D H A R A M P U R - Progress Report________________

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Om Mango-projektet
About the Mango Project

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2010

UNIQUE & PRODUCTIVE MASS MARRIAGES

VPSS organized fourth Mass Marriages [M.M.] in May 2010.
It was a unique event, as it also resulted in ‘Cluster Plan’
– a platform for development.

Successful School Education

HERE

Good Wishes for OODW of Tyreso Skola
Med anledning av Tyresö skolas dagsverke fredag den 4 juni skickar Bhikhu denna hälsning

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 11^th/12^th 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.
Our schools are indirectly creating positive atmosphere of learning in the surrounding schools. Your support to be generated through petty jobs on 4^th of June will be used for buildings and such other bear requirements.

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]

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

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:

Report of Study-Visit to VPSS Project in Dharampur: January - 2010

Great Opportunity

We, Ulla Dahlbäck and Sven-Eric Bergman have since long nurtured a wish to get to India. Through our friends Walter and Lehte Slunge, we now had the possibility to realize our desire. Lehte has for many years been an active member of TUFF, of which we have been (very) sleeping ones. For her, it was the fourth visit; for Walter the second & for us the first.

Our host organization was VPSS, which was established in 1950s. Since 23 years VPSS has concentrated its activities to the districts of Dharampur and Kaprada (in the following we use for simplicity ‘Dharampur’, disregarding the division into two districts some years ago). Dharampur is a poor part of Gujarat. In the mountains & the forests live more than 300000 tribal people in around 180 villages. The logistical problems in the remote villages are huge.

The main purpose of our visit was to study VPSS projects supported by TUFF in Dharampur. TUFF – VPSS [started long back in 1979]] cooperation has a history of 22 years. TUFF was thus early on the turf and TUFF contributions have been essential for this Project. Originally focus of VPSS was laid on Schools, but the Project has gradually included many other activities aiming at improving life - conditions for inhabitants in remote villages. Finance for ‘Dharampur Project’ now comes from many different sources, domestic and international.

Activities & Venues

· During our visit, we got a broad overview of almost all the activities in the Project as well as Primary & Secondary Schools. We briefly visited Primary Teachers’ Course [Kasturba Ashram in Borakhadi village – the oldest Tuff Project in another block] also. The Girls’ Hostel in Bilpudi [where we also stayed most of the time, in fact being the first visitors in a newly established guest room), Check - Dams; Wells; Rain Water Harvesting Tanks; Soil - Preservation; Watering [Oil – Pumps / Engines], Mango Plantation, Mail - Buffaloes etc. etc.

· One fairly new program we got information about targets the uneducated unemployed - the Vocational & Technical Training program. It consists of training in various trades for 50 days. Examples of trades mentioned are tailoring; computer basic, mobile phone repair and electrician. The idea is that jobs for the trained will be created in the area of self - employment. A pertinent issue is thus, the development of this sector to avoid future skilled unemployment.

· Another new approach is the Model Village Plan, now emerging in a remote forest village named Matunia. Different programs will be taken up there; it can be seen as ‘a laboratory village’. Experiences from the model will be evaluated and disseminated. The work will have wider impact not only on surrounding villages, but also generally.

· An activity outside the Project as such, but allied to it that took place during our visit was a health camp in Model Village Matunia [referred above]. In a sort of census all households in the villages concerned were mapped as to a lot of demographic and socioeconomic variables, including also e.g. ownership of motorbike and TV. In the camp, which was attended by a high percentage of the population concerned, three physicians [including Arch of Dharampur] and one dentist were available to diagnose and treat various ailments. Drugs were also distributed from a pharmacy van. The most serious cases were referred to hospital where their treatment was subsidized. By VPSS. We visited also the hospital [ Shrimad Rajchandra Hospital] in Dharampur.

· We happened to arrive in India January 25^th. So the following day was Republic Day. We attended a ceremony in the vicinity of Valod, where Bhikhu made a speech. Another real bonus event for us was the birthday party (90 years!) of Kokila’s mother. During the evening of the birthday we delighted in first-rate food and excellent dance performances. Not least were we impressed by the vigor and good humor of the society of ladies 90+, which were still going on with the party, when we went home!

People we met

Of course, the main personages during our week in Dharampur were Bhikhu and Kokila Vyas; the founders and leading characters of the Project. We benefited from their hospitality in every sense of that word, during the whole week. Bhikhu followed us to all the activities and was restless in his ambition to show us everything and answer all our questions. In the evenings, we enjoyed the tasteful vegetarian food of Koki and sat outside, under the full moon and the stars, discussing numerous aspects of not only the Project, but also the Indian society as well as existential issues of generic concern, for all of us. Moreover we got practical support by several other members of the staff.

