in the Hostel. 18 of them are from science faculty of a special school, started by Shree Rajachandra Ashram, in a neighborhood village. The girls could join this new school on account of the availability of hostel facility. A case of a College girl coming from another distant commune is rather unique. She got admission in the Arts College in Dharampur town, but had no place to live. She came to know about our hostel. She was immediately admitted. One more inspiring incident just occurred. A girl, who studied in VPSS school from the first grade, finished Gymnasium and Graduation living in the Girls’ Hostel, just got admission in post – graduation at University level - in a city, 30 km away from Bilpudi. She did not find any place to live, in that big city. She approached us. She was given admission. So she could carry on studies. As there are no Gymnasium Schools in hilly – forest villages, but for Bilpudi Hostel, they could have no other choice, but to leave studies, after finishing their High School education. In the G. Hostel week-end coaching classes – mainly for English and other prime subjects are also conducted. That is an additional benefit over and above knowledge – sessions with several visitors, off and on.
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Encouraging Public Exam Results Attraction : Science Stream
Last year
8 students joined Science Stream. They are now in 12th
Rush : High Schools
There was
unprecedented rush for 8th grades in our two high schools. Generally we
take 30 students in 8th grade [start of the High School
level] in each school [total 60]. We had to double the number and
admitted 120 students in two high schools. Rather challenging for
accommodation. Rajesh was a good help while interviews were conducted.
He visits Dharampur every month to look after the progress and solve the
problems of the schools. He conducts tests when he visits schools &
inspects progress. Talent School In earlier Bulletins the concept & performance [mainly through regular camps] of Talent School have been mentioned. Please visit Tuff web - site for more information. 2 ‘Two Days’ Camps of 40 students at the end of the first year were conducted. Six experts in Science - Mathematics & English took lessons during the first camp. In the second camp a medical doctor and an educationist covered anatomy and common diseases and their cure. They also taught Science, Health and Physiology, over and above general awareness. They brought wonderful slides & educative video films, making education interesting. The students were required to create & experiment. Before two months, one camp of these students was conducted – focusing on forestry and Rural reconstruction. We got good cooperation from 23 experts and teachers for 'Talent School' last year. In all the camps, the focus remained on quality improvement and intensive learning.The preparations are on for the second year, with the first camp of the new batch to take place shortly, to start with. The listing of visiting teachers [about 25 - almost the same as in the last batch] is on. They are being invited. We hope to get their support, as last year.
Teachers’ Performance Review 4 training – review – teaching capability test camps [also exams of students for constant evaluation and then guidance] of two days each were conducted periodically in Bilpudi hostel, through out the year. Monthly meetings supplanted this training exercise. The emphasis was on quality education and how to make teaching effective and interesting. The improvement is visible from the performance of the students & teachers.
Mass Marriages There were 2 celebrations of Mass Marriages. Totally 47 couples took advantage of this scheme of marriage without practically any cost. All the couples got gifts [dresses, simple ornaments, vessels, shawls etc.] along with mass meals, attended by about 6000 [both events] relatives and friends of all the couples. All the couples will be given 10 mango saplings each as a gift form the contribution of Tuff. The main support came from an Indian well – wisher from US. For the first time, a small group from Surat provided matching support. .From the token contribution [RS 1000 each couple], the decorations – pedal, music, the priest who performed marriages & local rituals were managed.
Check Dams & Soil Conservation With a generous support of rupees 1111000 [equivalent to about 150000 SEK] of one Charitable Trust of Bombay and one Rotary Club, check dams soil - bunding and better quality seeds program has been undertaken. Accordingly 30 more Check Dams have been constructed, touching the total magic figure of 500 check – dams, in last decade and a half. 20 existing Dams have also been repaired. Soil – Bunding is another major program. In about 500 families in 5 new villages 830000 C. F. work has been executed. It is estimated that under this plan 500 hectares of waist land would be brought under cultivation [the conversion takes 3 years] by the farmers, on their own fields. Additionally second winter crop will cover 500 more families. All these programs will result into more production [grains – vegetables – fruits]. As about 40 % is labor contribution of the community, the budget for twin programs reached close to 2 million rupees, in which VPSS paid RS 1200000 in form of food–grains, mainly from donations mentioned above.
Expansion : Matunia Model Village Line Earlier 51 families took initiative to start vegetable gardens and rehousing in Matunia [described in earlier Bulletins]. Observing its success, more families are coming forward from surrounding villages. A program for more food production for the poorest primitive tribe, living practically on border - line of starvation is just initiated. A small beginning – mainly agricultural development is made in 3 villages. A group from Surat first visited this cluster, along with our coordinator. A special project is being worked out for this cluster.
Forest Expansion Program
A new
idea is being explored to regenerate forest by linking the school and
the
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Inspiring Story of Past Vaghval Student While the interviews of the new students for admissions in Vaghval primary school was on, one of the young guardians came to see me. From our casual talk I came to know that he was an ex – student of our Vaghval School. He very much wanted to get his son admitted in our school. He expressed pleasure, as he studied further and now has a good job in an Accounting Firm. Rajesh was very much there. He advised the gentleman to study further, to become a Chartered Accountant [C. A.]. He was happy with the suggestion, but told hesitatingly that he is not financial capable to go for C. A., in some big city. Rajesh promptly assured him that VPSS will provide financial support and all other requirements. Now the ball is in the court of that man. It was a pleasant encounter. |
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Bhikhu hyllar svenska skolors hjälp med anledning av Kumla skolas dagsverke den 9 maj. SCHOOLS IN DHARAMPUR : FROM DARKNESS TO LIGHT |
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It is so stimulating to learn that Operation One Day's Work (OODW) of Kumla is very much due, weather the students and teachers come and go. It gives us lot of strength to know from Monica that one more 'DAY' is going to be celebrated on 9th of May by Kumla, to support a school in Dharampur. This reminds me of our visit to your wonderful school, in the middle of May - last year. We had a few positive sessions with the students and a special meeting with the teachers. While penning this note, all of you simply appear in front of my mental eyes. 2 years ago, your teacher Lisa & group also visited our schools and development programs, spread out in poor villages, surrounding the schools. Our schools as well act as growth - centers for community development, on holistic pattern. They are not schools simply for teaching academic subjects. Lisa and group are certainly in a better position to give their assessment of our schools in particular & overall development march of Dharampur cluster, in general. Hej Kumla! - what a commitment of your school and pioneering role for cooperation and towards peace! You are now very close to half a century of OODWS. Wonderful record by any standards! I will simply state that you are very special to us. In one of our schools - earlier supported by you, a revealing sign - board is hanging on the wall of the Central Hall: ROOTS FROM KUMLA SCHOOL OF SWEDEN As the bare needs of several schools are satisfied here, on account of the operations of Kumla & other Sister Schools of Sweden; it has made education possible for many poor kids of several villages of a large Dharampur Block. During the academic year 2011 - 2012 [ just ended ], the bridging support of Kumla was utilized for our Vananchal [means amidst woods & hills] Primary School, in village Chandvagan. |
Your funding generated through petty jobs during OODW took care [75%] of the salaries of 5 teachers, library, computers & teaching material as well as running the hostel [ 75% ] for all the students of the school: mainly food, clothes and other day - to - day requirements. Vananchal is at a 7 km walking distance from the main road. It has grades 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 and 102 students. The school has just embarked upon a special project of the year of afforestation to cover the families of the students, to start with. The seeds are shown and the plants are coming up. At present, the school is growing nursery of common trees for distributing them to the families of the students. Good amount of water is there, as our water & soil conservation program got focused long back, in this cluster. For the area where the first generation saw the face of schools and almost all parents are illiterate; this is a journey from darkness to light. A solid base has come up, in last 2 decades here, with the support of many schools like yours, so nicely coordinated by TUFF. We are well aware that Kumla is in the cooperation from day one of the start of TUFF; much before 'Dharampur Holistic Project' saw the light of the day. Since last 5 years, the former students are getting secondary education, with a special hostel for gymnasium level girls & intensive coaching for bright students, coming from poor families. Those who do not prefer or fit in with routine subjects are supported for Vocational and/or Technical Training. Recently, a few have even gone for higher studies in different faculties, including nursing. Fortunately, ample support is received to help all such students. That made it possible to manage more than 100 scholarships This is a total picture. What a grand contribution of Sister Schools like Kumla and Tuff as a whole! The resolve of our team and group - action were certainly there; but the Swedish Sister Schools provided substantial contribution, which made the journey so smooth and fruitful. Your cooperation has inspired even other Indian donors, as hinted above. The credit finally goes to all of you. Ideal example. |
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Bhikhu Vyas & Kokila Vyas [VPSS : Dharampur & Valod] |
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Margaretha Petersen Square!
Avlidna Tuff-aktivisten och Indienvännen Magaretha Petersens
vänner har donerat ca 7000 kr på Tuffs insamlingskonto pg
793636-2 till ett "Margaretha Square", en slags friluftsaula
för ungdomar vid ett elevhem i Bilpudi i fattiga indiska
Dharampur. |
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Thanks for one more ROSE!
It gives great feeling of joy and nice |
The large surface is also useful for collection and distribution
of goods, coming in a bulk for all the schools [for example
vegetables, food stuff and many other items]. The place will be used for assemblies of the students and public meetings, as a big and blocked ground. The decoration is on, on the plinth of thre rooms, around the Square. Then it will look still more attractive. In short, it is sort of an ornament - very outstanding, in this complex. Of course, if not in near future, but hopefully some friends from Sweden will visit Bilpudi, after monsoon and provide Tuff people & friends of Margaretha, a real picture of the Square. The winter was late this year; but now it is rather strong and thousands of mango trees are full with flowers, giving hope for good mango crop. I will send you the photographs of big mango trees, with so many mangoes, hanging on them.
Bhikhu |
![]() Margaretha Square |
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Färska rapporter om Indien finns även här:
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2011 |
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2010
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Ekonomi. |
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Vår indiske partner Bhikhu Vyas har skickat en uppställning över de 300 000 kr som Tuff (Tyresö Ulands- och FredsFörening) skickade till Indien 2009. Dessutom har han också tagit med en privat gåva och ränta, så det blir totalt ca 332 000 kr. Uppgivna summor i Rupies har räknats om till kronor. Siffrorna i kronor är ungefärliga, dock utan större felaktigheter. Se den ekonomiska uppställningen i 21 punkter här nedan. Kortfattade förklaringar på vad pengarna har använts till visas. Där framgår att driften av skolorna Virekshetra och Vankhas helt finansieras med Tuff-pengar. Dessa är två av de sex skolor i fattiga Dharampur som tidigare uppfördes med enbart Tuff-bidrag.
EXPLANATORY NOTES WITH BRIEF REPORT
1. Total support for this school – as mentioned in the table, came fromTuff. 2. Total support for this school – as mentioned in the table, came from Tuff. 3. During frequent review - sessions in last March - April, we came to the painful conclusion that the Mobile Van was not functioning to our satisfaction and the response of the Government Village Primary Schools was not positive. We could not resolve the problems. Fortunately another NGO ‘ARCH’ [an expert Health/Education group] in Dharampur was searching for such a Van. So the hands were changed smoothly. Now it is working nicely by ‘ARCH’, mainly for health & general education. It is given away with token price. ARCH is fully coopeating VPSS in ‘Quality Education’ program, managed in Girls’ Hostel [Bilpudi]. They are as well training VPSS teachers & High School students.4. Medicines and Hospital charges are born 50 % by VPSS and 50 % by Shree Rajchandra Hospital working in Dharampur. It is practically free for our teachers & students and with part concession [as may be the case]; for poor patients. 5. This is a trial project in three schools – a success and a boon, as the electric power disappears frequently VPSS spent 50 % from Tuff funding. Rest 50 % is provided by another NGO. Finding success, more street lights for the rest of the schools are on way. 6. Expansion of computer lab in Girls Hostels [Bilpudi] – to be used by the girls and also students of other VPSS schools, when they stay in the Hostel [for a week - turn by turn], for intensive coaching as well as for Tamachhadi High School. 7. Travelling expenses to and fro of all the VPSS schools, who attended the Fair. Food, auditorium facilities, light, microphone, audio - visual system, accomodation and all other facilities were provided by Shrimad Rajchandra Asharam of Dharampur. The devotees of the Ashram were so happy with the Fair that they have invited VPSS to organize such a Fair. New plans were also thought out, as a follow – up, like Boys’ Hostel for Gymnasium level students [done]. Video - film available. The preparations are on. |
8. Cost of materials. 9. Following demand from Gujarati [only] knowing supporters of the Project, a pictorial and factual report, covering the period from May 2009 to May 2010 was published a couple of months ago. Last year it was ‘ A Journey of Two Decades’. [Both Sent to Tuff]10. In all VPSS Schools, for extra reading, the books were received by substantial price reduction [60-65 % of original price] from one NGO, having a mission of motivating reading habits. Text–books are received free. Special books are given at concession rate. 11. The coordinator [also expert in computers] keep on moving from school to school for supervision, guidance, taking tests and experimentation. He also looks after Vocational & Technical Training Program. Support comes from Shree Rajchchandra Ashram. 12. This building was constructed about 18 years ago, with the contribution from Tyreso Commune. It is now very useful for keeping materials for Dharampur Project [godown] in particular and store - room in general. There is also one extra room for visitors. 13. Tamachhadi Primary & Secondary Schools [with hostels] did not have year – round reliable drinking water facility. It is permanently resolved with 2 bore wells. This became possible with an examplary contribution from Yim Fun at Kumla School, her relatives and friends. Actually the support was meant for only one school; but it proved useful for two schools. Please see Tuff Web for more details of this ideal contribution.14. With the distribution of 6800 mango plants this year [good monsoon – just over], the figure crossed 1,00,000 mango trees, in last 18 years. This program is supported by Tuff, all through-out. Of course, about 50 % is the contribution of beneficiaries, with more concession to our school students [families], as a linkage of schools, with the guardians. 15. The 2 coordinators [local youths and with VPSS for all the last 21 years] constantly take rounds of about hundred villages [area of operation] in Dharampur & Kaprada [Siter –commun], situated in hills and forests. They move on Motor Bikes, [where ever possible] or on foot, to motivate people, guide them for new plans, to execute the finalized programs and to prepare progress - reports. They as well deal with collecting community – contributions, as fixed out for the programs. They collect mango plants from the mother nursery and distribute them [also other such items] in TUff lorry, almost at the door - steps of the listed families. They as well handle the difficult program of managing male – buffaloes [living creatures], coming from very long distance in big trucks. The animals are delivered to the beneficiaries at fixed points. Main programs. Small Check Dams, constructed by the community.
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Soil Bunding [Digging & shaping agriculture
fields by the community]
Rain Water Harvesting Tanks [Digging by the
beneficiaries] 16. Just before this monsoon [letter part of May and early June] about 300 familes [found wanting food to eat] were provided rice with concession. Rice is prime [No : 1 and some times only] food – stuff, for the people in Dharampur and kaprada.
17.
There is a sea - change in the area of
communications, in last five years. 18. The lorry was fundedd by tuff some 22 years ago; first for Migrant Balwadies and later on [till today] for Dharampur Schools [transporting food – grains, vegetables & other materials of daily needs] as well as various development programs. The fuel cost is born by all the schools and other non – schools progrms, as may be the case. 19. Jeep is for travelling from Valod to Dharmapur and from there to schools & villages. 20. Motor Cycles are provided to 3 coordinators, the office - superintendent and the driver. It makes things so quick & efficient, for such a comprehensive project. 21. One full – time office – superintendent is employed For total work for Dharampur Project. He looks after normal clerical work, accounts, banking, auditing, purchase, maintenance of vehicles and other things. VPSS has no other paid staff, in the office. More about Tamachhadi Girls’ Hostel & Dharampur - Kaprada Holistic Project The total expenditure for a separate Hostel Building for girls at Tamachhadi High School as well as repairing of toilets & bathrooms comes to RS 443000. This may be reimbursed from the next installment, coming from Tuff. With the inclusion of this item, Tuff Economy exceeds RS two & a quarter million. Quite an impressive figure – a record. Of course, the total expenditure of Dharampur Holistic Project exceeds a crore of rupees [more than 10 m. rupees] The rest of the finance is the contribution from Indian supporters as also the community, mainly in form of labor like Dams/Bunds. |
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N E W S B U L L E T I N DHARAMUR & KAPRADA BLOCK May - June - July – August : 2010 |
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TUFF SUPPORT FOR DHARAMPUR MARCH VPSS Schools & TUFF : Major Thrust A decade and half aged VPSS Schools are now well set. They have taken a routine shape and are models in different clusters of a vast area. They are spread out in the entire Dharampur & Kparada area [the whole block] Two schools are entirely [food – salary and other daily needs of the pupils] run with Tuff support. Out of the other 4 primary and 2 Secondary, 4 have been provided drinking water facilities, with electric motor pumps. At three schools, old roofs of the central halls have been replaced by new ones. One badly needed Girls’ Hostel Building [High School] is added in Tamachhadi, as also new sanitary arrangements in both the wings [Primary & Secondary]. The Girls Hostel at Bilpudi has now a giant new well, incidentally also used for irrigating vegetable crops by the tribal donor, on whose land the spacious & imposing Bilpudi Girls’ Hostel is situated. We have also added more plants. All the schools have got mango plants and new variety seeds as also telephone services. New books were purchased and journals for general knowledge adore the display box. Routine sickness [quite many in monsoon] and in case of serious sickness support was given – fully financed, including special transport arrangements. Small trips were organized. Also the surrounding community got benefit of the primary medicines, kept in the schools. CDs have been provided as teaching aid for teachers, as well as new computers have been added. Vehicles are arranged for weekly classes to and fro Bilpudi [Quality Education, by turn]. Running cost of Girls’ Hostel is financed. A special coordinator supervises the schools. Bulk food material etc. and weekly vegetables from Surat are managed by Tuff lorry. The Mobile Van was managed, but we did not succeed. The Van is handed over to one sister NGO, handling the training program of our teachers/students & running mobile Health Unit. On account of flexible nature – with free hand, Tuff fund proves very useful as bridging support for any unseen school requirements and in emergencies, in entire Dharampur Block. Mango Plantation Crossed 100,000 Figure This year the program is a big success - with 6800 mango plants distributed in several villages. The students and teachers of all VPSS Schools [6 Primary & 2 Secondary] were given special concession, to encourage plantation in their fields. This is our approach – ‘Linking schools with the Society”. For all other beneficiaries, it is half the rate [20 RS per plant]. Even 62 newly - wed couples, under our 'Mass Marriages' program were given 10 plants each. It was a wedding gift from Tuff money. 6 families who lost their bread – earners were each given 10 plants free – as part of a composite plan, devised for them. VPSS could not reach the target of 100000 mango plants last year, on account of less rain. Fortunately, we have crossed the target of the current year and as well the magic figure of 100000 mango plants, spread out in last two decades. The credit for this success goes to Tuff, for this ever-expanding program. VPSS team and the group working hard at the ground level are very happy and grateful. How nice that the program is proving more and more attractive amidst Tuff members, Sister Schools & others - giving high hope for the future! All here were happy to learn that selling Christmas Mangograms in Tyreso etc. was a great success. New Initiative Against Food Scarcity
Paddy [rice] is the main crop in Dharampur area. It requires lot of water. Last year it was half the normal rain [50 inches]. It adversely affected production. The community did get 110000 kg rice [Food for Work] through our Dams - Bunds and other labor - intensive programs. But that was not enough. During our visits [in last May] of remote villages, we were face to face with semi – starvation. Immediately followed meeting with our coordinators. By way of migration to nearby industrial towns, the community did earn some money; but there were no grain - shops. So they had to walk down for 10/15 km to nearby town, just to buy rice - their main and almost only food. Again, the traders charged high prices. A solution was suggested by one worker. ‘Can we not make arrangements to sell rice, at concessional rates?’ We took a spot decision to step – in. Of course, there are subsidized food - material shops [known as Ration Shops], run by the Government. But they are not efficient and in all the villages. Thus direct rice - selling plan was born - the first ever Trial Project started by VPSS. Two trucks [10,000 kg.] of rice were ordered. The rains had just started. Rice reached a day before. The distribution was successfully handled by our coordinators, helped by local volunteers. This is befitting holistic nature of the Project. This being a new initiative, Tuff money was used.. Just before it starts raining, till the first crop is harvested, food-shortage is an acute problem here. Our normal income-generating programs were coordinated with the limping crisis. It did make some impact on ‘War against Poverty’; but the problem is so huge that yet it persists. We hope to expand the program on still bigger scale in 2011 [before monsoon]; when the food - bags would practically be empty with the community. Finance will not be a problem. New Girls’ Hostel Building : Support : Tyreso Skola VPSS has constructed new Girls' Hostel Building in the High School in Tamachhadi. Total support came from Tyreso Skola, through Tuff. In this building not mud – bricks, but stones from land [a gift of nature] have been used. It generated employment for local people. The building looks more aesthetic as well. The older girls now have separate facility. It decidedly is eco - friendly. It is a diversion from traditional practice and a message for the community. More About Mass Marriages A man with defective leg got married to one mentally weak lady, in last April. They had two kids. The couple was surviving on begging in a near – by industrial town. The report from last N. Bu. was seen by one Bombay – based gentleman. Prompt came his e – mail: Can we not make this family financially independent, so that they may do away with life of begging? Various alternatives were considered immediately. .At long last, it was found that he has two brothers and the joint family has some land on river - bank. On our advice, the gentle man financed an electric motor pump for irrigation, to get more vegetables and banana production by 3 brothers [including the couple]. A practical solution. The news encouraged 7 other farmers there, to follow the example. All of them were promptly provided pumps, of course at half the market price. Rest of money utilized from flexible Tuff Fund. The beauty of funding! It has a new dimension also, over and above big saving of money for poor families and a chance to get married in this cheap and organized way - a dream of every pair's life. Some of them wait till they are quite old [see the photos in Tuff Website] and have perform the ceremony, when enough money is collected. Some even manage to obtain loan from money - lenders [heavy interest] Result: They become sort of bonded laborers for years and years. Strangely enough, the families become poorer by getting married. It is a complex social phenomena. VPSS is going to organize bigger event next year. Support is already offered. . For the last Mass .M. VPSS got partial support from a Swedish couple Orjan – Greta. Male Buffaloes: Unique Self – Supporting Program Amidst heavy rain, VPSS workers distributed 250 male - buffaloes in distant hamlets. Still more are coming. The animals were brought in 18 trucks from a distance of about 500 km, from different points and handed over to the beneficiaries [from waiting list – a big list is still waiting], close to their hamlets. Transportation is rather a challenging job, with police enquiries on the travel rout. Inquiries coming to BIlpudi all the time. People are extremely happy with this program. It is so cheap, with only 50 % transport cost. It comes to RS 500 to 600 per animal, while in the market – far away, the price of one animal is now around RS 3000. The rest 50 % transport cost is born by NGOS – who run cattle – depots. VPSS provide bridging support for extremely poor families. In hilly area the farmers prefer male buffaloes in agricultural operations. Again these animals are not easily available in the district. There is still stronger demand, even after delivery of about 3500 animals, in last decade and a half. An ambitious program is worked out for the next year, in collaboration with several Cattle - Depots of Gujarat. .A team of VPSS coordinators and farmers has just visited the Depots all over Gujarat, for future planning. |
To be latest, 3 Trucks with 42 animals arrived in at place.. On account of heavy rains, it was not possible to move further. The farmers rushed to the central place, getting messages to take away animals. It was so difficult to control them, when they were being unloaded. The farmers and even general public ran here and there. They succeeded finally. As more waiters rushed in, it became difficult for the coordinates to pacify those who were left out. Such strong is the demand. As more animals are coming, the left-outs have been promised. OTHER EVENTS Expansion for Higher Education Last year it was for the first time that the students who earlier studied in VPSS schools went for higher education – further from Gymnasium level. This year 5 students have joined Rural Universities in Ahmedabad and still further. 1 student has joined a special Higher Secondary Science School. 1 student joined University College of Pharmacy [some 500 km away from Dharampur], 1 student joined special English Course and 2 girls have joined Nursing School. 5 others have joined other courses. The process is still on. It was not easy to get admissions in courses of choice, due to keen competition, requiring high percent of marks. The financial arrangements have been made from generous support of Orjan - Greta of Sweden. But for this and VPSS involvement, the students could not have got an opportunity for higher education, as their parents could not afford high expenditure and manage admissions Full - Fledged Second High School of VPSS In the second High School run by VPSS [Vaghval], the government has approved grade 10th [last grade of H. School]. The students will now be able to appear in Public Exam, conducted by Government [in next April]. The 4th batch of Tamachhadi High School [supported by one Ashram] appeared in SSC examination in last April. 21 out of 26 students got through. Good. All 19 students of our hostels in Bilpudi [Girls] and Nana Pondha [Boys] also got through.