In addition to this we met two Bombay personages that we understand will play big roles in the future of the Project; Rajesh Shah & Rashmin Sanghavi. Also Jayanti Parmar [Valod Office]. They will also bring in other partners and activities that in different ways can feed into the Project. The discussions with Bombay well - wishers gave us new perspectives of the Project. Rajesh & Rashmin represent a new generation with another background and feeling the pulse of the substantial shifts in the economic and social ambiance. At the same time, they observe the traditional values that so clearly characterize ‘ Dharampur Project ‘.

Moreover these talks gave us valuable information of an Indian society in rapid transition, that is, with an emerging middle class; with strong purchasing power. This development has started in the urban regions; but is spreading down to the agricultural sector in country - side.

Second [Winter] Crop

At the micro level we could observe the trend of gaining a second (winter) crop in farming. A massive 'Winter Crop' project for more production has been undertaken mainly in remote Kaprada Block. This is termed what Bikhu so adequately has coined: ‘ Development Approach as against Charity Approach ’.

Main Observations

We are impressed by many things we learned in Dharampur. We felt optimism and a readiness to act that we admire and even can be envious on, when we compare with our own society. To concentrate: There are two key concepts we perceived. Brief comments:

Community Participation

The first is the involvement of the village inhabitants, the community participation. This engagement is materialized at different levels. At the most principal one there is an on-going communication with the population in all the activities, before they are performed. A second level is about the villagers contributing economically and/or through their labor to the Project. At the third level, the ownership and maintenance of the assets stay at the local level.

As one example about 40 % of the cost for dam construction is labor contribution of the community, according to the motto ‘Local Person Power - Local Technology - Local Resources’. The only out-side item used is special agricultural plastic, to insert into the body of the dams. The rest of the wages are paid in form of food – grains only. As a consequence, people feel that the dams are theirs and feel responsibility to repair them.

Holistic Approach

The second key concept is the ‘Holistic Nature’ of the Project. It takes departure in the VPSS philosophy about development and has enlarged over the years. This implies more ambitious goals to fight against poverty, which benefit the poorest. Broader and larger scope of activities has been added to the original school schemes. In Bhikhu’s words: To help the poorest to develop and never to undermine their dignity and honor.

Future of the Project

It is of course pretentious of us that after one week assess the future development of the Project. Nevertheless, we will make some reflections:

The most valuable asset for the Project is the basic values that guide all the activities, even if these values to some extent will be modified, as the surrounding society changes, they form a sound and sustainable ground.

Another strong side of the Project is the realistic view of the scope and scale of the activities. Bhikhu and Kokila have clear ideas of what shall be included and not; even if there can be problems in some cases, to abstain from further involvements. New coordinated activities can of course be, allied building on financing from new sources and managed by others.

We also got an impression that there are skilled and dedicated actors, ready to take further responsibilities in the Project and eventually take over the relay baton. At a practical level, there can however be a problem; if the new leaders not are living in Dharampur Block.

The current organization and the manning of it are based on the fact that Bhikhu/Kokila are on the spot & manage. It is necessary to as soon as possible start a development of the organization & working processes aiming at a decentralized scheme, with clear responsibility at the local level. This may also include recruitment of new members of the staff.

Bhikhu cited to us a dictum of Gandhi: The: focus of education is - Head, Hand & Heart [three ‘H’s], as against Writing, Reading & Arithmetic [three ‘R’s]. Something that we are sure of will be significant for the Project, even in the future.

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 4^th June and is planning to support a Dharampur School.

Good Wishes: Kumla for OODW on 12^th 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]

‘ A friend of mine who visited Dharampur three times asked me why I cannot go to you in Darampur. She wanted me to explain.

I am so fond of you and your fantastic work. But if I come in the middle of pour people it would hurt me too much. I think it is too unfair. Me and my conditions and they have quite another situation. Again, me and my money and education and my job and they often with nothing at all. I was born on the right side and they, on the other. Why? I cannot stand it.

Once upon a time the same friend was in India and when she returned and saw her home and thousands of things, she could not understand why she had it all. She cried I think. She told me. ‘the difference is too much for my thoughts’ . Why am I so happy and have ALL THIS and other people are without every thing - even food and water!.