‘Quality Drive’
Intensified The core – Group members regularly visited Dharampur & moved extensively for review of all the activities, as also other on – going development programs in the villages. One of the pillars of this group Mr. Hiten Shah suddenly passed away. He fathered Matunia Model Village Plan and was all after it. The rest of the Core Group have offered full support to fulfill the dream of Mr. Shah. The local leaders are busy with consultations, to revise the Plan and work out the strategy of implementing it, in absence of Mr. Shah. Our coordinators join them Mr. Shah successfully tried to computerize VPSS accounts and make them more systematic. NEWS IN BRIEF · In a gala function VPSS was presented 2 cows by Rajchandra Ashram of Dharampur. This is for the Girls’ Hostel - additional program. More cows are offered. · One of our students completed Gymnasium. Then he got further training in Rural Engineering at a distant place. He is now an expert welder & has got a job there only. · An article about Dharampur Project appeared in a Gujarati Weekly, published in US. A friend here knew about it from US source. He visited us, for more information. · 4 senior teachers attended 6 Days camp of young workers. The subject was Gandhian Ideology, Quality Education in particular & other subjects on development. · With the expansion of socio – economic development programs and coverage of additional remote villages, one more coordinator is added. It is from Tuff funding. ..
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25 new girls [11th grade ] got admission in Girls’ Hostel of
Bilpudi · 6 families affected by tragic jeep accident near Tamachhadi [8 deaths] were given roofing tiles as well as 10 mango plants each. Earlier they were provided food ration for 6 months and all treatment and incidental expenses. Along with others the families got jobs in dams & bunding program extended in the area. [See last N. Bu.] · 700 Packets of new and quality variedly vegetable seeds were distributed to the guardians through VPSS schools and also to other farmers. It is done from Tuff fund.. · Rajachandra Ashram is providing free butter – milk to our schools · A report of last one year’s activities of Dharampur has been published. in Gujarati. · 17 boys went for Vocational Training, an ongoing program supported by one Ashram · 2 new wells have been constructed. The digging part was taken care of by the beneficiaries. The rest of the support [for material] is from flexible Tuff funding. · 4 years ago VPSS started a Hostel for Gymnasium girls. VPSS could not start such a hostel for boys, though funds were available. From that money, finally we started a Boys’ Hostel, at another place. Another Ashram started the Hostel. It is badly needed for boys for advance education. We proposed/cooperated the venture at initial stage.7 new Check Dams have been constructed, as a follow up of Mass M. 40 were ready, as planned for the year. The total reached to 407, irrigating 3500 hectares Out of the 47 done before monsoon, 45 are in good condition. 2 have been broken. 30 have good storage of water & rest 15 have less water. Useful during dry spell. From My Two Letters
Unique Way Of Working : It is highly appreciated that all Tuff work is managed by volunteers – young and old [unpaid]. That means each and every rupee [SEK] is sent to the partners, like VPSS. This makes Tuff unique and different from other Aid Agencies. If we can overtake greed, major battle is one. It is not that difficult, requiring just commitment and mental power. It gives such a profound inner joy, that all the wealth of the world is nothing before it. There is nothing to compare. Tuff's work culture is a unique and inspiring example. Great. We could not manage to visit Sweden. Sorry for the inconvenience caused to Tuff Core Group and for disappointing many friends. We missed a lot are equally perturbed, with pain. Approach In Dharampur The holistic approach of 'Dharampur March' is its salient feature. Dharampur is an extreme case, full of problems, with challenging logistics. In such a scenario, one - sided [or rather loop - sided] development process will not deliver desired and fast results. We also have learnt a lot from our work and contacts with the community. This is the 22nd year of the start of our actual work and to be exact, 25th year of the beginning of casual contacts, with the community. We also grew with the growth of the project, as also the Holistic Pattern that has been followed gradually. Education & Economy are 2 equally important wings of the project. |
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OUTCOME OF EDUCATION :
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Bhikhu & Kokila Vyas |
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UNIQUE & PRODUCTIVE MASS MARRIAGES
VPSS organized fourth Mass Marriages [M.M.] in
May 2010. |
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Good Wishes for OODW of Tyreso Skola |
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At the outset let me express my great pleasure for the on - going support of Tyreso Skola, for our schools in Dharampur. They are functioning in remote forest. Over a decade and a half ago, VPSS made modest beginning, by establishing schools in bamboo sheds, with grades ½, in some villages. Immediately followed support from TUFF, our long - standing NGO partner in development. It was all the more qualitative, as the funds were generated by several Swedish Schools by way of OODW, through petty jobs, conducted by students. So inspiring that Tyreso Skola also has joined this 'March' by contributing for a Mobile Van, then for a class room in Tamachahdi school and again a well in our new Hostel for Girls' for 11th/12th grades. We have launched a ‘Quality Drive’ for improving educational standard of all our 8 schools [now 6 primary & 2 Secondary]. The students of all those schools stay in the Girls’ Hostel for a week, turn - by – turn; to get guidance of expert teachers. With this sudden expansion, we required a well in the Hostel. It came up there, with the support from your school. We find that education is making a great difference in the lives of the kids. We had been facing mainly two problems in our schools: Non - availability of primary infrastructure facilities like class rooms, toilets, drinking water, teaching-learning material and such other basic requirements. Another sensitive problem is that in government day schools, most of the children are not getting opportunity to discover and realize their potential. Our schools very modestly try to bridge this gap, as they are all residential schools and the teachers stay with the kids. They work with dedication, not only through class-room teaching; but by taking up creative measures like drawing, singing, gardening, tree plantation, social services when required, gatherings & study - trips etc. |
This holistic approach make subjects interesting
and the schools attractive, for those who see
the face of the school for the first time in
life and whose parents can not read or write.
It is so stimulating to learn that two teachers of your school: Jonas Hugosson & Kerstin Andersson are going to visit our schools. Before that, we will be in Sweden. During our visit, we look forward to meet you, to congratulate you for working for our Schools, with so much of concern. We will get an opportunity to give you first – hand information of the use of your support, how simple are our schools & the way we work in the schools and the community. We are passing through a stimulating phase at present and all the schools are doing well. They are like torch - bearers in this dark region. You are not giving them only materialistic support – very much needed of course; but an opportunity for progress. All of you are a source of strength for our schools and other development activities in Dharampur That is how, you are joining a mission of development in the third world and peace at large. Last but not the least; let me congratulate Tyreso Skolan for getting Tuff Prize, which your school so much deserved, by its action in strengthening solidarity, leading finally to peace in the world - so much needed today. With many thanks again and the best wishes.
Bhikhu Vyas [On behalf of the schools, the people of Dharampur and VPSS - 24/05/2010] |
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N E W S – B U L L E T I N D H A R A M P U R & K A P A R A D A [January - February - March - April : 2010] Cooperation of Tuff - Sweden |
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9 Visitors from Sweden. Dharampur schools & community were highly privileged to have 9 Swedes [in three groups] amidst them. The mention has been made in the last N. Bu. of the two groups, who visited us in December. The report that we received from the third group of seniors is self – explanatory. The same is reproduced here. Accept minor factual corrections nothing is removed, this being report based on extensive visits at grass - roots. As it covers many of our on - going activities, the same are referred briefly in this Bu. Please treat this as main News Bulletin: Now let us turn to the report, as it is:
Swedish Translation of ‘Hind Swaraj’ by Gandhi 'Hind Swaraj' - means Real Independence [Swaraj] of India [Hind], written by Gandhi. It vividly depicts the clash of two cultures - largely materialistic [consumerism & greed - based] one, which was fast spreading those days and sustainable [need - based] as well as eco - friendly - Gandhi's dream of new socio - economic - political [spiritual, to use the terminology of Gandhi] one. He felt so strongly and wrote down ' Hind Swaraj ' in one go. Heartening to learn that Ake is one of the translators of this tiny book Exciting to learn that the Swedish translation [also] of this historic book - was made public in the Finnish Capital Helsinki
Mango Program - Crossing 100000 Figure in Monsoon Drive to buy Christmas Mango grams to send to relatives and friends is a creative and fruitful idea indeed. The help finally goes to the poor in Dharampur. How nice that Malin [visited Dharampur] has designed Christmas Mangogram as Greeting Card, with one of Dharampur student’s drawing on the front page. A few words from a letter written to the contributors
“ We were much impressed & encouraged to learn that you have generously contributed for our mango plantation program in Dharmpur Block. I just want to tell you that we highly value your token support for the program. Your involvement is quite a stimulus for our workers. We have distributed 95500 plants in last 15 years at half price with excellent results. The target in next monsoon is to distribute at lest 4500 plants, touching the magic figure of 100000.
Congratulations : Tyreso Skola Congratulations to Tyresö skola. for receiving Tuff Prize of SEK 6000. Importantly it will facilitate two of the teachers - Jonas Hugosson and Kerstin Andersson to visit Dharampur next year. They are welcome. We are happy to learn that the school is organizing OODW on 4th June and is planning to support a Dharampur School.
Good Wishes: Kumla for OODW on 12th May I have seen how hard all of you work on OODW. I found the atmosphere so warm when once we were there, when the ‘DAY” was in progress. Ours is such an exemplary relationship! Such ‘Day’s in the past by many Swedish Sister Schools like yours have made and is making education possible, for children of illiterate masses in Dharampur in particular, as also economic development in general. You are giving a new future - A HOPE - to them.
While congratulating Kumla, several things surface in my mind. Most important is the contribution of Yim Fun Wu for 2 bore - wells [mentioned in last N. Bu.] I have also heard that Kumla has launched a symbolic program of mango - grams purchase, the plantation finally taking place in Dharampur - the other end of the world. It was so stimulating to learn that Kumla teachers also have contributed for a well. Only recently we happened to visit one village - having acute drinking water problem. The community has dug a well there. They badly required material. It was the spot decision to take up that well, with assured Kumla support. It will be ready in a month, before it starts raining. I have seen an article in your paper 'Tyrso Nyheter' with the headline "KUMLA SCHOOL IMPRESSES AGAIN". I was happy to learn that when you were shown that article, all of you applauded & got excited. All this shows that yours is not simply monitory support; but genuine involvement. Most importantly, it gives feeling of solidarity, so much needed in present world. [from a letter]
Moving Letter : Why not visiting Dharampur [ From a letter of a Swedish teacher]
Action in Dharampur Mud Check - Dams Crossing 400 Mark C. Dams give a new hope for ‘Fight against Hunger’ in Dharampur- Kaprada Block An extensive report: A Decade of Dams & Soil Bunding ’ with full coverage is in the offing It was a small beginning a decade ago, without any technical skill in us – just enthusiasm and demand of the community. But we approached few NGOS, well-versed in the subject and. some friendly engineers. Fortunately few of our workers picked up the skill [now they are experts, as bear –foot dam engineers] – during visits of success stories, organized by VPSS. Today - during a decade - VPSS has constructed 401 Check – Dams. 361 were ready and 40 have just been added [this year], with a generous support from one Indian Trust Body. 13 more are on way [see M. Marriages report below] Now dams is our best community based program. Hopefully, it will help 3000 hectares of paddy crop [during dry spells in monsoon and] and second crop of mainly vegetables in winter. To sum up, 3 benefits are obvious:
· Support during monsoon & Irrigation support for second crops· Reaching existing wells & water facility for cattle· Supplementary jobs at the door – steps of the communities
Soll – Bunding We have evolved a pattern, where people have a final say in suggesting programs for their betterment. Out of the several action - plans on these lines soil - bunding expanded very fast on larger scale. .A trial project of soil – bunding was initiated a decade and half ago, in 3 selected villages, involving 80 farmers. They constructed bunds of stone on their own land. Accordingly, the above mentioned beginning was made, with the initiative of the community Then it was galloping all the years, with fantastic results[Repot is to come out] The farmers got grains on ‘Food for Work’ pattern. This was about 50 % of the actual wages. The rest is considered as labor contribution. The same norms have been followed, all these years.
Summing Up Though this self-generated local employment is a short-term work attacking hunger to some extent, regarding long-term benefits, erosion of precious soil was stopped. Also about 3,000 hectares of wasteland got reclaimed or repaired, and moisture got preserved. New & better crops are being grown now in roughly 20,000 hectares of new fields [Earlier barren land]
[For more facts/figures and understanding of the concept pl. see past N. Bu. on Tuff Web]
Rain Water Harvesting Tanks {RWH} There are already 6 community RWH tanks in our schools – very useful in summer months. Last year, with the support of A group from Switzerland 7 trial tanks were constructed for families, with labor contribution of the beneficiaries. Finding a success, 20 more Tanks have been constructed, on same pattern as above. The program is supported by an Indian Trust. It is a pleasure to recollect that three RWH Tanks were built on the same pattern, some 13 years back, with Tuff support. But it took long for the community, to accept the novel idea.
Land – Mark: Vocational Training for Girls It was a landmark event during the 'Development March' of last two and a half decades [contact, planning & actual action] in Dharampur Block. 60 girls from poor families [age 16/20] of remote forest villages left the Girls' Hostel [Bilpudi].for an advanced Vocational & Technical Training in one Institute, 350 km away from Dha. VPSS did very well in this field in last one year, with generous support of Shree Rajachandra Ashram. [See past N. Bulletins].
Exchange Visits of Villagers It was a real motivational and educative experiment of sharing achievements, knowledge and aspirations. 45 persons from Matunia [Model Village - on way to fast development] went to Seltipada [a success story – with second crops] in our lorry. There was good exchange of views and experiences between both the groups. The Matunia group was taken around the dams and fields by 25 farmers of Seltipada. They are performing rather well, since last so many years. They have a good net - work of small check - dams, wells, soil - bunding and engines [Holistic water management]. Also mango trees, new seeds and other programs.
Matunia Model Shows the Way In this Model Village [on way], we are trying out several initiatives. They never had second [winter] Crop. Now almost the whole village has taken the crop, with excellent success [5 to 10 times returns]. People were very excited to see the crop and when they got good cash also by selling special fodder seeds - grown for the first time. One of the villagers tried out entirely a new vegetable crop, with great success; because a check - dam has been constructed last year, touching this field. Now that he has seen remarkable result, more people would follow. We planned the second crop, mainly relying on moisture. The ides has clicked. Matunia certainly will have positive impact [more production] by and by in surrounding villages. That is the plan. VIAS provided them quality seeds at subsidized rates. Totally 7 check dams have been constructed [see below] Pregnant women’s’ program has been restarted here Next year. VIAS is going to try out subsidized re- - housing program in Matunia. The selection of families is in progress. One Trust has offered generous support Another Trust is taking up a cement check dam here, on the site selected by VPSS team A well qualified tribal lady lives amidst community & coordinates all the Development Plans.
VPSS has constructed 8 check - dams earlier in this village. They are also helpful for second crop. But we planned the second crop mainly relying on moisture – the focus of the program.