When I see the news in TV I often think we are discussing richness and money, while children in some countries have no food and they die. The poorness comes into me and I can only feel that it is impossible and I can do so little in a big world. I am so happy to know that your are giving everything to help them in this way.

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.

Employment Generation : Broad Picture

The programs above created jobs of 35000 person days. The workers got 80000 kilograms of rice as wages. The cost of above mentioned 3 projects comes to about 2.5 million rupees. 1.5 million rupees is the donation by well – wishers, while the community contribution broadly comes to a million rupees. As for ‘Winter Crop’ cost of seeds given to the farmers is a little over half a million rupees. VPSS spent a 50 % from TUFF money [this being an experimental plan] and the rest is contributed by the beneficiaries. The result [second crop] is just an estimate. The production of food grains and other seeds may be to the tune of 3 million rupees. This is the summary of our “Fight against Poverty and to be précise Hunger”, as mentioned in the last New Bulletin [Tuff Website]. VPSS had resolved to get prepared for the situation, resulting out of weak monsoon. This is the small contribution. Add to it bumper mango crop.

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.

UNIQUE & PRODUCTIVE MASS MARRIAGES

VPSS organized fourth Mass Marriages [M.M.] in May 2010.
It was a unique event, as it also resulted in ‘Cluster Plan’ – a platform for development.

Read more HERE

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

En återblick från Bhikhu, maj 2010

TAMACHHADI SCHOOL IN DHARAMPUR

[Total Support TUFF ; 1993 - 2003]

The Beginning

The Mini school in village Tamachhadi was started by Vedchhi Pradesh Seva Samiti {VPSS] in 1993.
It was supported from day one by Tuff. The focus of the Project initially was on education. The project gradually went on shaping on holistic lines. Dharampur was almost an illiterate Block, when we initiated rounds in 1986. What else could strike us but schooling, in such a deplorable situation? The region being remote, the schools were practically not functioning. So we made actual entry through Night - Classes & Child Centers in 1889 and ended up with Residential Primary Schools [Known as Mini Ashrams, those days] in 1993. Gradually, we took up the issues of Health Care, Drinking Water, Wells, Soil & Water Conservation, Distribution of Oil Engines, Male Buffaloes, Seeds & Mango Saplings, Vocational Training etc. VPSS has reached to 100 tribal villages [out of 180 in forest - population covered 80,000 persons], with one or more activities.

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 2^nd 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 7^th 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 7^th 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:

Cleaning the rooms and compound, using green garbage for manure
Preparing Vermi compose and use it in kitchen - gardening.
Growing mango and other trees.
Use of solar panel for light [partial] at night and Solar Cooking Device
Regular Guardians’ Gatherings, Development plans are devised there. For example, the guardians and students together prepare ground at home for fruit tree plantation during vacation, before monsoon. All the students are given Mango, Cashunet, & other fruit tree saplings, to be planted around their cottages. This is how the fruit & vegetable plantation in particular and forests in general are spreading year after year, resulting ultimately in expansion of green cover and preservation of moisture. The students are taught: ‘Why’ of all these practices? That is a vital education like subjects.
Baisc medicines are kept to serve the sick from surrounding hamlets.
Music, drawing & study tours are vital aspects in the school.
Computers, Library, Laboratory and Sports are given special importance
Teachers live with the students on the same campus, like their guardians
The drawing cards by some talented students of the school have proved a big attraction abroad and in the donors’ circle, in India

Primary School : 4 teachers for Grades 4/5/6/7 & 98 students
High School : 4 teachers for grades 8/9/10 & 75 students

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

NEWS BULLETIN - DHARAMPUR

September - December 2009

Unique Contribution from Yim Fun of Kumla School

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

The expansion of Boys’ Hostel is on, so that totally 50 students may be accommodated – living far away from their school. Now there are 25
Butter – milk program for our students has been initiated. VPSS get it free from Shrimad Rajachandra Ashram [Institution] and 8 stainless still cans [for transporting to the schools] are gifted by a Cooperative Society

In Vaghval school one more water – tank has been constructed.
Solar Street - Lights and Home – Lights are proving [a great boon] in three schools. Looking to the success, rest of the VPSS schools are going to be covered soon.
All the libraries in our schools have been expanded, adding new books

The support for Mass – Marriages has started coming 1n advance. .

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.