‘Health - Camp in Tamachhadi Parle Biscuits’ Trust organized Health Check - Up Camp, in Tamachhadi High - School. There were 45 people [doctors, para - medicals and support team] in all; who conducted the Camp. Our teachers were volunteers. A little over 1200 patients took advantage. Not only were the patients [all diseases] examined and treated with free medicines; but all were given a packet of biscuits as well as a medicinal sop. Those with serious problems were treated in the Trust hospital. The camp helped real poor - those [most of them] not having money, even for traveling to see doctors in far away Dharampur. The Trustees also joined the camp. I took them to 2 bore wells & told the story of quality support of Kim. They were rather wonder - struck. The photograph of Kim [with a banner of Kumla Skola in hand] was still there.
Students’ Fair The Students' Fair of all our schools was held in Shree Rajachandra Ashram [Dharampur]. . About 500 students of 5/6/7/8/9 grades of all our schools participated in that gathering The students were divided in different groups of Drama, Songs, Dances, Drawing, Science and Library etc. It was education through experience and fun, culminating in performances of all that they learnt. There were 20 resource persons from several parts of Gujarat as guides.
Result of the Fair Immediately after the 'Fair' joint meeting of Ashram activists and VIAS group was held in presence of the mentor of Ashram Re. Rakeshbhai. The focus was on quality education in general and upgradation of 9/10/11 & 12th grade students in particular, through expert teachers [to be employed by Ashram]
Cow – Shed : New Chapter One lady from Bombay visited Bilpudi with a proposal to start Cow - Shed in Bilpudi Hostel. A group of devotees looking after cow - project [Shri R. ashram] also visited Bilpudui an made the same sort of offer. Great. The plan is under active consideration, at the moment. A new chapter.
Dharampur Group to visit Sweden Koki – Rajesh – Bhikhu are invited by Tuff to visit Sweden for about a month. The trip may take place between the middle of September to middle of October: 2010
Visitors from Switzerland Two highly motivated ladies from Switzerland visited Dharampur briefly. This is their second visit. They told us that they aspire to follow OODW TUFF model in some environment – friendly schools in their country. Please visit Tuff web for more news.
Koki’s visit to Shanti Niketan Koki attended the All India Conference of Gandhian Sarvodaya] workers in Assam -[on border of China]. On return trip she visited Shanti Niketan [Tagore].
Eye Operation of Bikhu Vyas I underwent eye – operation [cataract] a in march, so rather slow in moving, and correspondence. .I am fully recovered and on the job, as before.
Economic Development from M.M. [Latest] Can we some how make the man with leg - defect financially independent? Suppose he can set up a small shop or run a telephone booth. We will finance his investment. We can provide him artificial leg. We would support full medical treatment, so that he can move around freely. We should also try & see if his wife [with mental problem] can be given some medical treatment. Please admit the kids in our schools. [From a letter of a donor from Bom.]
Published by Vechhi Pradesh Seva Samiti : Valod May 2010 |
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En återblick från Bhikhu, maj 2010
TAMACHHADI SCHOOL IN DHARAMPUR [Total Support TUFF ; 1993 - 2003] |
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The Beginning
The Mini school in village Tamachhadi was
started by Vedchhi Pradesh Seva Samiti {VPSS] in 1993.
Educational Front For children it was impossible to attend Government Day Schools, on account of the distance from home, lack of transport facility, irregularity of teachers, as well as geographical challenges like flooded rivers and high mountains. In order to promote education amidst such a scenario, the only answer left was to start schools with residential facilities. We established schools aiming at All - Round Development. They are located not only within four walls, but are thriving with many other activities & welfare schemes in the surrounding hamlets, as mentioned above. Our schools are more like spring – boards of Development
Start of a Primary School It was the first generation that attended the schools, when we started 6 residential primary schools, up to 2nd standard in 1993. One of them was in village Tamachhadi. The community spared waist land on the top of one hill, facing dense forest. Side - by - side is a river. Of course, it is a wonderful landscape, as also now is our beautiful school. Gradually, we reached to 7th standard. Tamachhadi is motivating the children of the near - by hamlets, to attend the day schools and to add more standards in neighboring villages. Till then, our students were attending village school, run by the government, with extra coaching in or hostel [with all the elements like a regular school - teaching]. Dissatisfied with the quality of education and neglect by those schools, we resolved to run directly schools of our concept [without govt. aid]. Accordingly, we approached the government for recognition of our schools. Tamachhadi was the first school to get such recognition, after hesitation. Then 3 schools followed suit.
Next Phase: High School The next logical step was a high school. After reaching 7th grade in Tamachhadi, when we started dreaming of it; we did not have enough land and adequate funds. In the initial stage, we got donation from Tuff to purchase land & repairing existing buildings. It is a landmark step, when finally we started a high – school in a remote village like Tamachhadi, in June of 2004. There was no facility of a High School those days in around 20 villages. It is a great boon for this cluster. Fortunately one Ashram of Dharampur fully adopted the H. School & Pr. School
We are trying to imbibe value – based education. This includes Habit - Formation, Community - Living, Social Service, Creativity & Clean Environment. With limited land the school is also trying to grow vegetables. Salient features:
The Latest Projects For improving the quality of education VPSS has started Training Camps of teachers and Coaching Classes of students in basic subjects in our Girls’ Hostel. The school complex [both primary & secondary] has been facing drinking water problem in summer. To resolve it VPSS has built big Rain - Water Harvesting Tanks in both the sections. To be latest, 2 bore – wells fixed with Kumla support. Class room built with support of Tyreso Skola. Construction of Girls’ Hostel is on
Conclusion For the area where the first generation is seeing the face of schools, almost all parents are illiterate and pr. schools are not imparting basic education seriously, a beginning is made in a track, where most of the villages get cut off during monsoon. Tamachhadi and our other schools provide some sort of models. We are in the direction of holistic progress, still the twin challenges are there for VPSS: To expand education & generate experience growth. Our efforts are on. |
2009
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NEWS BULLETIN - DHARAMPUR September - December 2009
Unique Contribution from Yim Fun of Kumla School |
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TUFF – VPSS cooperation has a history of 30 long years. It is a stimulating story of continuous contributions from Swedish Sister Schools & some kind individuals. But that from Yim Fun [working on kitchen staff of Kumla School] is so unique. Overhearing that a group of 3 teachers from Kumla were to visit Dharampur, she came forward with a personal support of 5.000 SEK – least bothered about what would be the result and where. Ake asked me, what the money could be used for. After consulting my colleagues, I told him that we would like to sink a bore – well, in one of our schools. When the news was conveyed to Yim, she was so overtaken and thought that the amount [according to her] would not be sufficient. She increased the sum to 7,200 SEK. The inspiring story did not end then and there. Later on, Yim happened to visit her native place - Hongkong. Her relatives and friends knew some how about her resolve. They also were inspired and added their contribution. The figure finally expanded to 10,000 SEK, which is now rupees - 60,000 in Indian Currency. All of yes here are so impressed with her Quality Contribution. As Ake in his response mentioned : ‘Yim Fun does not at all belong to the richest 90 percent of Swedes’.
Instead of one, two bore – wells, fitted with electric motors are now nicely operating – resolving drinking water problem of two schools, instead of one - The Primary School & the High School in Tamachhadi. The beauty of these wells is that, we found water at the first trial and in good quantity. Three teachers from Kumla – surrounded by over - excited students have been to both the wells [More about their visit in the next Bulletin – First one of 2010]
Visitors from Sweden In the middle of December, two intellectuals from Sweden visited Dharampur as well as few old [Pre – Dharampur] Tuff – supported schools around Valod. They extensively visited schools as well as on – going community development programs. They wanted precisely to understand the holistic nature of the Project. We told them the story of ‘Dharampur March’ in great details; the pioneering role played by Tuff and had intensive discussions about several topics. A few lines from a recent letter from Ake, concerning the visit of two persons :
“ To-day I got a letter from Jelena, who together with Neven Milivojevic visited you some weeks ago. She was positive about Koki and you, but also about the projects. Not only as an anthropologist, but she also sounded inspired to participate in the India - Tuff cooperation”.
Stepping Up Mango Plantation : A Tuff Project Mango Program is a Tuff Project. Let the latest exchange of letters speak for the project: “ Glad to hear about the wonderful response for Mangograms program - taken up with such a zeal and sense of commitment by Tuff activists. We have so far [in 14 years] distributed 95,500 mango saplings in Dharampur/Kaprada Communs. More than 500 are planted in the Girls' Hostel in Bilpudi”. [My reply] “ Our selling of mangograms is reaching a new record this year. More than SEK 25 000 has been paid for mangograms “ [From a letter of Ake] [From a letter from Malin Castenfors to Ake Sandin. She invented Christmas Mangograms] :
“ I am so incredibly happy that the Christmas Mangograms have been sold so well. I am often thinking of my time in India in 2006. The visit [with three others] in Dharampur was the high-light of the journey. To see Tuff Projects and be treated with such hospitality is something that really has influenced my way of thinking and seeing upon life”.
Radio Tuff's Marianne Stieger (Robert Library) performed at a small cinema in Malmö. She told the audience about our cooperation and sold mangograms for SEK 685.
Summary from my letter to Ake, over this remarkable success:
“ Please congratulate Marianne for her successful performance in a small cinema in Malmö. What a distance and what closeness at the same time! So far and so near. Even after shifting from Tyreso, she has sustained her interest in Dharampur. We are fortunate to have such committed and concerned friends She seems to have impressed upon the audience [quite unaware about Dharampur situation] so very well, resulting in selling of mangograms for SEK 685 [quite an amount]. It is little over RS 4,000 now. Adding as much amount as matching contribution from the beneficiaries, the figure jumps to more than RS 8,000. That is enough for a little over 200 saplings. A small gesture; but immediate result, with nice impact.
Cannot but share another [last] letter from me to Ake:
“ Glad to learn how successful is the idea of selling Magogram - so imaginatively coordinated with Christmas. How nice to learn that many more people [include important persons in public life] called you and ordered Mangograms for using them as Christmas Gifts. With wonderful efforts of Tuff, the number of plants in Dharampur is going to increase”.
In Kumla every new teacher is greeted with a mangogram. What a wonderful involvement!
Redirecting Tuff Support – Why & How? I will respond today mainly to the questions some parents have raised [In one School]. I can understand all that, as we cannot expect them to comprehend what has been achieved here, so far away. On the other hand, the credit [roots] goes to some spirited Swedish Sister Schools, who organize OODW, year after year. The resulting development takes place here, in the most needy and deserving hilly - forest Block of Dharampur, in such a remote and logistically challenging corner. Again, with the passage of time; two new dimensions have been added. The canvass here went on widening and also [may be] original concept of Tuff of Sisterhood [school to school]. But now the beneficiaries are not just schools; but as well poor communities. I am aware that this makes things rather complicated to understand there and to explain for all of you, to the parents in particular and Tuff members in general. But what I term as ' Face to Face ' poverty [we are amidst it] in Dharampur and also VPSS philosophy about development work demanded new direction, with BROAD - BASED HOLISTIC APPROACH to be precise - attack on poverty, not only educational poverty, but materialistic poverty as well. This led us to strange programs like Mass Marriages, Male Buffaloes [apparently nothing to do with schools] and few more such programs, demanded by the community. We never imagined all this, or even remotely planned; when we entered casually the dark area of Dharampur & Kaprada Talukas [Communes – making a BLOCK] and started the journey. The result: Host of schools & non – schools socio-economic programs – name any. TUFF friends [mainly who visited Dharampur and they are many] are well aware about them and the process that took place during the long ‘March’ Let me specifically mention some non - schools plans. They are Wells - Rain Water Harvesting Tanks, Mango Plantation, Check Dams, Soil – Bunding [to arrest erosion], Oil Engines, Health - Care, etc. – etc. and now a ‘Model Village Plan’ – just shaping. Another important dimension is that of substantial community participation [unique response in Dharampur] & generous donations coming [in last ten years] on increasing scale, over and above Tuff support [The BASE], mainly from Indian Trusts [also overseas] and individuals. This is how the project went on expanding much faster than we ever could visualize. From a modest start, we went on extending newer programs for larger population, touching the life of about 100000 people, in more than 100 villages. The expansion is still on and seems limitless, if we could manage. You and Gunnar are witness [20 years ago] that when we started just night – classes, with small budget of Tuff [we have now crossed 10 M. rupees] and without any road – map. Now there are roads after roads, leading to many directions and dimensions. This is what I describe as NATURAL GROWTH Coming to schools also, there is no dearth. As from few night classes, the project got expanded to 6 Primary and 2 Secondary Schools, a Girls' Hostel, a Boys' Hostel, a Mobile Van & Vocational Training Program This expansion is of great value for poorest of the poor families of Dharampur Block.
[After this explanation, I gave few concrete examples of the school projects, from support]
Winter Camp In Chandvagan School , one institute from Baroda & VPSS jointly organized 4 days Vacation Camp for kids of 5/6/7/8 grades. They were 62 - 40 from various cities and towns of Gujarat as well as 22 from Dharampur Schools. The theme : Face to face with forest and tribal families, living below poverty line [BPL}. For 3 days, the kids moved extensively in the forest guided by our workers - walking, climbing, visiting caves & water falls, enjoying lunch arranged by the community, visiting families around the school to have a close look in their day - to - day life in particular and become aware about their life - style in general, as well as trying to understand their living standard.- why it is like so. All this was followed by the discussions and sharing experiences every day. The focus was on analysis of the situation [poverty and disparity, to be precise], with likely solutions. This was for the first time we held such a mixed camp. It was a success, as we could assess from the feed - back of the kids.. Their responses & feelings were positive & touching. In past, we have organized several camps on different issues in Dharampur. But this really was unique, in last 2 decades.
Check Dams & Soil Conservation We are now building 40 new mud/stone check - dams [total will touch to 400], over and above soil - bunding [conservation] and repairs of few existing dams. We have received over a million rupees from a Trust Body], for this ambitious plan. Their representatives visited Dharampur, to assess the situation and see the existing dams, as well as standing crops – the outcome. The result was obvious.
All these programs [also soil –bunding] are labor - intensive and follow ' Food for Work' principles. They will create more employment, resulting into more food grains distribution [short – term gain] at the door - steps of the people. On account of very weak monsoon, crop production is hardly 50 %. The situation would be alarming in summer months. The check - dams and other programs like soil – conservation hopefully will provide some relief.
Survey of 40 Old Dams As required by one Bombay – based Rotary Club [with major matching contribution from Rotary International], our staff just conducted survey of 40 check – dams supported by them. 36 are found in good condition; while 4 are damaged. The dams provided water to save standing crops during dry spells in monsoon. The workers got food – grains worth a million rupees, as wages. One of the objectives of the dams is to provide water to cattle. That way, it proved a boon to the community, in this water – starved region. We are going to repair dams which are damaged. The total population covered in one way or the other : 15,839
The recharging process continues, even after the dams dry up, as their main source of water collection is rain. The main purpose is to catch good amount of run - off water, that flows from the catchments area. Even if the dams preserve water for 6 to 7 months; they continue raising water table of surrounding wells. Dams indirectly help in reforestation as well as mango plantation. About 40 % is labour contribution of the community. The rest of the wages are paid in form of food – grains only. Some other NGOS also got inspired and took up this program. In such dams, people feel that they are their dams (assets) and hence they immediately repair them (being close); before much damage takes place. With supportive water management programs (like soil - bunding, new wells, engines etc.) this is shaping as, sort of a composite plan.
Cement Dams We are not in favor of cement dams, as they are costly, not labor - intensive and eco - friendly But we have visited and selected two sites, where such dams only could work The matter has also been discussed with our dam - workers as well as the community, Finally we have agreed to build 2 cement dams, as a trial. The proposed sites are in small rivulets and the normal dams could not stand strong currents, during monsoon. Few groups earlier visited Dharampur to study the proposal. We have just got their positive response. . Rain Water Harvesting Additionally, 20 Rain Water Harvesting Tanks are coming up. The digging is just finished by the beneficiaries. The rest of the support [for material] is coming from one Bombay Trust Body. We have been executing all such plans since last 15 years; but this time we are coordinating it, keeping in mind the challenge ahead. Two oil – engines ate given for irrigation and one more bore – well [for a hamlet], is on way.
Quality Drive in Education The Girls' Hostel is now shaping as a centre for Quality Education, for all our schools. The ‘Drive' for upgrading academic subjects [explained in the last N. Bu.] and creating general awareness is very much on. One expert teacher is helping Koki. Of course, this is a preliminary stage [advance, compared to our remote schools]. A good beginning is made.
Second Crop The Winter Crop Drive [explained in the last N. Bu.] is very much on - on a bigger scale. We visited many villages [a few Swedes joined us], where the people came forward. It was great to observe green carpet [first time in many villages], instead of grey fields. It certainly will compensate to some extent, the deficit – resulted on account of last weak monsoon. VPSS has spent RS 300000 [got support from one kind individual] for distribution of seeds, much in advance. This follows our latest emphasis [see last Bu.] for 'Food - First'. We will be coordinating water management programs to fight food - shortage, which may be on higher scale this year, mainly in summer months. We had planned the 'Drive' long back, with good success of 'Trial Project' in last winter [See the last Bulletin]
Visit of NGO Team We had about 40 visitors in Vaghaval School and then in Bilpudi Hostel. They were the supporters of Sewa Rural NGO - most of them doctors and other like - minded NGO representatives. The topic was: Dharampur Model and its value - based approach. It was sort of a mini – seminar, inspiring for NGOS, individual workers and youngsters dreaming to join some such stream in poor localities. One American girl also joined the group.
Model Village A very well - qualified tribal lady lives amidst the community and is spearheading this pioneering concept. She has successfully implemented ‘Winter Crop’ plan, started building check – dams as well as soil - bunding there. She is motivating parents for immunization program for kids and other welfare plans of the government, targeted to the women. A recent addition from the project is food – nourishment program for pregnant women and children. A cement dam and general Health Check – Up camp are on the cards
A trip of the farmers from Matunia [Model Village] to Seltipada village [a success story] was a real motivational exercise and educative experiment of sharing achievements, knowledge and aspirations. 45 farmers from Matunia went to Seltipada in TUFF lorry. There was good exchange of views and experiences between both the groups. Matunia group was taken around the dams and fields by 25 farmers of Seltipada, who have performed extremely well, since last few years, on account of new water management schemes. They have a good net - work of small check dams, wells, soil - bunds and engines. Also mango program, new seeds, second crop and other community development programs have been effectively implemented in that cluster. This was the first experiment of its type. Enthused by the first trip, a second equally successful trip was arranged in another village, where a ‘Toilet Project’ has been successfully introduced by two other NGOS jointly. This is to motivate the community for introducing toilets [a new thing] in Matunia Model Village. We are hopeful.
Winter Crop program in particular is attracting many visitors to Matuniya [out of 10 selected for expanding this crop]. It was recently visited by one expert, to prepare a Blue – Print of the proposed Model Plan. The village never had Winter [Second] Crop. Most of the farmers were rather skeptical in the beginning; but after viewing initial success and also on account of close contact of our lady worker staying with them, they expanded the program in rest of their fields, followed by the neighbors, one after the other. One of the villagers tried out entirely a new vegetable crop, with success, as one dam constructed last year is close to his field. On account of the remarkable result, more people may follow him, next year.
During our initial contact - meetings before monsoon, the community decided not to allow free movement of their cattle after rains. Otherwise, this is a common practice in forest villages. This was our precondition, before embarking upon the 'Winter Crop Drive'. VPSS has also constructed few check dams earlier, in this village. They are as well helpful for second crop. An interesting incident took place at the last community meeting. A group taking special interest in this village also was present. It included a 94 years old gentle man. The road to Matunia was not quite jeepable. So we held meeting, close to the main road. The old man did not agree to go to the hostel and rest. He attended the meeting silently, which required a little walking on rough terrain.
Vocational Training The on - going Vocational & Technical Training Program has started creating self - employment of those who got training in last year and a half. The Program as well its offshoot self - employment plan is supported by Shrimad Rajachandra Ashram [See the last Bulletin]. While touring with guests, we visited a tailoring shop and one two – wheeler garage, run by those who were trained last year. We have 60 such cases on record. Great
Male – Buffalo 700 animals were given to 350 [two to each] families The figure has now reached to 2800 The program is supported by many Trusts [distance from - 500 to 600 km from Dharampur Block], looking after welfare of animals. A delegate from one of the Trusts visited Dharampur recently for review and further planning. They have agreed to cooperate in future. The animals are very useful in agricultural operations and they are echo – friendly. Great.
Two Activists of Bombay Two Bombay - based activists for Dharampur [Mr. Rajesh Shah & Mrs. Bhavana Shah] repeatedly visited Dharampur, to help us for on – going projects. Recently Rajesh came with a friend and walked for about 60 km, from one school to another. Bhavana – also recently came with his US – based son & her husband, The son was keen to see work going on at the grass – roots. They were happy to see the second crop, in a vast area, soil – buding and the underground water – tanks, being dug by the beneficiaries. They also made an in – depth visit of one school – in session
Tragic Accident & Relief A serious jeep accident killing 8 persons took place here. Our workers rushed to the village of the victims [very remote] and provided immediate relief. When some Bombay friends came to know about it, they wanted to give more and meaningful help, I visited the village along with them and met the families of the victims. The Bombay friends are helping generously for immediate and long - term measures. They include support for hospital - treatment and food – grains, to be provided for a year, to those families who lost their bread - earners. VPSS is going to give them free mango plants [Tuff Funding] and we are also going to cover the families under our on - going water – management programs, so that the affected families could carry on food production. The boys and girls eligible for schooling will be admitted in our schools. As desired by our kind supporters, the families will get roofing tiles, before monsoon.
NEWS IN BRIEF
Common Sense & Community Spirit VPSS has constructed a check dam, about 8 years back in village Hetpada. It has proved helpful to the farmers, all these years. The Village Council is resourceful. They managed to get support from the government and renovated the dam. A well was constructed earlier from Tuff Funding [well program]. It is now on the edge of the dam and provides year - round drinking water [recharging]. To keep the dam full, the leadership has managed for a diesel engine, to get back leaking water. When I visited the spot recently with two Swede friends, I found water [dam was full] not being used in agriculture. They replied; ‘The community has decided not to use water this year, as many families are making bricks. We have got support for our rehousing from the government.’ Salute to their common sense and wonderful community spirit.
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Bhikhu Vyas & Kokila Vyas ; Draft : 12 - 01 - 2010 VEDCHHI PRADESH SEVA SAMITI Project Office : Tuff Friendship House - Vedchhi [T. Valod] 394641 [Branch of Vedchhi Pradeha Seva Samiti – Udyogvadi : Valod |
2008-2009
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Hur används TUFF-pengarna
i Indien? Se nedan). Det är hela 20 olika projekt! Det gäller de 300 000 kr vi skickade senast.
Siffrorna i rupier kan divideras med 6 för få antalet kronor.
Åke, tel 712 4463 |
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Dharampur Comprehensive Development Project
Schools At the outset, let me explain the position, as it went on developing and changing. The trend is still on, of more funds coming from local sources, without asking. The latest example is that of ‘Low Cost Mini Lunch’. We have started it in one big day high school. The support came from a Trust of Bombay. Actually they suggested this program to try out. Finding it worth - while and well - managed [after a trustee visited program in school], the trustee is asking to add one more school As for VPSS, in the field of education, it is running now 6 primary schools and 2 high schools [with hostels], 2 hostels [one for girls and one for boys] for Gymnasium level students, 1 Mobile Van and 1 Vocational Training Program, The latest addition is mini meal, which I have mentioned above Substantial involvement of Tuff is in the following programs [education]. Major contribution of Tuff is utilized after schools [education] But we have not hesitated to initiate seeds for Winter Moisture Crop [second crop] – not depending upon rain, to produce more food – grains. This may prove history – setting, as we are facing draught - emerging crisis - now much needing Winter.Crop.
Virekshetra School The school is having 105 students in grades 4-5-6 -7, with three teachers. One of them is supported by one Trust [Parle Biscuits]. There are 2 cooks. No other servants or peons. The hostel is managed on self – help principles, by teachers & students It include cleaning the rooms and the premises, water – management, gardening, other daily routine activities [like washing clothes & cleaning dishes etc.], serving food & helping in cooking – as part of broad [value – added] practical education [not only bookish] All the students attend next – door village day – school. The students get intensive coaching before and after school – hours, in the hostel. They are now having all the facilities of permanent nature, as also computers, coming from different donors under schemes for all the schools. In this school, about 90 % support is from Tuff
Vankhas School The school is having 120 students in grades 4-5-6 -7, with four teachers. One of them is supported by one Trust [Parle Biscuits]. There are 2 cooks. The rest of the pattern is the same as above. The only addition is the floor mill and oil engine on our well. For this school [4th one], we have received the permission of the government, to run it directly by VPSS. The permission is up to 6th grade, so the 7th grade has to go to the village school [for one year] - 5 five minutes walk from our school. So the students of 4/5/6 grades do not now require to go to the village school. In this school also, about 90% support is from Tuff. In short, these 2 schools are Tuff schools on original pattern
Vaghval School Here now we have a School – Complex, having Primary & Secondary School [with hostels of course], like Tamachhadi. The P. School having 4/5/6/7 grades is recognized by the government and run directly by VPSS Like Vankhas the 7th grade has to go to the village school in the neighborhood [for one year]. We started here High School last year [recognized by the government] – now having 8th & 9th grades There are 165 students [Pri. & Se.] and 9 teachers. The pattern is the same as Virekshetra / Vankhas.
Since last 6 months, one big Trust from Bombay [like Tamachhadi School Complex] Has fully adopted this school, with hostel, providing expenses for the whole year. The High School is fully equipped, with all the facilities – having all the class rooms as well as Science Laboratory Building, nice Library, Staff Rooms, new Sanitary Blocks, Water Arrangement & Computer Lab. The Trust is fully involved with the school, to the extent that they visit Vaghval periodically. They have an ambition to make Vaghval a ‘Model & Modern Educational Institute’ This long introduction is to convey, why bridging fund was not required for this school. This is an unexpected, but permanent arrangement. The rest of the Schools – Hostels – Mobile Van and Vocational Program are adopted by different Trusts. Of course, as before, we liberally bridge [Pl. see separate Chart] the financial gap from flexible funds in our hands, generously provided by Tuff. Of course, the pattern has changed exact from a particular Swedish School to a particular Dharampur School. I am fully aware that this pattern makes the motivating exercise difficult for Tuff friends. I have elaborated this point earlier in my several letters to you and hinted in my messages to the S. Schools.
Few More Points
Other Small Supports to the Schools For our schools we get free text – books, note – books at nominal rate and good amount of furniture as well dresses and even snacks, occasionally.
From only Schools to Holistic Pattern The project has taken not only real holistic shape, but is becoming broader and larger, with commendable flow of funds from Indian Sources, over and above regular Tuff funding. There were no local funds for the first whole decade. Tuff was our only partner. With this change, the original style [School to School] went on changing, with linkage of education with socio-economic progress of the community - both these aspects of life, with ever expanding programs [you have my periodical News letters].
No Government Funding - Real People’s Project [Exceptional] Now I must conclude with these final remarks: The yearly budget is touching a crore [10 millions] of rupees, with about one-third contribution from local communities, mainly in form of labor & totally no govt. funding – thanks to Tuff, Donors & People
Bhikhu Vyas [For VPSS] D. 03 -09 - 2009 |
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Resultat av 20
års verksamhet! Rapport från Bhikhu maj 2009 |
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TWO DECADES : ACHIEVEMENTS
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THE LATEST DRIVE
917 kilogram seeds given to 334 families, just in 3 months produced
18,007 kilograms of grains ! |
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KUMLA SKOLA FÅR SOLIDARITETSPRIS
(Pressmeddelande från TUFF)
Kumla skola i Tyresö har ofta kallats svenska skolmästare i internationell solidaritet. Det är välförtjänt, för sedan början av 1970-talet har skolan varje år gjort dagsverken för mycket fattiga jämnåriga i indiska skolor. Redan 1975 uppfördes i delstaten Gujarat en skolbyggnad med fem klassrum, som än i dag bär namnet Kumla Wing.
Sedan dess har Kumla bidragit till många av Tyresö Ulands- och FredsFörenings (Tuff) projekt i Indien. Det har blivit skolbibliotek, skolmatsalar, skoltoaletter, skollaboratorier, ja till och med en medicinfabrik. På 1990-talet fick tack vare Kumla och andra skolor 3000 barn till säsongarbetande sockerrörshuggare ”a smile for a while” som indiska partners uttryckte det. Dessa hårt arbetande och extremt lågavlönade bodde med sina familjer i eländiga läger, där det för Tyresöpengar år efter år uppfördes 50 stora skoltält och anställdes lika många unga lärarinnor. Där fick barnen elementär undervisning, ett mellanmål per dag en uppsättning kläder.
De senaste åren har Tuffpengar, bland annat från Kumla, finansierat sex skolor bland de fattigaste av de fattiga. De finns i det tidigare så försummade indiska området Dharampur. Där får uppåt tusen barn till analfabeter undervisning, logi och mat.
För sina mångåriga insatser har nu Kumla skola just fått Tuffs pris för berömvärt lokalt solidaritetsarbete. Tuffs vice ordförande Monica Schelin, varje vecka medarbetare i Radio Tuff på 91,4 MHz, berättar:
-- Tyresö Ulands- och FredsFörenings pris för ”berömvärt lokalt freds- och solidaritetsarbete” har sedan 1993 vartannat år utdelats till föreningar, grupper och enskilda, från Luleå i norr till Värnamo i söder och Orust i väster. Det består av ett diplom och 7000 kr. Det är inte villkorat, fast nu hoppas vi, att Kumla ska använda pengarna som bidrag till lärares resa till de indiska projekten. Tidigare har många från Kumla besökt Tuff-projekten i Indien och blivit imponerade och inspirerade av hur förvånansvärt mycket och bra som uträttats för pengarna. Men i dag finns ingen kvar på skolan av dessa Indienresenärer.---------------------------------------------------------------------
Bhikhu Vyas: CONGRATULATIONS TO KUMLA SCHOOL, TYRESÖ (Gandhianen Bhikhu Vyas är tillsammans med sin fru Kokila och flera medarbetare, både hinduer och muslimer, Tuffs partner sedan 1979.)
We in Valod & Dharampur [India] are extremely happy to learn that Ake & Monica will give away TUFF PRIZE to Kumlaskolan on 16th of April. Please accept our heart - felt congratulations. As the pioneer of Sister Schools Cooperation - for organizing most successful Operation One Day’s Work (OODW) year after year - without a break, for last 30 [?] years, there could not be a better choice. OOWD may look small gestures on the face of it; but they have given concrete results : Salaries of Teachers & Food for Students, Buildings, Laboratories, Teaching Aids/ Equipments, Libraries, Sanitary Blocks, Water Works, Electricity . What not ?
We have seen all this happening in last two & a half decades, in many a schools in the poorest communities. Sister - Schools is a unique action - oriented concept, in the International Field. Again, Kumla has a habit of breaking former records. Let us salute your spirit of working for schools [and also other community development programs for poor] in our invisible corner, thousands of kilometers away from Tyreso. It had always been a great feeling for all the students and teachers here. I am so delighted to tell you that education [and development] are spreading fast amidst challenging logistics in the isolated commune of Dharampur, on account of generous contribution of Kumlaskolan, followed by many other schools, with wonderful coordination of Tuff.
When I am penning this note, my mind goes back to those exciting days, when I had been to your school, first time in 1984 and then several times, during my 7 visits of Sweden. It was an experience of life, to be amidst nice students & teachers, trying to generate support through several creative methods; a mix of fun, commitment and education!
While the families all over the world are becoming more and more self - centered, the Swedish Sister Schools Cooperation gives trust in the goodness of the wider society. It is such a delight to learn that there are schools like Kumla far far away, who are thinking of and are concerned for schools in our part of the world, Sister - Schools Cooperation is a practical model of Friendship in Action. In a way, you are joining a mission, targeted finally to peace and development. On account of many little efforts at many places, we may see one day, a new & better world - order. Let me congratulate you for TUFF AWARD & convey best wishes to the lovely students & friendly teachers. I hope that all at Kumla would sustain the traditions established by the stalwarts who are retired and carry forward the Torch ------------------------------------------- Bhikhu Vyas, Tuffs partner i Indien sedan 1979 |
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NEWS LETTER FOR SWEDISH SISTER SCHOOLS
DHARAMPUR EDUCATION
Girls’
Hostel/School We remain worried that our students are good in value – based education like cultural programs, music, dancing, arts, sports, social work [for example mini clinic for people], community life, gardening etc.; but are bit weak on academic side. Enthused with the trial - project as above, we have planned to give it a routine shape of a school from next June. The students of our schools will come to the Hostel, stay there for a week or so turn-by-turn, for learning different subjects intensively. For this purpose, the science equipments as well as more books have just been purchased. VPSS is going to construct Science/Computer Lab. & Library in the Hostel. The classes will continue more systematically there, next year. The training of VPSS teachers will be continuously on as well as special classes of senior grade students in one expert center. We are going to employ qualified teachers from next June. A librarian will coordinate library – work with emphasis on reading habits in all our schools. We used funds of Tuff for the Pilot Project & have got total support for every thing mentioned above from Sweden, for next year.
Advanced
Education
Vaghval - Model School In the meeting last week, between the Foundation team & Dharampur team, some goals were specified, to make the school a model. Glimpse of Goals, for next three years: 1. To send teachers for additional training & appointing extra subject teachers to upgrade educational standard. The science teacher is through out our ex - student and then was fully supported by VPSS, for his advanced studies. 2. Child development to be all-round in terms not only of studies but also in other extra curricular activities. All year – round Activity Calendar has been prepared. It would be enforced from next June. It would include field trip, sports festival and cultural day, where all the students should take part. 3. One Library teacher and one sports teacher to be appointed. 4. Laboratory will be fully equipped. 5. Computer room to be set up. 5 computers to be added [with present ones]. 6. Library to be reorganized and expanded. 7. An Exhaustive Progress Chart of each & every student to be maintained [to be introduced in all 8 VPSS schools & Hostels [now 2], with monitoring on.
New Boys’ Hostel
Vocational Training – Fastest Program For those youths [school drop - outs] of the area who completed training, a follow - up program is on way. We have covered the prospective and innovative ones, to start with. It is a livelihood program - jobs - the critical aspect of the dark economic picture in Dharampur. VPSS has giving to 30 of them, tools and equipments at subsidized rates, to set up their small entrepreneurships [like mobile phone repairing shop, sewing machines, carpentry etc.] The initial results are encouraging. More youths are going to be supported on self – employment lines as above, as soon as they complete training.
Support for New Schools MASS MARRIAGES : GREAT SUCCESS
Roots
Some friends from Bombay liked the concept - as it proved a great saving for poor tribals and resolved sensitive issue of life. Many of the pairs just could not marry till they are adults or old on account of abject poverty. Of course, they start living together [having children]. In tribal society this is accepted as normal phenomena. The offer of support from Bombay well – wishers was followed by two NGOS jointly in 2007. Furthermore in 2008 V.P.S.S. organized Mass Marriages in 2 villages - totaling 82 couples.
Further Progress
The Local expenditure was taken care of from the contribution of the couples - RS 500 [80 SEK] per pair. The community earlier promised to take care of the deficit, if any. This was settled in a week. When we knew of the deficit later on, we spoke to the organizers that VPSS could take care of it. But they were rather firm not to accept our offer. Their logic was : As the families had promised to bridge deficit, they should keep the promise. They even handed over two pairs of dresses to us, which were extra. The leaders who met us told us casually that 5 couples were too poor for even RS 500 contribution and hence they paid only partial amount. The committee allowed them to participate. Fine. Traditional Ornaments and Dress Material were gifts from one Bombay Trust. The expenditure for mass meals and other sundry items is a donation by another Bombay Trust. The Vessels, Shawl & Mango Plants are from VPSS [Base : Swedish support]. Water Management & Food Production
Check
– Dams
Food
Production : New Drive
Rain
Water Harvesting Tanks
Mango
Plantation IN BRIEF · 11th grade Hostel girls went on a study trip in Gujarat · A new Trust has been registered to manage expanding programs with local support - coming on increasing scale. Good prospects for future development · 9 wells are under construction and are about to compete · PVC pipe - lines given to 15 farmers for extending small irrigation from wells · 4 oil – engines given for the same purpose [Pipes and engines at half price] · The newly designed family latrines program will be implemented after monsoon. We are negotiating at present, with a friendly expert NGO. · As always Dharampur Project is attracting many visitors. There were 40 groups [one 23 members team from Rotary Club of Bombay, who supported 40 check – dams earlier as well as has partially adopted one school] and individuals like : Doctors - Clubs – Support Groups – Teachers – Social Activists, Bombay Colleagues active in Field Work & Project. Management. · Some drawings of VPSS schools were selected by ‘Step In’ friends. First they screen - printed them as Cards in Switzerland & sold them to support 'Rain Water Harvesting Tanks'. In the second round, more Cards were selected and printed in Bombay through one of our activist colleagues Bhavana [They became friends]. She got 3,000 cards screen - printed likewise. 1,000 of them have been sent to Tuff and 1000 have been sent to ‘Step In’. They bore the entire cost. The rest are for the well – wishers of Dharampur Project. · Two Health Check – Up camps were organized in Tamachhadi by one NGO Health Care Trust. 2500 people took advantage of the camps, where free medicines also were given. The students of all the schools were checked by different voluntary groups, with a follow – up treatment of about 50 students, for various diseases. 5 serious patients were given guidance & support. · A model ‘Village Development Plan’ [as Pilot Project] is being worked out. It is to be implemented after June - 2009 onwards. Total support is offered for it. · A well is being constructed in the Girls’ Hostel, as the number of water - users is growing. One Sister School from Sweden is going to work for this well. · 10 students from Dharampur joined Vacation Camp [Vanasthali – VPSS] · One American Foundation decided to contribute for school – development. · A post – graduate student from Gujarat University joined Tamachhdi, to visit Schools & Rural reconstruction programs, for field experience as part of study Bhikhu Vyas & Kokila Vyas VEDCHHI PRADESH SEVA SAMITI Tuff Friendship House: VEDCHHI : 394641 [January – February – March – April : 2009] |
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IN THIS LIFE WE CAN’T DO GREAT THINGS WE CAN ONLY DO SMALL THINGS, WITH GREAT LOVE MOTHER TERESA A journey of thousand miles must begin with a single step LAI -TZE |
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RELIGION OF POOR I happened to visit a farmer who grew winter crop under our seeds support program. He was describing his experience with great joy. He was telling us that he hopes to grow more food – grains from this second crop. A visitor accompanying me asked him ’ What will you do with more production ? ’ Prompt came the reply : ‘ Will do Dharam [religion]. I will distribute some food - grains to my 4 brothers & a sister. The rest we will use in family. I am not selling this food grains’
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DHARAMPUR - BULLETIN
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SWEDEN
The Next Five Year Plan [2009 – 2013] : Roots
The plan developed likewise. First is a summary of Åke’s letter, followed by my response
The ‘News Letter’ used by our Sister Schools in Sweden
‘Nice to learn that your school organized ‘Open - House Day' [or OODW – other schools]]. Those new ones working for our schools could not have an idea, what a job they have been doing for our resource - starved schools in poor communities, situated amidst challenging logistics, in vast Dharampur Block. It is a unique example of what kids could achieve, given the leadership of spirited teachers & wonderful coordinating role of Tuff – our Swedish partner NGO.
I want to tell especially to the new teachers [and all other Sister Schools for that matter] that Dharampur Project has taken a holistic shape in last 2 decades [report just published]. Education has remained our prime concern all these years, in this illiterate society. Main credit goes to the schools like yours, to make it possible. How nice that one teacher moved with my 'News Letter' to every class, telling the pupils ‘Dharampur Success Story’. Our schools try to impart education with social concern, having emphasis on culture & fine arts. In the field of education we have now reached to: 6 primary schools, 2 Secondary School [up to 10th], Mobile Van for 8 Government Primary Schools, a Hostel for 11th–12th grade girls and the latest - Vocational Training. Our schools have as well become the centers of socio - economic growth, in the locality.