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

Hur används TUFF-pengarna i Indien?
Bhikhu har i sept. -09 skickat en översikt hur Tuff-pengar använts senaste året (
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

UTILIZATION CHART : TUFF CONTRIBUTION

[Dharampur Project : June – 2008 to June - 2009]

Sr.	Programs & Items	Rupees
1	Virekshetra School : Salaries & Food [Mainly]	370,000
2	Vankhas School: Salaries, Food, Oil Engine & Floor Mill	409,000
3	Coordination & Supervision of 8 Schools, 2 Hostels, 1 Mobile Van & Vocational - Technical Training Program : Salary of one expert worker and his traveling expenses	: 60,000
4	Traveling cost of on – going training of teachers, Review – Planning Meetings in Bilpudi & Trips of High – School students to Dharampur, for intensive study of different subjects. Also visit of expert teachers, for same purpose	29,000
5	Construction of a class room in Tamachhadi Primary School	80,000
6	Support for Gymnasium Hostel girls [40] in Bilpudi for the following items;	104,000
	Salary of 1 rector, 1 cook & 1 helper : RS 72000
	Planting of 500 mango and coconut plants [RS 35 per one plant] RS 17500
	Magazines RS 12200 : Gardening : RS 2300 :
7	Support for Mobile Van [Maintenance/Insurance]	20,000
8	Gunnar/Margaretha Reading Room in Girls’ Hostel [Bilpudi]	60000
9	Health – Care in the schools : Mainly Medicines	77,000
10	Telephones in the schools and of workers	32,000
11	3 oil – engines given to 3 groups [12 families] for irrigation	39,000
12	Distribution of seeds for taking second [Winter] crop	26,000
13	4 wells [Excluding labor contribution – a major portion]	100,000
14	Coordinators for Check Dams, Soil – Bunding, Distribution of Male Buffaloes - Seeds for second crop & Mango Plants – Mass Marriages etc. :. Salary & Traveling of 2 workers	72,000
15	Repair and coloring of Tuff Friendship House in Vedchhi	43,000
16	Support for Tuff lorry : Insurance & Maintenance	104,000
17	Expenditure for jeep : Driver, Insurance & Maintenance:	78,000
18	Maintenance & Fuel of 6 motor - cycles	35,000
19	Publication of a Pictorial Booklet - Story of Two Decades in Dharampur & Kaprada Communes [Blocks]	25,000
20	Administration	150,000
	[A] Salary of office – secretary & helper : RS 60000
	[B] Computer – Telephones – Xerox – Stationary – Postage - Electricity etc. : RS. 60000
	[C] Traveling Expenses : 30000
	G R A N D - T O T A L	191,3000

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 [4^th one], we have received the permission of the government, to run it directly by VPSS. The permission is up to 6^th grade, so the 7^th 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 7^th 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 8^th & 9^th 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

Resultat av 20 års verksamhet!
En sammanfattning

Rapport från Bhikhu maj 2009

TWO DECADES : ACHIEVEMENTS
[1988 – 2008]

(1) 6 primary schools, 2 high schools, 1 girl’s hostel & 1 boys’ hostel [950 students]
Now Computers in all these schools.

(2) 50 training camps conducted for colleges & voluntary groups.

(3) 80 students guided & helped for higher education & training.

(4) 135 wells constructed, 25 reconstructed and 10 bore - wells fixed as also built 7 rainwater harvesting tanks with initiative of & planning as well as labor contribution of people.

(5) 208 oil engines given at half price at the doorsteps, in hamlets.

(6) 2000 hectares of land reclaimed or repaired under soil – bunding program.
Cultivation is taking place in the new fields.

(7) 342 mud-stone check dams constructed on ‘Food for Work’ lines, with nearly
      45 % labor contribution of the beneficiaries. Irrigation [yearly] takes place in about
      3000 hectares of land.

(8) 40 Primary Health check - up camps conducted.

(9) 80 very serious patients guided & supported substantially.
    Yearly about 500 patients get free medicines for common diseases through our schools,
    breaking cycle of which-doctors.

(10) Under 'Mother & Child Care' plan support given [2000 women].
        The program is being reshaped with family kitchen gardens.

(11) 90,000 mango saplings distributed in hamlets at 50 % price.

(12) 70,000 common and forest trees given away to the people.

(13) 25000 mango plants raised in schools. Distributed to guardians.

(14) Provide 4000 packets of improved vegetable seeds every year.

(15) Conducted 200 mass marriages: Last 3 years in remote villages

(16) 2,300 male/buffaloes brought from long distance and given away to
        1,150 poorest families, only at transport cost.

(17) Well equipped Mobile Van, managed by qualified teachers takes regular
       rounds in 8 Government Primary Schools to provide supplementary education
        [regular subjects and general knowledge].