While the world is becoming strife - torn, self - centered and economically chaotic [of late], the Sister Schools Cooperation - a marvelous concept gives an eternal hope. It is such a nice feeing for all of us here, to learn that there are schools, working hard for them, improving their record year after year. The teachers as well as the students obviously will come and go, but the Sister - Schools Cooperation has come to stay. This is a fond hope. Ultimately we survive on hope. It is simply great and inspiring. Thanks. [Summary of a letter written to one Sister – School of Sweden]
Visitors from Sweden Two friends from Sweden visited Dharampur. Orjan [82] came with his grandson. They visited Schools – Girl’s hostel – Check Dams – Soil Bunding and other on - going programs. 2 yeas back an Indian friend brought Orjan to Dharampur. Later on, he generously supported Dharampur work. Even during this visit, he offered support for a bicycle for the principal at Tamachhadi [as she had to run often between primary & secondary schools], stitching machines for the Girls’ Hostel and school – uniforms. The funds reached us. He was all praise for Mass Marriages and promised support for the next occasion. He visits India almost every year, since more than 40 years [?], to meet his friend [referred above] & to study development issues [and also to involve] as well as its solutions. He is a great lover of India and very well - informed. He has also given talks on R. Tuff. His main intention was to make his grand son [about 20] aware of Rural India and its problems. An excerpt [a portion in his own words] from a letter of Magnus:
‘I would like to thank you for my best trip ever in my whole life. Dharampur has a really beautiful landscape and when we went to all your schools and met all these wonderful children, I get a memory for life. Your work with children and education is very inspiring. It really touched my heart’.
Visitors from Switzerland They were two ladies – one from Switzerland and another one, originally a Swede. The former [Fikki] was born in India, loved the country intensely and has regularly kept in touch with issues and some families, known to her from her childhood. The other lady [Maria] and Fikki became friends in Switzerland. The common thread - love & concern for poor. As they heard about Dharampur and came to know about Tuff [Web site] and very naturally VPSS activities in Dharampur, they started correspondence with me. Ake interviewed Maria on R. Tuff and put them in contact with me. Both of them had almost the identical tour plan in Dharampur as above. Of course, they visited other NGOS also. I think they were most impressed with our children’ drawings, rain water harvesting tanks and the mango plantation program, over and above schooling. We frankly told them that no funds are required for existing schools and other programs. But they carried with them Greeting Cards of our kids & got them screen - printed. They sent me copies and informed me that their NGO [I think in formation] planned to sell the cards and would like to support some programs in Dharampur from the income of the cards. I have regularly kept in touch with both of them, as I was highly impressed with their commitment and mature understanding of the burning issues, faced by poor. [Their report is available]. Am tempted to pick up a paragraph [shortened] from a long report of the group, to Ake:
‘Bhikhu took us around the area in a jeep for two days and showed us the work that they have been doing, with the help of TUFF and other donors over the past 22 years. We were able to see a check dam, view some soil-bunding projects, visit some mango plantations and most importantly, spend time at three of the seven schools that have been built for the tribal children. These schools are hugely impressive – not only for their commitment to the children, the dedication of the teachers and the obvious well-being of the children, but also for their philosophy, which quite clearly permeates every aspect of the schools. Education at these schools is much more than just the three “R”s (reading, writing and arithmetic), although these basic skills are certainly not neglected. But the intention is to educate children in the widest possible sense – to be ethical and productive members of their own society. Even the appearance of the schools, the little aesthetic details which show themselves in the organization of the tree-shaded gardens and the tribal decorations, painted on the walls, are part of the philosophy of teaching the children to appreciate harmonious surroundings and a pride in their heritage.’
Indian – Swedish – American Friend It was a chance meeting with one Mr. Kiran Gandhi, some 3 months back. When I came to know that he lived in Sweden for many years [and in America by turn] and still has a house in Stockholm, the dimension of relationship totally changed. The result went on developing gradually. He is now associated with Tuff, contacted them, had even visited Ake in his home & has spoken on Radio Tuff. He is going to visit Dharampur shortly
Mango Plantation The planning to distribute 10,000 more mango saplings in next monsoon is in full swing at the moment. We are likely to touch the figure of 100000 plants. This program is being supported by Tuff all the last 18 years, without a break. The reports are pouring in from Sweden, that more and more people are attracted to this eco - friendly program.
New Lorry The old one, purchased with the help of TUFF has been replaced with a new one, cutting short almost half the cost, as the Tata Company offered good price for the old one. The lorry is extremely useful in ever - expanding project, mainly for transporting food grains & vegetables etc. for so many schools in remote villages, food grain [wages] for construction of dams, wells and soil – bunding as well as school – buildings. Great.
INDIA
Vocational Training : New Chapter of the ‘March’ VPSS has started Vocational and Technical Training Program [referred earlier], with the help of one Institute near Ahmedabad. The first batch got nice training. The next batch of 44 completed training two months ago. Looking at the enthusiasm of the trainees [now 100], VPSS decided to ask for 25 % contribution for training fees. The response was overwhelming. That indicates the measure of success of this 6 months old employment [livelihood] program. It has started giving quick results in the area of skilled employment, a welcome diversion from ‘only agricultural’ economy of Dharampur. A follow up plan to rehabilitate those trained in first batch was worked out in the meeting held in the Girls’ Hostel. 15 boys & 10 girls who decided to start their own enterprise [repairing machines, tailoring, computers, mobile telephones etc] have been given 50 % support of about 50,000 rupees. The rest was their contribution. They were handed over tools and machine - kits in the Hostel itself. Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram of Dharampur provided the funds for training as well as support for tools. They have further offered help for next 5 batches. The target is to train 250 youths, on lines as before. This has proved the fastest livelihood program, in this employment – starved block. Very good potentiality.
Re - Housing : New Idea A large group of 22 Rotarians of Bombay visited some schools, check – dams and other projects in Dharampur. The Club has continued taking interest in our activities, after the check - dams program was earlier executed to their satisfaction. They have now adopted [75% support] one school [Chandvagan]. They gave hints to support more programs next year, which may get substantial aid from Rotary International [US]. We immediately handed over them three proposals as follows, after discussion with them: [1] Water - Harvesting [2] Vocational Training as well as Support for the next year. [3] Re - Housing program as a modest trial. This plan is based on a design, where the families could be supported for material up to concrete plinth [cement], as the wooden structure in this very heavy rain area does not last for more than 5/7 years. The rest the beneficiaries are supposed to build – as they will have material from old houses. If approved, this is new and land mark area in which VPSS may be entering, just as a trial.
Another Hostel One more hostel for boys [11/12th grades] is on the cards. The support is offered by the same source, which provided total fund for Bilpudi Girls‘ Hostel [for Gymnasium]. Finally we have found suitable place in a village close to Kaprada town. Both Koki & I recently visited the site – in the existing High School - cum - Gymnasium Complex It is still interior and poorer than Dharampur – adjoining to it. The construction is well on way. For practical reasons we have provided lodging - boarding facilities to a few students who studied earlier in Tamachhadi High School. For example Pandu [referred in earlier N. L.] was studying in a Gymnasium. He is from a village 60 km away from Dharampur. Having no hostel facility, he hired [with a group] a room in nearby village. While walking down to school he met with a serious jeep - accident. Fortunately he got recovered. Along with a few boy students now he is accommodated in an extra room in the Girls’ Hostel Complex
Recasting Dams Program The execution of massive repairs and renovation program of the existing check – dams has started. The outlets in 18 dams have been constructed, to control flow if water, just before the monsoon is about to depart. Furthermore, the re - construction is to start soon for deepening and widening some dams. The sites for 20 new dams have been selected, following the demand from the community. The construction will be carried out by the community, as is the pattern, developed during last decade of mud – stone check dams. The support and the promises of support have started coming, for over a million and a quarter rupees budget of repairs and new dams. Before embarking upon the program as above, the survey of all 336 check – dams was completed. A blue – print got worked out, taking village leaders into confidence. About 50 dams are irreparable. This is the picture.
Library & other Training Camps A two – day camp of 25 senior teachers and 20 students was held in the Girls' Hostel. The topic: Proper use of library and good reading habit. Three University professors guided the lot. In the Girls’ Hostel we have a well – set Petersons’ Reading Room. It proved very useful. There were also 3 other camps for teachers and students as above, in the Hostel: One for drawing, one for songs/music and one for introducing new books. As indicated earlier, The Girls’ Hostel is becoming the centre of all VPSS activities in Dharampur in particular, visitors [accommodation available] & management in general.
Record Visitors Mainly during the monsoon the record of visitors was broken this year. The stream continued after monsoon also; touching the figure of 90, mainly in groups as well as individually. All of them were genuine supporters of one activity or the other and quite a few, even contributed their ideas. Decidedly, one and all were well – wishers of Dharampur March. They were from Bombay support group, activists joining hand in field – work as well as future planning, University students, professors, journalists, doctors, auditors, artists, sister NGOS, VPSS friends [Valod] and those who are regular donors.
Health The parents rushed to the Hostel to seek aid for their three days old child. She had no hole for passing motion. The child was already admitted to a costly hospital in Dharampur town. Our workers approached the hospital. After great persuasion, they allowed the child to be shifted to Shrimad Rajchandra Trust Hospital, after taking a heavy fee. The child was operated and finally recovered, with nominal cost, provided by the Project. One of our lady teachers was taken up seriously ill, while one training camp at the Hostel was in progress. She got emergency treatment in S. Rajchandra hospital. 4 other critical cases like this and a few minor cases were helped or given guidance.
Tribute to Dharampur ‘I am immensely happy with the direction that my son has found after his interactions with all of you. I think that by bringing him to Dharampur, I have given him a gift that will last for lifetime. [From an auditor mother of a bright student of Bombay, due to join University]
Social scientists of the world unite. You have to invent a new social force to build new world - new man - new age
The slogan above and the Proclamation below of ‘World Social Forum’
ANOTHER WORLD IS POSSIBLE !
NEWS IN BRIEF
· The second residential high – school [grade 8] by VPSS in Vaghval, [30 students] is making good progress. Government approval [without aid] for 5th grade has just received. Gradually we will have 6th & 7th standard there. In two years’ time, it will be a full-fledged unit [5th to 10th], like now we have in Tamachhadi The 4th Primary School at Vankhas [starting with 4th & 5th grades] has also been approved by the government. Actually our application was rejected by District Office. Then we made an appeal to the state authority. Finally we got permission. · VPSS received sports items as a gift for all the schools and the Girls’ Hostel. · Scholarships program for higher education [mainly teachers’ training is continuing with 4 trainees. They will finish studies in April and then will join us.
THE SUCCESS STORY : CHIMAN
Chiman was a young boy of about 18 – in a half pent, when I visited Tamachhadi [ now famous ] for the very first time, invited by some young volunteers. They wanted to know us and more so, what we intend to do [no road – map at that time] in this forest and mountains. Chiman was on the road, where I got confused. He directed me to the hamlet where a small group was waiting for me. Later on chiman became an activist volunteer leader in Tamachhadi and around [followed by many others]. He joined the project briefly in the start; but left us to look after agriculture of the family. His parents were old.
About three months back, he met Koki in the hostel, as he had a problem. His daughter [now again 18] is studying in one Primary Teachers‘ Training College, in a village, about 7 km from Dharampur town. Along with other college students, she hired a room in Dharampur town. It was very costly and was found risky. Chiman wanted his daughter to be admitted in the Girls’ Hostel. That is gladly done. What a journey of about 22 years!
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VEDCHHI PRADESH SEVA SAMITI Tuff Friendship House : Vedchhi : 394641 : T. Valod : D. Surat INDIA (02625)220154 & 222451 for Vedchhi - (02633) 293698 for Dharampur - Mo. 9879569535 [September – October – November -December: 2 Bhikhu Vyas & Kokila Vyas |
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NYÅRSHÄLSNING
2009 FRÅN BHIKHU VYAS Bhikhu Vyas har i 30 år varit Tyresö Ulands- och FredsFörenings (Tuff) främsta partner i Indien, där han och hans medarbetare på ett beundransvärt sätt förvaltat pengarna från Tuff, vilka därför har räckt till förbluffande mycket: Många skolor, hundratals brunnar, 90 000 mangoträd och mycket annat.
De senaste åren har projekten koncentrerats till Dharampur, ett bergigt område i delstaten Gujarat, ca 25 mil norr om Mumbai (Bombay). Där finns ett par hundra små byar, bebodda av tribals, de fattigaste av de fattiga. |
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LET OUR FRIENDSHIP & MESSAGE OF LOVE GROW IN 2009 |
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All of us wish the listeners of Radio
Tuff and other colleagues, a peaceful and pleasant New Year. The
'March' in Dharampur is well in a take - off stage,
Our schools, generously supported by Swedish Sister Schools and
nicely coordinated by Tuff are like spring - boards for community
development. We will like to congratulate Radio Tuff in particular,
as a voice of peace, a pre condition for progress and justice. If we
take into account pre - Dharampur decade, around 25 schools
got support from Swedish Sister Schools:
2008 was a record, having the highest ever support for schools from Tuff. With an addition of one more high school in 2008, along with a hostel for Gymnasium Girls; we now have 9 educational units as well as a Mobile van, trying to upgrade educational standard of 8 village primary schools. The Mass Marriages [82 in 2008 & 100 on way in 2009] and the Vocational Training Program for school drop-outs are 2 mile-stones of 2008, in our journey for progress. Only last month, 50 first batch trainees gathered in the Girls' Hostel and chalked 0ut self employment - livelihood program. 20 youngsters have got sewing machines and other tools, to start their jobs, at their door steps. |
A massive vocational training for jobs for 250 youths on pattern as above will be implemented in 2009. An experiment is under way with 100 families to take second crop [not rain-fed] may be mentioned as a new project of 2008-2009. A plan to repair about 300 existing check - dams is being implemented and will be continued in 2009. 6500 mango saplings were planted in 2008. Our plans are to cross 100 000 mark in 2009. This plan has been exclusively and constantly supported by Tuff since 1992, as a priority demand from people. It is a practical, sustainable and eco-friendly livelihood program, at the door-steps of the community. The students of our schools are encouraged to grow more plants, with the help of their parents. They get the message in the annual Guardians’ Meets. This is an innovative program, to link schools and community. A re-housing program in Dharampur Block replacing old huts, requiring repeated repairs is on the cards, as a new venture in 2009.
Not only India, but the whole world - including the developed countries is passing through unprecedented crisis today. If we aspire a new social order - A CHANGE - all of us will have to become change agents. I hope, we will rise to the challenge ahead, in 2009.
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"Every poor person at some stage is a risk for the rich " |
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2006-2008
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Från Bhiku kom i årets sista
minuter denna sammanfattning av 20 års Dharampur-projekt.
Förutom detta har TUFF i många år finansierat ett 50-tal stora skoltält med elementär undervisning för ca 3000 barn till säsongarbetande sockerrörshuggare. TWO DECADES : TOTAL RESULT [1988 – 2008] |
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| (1) | 6 primary schools, 2 high schools, 1 girl’s hostel [850 students] Computers have been introduced in all these schools. | (11) | 90,000 mango saplings distributed in hamlets at 50 % price. |
| (2) | 50 training camps conducted for colleges & voluntary groups. | (12) | 70,000 common and forest trees given away to the people. |
| (3) | 70 students guided & helped for higher education & training. | (13) | 25,000 mango plants raised in schools. Distributed to guardians. |
| (4) | 125 wells constructed, 25 reconstructed and 10 bore-wells fixed as also built 7 rain - water - harvesting tanks with initiative of & planning as well as labor contribution of people. | (14) | Provide 4,000 packets of improved vegetable seeds every year. |
| (5) | 203 oil engines given at half price at the doorsteps, in hamlets. | (15) | Conducted mass – marriages program [82 couples] in two remote villages last year. The program followed local initiative. |
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(6) |
1900 hectares of land reclaimed or repaired under soil – bunding program. Cultivation is taking place in the new fields. | (16) |
2,300 male/buffaloes brought from long distance and given away to 1,150 poorest families, only for transport cost. |
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(7) |
336 mud-stone check dams constructed on ‘Food for Work’ lines, with nearly 45 % labor contribution of the beneficiaries. Irrigation [yearly] takes place in about 1000 hectares of land. | (17) | Well – equipped Mobile Van, managed by qualified teachers takes regular rounds in Government Primary Schools to provide supplementary education [regular subjects and general knowledge]. |
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(8) |
40 Primary Health check - up camps have been conducted. | (18) |
A Technical & Vocational Training Program started last year. One batch of 46 completed training and another batch of 42 is getting it. |
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75 serious patients guided & supported substantially. Yearly about 500 patients get free medicines for common diseases through our schools, breaking the cycle of which–doctors. |
(19) | Winter crop, based only on moisture in the soil has been introduced on a trial basis in 1000 families, with 50 % share by beneficiaries. |
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(10) |
Under 'Mother & Child Care'plan support given [2000 women]. The program is being reshaped with family kitchen gardens. | (20) |
A follow – up program for self employment [livelihood] directed to those who have undergone training has been initiate with 25 youths. |
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[IMPLEMENTED BY VEDCHHI PRADESH SEVA SAMITI – DHARAMPUR BRANCH]
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LOUD THOUGHTS ABOUT
BOMBAY BLASTS |
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| We are terribly shocked are as if non-plus for the barbaric attacks in Mumbai - significantly the financial capital of India. This is the worst and unprecedented act of terrorism, after independence. We also suffer for the innocent people, who lost their lives. But as social activists we feel that, what ever the motives, in real terms, this is an attack against poor of all communities and the development process. Poverty affects all sections of the society, irrespective of cast and creed. The real issues facing the society are shortage of food as well as drinking water, ill - health, mal - nutrition, illiteracy and deprivation in all aspects of day - to - day life. These burning issues take the back seat and the non - issues come to the surface. We have no role and no power in this drama, which make us all the more miserable. The only saving grace is that, in spite of series of such incidents, the poor and middle class, though not above communal passion are not jumping into rioting as before and there is no noise of war with neighbors. This is the measure of wisdom and conviction that violence and war never solve problems. It seems that the society is not going to be divided on communal lines. Here the terrorists and the elements backing them are failing in their hidden agenda. They are repeating the attacks, perhaps with a hope that one day they will succeed, in dividing the society on communal lines, with all its disastrous consequences. |
We have to see to it that they
do not succeed and the ' Development March ' is not halted. Finally
communal forces are not going to make head way, as both the
communities are tired of rioting. They want to live in peace &
security. Of course, the sane element will have to make their
presence felt It seems, there is nothing like governance in this vast country. We cannot expect better performance from ordinary police as the custodians of law and order; knowing fully well from day - to - day experiences [also from the beauracracy and the political leaders] their level of morality. Unfortunately, the politicians do not miss an opportunity to play politics out of anything and everything, not sparing such humanitarian and sensitive issues. In my opinion, politicians of all parties are to be blamed for this state of affairs. They either are concerned for the political advantage [votes - finally leading them to power] or still more interested in discrediting rest of the parties. Eventually, this leads to political corruption, at all levels. What we vitness is the failure of the system. Our political system has to be cleansed from corruption and unethical means. The terror attack is an off shoot of this situation. It requires political will for communal harmony & against hate. |
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BHIKHU VYAS |
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TUFF INSPIRERADE GRUPP I BASEL!
I somras (2008) kontaktades Tuff av Maria Ström-Nilsson. Hon bor i Basel och har som barnmorska varit biståndsarbetare i Zimbabwe, där hon bland annat kände familjen Mugabe, innan Mugabe blev alltför självsvåldig. Om det har hon berättat både på Succékanalen 91,4 och i Radio Tuff. Klicka på ”Arkiv” i www.tyresöradion.se , så hörs intervjuerna.