(18) A Technical & Vocational Training Program started last year.
       250 trainees males & females] have completed training so far.

(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.

(20) A follow – up program for self – employment [livelihood], directed to those
        who have undergone training has been initiate with 35 youths.

THE LATEST DRIVE

917 kilogram seeds given to 334 families, just in 3 months produced 18,007 kilograms of grains !
Enthused by this wonderful result, a massive 'Winter Crop' project for more grain production will be undertaken in remote villages. As soon as monsoon is over I intend to concentrate on this ‘Food First’ program. I will like to move constantly, village after village, to spread the message and to manage the program.

(I korthet:)
917 kilo utsäde som gavs till 334 familjer resulterade på bara tre månader i en skörd på 18007 kg!
Uppmuntrad av detta underbara resultat avser jag att efter monsunen driva ett intensivt "Vinter-skördprojekt" i mera avlägsna byar.

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.

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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

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Bhikhu Vyas, Tuffs partner i Indien sedan 1979

NEWS LETTER FOR SWEDISH SISTER SCHOOLS

DHARAMPUR
Report April 2009

EDUCATION

Girls’ Hostel/School
Dharampur team has taken one more step forward. The Girls’ Hostel for Gymnasium is well set after two years. The large rooms remain empty during day – time, when the girls go to different Gymnasiums. So, during last February – March, the Hostel has taken a new shape of a school, for improving quality of education of all our 6 Primary Schools & 2 High Schools. This new direction became possible, because the Hostel is located centrally for all VPSS schools. We are not getting qualified teachers to our satisfaction in those remote schools. Our emphasis is on academic subjects here as finally, most of our students will have to join the main stream. For schooling in the Hostel, we arranged for a competent teacher for Science - Mathematics subjects and other visiting teachers. At night the students got the opportunity to see educational and informative films. The hostel inmates also were benefited from all this. The Science & Mathematics lessons were arranged in another near by education centre. The Practical were also performed by the students in their laboratory. VPSS appointed a coordinator to run the classes in particular and management in general. As Koki lives in the Hostel itself, she also could devote good amount of time, after teaching.

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
Now that about 25 of our girls are to complete Higher - Secondary Course [12^th] VPSS is taking up a program for their further education [after June]. They have joined vacation classes for advanced English and Computer basics. Obviously, not all may be eligible for University; but those who are capable & ambitious must be guided & supported. They would be almost the first generation going for the University and other advanced courses. [mainly our past students]. We plan to absorb all the girls in our plan of things. Those who are very bright may join science stream. Others may opt for Nursing Diploma & Primary Teachers’ Certificate [PTC}. We have recently visited a few training schools in Gujarat and requested them to give preference to Dharampur girls – coming out first time from the forests for such advanced courses, which may benefit this invisible cluster, in the long run. Those who may not fair well or simply fail in 12^th grade will join Vocational/Technical Training, being carried out by VPSS, since last 6 months. We have received funds for further education in any course from same source, for our girls.

Vaghval - Model School
Recently One Foundation has adopted Vaghval School - Complex [having 160 students in grades : 4-5-6-7-8]. The school will have the 9^th grade from next June. This second high - school of VPSS was started in last June. The Trust aspires to make this High School a model one, with their full backing. A fully equipped computer lab., science lab., library building, staff quarters, water – works & new sanitary blocks are fast coming up. The Foundation will also take care of total running cost of both the Schools [with hostels]. Next year the Foundation is going to help construction of Solar Plant & Gobar Gas Plant as well - for cooking and save fire - wood. The Foundation team repeatedly visited Vaghval, to speed up the process. They are very involved. They will also take care of food [recurring expenses of the hostel], salary and other routine needs.

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
After a long wait & exploring many places, VPSS has found out a site for the Hostel for 11^th & 12^th grade boys [40 - to start with], on the lines of Bilpudi Girls’ Hostel. The site is in a compound of a big High School / Gymnasium Complex, in a remote village near Kaprada [25 km away from Dharampur]. The Trust managing the complex has donated land. The buildings are being constructed with the support of the same donor, who financed all the buildings of the Girls’ Hostel. As no where government is involved, for food & other running cost, support is just received from a Swedish gentleman - concerned for Dharampur progress. The Hostel is being opened for the students who studied in VPSS schools, but will be open for others, depending upon availability of space and infra - structure facilities. The hostel will start from next June.

Vocational Training – Fastest Program
The fourth batch of youngsters left for a Vocational & Technical Training in the first week of April. This is a new Self - Employment Avenue opening up for youths. There is a mention of this program in our last News Bulletin. This time it broke all records. We generally limit the number to 50 trainees and plan the budget accordingly. In the last batch 71 boys and 28 girls [17/22 age - group] rushed for and joined training. It obviously indicates the measure of interest this program has generated. In our two decades long 'Development March', this is the new program, which we introduced for left - outs [from schools] & unemployed youths - to give them a shift to other jobs - from 'agriculture only' scenario. The training fees, food/stay and travels was quite an amount [about RS 200000 – excluding token contribution from trainees], as the number got doubled. Fortunately Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram of Dharampur approved the entire budget, with a promise to support those who get settled in self - employment jobs, after completing training. The trainees have opted for Tailoring – Computer Basic – Tally [accounts] – Furniture – Police - Videography – Machinist – Electrician – Mobile Repairing –Secretarial & Spoken English. 120 youths have so far got training, under our plan.

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
Some friends expressed interest in supporting only schools. As all our existing schools & hostels [now 10] are getting support from Tuff [through OODWS] and others. As we are not going to start more VPSS schools, we advised them to help other friendly schools in Dharampur & Kaprada. Accordingly, 4 schools have been supported for class – room

MASS MARRIAGES : GREAT SUCCESS

Roots
The program was initiated in 2006. 7 couples who wanted to take the benefit of 'Mass Marriages', approached Koki, with a request of a loan of rupees 1000 each. They had waited for long, having no money for getting married. To get eligible for performing religious rites [birth - death etc. in the family] they should have formally married, according to local custom. The request was approved and the couples happily got married. They repaid loan in a year, as promised. Honesty is in blood of the poor.

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
In the first week of April 2009 86 couples got married at one place. It was gala celebration managed by the village committee. More applications started pouring in, as the marriage date came closer and closer. But as our coordinators found it unmanageable, a few of the couples could not be taken. They will have to wait for one more year. Our coordinators have started dreaming to conduct 100 marriages next year [2010]. Over and above other normal gifts and mass meal attended by 6500 people, on the spur of the moment, Koki announced that all the couples will get 5 mango plants each, as the marriage gift. This is how; even the marriages became the medium of development.

Mass Marriages in village Matuniya of Kaprada Taluka[County] on 5th of April.
Totally 86 couples participated in this grand function.

Massbröllop i Dharampur, där 86 par vigdes och där fattiga människors bröllopskostnader reducerades radikalt tack vare våra partners insatser,

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
For this one year, it was our plan to repair and renovate as many existing and prospective check – dams as possible Accordingly, 40 check – dams have been repaired – deepened and in a few cases cement [RCC} out – lets have been fixed to make dams more meaningful and strong. Of course, some of our traditional donors approached us with love, to continue with new dams also. Accordingly, 7 new Check – Dams have been constructed [total now 338]. One of the lady donors was so keen about this program, that she stayed in Chandvagan school [one of VPSS schools] & joined our coordinator in planning and constructing the dam [to be named after her family]. She visited Chandvagan twice and stayed there She asked to take help of JCB machine [available there, as the new road was being constructed], for cleaning the debris. Surprisingly, in March, with more digging by machine, water was found. I specially visited this village and was rather excited. Our core – group members came to know of this result and requested us to go ahead with as many old dams as possible, with digging by JCB machines, with their full financial backing. The work is going ahead on war – footing. Our team hopes to complete 15 dams before it starts raining. Everything has to be completed before the start of monsoon - when life comes almost to a standstill in many villages of Dharampur and Kaprada. So our small staff is constantly on a move

Food Production : New Drive
On food - front we are experimenting with moisture – fed crops, which require no or minimal water. We have constructed check - dams to store rain water, built wells, bunds and given oil engines. They are no doubt proving useful; but only where water is available. For those fields without such support programs, this moisture - fed winter crop may prove a great boon. We experimented with 200 families last winter, giving the farmers subsidized seeds. I have visited some fields with standing crops and found them a success. Again, these crops got ready just in 3 months. For example, 5 kg seeds resulted in 50 kg grains. Based on the success of this pilot project, our team has planned to expand the project to 1000 families [or more] in next winter. The support for this ambitious plan has just been received. Education is no doubt very important in that illiterate society; but jobs are so vital, for that almost unemployed mass - having zero job opportunities, accept in agriculture. In this typical scenario, first comes food and then [simultaneously] education. As Ake Sandin [Tuff - Sweden] once wrote : Food First

Rain Water Harvesting Tanks
One NGO ‘Step In’ [from Switzerland] supported family – unit 'Rain Water Harvesting Tank’ [RWHT] program. Two ladies from that group earlier visited Dharampur. As planned with them 7 RWHTS, fitted with hand – pump have been constructed, of course, with labor contribution of the beneficiaries. That was the Target. ‘Step In’ has also contributed for Greeting Cards and additional mango plantation. Based on the experience gained, a new plan for RWHTS has just been devised. We feel that RWHT program is the only solution for acute water – crisis as on today, in Dharampur Cluster.