En av hennes vänner i Schweiz, Nikki Borer, har en bakgrund i Indien. Hon, Maria och några till funderade på att göra en insats för fattiga tribals (stambefolkningen) i Dharampur, där Tuff i många år har finansierat skolor, hundratals brunnar, dammar, 90 000 mangoträd med mera.
De både kvinnorna i Basel upptäckte den här hemsidan, kontaktade Tuff, som förmedlade kontakten till Tuffs indiska partners Bhikhu och Kokila.
Här kommer på engelska deras rapport efter besöket i Indien: |
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A visit to the Dharampur area, 4 – 6 October 2008 We are a group of friends living and working in Switzerland, who became interested earlier this year in the tribal areas around Dharampur. In February three of us, my Irish friend Esther, my 18-year-old son Benedict and myself, visited a tribal school near Dharampur, and decided that we would like to find out more about this interesting area and its needs. By coincidence one of our group – Maria Ström-Nilsson – is actually Swedish, and when we “found” TUFF on the internet, Maria immediately got in touch with Åke Sandin in Stockholm. Maria was able to meet with Åke twice on visits to Stockholm, and to discuss with him the work that TUFF has supported in this area. Åke also put us in touch with Bhikhu and Kokila Vyas, and after much emailing, Maria and I visited the Dharampur area again in early October, and spent two days with Bhikhu and Kokila.
Bhikhu was a wonderful host, taking us around the area in a jeep for two days and showing us the work that he and Kokila have been doing with the help of TUFF and other donors over the past 22 years. We were able to see a check dam, view some soil-bunding projects, visit some mango plantations and, most importantly, spend time at three of the seven schools that have been built for the tribal children by Bhikhu and Kokila. These schools are hugely impressive – not only for their commitment to the children, the dedication of the teachers, and the obvious well-being of the children, but also for their philosophy, which quite clearly permeates every aspect of the schools. Education at these schools is much more than just the three “R”s (reading, writing and arithmetic) although these basic skills are certainly not neglected. But the intention is to educate children in the widest possible sense – to be ethical and productive members of their own society. Even the appearance of the schools, the little aesthetic details which show themselves in the organization of the tree-shaded gardens and the tribal decorations painted on the walls, are part of the philosophy of teaching the children to appreciate harmonious surroundings and a pride in their heritage and their own accomplishments.
We were lucky to be in the area just after the monsoon; the landscape was green and lush, and the reddish-brown earth of the school-yards a very restful change from the grey concrete we had seen everywhere else. We were always expected, entertained, fed, and looked after so well that we were almost overwhelmed by the hospitality. In return, we pestered Bhikhu with a huge number of questions that he answered courteously and with enormous patience. I think when we left that he was quite exhausted! We hope he has recovered since.
While visiting the girls’ hostel near Dharampur, we were also lucky enough to meet with Bhavna Shah, Hiten Shah and Mitesh Kumar – all of whom contribute so much time and work to these projects. In Mumbai we visited Bhavna again, as we had still more questions for her, and she generously gave us more of her time (and a delicious lunch!). And always we asked ourselves: if the situation were reversed, and we in Europe were the hosts and they the unexpected visitors from India, would we be as generous with our hospitality to complete strangers? I wonder …
We would like to thank everyone who took the time and trouble to take us around and talk to us, but most particularly Bhikhu, Kokila and Bhavna. And we sincerely congratulate TUFF on the work they have supported over so many years in this beautiful but disadvantaged area of India. The results are inspirational.
Nikki Borer and Maria Ström-Nilsson Basel, Switzerland
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| Also see: 3 TUFF members visiting India in early 2008 | |
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DHARAMPUR NEWS LETTER
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TUFF SWEDEN
Congratulations: Radio
Tuff
Record Mango –
Plantation
Special Project of Tyreso Skola
Wonderful Support from
Swedish Sister Schools
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INDIA
Support form a Small Group
Vocational-Training :
Second Batch
Some encouraging
observations from the program – supporter and the institute:
‘Yesterday was our
convocation at DSK in the presence of eminent personalities
including University Grants Commission [National Body] chairman. I
want to tell you that the boys & girls I worked with from Dharampur
were inspiring. They were good at learning. Most sports prizes went
to them and so were the others. The best essay award went to one
girl and so were both the prizes for the best sport persons. I see
great opportunities to empowerment for tribal youth who have been
nurtured so well in Dharampur schools and also villages.’
One More High School
Plan for 2 New Programs
Male Buffalo
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VEDCHHI
PRADESH SEVA SAMITI
(02625)220154 & 222451 for Vedchhi -
(02633) 293698 for Dharampur - Mo. 9879569535
Bhikhu Vyas & Kokila Vyas
The ultimate measure of
a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience,
MARTIN LUTHER KING |
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| Med anledning av Strandskolans Öppet hus den 9 oktober för Tuffs projekt i Indien kom följande brev från Bhikhu |
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To he Students & Teachers Strandskolan Tyresö
I came
to know from Ake Sandin [TUFF] that Strandskolan is organizing 'Open
House' on October 9th. __________________
Two nice teachers from your school - Mia Tranehed and Anna-Karin Hylander visited our schools about 4 years ago. They moved in tiny schools of Dharampur Block, located in forest and hills. They have seen how the support was being used in various schools. They certainly must have provided you first hand information about our schools and other community welfare activities that we carry out around the schools. Our schools do not just impart education, but they are the spring - boards for development activities in the cluster of poor villages, where they are set up. I am attaching the pictorial report, to bring you close to the schools and the area. Of course it is in Gujarati - the language of our state. But I have translated the titles and made summary translation of the text of the report. I am happy to say that we are slowly succeeding in creating positive atmosphere of learning in the surrounding schools.
It is such a great feeing for the schools here to learn that there are distant schools like Strand, organizing a wonderful program like 'Open House' - an effort to make the parents aware and informed. More importantly, school communities like yours give us lot of strength in this isolated and invisible area. All of you really are our proud partners in a mission for development, finally leading to peace!
At the moment, I fondly remember my visit of Strandskolan in May - 2005. It was such an excitement to be with the school community. I felt lot of enthusiasm in the air, while I moved in the classes and gave information lessons - how we use your support, towards salaries of the teachers, lodging and boarding of the students and teaching aids.
You will be happy to learn that in last 5 years we have added two high schools [8 - 9 - 10 grades] and a hostel for Gymnasium level [11th & 12th grades] girls in this education - starved Block. Otherwise they did not have a possibility to carry on their studies - having no Gymnasiums in remote villages A hostel for boys is being set up shortly. The credit goes to many Swedish Sister Schools like Strand for making it possible for our students to reach to this advanced level in schooling. We are grateful to all of you for your efforts and to Tuff for its efficient coordination. The Sister - Schools Cooperation is a unique idea, directing the schools towards a new mission of a society based on friendship, justice and love. It gives a 'Hope' of a new and better world.
Finally, let me congratulate
you for your cooperation. I convey the best wishes to
all the students and teachers.
With many thanks again.
Bhikhu Vyas
[For the schools & the community at large]
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NEWS DIGEST :
DHARAMPUR
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THOSE WHO LIVE FOR
OTHERS REALLY LIVE. SWAMI VIVEKANAND
VPSS : Tuff Friendship House : Vedchhi : 394641 : T. Valod : D. Surat: INDIA |
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Bhikhu tackar Med anledning av följande dagsverken 2008 har Bhikhu skickat tackbrev.
Här visas som exempel brevet till Södertörns friskola i Huddinge |
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To the Students & Teachers of Sister School Södertörns Friskola in Huddinge |
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We at Dharampur are glad to learn from Ake [TUFF] about the OODW at Södertörns Friskola.
We remember with great joy the visit of Dharampur schools by Bo and some students, about 4 years ago. He will be an ideal resource person to give you information about the schools and other activities in Dharampur Block I had also the privilege to visit your school, about three years ago. It was very impressive to meet to some classes, talk to them about the concept of community development and feel the warmth as well as the aesthetic atmosphere of the school.This is the second time you are working for Dharampur schools. Great! Please accept our congratulations & best wishes for your work, meant to support our schools and other programs like mango, water & soil conservation, wells etc. in remote hilly forest villages of Dharampur. I once witnessed the hectic OODW in action in one Sister School. What an intelligent mix : A mission of study, concern, fun and commitment!
When Bo was with us, perhaps we were preparing to start the first ever high school in one remote cluster, having no facility for secondary education. That was done with great success and now, from next June we are adding one more high school in village Vaghaval on high mountains. It is for the first time in the history of these two clusters, having population of 50,000 poor people, secondary education also becomes possible. We are running six primary schools as well as one Gymnasium level girls’ hostel. Our schools try to impart education with social concern, with emphasis on culture and fine arts. |
The support to be generated by your school will be utilized for new high school in Vahaval, for expanding drinking water facilities and to establish science laboratory.
It is such a nice feeing for the students and the teachers here to learn that there are schools like Södertörns Friskola - far far away, working hard for them. More importantly, school communities like yours give us lot of strength, in this isolated and invisible area.
It is great that education is
spreading rather fast in Dharampur - quite an illiterate society two
decades ago, when we made an entry through just night classes. The
credit goes to many a Sister Schools like yours, nicely coordinated
by Tuff.
While the world is becoming strife-torn and self-centered, the Sister Schools cooperation - a marvelous idea - gives a hope for sustainable development in a large and neglected region - a real mission of peace and brotherhood.
I convey the best wishes to all the students and teachers of Södertörns Friskola.
With many thanks again.
Bhikhu Vyas |
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[Tuff Friendship House : Vedchhi : 394641 : T. Valod : D. Surat : INDIA] |
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DHARAMPUR & KAPRADA NEWS LETTER February 2008
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Sweden
Petersons’ Reading Room Like their Swedish friends and colleagues, we admire both Margaretha & Gunnar for their more than two decades long involvement in Tuff and active support for ‘Dharampur Development March’ from day one. They really are an asset for Tuff and Dharampur. How nice that a collection of about 8,000 SEK was made by Tuff from the friends of the couple, to commemorate the 70th birth day of Margaretha & 75th birth day of Gunnar [December – 2007]! The result: There will be “Petersons’ Reading Room” in one of the schools in Dharampur. As a token of love from both Tuff and Dharampur team under VPSS, a picture was taken of the proposed Room and presented to the couple by Tuff seniors, at Greeting Function of birth – Day celebration.
Visitors from Sweden Some Tuff members in Sweden formed a ‘Study Group’ for India, with focus on Dharampur. Last month 3 ladies from the group visited our schools and other development projects for 5 days in Dharampur. They also moved in our Mobile Van with our teachers, to see how this innovative project [partly supported by a Sister School named Tyreso Skola of Sweden] is operating in the government village schools. Then they came to Valod - Vedchhi and took a round of some old projects supported by Tuff In Bombay before they left for home, they were taken care of by our activist friend Mr. Rajesh Shah. M/S Bhavana Shah [getting more involved in Dharampur activities] also met the group. Both the Shahs apprised the group of the project and more importantly, assured them about its bright future. Now will quote from a letter of one lady:
‘We had a wonderful time in Dharampur. To see for ourselves all the good things you do in Dharampur was fantastic. Again to meet all the nice people and the children who were so curious and tried to speak a little English and danced and sang for us. As I have for so many years heard about these projects, it was so rewarding to see and experience all the schools, the dams and the soil bunding and to see the enthusiasm showed by all the people involved’.
Inspiration from Sweden Last month both of us met two boys [11th grade] and their mothers in Bombay. One of the boys and his mother earlier visited two schools and some check - dams as well as soil – bunding program in operation in Dharampur. It was not a casual type visit. During our talk, at some stage they asked us about how we came in contact with Tuff and Sweden. I narrated the whole story and explained the concept of OODW and how it is organized in Sweden by Sister Schools of Dharampur. They were rather motivated with the role played by the Swedish students. The mother of the boy exclaimed: While the students from thousands of km distance are so inspired, why not students from Bombay - just 300 km away! They know nothing about such a good cause and achievements!
I was in Bombay next week. The group seized an opportunity to discuss with me more of Dharampur. Later on I sent them a copy of the film taken by 3 Swedish girls, after they worked for Dharampur in Sweden. Many other documents also were sent as was demanded. The students thoroughly studied Dharampur work of last 10 years and prepared a comprehensive report with facts and figures, supported by photographs. This study – report is forwarded to reputed Indian news paper - ‘Times of India’ for consideration of recognition as ‘Savers of Earth Volunteers.’ This is the first systematic study of our work in Dharampur. It will be of use for people interested in Dh.
Mobile Van I just wrote to the Swedish School who worked for mobile van [Summary]: ‘I am glad to inform you that only last week one organization from Bombay has contributed RS 2,50,000 for the running cost of the Van, the salary of three teachers and other teaching material. One lady from Bombay has donated educational toys. She is frequently joining the Van as she is very skilled and interested in this particular project.
The Van operating on experimental basis in 7 Primary Schools is a success beyond our expectation. The Van is a model school. The teachers are trying to make it interesting. The students wait for the Van to reach to the respective schools. Our 3 qualified teachers find great excitement in the villages where the schools are situated. The teachers are full of enthusiasm. They are not only distributing library books for extra knowledge [as was our original idea]; but are also involving in subjects teaching. They are also covering drawing & other skills in which students are interested’.
Dharampur Block is highly grateful to Tyreso School for working [OODW}] for this dream project of ours and a making it a reality.
A Well in Dharampur: A Test Subject in Sweden ‘Your last ‘News Letter’ was most interesting and very useful, because we are planning a school exhibition where we among other subjects will present our sister school. I will also inform some young students about you and your work. They have asked me if there is a possibility for them to contribute with a well in your project. They are in their last form, 18 years old. Young enterprising is what they are to do as an examination-work. They shall create a product and sell it. They can keep the money but these young people want to do something better. so that is why they have asked me about the well in Dharampur. What is your opinion? I think it is a good idea. [Summary from a letter of one teacher]
A Swedish School worked for Dharampur A Swedish Sister School Strandskolan has collected SEK 31,152 [ 1,80,000 rupees in Indian currency] by OODW in the school locality. The amount would cover half of the total cost [mainly food & salary] of Virekshetra School. I wrote to them. [Summary]:
‘Strandskolan deserves special congratulations and thanks for breaking all former records. The spirit of supporting a school in an unknown corner, thousands of kilometers away from Sweden is so stimulating. Education is spreading fast amidst challenging logistics in isolated villages of Dh. on account of generous contribution of Strandskolan & many other schools like yours, with an effective coordinating role of Tuff.
While I am penning this mail, my mind goes back to those wonderful days, when I had been to your school - last time in May - 2005. It was such an enriching feeling just to think of that visit. I know how you generate support through hard work by different imaginative methods [OODW]; a mixture of fun, commitment and education! Just before my visit, two of your energetic teachers Mia & Anna karin visited our schools -- including Virekshetra. They very much liked this school. While the families all over the world are becoming more and more self - centered, the Swedish Sister Schools Cooperation gives trust in the goodness of the wider world and more importantly, New Hope.
Our schools modestly try to impart education with social concern, in poorest of the poor communities. Not only that, our schools are now creating positive atmosphere in the schools in the neighborhood. It is such a nice feeing in our school community to learn that there are schools in far off Sweden, which are thinking of them and more importantly, working for them. From this distance you may not be aware that in a way, you are joining mission of Holistic Development in Dharampur. Sister - Schools Cooperation is a practical model of Friendship in Action - a hope for a better world.’
A Motivated Girl from Sweden A Swedish girl Fia visited Dharampur a year ago. She organized a concert in a church. The amount collected there was given away to Tuff for Dharampur. One Swedish girl Johanna - who worked with two other girls for mango program of Dharampur directed Fia and 4 other youngsters to visit Dharampur. Johanna & group visited Dharampur few years back. They earlier took up this project to support our mango program.
Concern from a Distance Ake Sandin [Tuff – Sweden] wrote to me a couple of days back that one Swedish peace activist and an old colleague of him Ingemar Haraldsson intends to contribute about 10,000 SEK [now about RS 55,000] in Dharampur. He wanted my suggestion. I have recommended a class-room in the proposed high school in Vaghval.
An Extra – Ordinary Offer In the last ‘News Letter’ there is a reference about this offer. Orjan/Greta [Sweden] further wrote ‘I have far too little knowledge of the priorities that is most valuable for the poor people in Dharampur. Is it better to build water wells or check dams or planting more mango trees? Or anything else that is to the benefit of the women?’ [Summary]
The most enriching correspondence was carried on between us. Finally the following programs suggested were agreed upon by the couple. We quickly received a contribution of RS 7,76,000, with total freedom to make changes, as may be required.
(1) Repairs of old wells & Soil - Bunding (2) Mango, other fruit tree plants and distribution of special Seeds (4) Health – care programs, with a focus on women (5) Partial support for male – buffalo distribution program (6) Experimental Catchments Plan for water - conservation(7) Job - oriented training to girls after 10/11/12th grades [one year] (8) Manufacture of organic manure by groups of women.
SUCCESSFUL SWINDIAN PROJECT [From a report just received from Mr. Rashmin Sanghvi: Visit - 16/17 February]
Credit goes to Tuff [Sweden] & ‘Friends of
Dharampur’
Karela [Bitter Gouard] Plantation We went to an area called Makadban. There was well in the area. It used to get dry very soon. Vedchhi Pradesh Seva Samiti built a check dam on the upper side of the well. Now because of increased underground water supply, the well is full. The farmers in the area have installed pumps and they are drawing water from the well. They irrigate their farms and take a winter crop. We saw several farms full of Karela – vegetable plantation. [Second Crop]
Inexpensive Project The leaders from VPSS did a very small and extremely beneficial project. A small river in the area was dammed by a simple device. They filled gunny bags with sticky soil. With layers of such gunny bags, they stopped the flow of water (after monsoon). With this, a small pond is created. The farmers pump water from the pond in the river and irrigate their farms.
Most interesting sight is to see how they take water as far as 1.5 to 2.0 km with the help of the pump. They raise water to the height required to reach a hillock. It may be 50 to 100 ft. height. Thereafter, small canals of 6 inches depth and 1 ft. width are made to direct water in different directions. The water goes all over the hillock and irrigates several farms. With these simple devices, several farms take the winter [second] crop. This also presupposes that the monsoon crop is guaranteed by small irrigation.
Estimated incremental income of the farmers in the area per winter crop – due to
this irrigation- should be
running into a few lakhs of rupees.
Mango Plantation In or around June 2006, we had gone to this area. The donors from Mumbai planted 70 saplings of mango trees there All the seventy trees have survived & grown. Some have even got the flowers which will be followed by mangoes now. All the plants have survived. Almost all saplings distributed by VPSS are for the ownership of some specific tribal. They take good care of the plants.
Water Managemen: This year VPSS has planned to build additional water facilities as under: Soil conservation or terrace farming. This work has been allocated in several villages to several tribals. They have almost completed building mud & stone walls on mountain slopes to protect the soil. The terraces built naturally behind the walls will become ideal soils for rice cultivation. VPSS has budgeted Rs. 5 lakhs for this work. 90% of the work is completed by 17th February, 2008.
Soil Conservation work has been done at following places:
VPSS will build additional 20 check dams during the current year. This will cost approximately Rs. 4 lakhs. Total cost of water management will be around RS 9 lakhs. Out of this, M/s. Allana group has provided RS 5 lakhs, Shri Rameshbhai Ajmera has provided RS 2 lakhs, Shri Prakash Bhoopatkar has donated RS 50,000, Rotary Club - Queen’s Necklace has provided RS 50,000. This leaves a deficit of RS 1 lakh for the current year. |
Pumps [201] Wells [155] & Mango Plants [75000] are from Tuff funding [Stared 1990 in Dh.] The check-dams & the rest of the support from ‘Friends of Dharampur’ [Started from 1999]
We have been informed by Mr. Rshmin Sanghavi [Bombay coordinator] that on getting his above – mentioned report, within two days RS 1000000 contribution was received by two regular supporters of Dharampur project. So the deficit will be made good.