Mango Plantation
The vigorous planning & practical preparations for distribution of 10,000 mango saplings [will total 1,00,000 next monsoon] is very much on. The funding is from Tuff, as is happening for the last decade & a half. One Rotary Club of Bombay has shown special interest in this program – as a Forest Conservation Program also. Some experts from the Club, who visited Dharampur earlier, have listed some trees to be planted for water retention. We discussed the idea with our field – workers and have decided to give to the people such plants, along with mangoes. The Bombay Club is to support the expansion. .

IN BRIEF

· 11^th 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]

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

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’

DHARAMPUR - BULLETIN
January 2009

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 Minister for Foreign Aid means that Swedish foreign aid shall focus still more on democracy. But I doubt that “democracy” and “freedom” in the Bombay or Western style are the top priorities of poor illiterate people, with hungry children. My recent headline in my column is a quotation from the radical German writer Bertolt Brecht, who said: “First comes food, then morality”. In it I tell about how the Koytas [the name given to sugar cane cutters here] accepted the Balwadies [child – centers], when their children were given also a mini meal’. {Explanation: In Vedchhi area of Gujarat VPSS worked maximum for 2500 migrant kids in 65 Child Centers [Balwadies] finally, two decades ago; with an exemplary and total support from Tuff. [The roots of the proposed Plan are in this letter from Ake.]
‘How nice that you now have a Minister for Foreign Aid! Her emphasis on ‘Democracy First’ is very stimulating. Yes, for poor and illiterate people, with hungry children, it is ‘Food First’. Your reference to Koyata Balwadies was so appropriate. I strongly feel that democracy with continuing poverty is no democracy. Just an idea is born in my brain. Could the Swedish lady minister work out a Tripartite Project, [with TUFF - VPSS - SIDA collaborating], a time - bound program of eradication of poverty and attacking illiteracy, in Dharampur Block - a model plan? Dharampur is perhaps most deserving’. [Bh.]
‘Thank you for interesting texts for a better and more solidarity economy. In this week's Radio Tuff some parts are about world economy. The journalist Bror Perjus wrote a book several years ago, with the title: 'The Casino Earth' about the wild world economy of speculations. He is quoted from a Tuff meeting last Tuesday, when he told that 98 (!!!) % of world trade is currency transactions. Only 2 % is real economy, i.e. goods’. [Ake]
A bit about my idea [not a serious proposal] of some sort of a special ‘Poverty Eradication – Project’ in Dharampur Block. We could work out a detailed Plan [Find broad summary below]. Dharampur pauses a challenge to the economists, planners, activists & intellectuals: We are here to support, dear intellectuals. Dharampur is a test case. Find sustainable solution of starvation [employment] –drinking water crisis & illiteracy. If not we, some people in future could carry forward the torch of progress’. The plan is for them, if not for us, old ones’. [Bh.]

TOTAL BUDGET: RUPEES 60650000

Programs: 7130000 x 5 Years = RS: 35650000

[YEARLY COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTION RS. 5000000: TOTAL: RS. 25000000]

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 10^th], Mobile Van for 8 Government Primary Schools, a Hostel for 11^th–12^th 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 ‘Mobile Van’ is working well, Two qualified teachers are doing a good job. It has generated good interest in 7 government Primary Schools.
We have visited 4 new good schools [non – VPSS] and hostels. Some Indian donors have provided support for the reconstruction of old buildings there. We are also cooperating in expansion programs in Gymnasium schools run by other NGOS and supported by Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram of Dharampur.
The planning is on for 100 Mass – Marriages in next March..

An experimental program of winter – cropping [second moisture crop, after monsoon] is being undertaken in two clusters, with 500 families. The results will be analyzed and an extensive program will follow, on the basis of the findings.