INDIA & DHARAMPUR
A Generous Contribution from Allana Trust The main person coordinating support and generating good – will for Dharampur in Bombay and his circle Mr. Rashmin Sanghvi by chance met managing trustee of Allana trust Mr. Irfan Allana in Bombay. The result: Generous aid from the Trust for activities in Dharampur conducted by several NGOS. One of the recipients is VPSS which got rupees 7,50,000 for two projects: [1] RS 5,00,000 for check dams & soil - bunding in Dharampur & Kaprada Block. As this was a committed program [also supported from three other sources] the work was started a few moths back and is about to finish. [please see the report of Mr. Rashmin Sanghavi above] [2] RS 2,50,000 for one year's running expenses for fuel, salaries and teaching materials of the Mobile Van.
Soil – Bunding A massive community - based soil - bunding program has been undertaken from 1993 onwards. A little over 1700 hectares of land has been reclaimed or repaired and brought under cultivation [resulting into more production] in last decade and a half. During the period under review, more work is done in 10 villages. [See report of Mr. R. Sanghvi]
Check – Dams The program has just started with 4 check – dams completed [now totals 320]. Mr. Sanghvi and group visited soil – bunding and check – dams program in action recently [see the report] in village Makadban. It is a success story of planned group action. Long back, about 30 farmers were given 8 oil engines from Tuff funding, after a good water source was identified by our teacher. He worked in a school started by VPSS in that cluster. The land was barren and the second crop was never dreamt. He introduced water-melon crop. Helped by our check-dams program, the crop spread to other farmers and worked rather well in the beginning, for a few years. The oil – engines given to them one by one at half the price encouraged them for taking second crop. Later on the farmers gave up water – melon, as the market forces were discouraging. They did not have the capacity for initial investment and to organize market on their own. But they were resourceful and were constantly guided by VPSS coordinators. This year two more oil – engines were given and experimental sand – bags check dam of new and simple design was constructed, with good flow of water. The farmers intelligently changed over to diversified crops of Karela [Bitter Guard] - Bringle – Tomato and Chilly. Mango plants are also growing side by side, given at half the price [Tuff support]. So this is a good example of composite plan. They are now getting sizeable income and are saved from migration. Mr. Rajesh during his foot - march found this green patch, amidst barren land. There are several such spots in Dharampur & Kaprada Counties, working on same lines.
Support Plan for Land - Donor We are keen to support the donor of the land for the Girls‘ Hostel in Bilpudi. VPSS has taken full responsibility of 3 kids of the family – one for Higher Secondary [admitted in the Girls’ Hostel], one for graduation and the third one for post – graduation. A deserted half – done well in the farmer’s land adjoining the hostel is going to be repaired. A Bore well has been constructed there. 500 mango plants have been planted along with 1000 teak wood plants and a few coconut trees. About 2 hectares waste land has been brought under cultivation. Irrigation is still a problem, as we have not found sufficient water in both the bore - wells. We are desperately trying out other alternatives. At present during emergency, for on – going construction in the hostel and for small irrigation, we are getting water from our neighbor.
New Pattern in School - Administration The monthly ‘Review – Planning’ meetings of our headmasters of the schools and the coordinators are taking a business - like shape with the guidance and active participation of Shree Rajesh Shah & Shree Bhavna Shah, both getting more and more active in the field work as well as administration. A new hope for taking over from us – very much required. In the last meeting with all our head-masters, representatives of the Students' Committees from all the 7 schools [one girl & one boy] also participated. This is a new direction, where the students' representatives also joined us in review and planning, along with the head - masters. Welcome initiative, prompted by Mr. Rajesh Shah.
Dharampur & Condolence Meeting I attended prayer meeting for the departed mother of Mr. Hiten Shah - one of the activists in Bombay Seeing me present there parallel thoughts were going on in the mind of the gentleman that I should see one elderly person and a prospective donor present there. What a love for Dharampur! After the conclusion of the condolence meeting, Mr. Hitenbhai asked Rajesh to take me to the gentleman. It was followed accordingly and immediately. He heard us attentively and took great interest in the activities of Dharampur. As our priority need, he agreed to provide support for the food – expenses of the Girls’ Hostel at Bilpudi. The support started coming immediately.
Furthermore later on we approached the same gentle man along with two Bombay – based friends for a new Hostel Building for 11th/12th grade students of forest area [having no such facility]. He agreed to finance the Project fully. One Trust has offered free land in their Ashram. There are some legal hitches. But we are trying our level best.
Girls’ Hostel – Bilpudi One big hall [for residence], a guest house, a meeting room and a rector’s – quarters are under construction and about to finish. Vegetables are grown by the hostel students. Second bore – well has been fixed with e. motor on it and pipe – lines [Tuff Support]. This beautiful place amidst splendid nature close to Dharampur town and good road – connectivity is proving as a centre for general meetings as well as consultations, administration of schools and other activities in Dharampur & Kaprada, a distribution centre and attraction for guests and other visitors. The same donor who initiated the idea for the girls’ hostel has provided total funds for all these additional facilities. He is keen that such a hostel for boys [in Dharampur] and two hostels - one for boys and one for girls should be added in Kaprada also [totaling four]. Our efforts are on. One organization named K.C. Trust is taking care of Vaghval School. They supported room construction and are prepared to support [new] hostel construction in Dharampur.
Another Girls’ Hostel in Kaprada Proposed As for another Girls’ Hostel on lines of Bilpudi Hostel, Koki is negotiating with one Trust running hostel for girls [for 8 - 9 -10 grades] in Kaprada. The main trustee visited Bilpudi Hostel and his response was positive to add a hostel for girls of 11th – 12th grades in Kaprada. Koki again visited their hostel in Kaprada for working out practical arrangements. We have assured the Trustees that some well – wishers are ready to provide finance for the expansion of the present hostel building and for the food expenses of additional girl students [11 -12 grads]. The follow up is on. We are hopeful.
Why More Hostels? Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram earlier offered to support 11-12 grades [Gymnasium] in Tamachhadi. That offer still stands. But we have to politely say 'No' to the Ashram administrators, as the teachers who are qualified for Gymnasium level school are not available in this remote cluster – not having even single tea – shop. Alternatively, we were advised by well – meaning persons to explore the possibility of hostels for 11th - 12th grades, where Gymnasium level schools are existing. The first one [for girls] is started in Bilpudi in last June
Health – Care With generous support from ‘Friends of Bombay’ 15 individuals got partial medical aid mainly for hospitalization and medicines : Heart – trouble, Accidents, Fever, MRI, Mental Illness, Delivery and Pregnancy related problems – Sickle – sell suspects etc. We got good cooperation from Shrimad Rajachandra Hospital of Dharampur as well
NEWS IN BRIEF 1 During the period under review on an average there were two visits [in groups and individuals] every week. Some of them have been mentioned above. Prime one which requires special mention is a Delegation of 25 persons from Rotary Club - Queen’s Necklace [Bombay] Last year they supported a massive check – dams program [see the last ‘News Letter] with overseas collaboration. 40 dams were completed against the target of 35, before it started raining. A comprehensive report with photographs etc. was sent to the Rotary Club. A gentle man from Bombay visited Tamachhadi and Bilpudi along with his daughter settled in Germany. He has earlier supported Dharampur project. The girl took keen interest in programs going on in Dharampur/Kaprada. She promised for support in Germany [along with her team].2 The students from Tamachhadi High School had an exciting time when two luxury buses were sent by Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram to take them to a spacious Cricket Stadium in Valsad city. The cricket match between the students and the devotees of the Ashram was organized with food and all the fanfare which goes with it. There was the same arrangement for their return trip.3 Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram Educational Trust is planning to organize some sort of technical training program in cooperation with VPSS. A group consisting of the seniors of the Trust and Koki visited a reputed Training Institute. They have offered full cooperation for the Project. As a matter of fact, a team of that Technical Training Institute is to visit Dharampur shortly, to take interview of the aspiring youngsters for training. The word is spreading in the villages to motivate youngsters to join the training.4 In Tamachhadi – Vaghval – Chandvagan schools computers have been introduced as a trial program. It is just a beginning, with expansion in future. We got 9 computers as donation from several well – wishers. More are coming.5 With the support of Rotary Club - Queen’s Necklace [Bombay] a check - up camp [face – deformity-] was organized by RNC Eye Hospital in the new campus in Kaprada. An expert doctor came from all the way Bombay. Three patients [having deformity from birth] were identified for operation. They were successfully operated in Bombay. They were driven to and fro by a special jeep hired by the Rotary Club It is sort of an adventure that the patients dared to come from remote and distant villages to Dharampur town & finally reached Bombay as was meticulously planned at both the ends What a love of the Rotary Club!6 A demonstration meeting with one expert was held. He has prepared subject CDS for Primary and Secondary Schools. They were displayed to us on computer. A few CDs have been purchased They are proving of great help.7 About 400 students from 6 schools went to Ahmedabad and Gandhi Nagar on trip by luxury buses. It was a well – organized plan, spreading for a fortnight. The students of grades 8-9 from Shrimad R. High School are going on a trip of famous Agenta – Ilora etc. The parents provided 50 % expenses.8 Our attention was drawn by Khanda School staff about one problem faced by a family in the neighborhood. They earlier cooperated in providing drinking water from their private well [by pump]. The boy from that family got admission in one B. Ed. College. After 6 months the family did not have money to carry on the study of their son. He was about to leave studies. Knowing all this VPSS provided support for the next term. 10 students got support from VPSS [funds coming mainly from Friends of Dharampur] for higher studies and also other critical needs including house repair/construction.
Training Camps There were two Training Camps of our teachers for effective subjects teaching in 5-6-7 grades. It was based on creative activities, making & using educational equipments - tools and also education through Computer - CDS on various topics of the curriculum. There were 8 expert resource persons. They imparted practical training to our teachers. Both the camps went off very well. Hopefully it will improve the quality of education. There were 4 other training camps or training outside the schools.
Chandvagan & Tamachhadi Schools Recognized We have to struggle for 8 long months to get approval of grades 6 & 7 [5/6 are approved earlier] of Vananchal Primary School from the competent government authorities, to run them directly by VPSS. Long last we got approval of grade 6th, but rejection of grade 7th at the same time, on flimsy grounds. Then we appealed to the appeals department –against the rejection. Finally the 7th grade has been approved in the middle of January. So now Chandvagan is a full – fledged primary school [without govt. grant] conducted by VPSS directly – second one after Shrimad Rajchandra Primary School – Tamachhadi.
As required under government rules and regulations, two extra class rooms are being constructed at both the places, with the generous support of Shree K. C. Trust [See reference else where]. The plans were provided to the Trust followed by a discussion [for working out the details] with the top officials of the Trust in Bombay. They were so cooperative. One of the trustees then visited Chandvagan School for spot study. We made a big change in the plan in Chandvagan on environmental ground and also to generate local employment. It is the first experiment of stone rooms [no bricks], as one active field – work supporter from Bomaby [Mr. Rajesh Shah] has been very keen about it. Mr. Vasndani [who visited Chandvagan for Shree K.C. Trust] appreciated this innovative idea and agreed with the change in the plan.
Applied for Vaghval & Vankhas Schools The application to get recognition of grades 4 & 5 [first phase] in Vaghval & Vankhas Schools has been submitted to the concerned government authorities. It seems that the permission will be granted; with a condition that government will not give any grant now and in future. Two more class rooms in both the proposed Primary Schools would be ready in next June. The plans have been prepared and forwarded to the Trusts who have kindly offered to provide financial support.
One More High - School After the encouraging experience of the first High School of VPSS in Tamachhadi [and encouraging SSC results of the first batch], VPSS decided to start another such school [with residential facilities] at Vaghval in Pindaval - Vaghval Block. The schools in that block have been strengthened, reaching to 7th grade in last 14 years There is no secondary school for the population of about 20,000 people and 20 mountain villages in that strip. Three more rooms as required for the proposed High School are under construction in Vaghval and will be finished soon. If the High School is approved with a written condition that no government grants will be available now & sought in future.
Talents Required ‘I read your covering note with the document of Project study. I am so happy to learn that Dharampur will be fortunate to get your quality contribution at the grass - roots in future. You are most welcome. We now require more of talents and skills, rather than money and materials. This is the final phase of Dharampur Project, as far as we are concerned. But we don't have such human resource and are [I am] getting old also - after the take-off stage, through which the project is passing and about to jump to new heights.
We are in a mood: Thus far and no further, though the flow of generous support from so many deeply concerned and charitable ‘Friends of Dharampur’ and our old base - Sweden is ever growing. The project – who ever will be the managers in years to come, would always bank upon such a support.’ [From a reply to one highly qualified lady, who made a study of Dharampur Project]
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SAD DEMISE OF THE PRESIDENT OF VEDCHHI PRADESH SEVA SAMITI SHREE BABUBHAI SHAH
The president of Vedchhi Pradesh Seva Samiti and our beloved friend Shree Babubhai Shah died 6 weeks ago on account of massive heart attack. He supported Dharampur Project under VPSS whole heartedly. He died in harness, as he was in VPSS office Gadi [seat], when he breathed his last. It is a great loss to VPSS and public life. All at VPSS are trying to adjust to this so sudden & painful situation. All of us will try our best to carry on.
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VEDCHHI PRADESH SEVA SAMITI Tuff Friendship House : Vedchhi : 394641 : T. Valod : D. Surat INDIA (02625)220154 & 222451 for Vedchhi - (02633) 293698 for Dharampu rMo. 9879569535 [from 1st of October – 2007 to 29th of February - 2008]
Bhikhu Vyas & Kokila Vyas
WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE IF WE
CARE EVEN BY DOING SMALL THINGS |
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Tack till Strandskolan, Tyresö! |
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| To The Rector - Teachers &
Students ! All of us are so enthused to learn from Ake Sandin [TUFF] that Strandskolan has collected SEK 31.152, a couple of days back. Converted into Indian currency, the figure will touch to 1,80,000 rupees. Taking the Indian economy into consideration, the amount will have a multiplying impact. It would cover half of the total cost - mainly food and salary of your Sister School Virekshetra in Dharampur Block. We have 6 teachers and support staff in the school, having 47 girls & 71 boys in grades 3, 4, 5, 6 &,7. It is a residential school. Strandskolan deserves special congratulations and heartfelt thanks for breaking all former records. The spirit of supporting a school in an unknown corner thousands of kilometres away from Tyreso is so stimulating. Last week all our teachers were together in a Training Camp for upgrading quality of education [using activity method and tools]. It was a great feeling for all assembled, when we broke this welcome news. Education is spreading fast amidst challenging logistics in isolated villages of Dharampur, on account of generous contribution of Strandskolan & many other schools like yours, with effective coordination by Tuff. Great! While I am writing this mail, my mind goes back to those wonderful days, when I had been to your school -last time in May - 2005. It was such an enriching feeling just to think of that visit, where I experienced so much concern. I know how you generate support through hard work by different imaginative methods; a mixture of fun, commitment and education! |
Just before my visit, two of your
energetic teachers, Mia Tranehed and Anna-Karin Hylander, visited our schools -- including Virekshetra. They very much liked Virekshetra school - our committed teachers and loving students. They have seen how the support was being used for the kids of poor communities amidst forests and mountains. While the families all over the world are becoming more and more self - centered, the Swedish Sister Schools Cooperation gives trust in the goodness of the wider society and more importantly, New Hope. Our schools modestly try to impart education with social concern, in poorest of the poor communities. Not only that, our schools are now creating positive atmosphere in the schools in the neighbourhood. It is such a nice feeing in our school community to learn that there are schools in far off Sweden, who are thinking of them and more importantly, working for them in their own way. To us who manage the schools and other activities, your quality support is a source of great strength. From this distance you may not be aware that in a way, you are joining mission of Holistic Development at our local level and peace as well, I am happy to state. Sister - Schools Cooperation is a practical model of Friendship in Action. In a way, you are joining a mission, leading to peace. On account of such efforts, we may see one day, a new and better world - order. Let me congratulate you for your gesture & convey best wishes to the lovely students and friendly teachers. Bhikhu , October 2007 [From the team in Dharampur] |
2007
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DHARAMPUR & KAPRADA |
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| O V E R - S E A S
Generous Support from TUFF - Sweden |
Three more wells We have planned to construct three more wells no. 151 – 152 – 153 in Dharampur. The support is coming through TUFF Earlier Tuff supported 110 wells. One of the wells will be in sweet memory of late Olga, mother of Delby and Diana, who are devotedly helping Radio Tuff. We have been informed that Olga [from Peru] was a former cashier of Tuff and active Social Democrat. She was a widow of late Odmondo, who was also a great strength for R. Tuff. We have ‘Odmondo well’ in Dharampur. Now we will have Olga well. We have been informed that a family [?] of a teacher, just retiring from one of the Sister Schools of Sweden is working on a plan to collect money for a well in Dharampur. What an involvement! The name to the well would be given, after we get more details. Offer from a Swedish benefactor.
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Mobile Van Koki and one activist lady from Bombay [joining us] had been to Bhavnagar [Saurashtra] for two days to study the project [Van], operating in the schools in the poorer blocks. We have selected two special teachers and sent them for training in Bhavnagar & Ankleshwer [the base]. The books – charts - maps and other items have been purchased. We have got some science equipments as gifts. Mango Plantation 1700 mango plants have been distributed to the guardians of the students under the program: ‘Development to link the schools and the community’. The guardians paid token price. It includes 250 plants planted in the land of the farmer, who donated land. 1000 teak wood plants, 35 coconut plans and several other plants also have been planted there. The Hostel students take care of the plants and help the farmer family in agricultural operations also. To the community in the remote villages, 2650 mango plants have been given at their door-steps at concessional rate. The figure of mango saplings distributed in Dharampur and Kaprada Talukas has reached to 75,000 in last 15 years. According to reports reaching to us the results the plantation are fairly satisfactory. Medical Help |
| A Case – Study of Subhash [From a landless poor family] About 3 months back one boy - Subhash met Koki in the Hostel, with a request for support for his studies. About 15 years ago his uncle was the first tribal to donate land, with an only condition to start some sort of educational activity on it. A school took birth accordingly, in his remote village named Vankhas. Otherwise also the case of Subhash was genuine one. So he was given support for higher education [Primary Teacher's Course – PTC]. After getting admission, he was asked to bring more money for hostel – fees etc., as it was a private college, some 500 km away from Dharampur. His land – less labor family could not manage the big amount. Finally, the boy called me. I invited him to Valod. After hearing an alarming story of his life as below, we immediately provided all the money required, to carry on his study. He was very poor and his father cannot speak even Gujarati. He can speak only local dialect. The parents [couple] shifted to the village Vankhas from his native place and joined the in - laws as helpers in their agriculture. In Tribals there is practice where in, son - in - law form poor back – ground leaves his parents and joins the in - laws of the wife permanently, after marriage. I was wonderstruck to know from him that we made arrangement for the boy for free study [after 7th] when he was a child, in the Gandhian school in Vedchhi village. He surprised me by revealing that he often visited us in our Vedchhi home [far away from Dharampur]. He completed Gymnasium education in Vedchhi, but could not get admission in PTC for next 4 years. He got graduated in the meanwhile. He studied in the college [B.A.] and staying in government hostel in Dharampur town. He met with a serious accident in the mean while, about 6 months back, when he realized that he has serious heart problem. His poor family started consulting doctors with the support of the in –laws. Finally it was found that he had defective valve from birth. Then he consulted a heart – specialist. He was advised to go in for heart operation. Learning that there is a hospital at far away place, doing free heart operation; he rushed there. There he was told that his case was risky and was advised to rush to the government Hospital in Ahmedabad. There he was told that though the case was risky, they were prepared operate. He agreed immediately and was successfully operated in last May. He was given concession in the bills according to government. rules. Even then his family had to manage for a hand some amount. They took loans from the relatives and community leaders. After a long struggle - a battle with destiny - now Subhash is finally settled in one PTC College, to get training as a Primary Teacher [PTC]. I personally met his father and family in Vankhas and assured them not to worry for the next year. It is a two – years course and we will mange. |
N E W S I N B R I E
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NEWS &
CURRENTS: DHARAMPUR
SUPPORT FROM SWEDEN
LOVE IS THE STRONGEST FORCE THE WORLD POSSESSES |
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March 2007 [ D H A R A M P U R & K A P R A D A ] |
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S W E D E N & A B R O A D
Generous Tuff Contribution For Dharampur
VPSS has received RS 14,35,000 from Tuff [Sweden], for major bridging support for 5 schools and other expenses to run ' Dharampur Comprehensive Development Project ', during June 2007 to June 2008 and wells before June [2007] as well as mango plantation during the next monsoon. The support primarily based on OODW of several spirited Swedish Sister Schools is a major source of funding on an ever - increasing scale for Dharampur Project for the last 18 years, without a break. The roots of the Project are in the cooperation between Tuff & VPSS, let us gratefully mention.
Determination of Swedish Teachers A team of three teachers from a Swedish school working for one school of Dharampur [since we started regular schools 15 years ago] visited Dharampur - Kaprada for 5 days in January. They visited 5 schools, a check – dam under construction, a finished dam, a new well just started [supported by Tyreso Rotary Club – out of 7], soil conservation program and mango plantation. They also joined the students of Tamachhdi to Valsad Cricket Stadium. They watched the match and the grand performance of Tamachhadi Students, in front of a large gathering.
A brief background will not be out of place here. After reaching Paris they were told just when they were to take a plain to India that there were some defects in their passport. So they cannot travel in Air - India. This determined team went back to Sweden by the next possible plain, approached the Indian embassy the next day and finally got clearance. They took another plain and reached Vedchhi, wasting two precious days and all the discomfort of new reservations. What a resolve! I wrote to them:
‘It seems, you have been tested our of proportion by the bureaucracy. But all of you stood that with remarkable strength, calm and success. Finally you made the trip. Great. The genuine people like you, that too teachers, working for a life - long mission of friendship and nothing but love have suffered. You were put in a humiliating situation, with lot of tension and uncertainty! VPSS has a real partnership with Tuff - a voluntary organization, wedded to peace and development in the third world. 'Dharampur Development March', now in its nineteenth year is a model of solidarity and sharing, in the emancipation of the poorest of the poor people.’ They wrote after returning home:
" We really learnt a lot about your schools and the fantastic work you are doing. We are happy that we can be a part in this ‘March’ ".
A Lady from Holland to Restart Support ‘ I dug up a nice email you sent me in 2003. Trees and I have deep wish to contribute again to your life-work of helping the poorest of the poor. We are so much impressed by the reports you keep on sending to us regularly. You show us the importance of sharing and being there for people in need. you have worked out a program of development for a huge area and brought so many people hope and help, to make things better and easier in their lives.’ [Summary of a mail form Myriam, after a gap of two years] ‘The more we try to reach the goals, the more horizons are expanding and unfolding. We are few and are getting old, though mentally still young. It is in our hands to travel as fast as possible, to reach the poorest of the poor; who remained totally neglected and invisible to the society at large and the governments, during the last 6 decades of independence. But reaching the goals is not that easy. It depends upon several factors beyond our control. We only can claim modestly that we are trying and our dreaming never stops. The sky is the limit. We are fortunate to have so many supports like you and encouragement from all the directions, local as well as overseas'. [from my reply] [Myriam from the Netherlands worked with us. She wrote a thesis for her Masters’ and later on visited Dharampur].
What a concern! 'I very much appreciated your concern for Dharampur students. In the next June, those who get through SSC [final test -10th grade of Secondary School] would be eligible to join 11th grade. It is for two years [11th & 12th]. Then some of them may join University. We will keep your noble promise in mind for the students, who opt for further education. How nice that there are friends like you, who are concerned for them, so much in advance!' [Summary of my reply]
The same Swedish gentleman was in India and was going to revisit Dharampur. He got ill and could not come. But he phoned me, before he left for Sweden and informed that he has left Indian currency [Rs 7000] - not useful to him, as he was leaving for home with a quality book - seller friend of him, to purchase books for Dharampur Schools. Incidentally we got many books this year from 4 other sources, to celebrate some occasion in their families. Great.
American Indian Foundation We had guests here in Vedchhi . We discussed the issue of migrant kids with them - mainly problem of their schooling. The group represented American India Foundation [AIF]. They work on seasonal migration, as part of their broader program towards universalization of elementary education in India, in cooperation with several NGOS. The AIF has worked out a plan to run 15 schools for the kids of migrant sugar cane cutters [around Ukai Dam]. A small beginning has been made there. We earlier ran many child centers [Balwadies], with the help of TUFF for their kids, amidst their miserable camps in Surat District.
A Committed Teacher of Sweden A teacher working in Sweden for Dharampur writes after a long silence: ‘I got the News Letter from Tuff today You and Kokila are examples of people who have done so much good and never stop working for those who really need you. And your good names are even known in the far North [Sweden]! I am happy to be a witness to your work [She visited Dharampur some years back]. My thoughts often return to that week in your company. Thank you for the lovely card drawn by a student! I liked it very much’.
Welcome Gesture from Swedish Students One student from Sweden [with four others] visited Dharampur in the beginning of the year. After returning home gave a talk at his parent’s residence and was successful in collecting SEK 4,000 [about RS 25,000] for Dharampur Projects. Youngsters like him keep our hopes alive in peace and brotherhood. We also got a mail from the others, where they told that they would also work for Dharampur Project. A line from their mail: ‘It was so nice to see so much happiness and joy among people in your organization with its different projects that we visited. We will keep in touch.’
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Involvement of Queens’ Necklace Rotary Club - Bombay
A delegation of 8 Rotarians visited Dharampur recently. The delegation took keen interest mainly in soil/water conservation program as well as other activities. They shared views with core group, about future development strategies, while in Tamachhadi Hill School.
Till last year 272 check dams have been constructed by Vedchhi Pradesh Seva Samiti. This year VPSS will be completing 40 additional check dams. 23 are ready by now and 4 are in the process. The rest will be completed before June. These check dams have been financed by a donation of RS 10,50,000 from the above – mentioned Rotary Club. [in cooperation with Rotary International]
They also saw some check dams and understood the benefits of the check dams. In one place, rice was distributed by Rotary members to the tribal workers, who had constructed the dams. This is a real ‘Food for Work Program'. The project when completed will cost a little over 2 million rupees. It would be executed with approximately 50 % labor contribution of the beneficiaries. The rest 50 % wages [about RS 1 million] will be paid [payment started last week] in form of food grains. So it is a three - pronged Project : Local person power, Local technology and Local material. Nothing is from out - side in this remote area, accept special agro – plastic.
New Program of Check Dam Repairs One of our regular donor’s from Bombay offered support on his own, for the repairs of the existing check - dams. When another regular supporter from Bombay heard about this gesture during our recent visit of Bombay, she also joined hands.
Wonderful Support from Bombay Foundation Last month we moved in Dharampur block with a delegation of a Foundation from Bombay. They supported substantially all our 7 schools, in last few months. Now all the 7 schools are colored and white - washed with better wire – fencing, iron gates, water – tanks, two more uniforms for all the students, beddings [for those who lacked] with support of iron stands and begs for the students who were not having them, with open cabinets, to arrange the begs systematically, books with two cup – boards [in each school] music system with instruments, cassettes, microphones, special dresses for cultural programs and fans. Just arrived school begs for all the students.
Mini Water – Works in two Schools The mini water – works is ready now in Chandvagan School and Tamachhadi High School. It will substantially add to the present facility for this basic requirement. The Foundation provided total support for both the water - works.
Land Ownership : A Step Ahead We have mentioned earlier in several News Letters about an on – going exercise for the land – ownership issue, undertaken jointly by one women’s organization named ‘Olakh’ of Baroda and VPSS. Finally on 4th of February, a 'Training Camp' of 40 selected young volunteers was conducted in our Chandvagan School. An expert of the subject high - lighted the issue and guided the volunteers: How to proceed. Finally a 'Perspective Action Plan' was worked out.
A Novel Support After reading an article about Dharampur project one 87 years old gentleman from Bombay approached us on phone. He proposed to help Dharampur Schools in his on way. He runs a Trust in Gujarat. As directed by him the trustee [also a principal of a high school] came all the way to Tamachhadi, some 1000 km away. He conducted coaching classes for the school students as well as [supported by his technical assistant] taught the teachers and students how to use plastic as tiles on the roof, to get more sun light.
Young Artist from Vaghval School The main pillar coordinating support in Bombay for ‘Dharampur Development March’ selected a drawing from one artist student, as a Greeting Card for the New Year. He screen – printed the same and sent the card to his friends, relatives and clients in India and abroad. Further more, he sent money to that poor tribal boy [artist]. The repair of his small house in a very remote village is in progress from this support. Also were selected some drawings from students of Tamachhadi Shrimad Rajachandra High School for the same purpose by another interested group. The students of 10th grade in Tamachhadi were given dictionaries from local language into English as well as from English into local language [Gujarati], as a token of appreciation for their art.
Greeting Cards by Students At present, the students in VPSS schools are drawing the same type of G. Cards as before. We have sent 200 cards to Tuff [Sweden] More are being done.
Emergency Health Support A student from one of our schools met with an accident and broke his hand, as also one villager and our driver [other problems]. All three of them were treated in Shrimad Rajachandra Hospital of Dharampur at concessional charges. The rest of the bills of all three of them were paid by one Bombay well - wisher. All of them are fine.
Thesis on our Schools A graduate of social studies from a reputed Gandhian school of higher education [Gujarat Vidyapith in Ahmedabad] is now writing a thesis about TUFF Mini Schools, for his doctorate. He visited our schools and took our interviews.
Office in Kaprada We have started an office to coordinate development programs like Dams etc. for the remote villages around Kaprada. A recently appointed worker [graduated in Social Works] will also work as public relation coordinator for government schemes, devised for the benefit of the community.
Cordial Invitation by Shriamd Rajachandra Ashram to our students The mentor [Guruii] of Shrimad Rajachandra Ashram of Dharampur respected Shree Rakeshbhai visited Tamachhadi school - complex last month. He casually inquired about the SSC students [first batch]. Sensing the problem of stay in Dharampur town, he asked the Ashram management to provide lodging and boarding facilities to the students. Great.
There were 3 monthly sessions to teach various subjects and skills to the students of Shrimad Rajchandra Primary and Secondary school in Tamachhadi. The volunteer teachers from the Ashram informed the S.S.C. students that the arrangement for their final SSC examination has been made in the Ashram, as directed by their Guruji. It is perhaps a rare occasion that such student guests will stay in the Ashram. It is a great relief for all of us. Otherwise, the only possibility was to travel for the students from Tamachhadi to Dharampur [28 km] every day, to appear in the exam. We were going to arrange for vehicle to travel this distance. Even then it could have been full of tension. Now the students will stay in the quiet atmosphere of the Ashram, in a relaxed mood.
Ex - Student of Khnda in Army An ex – student of Khanda Ashram School got a job in Army. He required an initial deposit during 6 - months training period. He is hand to mouth and was on the point of loosing the opportunity. The arrangement has been worked out, when we came to know the problem.
Application for Running Schools Directly VPSS applied to the education department of the State Government, to run two schools directly [grades 4-5] at Vaghval and Vanakhas [converting present Hostel – Schools in Regular schools] and to add grade 7th [grades 4-5-6 are approved] in Tamchhadi and grades 6-7 [grades 4-5 are approved] in Chandvagan. The follow – up is on.
Training and Health camps Two training camps of 100 students and two health camps were held in our schools by different Trusts, associated with health care issue.
Mass Marriages The positive experience gained last year [loan given for marriages and its recovery – mentioned in the earlier ‘News Letter’] with 7 poor tribal couples, enthused some Bombay supporters to plan out mass marriages directly, on a wider scale. As soon as the plan got a shape, a well – wisher from Bombay sent 100 dress and ornament kits as marriage gifts for all the couples [for the boys and the girls both]. Other friends from Bombay have taken the responsibility for the simple feast for about 5,000 guests of the couples. The other expenses like pendol – decoration - music – priests – rituals - material for religious ceremonies etc. are going to be managed locally, by the families of the couples. Group of NGOs at Dharampur have jointly organized Samuh Lagna [mass marriages]. On 11th March, fifty couples will get married at Khadki. This work will be managed by Sujata. 50 more marriages are to follow shortly. Marriage in the tribal community has a distinct meaning. The function can cost between RS 1,000 to 10,000. The per person lunch cost is estimated at RS 10. But most people don't have this finance. Hence, once the couple is identified, they start living together. They keep hoping that when they will have funds, they will conduct the marriage ceremony. If they die without the ceremony, they can't go to heaven [they believe]. The burden is carried for the life time. At times, it so happens that the father & son get married in the same function, on the same day. With a view to help the poor tribals enjoy the life without guilt feelings, Samuh Lagna is planned.
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VISITS & MISCELLANEOUS
[1] Our old friend and one - time colleague [now settled in London] visited Dharampur with his family. We started our public life with Vidyarthi Mandal in Valod, a little over 6 decades ago. He is regularly following 'Dharampur Development March'. He visited Dharampur for the first time and was rather thrilled. Historically, we are the product of Vedchhi Ashram – the parents of VPSS. VPSS is the parents of Dharampur Project. I am now the president of Vedchhi Ashram. This is the linkage and heritage.
[2] A representative from one global trust [Bombay - based] with Bombay team visited Dharampur for one day. He was happy with Vaghval School that he visited. The team as well visited other development programs around the school. The Trust has promised support.
[3] 40 Primary teacher women trainees from government schools stayed in two of our schools for 2 weeks, for gaining experience and to study ground reality of the villages.
[4] During our three days Bombay visit we contacted 7 of our supporters individually. They earlier visited Dharampur.
[5] Koki joined a lady pediatric doctor from US [Indian], along with an author supporter. She informed us that she has left her practice as a doctor in US and aspires to work in the villages, [visiting India periodically] on preventive side. This was an exploratory trip. [6] With the initiative of a well – wisher from Bombay 4,000 mango plants will be distributed at half the cost, in the next monsoon. Together with Tuff contribution, we would touch the figure of 10,000 plants [a record] totaling 75,000 plants in last 15 years.
[7] Along with an active Bombay supporter Koki visited one untouched interior forest village. They discussed with local leaders the possibilities to start a Mini Ashram [School] from next June.
[8] We have been offered support for generating employment on family level and repairs of simple houses of deserving poor communities. Though a difficult proposition, we are thinking over it, how to go ahead with this individualistic program. |
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VEDCHHI PRADESH SEVA SAMITI Tuff Friendship House : Vedchhi : 394641 :T. Valod : D. Surat bhikhu@satyam.net.in Ph. (02625)220154 & 222451 for Vedchhi : (02633) 240750 for Dharampur Mobile : 9879569535 Bhikhu Vyas & Kokila Vyas [From 15th of November - 2006 to 28th of February – 2007 |
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2006
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December 2006
STIMULATING CORRESPONDENCE & NEWS POINTS [Mini News Digest covering 15th November to 31st December 2006] A HAPPY NEW YEAR 2007 TO ALL OF YOU |
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Wonderful Gesture
[Summary
from a letter from Ake]
[Summary
of my reply]
[Summary
from a letter from Ake]
[Summary
of my reply] Trees and I have deep wish to contribute again to your life-work of helping the poorest of the poor. We are so much impressed by the reports you keep on sending to us regularly. You show us the importance of sharing and being there for people in need. With great love and kindness, you have worked out a program of development for a huge area and brought so many people hope and help, to make things better and easier in their lives.
[Summary
of a mail form Myriam, after a gap of two years] How nice that though being quite far away physically for long from Dharampur and us, you are so close with the Project Journey! I missed your mails all the time, on account of inaccessibility of e - mailing on your part. But your last letter has more than compensated that lacuna.
[Summary
of my reply]
Office
in Kaprada
A
Novel Support
Young Artist from Vaghval School
Program for Pregnant Women Restarts
Emergency
Health Support
Mini
Water – Works in two Schools
Marriage Support Program |
VISITORS & MEETINGS
Finally we had a round of talks with him, about future priority needs. It is hoped that they will provide bridging support for the schools program.
Koki
on the Job Again in
CHRISTMAS IN A REMOTE VILLAGE This is the 8th year since we initiated composite Check Dams/Soil Bunding program. To date 274 check – dams have been constructed [details available]. We received a single generous joint contribution last month from one Bombay T Rotary Club and Rotary International. The planning meeting of the Core Group handling the program and some key supporters from Bombay was held in our Chandvagan Tuff School [one of the 7] on 25th of December [Christmas]. The time – table, was worked out, to complete 37 check – dams, before the first week of June. 7 dams have been completed so far and 7 more are under construction. The project will cost a little over 2 million rupees and will be executed, with approximately 50 % labor contribution of the beneficiaries. The rest 50 % wages [about RS 1 million] will be paid in form of food grains. VPSS received a generous donation of RS 10,50,000 from one Bombay Rotary Club, with a major contribution from Rotary International. Only the local material [stones – soil – etc.] will be used in the earthen check - dams, as is the practice, all these years. So it will be local person power – local technology [nothing from out - side in this remote area] and local material.
On the agenda was also wells Construction – Repairs, Soil -
Bunding, Mango – Plantation, Catchments Area Development Plan
for Forest Restoration. . GENEROUS CONTRIBUTION OF TUFF FOR DHARAMPUR & KAPARADA BLOCK Last week VPSS received RS 14,35,000 [2,30,000 SEK] from Tuff [Sweden], for Tuff Schools and other development programs for New Year in Dharampur. Quite an amount. Highly grateful.
Life ends when you stop Dreaming Hope ends when you stop Believing Love ends when you stop Caring Friendship ends when you stop Sharing
Bhikhu Vyas &
Kokila Vyas Tuff Friendship House : Vedchhi : 394641 :T. Valod : D. Surat : INDIA |
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November 2006 NEWS DIGEST: DHARAMPUR & KAPRADA |
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The Paying
Mistake
A Day’s
Voluntary Service for Dharampur It is a great feeling for the students and the teachers of our schools, to know that there are schools in Sweden thinking of them, from thousands of miles. The students are not giving them support only for physical needs; but trust in the goodness of the humanity. The quality of the contribution is all the more commendable, as the school devoted a 'Day' in the mission of progress in the developing world and peace in the globe, as well’. [Summary of a letter written on 26-07-06] ‘Two of our teachers from the Bergtorpsskolan Marie & Andreas and I are visiting Dharampur, to gather first - hand information, finally to pass on all that to the students’. [From a recent reply of Barbro – the vice principal of the school]
A Teacher
of London in Tamachhadi School ‘I feel truly left blest that I had the opportunity to meet such beautiful hearts here in Tamachhadi. Your commitment and hard work is helping to shape young lives. I have seen a few places around the world, but natural beauty [the trees. flowers, air, river and mountains] have taken my breath away. It is so beautiful here around Tamachhadi.’
Shrimad Rajachandra Hospital saves Life of our Teacher
Planning Session
The ‘Youth
Camp’ in Chandvegan School
Follow
- Up Community Meeting
The programs for the new season were discussed thoroughly in the meeting. They are mainly soil & water conservation, other welfare programs like drinking water issue & tree -plantation etc. The final Program - Chart is ready by now, prepared by the village volunteers. |
One example:
Catchments Area Plan [Budget of a proposal for a prospective support – group. 50 % will be Com. Contribution]
Fruitful
Visits
[1] White - washing and
coloring of all the buildings of 7 schools When we are getting this surprise support, let me put it on record that VPSS is getting help for these schools [and non - schools programs] from Swedish Sister Schools from day one and from ‘Friends of Bombay’ since last 8 years. It remained our practice all these years to go ahead only with bear needs in the schools and to be as economical as possible. Now that the support is offered, we are going ahead with more facilities.
Meeting
with ‘Friends of Dharampur’ in Bombay
Visit of
an Upcoming Mango Garden |