· The second residential high – school [grade 8] by VPSS in Vaghval, [30 students] is making good progress. Government approval [without aid] for 5^th grade has just received. Gradually we will have 6^th & 7^th standard there. In two years’ time, it will be a full-fledged unit [5^th to 10^th], like now we have in Tamachhadi The 4^th Primary School at Vankhas [starting with 4^th& 5^th 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!

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

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.

LET OUR FRIENDSHIP & MESSAGE OF LOVE GROW IN 2009

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:
A land- mark [totals three decades now in 2009] of unique cooperation, between two NGOS : TUFF and VPSS .

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.

"Every poor person at some stage is a risk for the rich "

2006-2008

LOUD THOUGHTS ABOUT BOMBAY BLASTS
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.
*BHIKHU VYAS* 27 Nov 2008 [Highly upset and not in good frame of mind, at the moment]

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:	Maria Ström-Nilsson.
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
Also see: 3 TUFF members visiting India in early 2008

DHARAMPUR NEWS LETTER

Aug. 2008

Bhikhu with new laptop.

TUFF SWEDEN

Congratulations: Radio Tuff
Our admiration goes most for the role played by Radio Tuff as the voice of peace and advocate for progress at the grass – roots, in the developing world. We have experienced it firstly in Valod Cluster and more intensely in Dharampur - an isolated block in India, where only materialistically poor tribes reside. Both VPSS & TUFF have an identical line, as the schools are our entry – points for progress. May be around 25 schools got support from Swedish Sister Schools, firstly in Valod area and since last two decades in remote Dharampur villages, having challenging logistics. Of course, all our non - schools development programs as well in Dharampur found a supporting and effective voice in Radio TUFF. My frequent reports got substantial coverage, resulting into excellent information delivery to the schools when they organize OODW and also on individual level. In propagating the ideal of Universal Brotherhood R. Tuff has played wonderful role.

Record Mango – Plantation
Mango saplings distribution plan exclusively and constantly supported by Tuff since 1992 is one of the most successful programs in a large area of Dharampur Block. It is a practical, sustainable and eco-friendly livelihood program at the door - steps of the community, in remote villages. No skills required, as it is in the blood of the people and not much land also required. It is like part - time job, resulting in nourishing food–supplant and additional income for poor people. April - May - June are the months when they deeply feel the pinch of poverty. It is a very cheap & simple program as well - just 6 to 7 SEK per best quality plant, with 50 % contribution from the beneficiaries. With the record distribution of 6,500 plants in the last monsoon, so far totally 90,000 saplings have reached to the people. We have planned to distribute 10,000 more mango plants next year, touching the magic figure of 100000. About 60,000 trees [now] are giving fruits, increasing the quantity of grown up trees, year after year. The survival rate is 80 % [approximately]. 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.

Special Project of Tyreso Skola
The problem of drinking water in Tamchhadi boys' hostel [High School] was on our priority list. The school has two hand pumps, which dry out in summer. The water - works of the village [from where they were getting water] was not functioning well of late. There are 70 boys [8/9/10] and other staff of 10 people in the hostel. [The girls stay in the Primary Section]. We have resolved drinking water problem there by digging a well in the river - bed and constructing two under - ground 'Rain Water Harvesting Tanks'. We wanted to resolve the problem on the same lines, in the high school as well, by constructing a 'Rain Water Harvesting Tank' with storage capacity of about 75,000 liters [to be used in summer]. The engineers of a sister Trust organization worked out a rough estimate. He estimated the cost of about rupees 1,50,000. It roughly comes to rupees 2 per liter. Last year Tyreso School [new entry in Sister – School Cooperation], provided support for Mobile Van. Great. This time the School approved the Tank Project. It is constructed and is filled with rain water. Now drinking water problem of the school/hostel will be resolved in summer.
Se ny hälsning från Bhikhu

Wonderful Support from Swedish Sister Schools
The regular support coming from other Sister Schools [on increasing scale] is so moving on emotional level and encouraging on practical level. They are helping VPSS to run 2 schools fully and 4 schools partially. Every word coming from Ake, giving the news after news of the performance of the schools listed below was bubbling with great joy. The schools are breaking all the previous records. The total collection from all the sources touched all – time high figure of SEK 300 000.
The Sister Schools have made the entry & expansion of education possible in D.

[1] Södertörns Friskola - Huddinge
[2] Alléskolan - Floda
[3] Kumla skola, - Tyresö
[4] Bergtorpsskolan - Täby
[5] Strandskolan - Tyresö
[6] Finninge – Strängnäs

INDIA

Support form a Small Group
Ingrid visited Dharampur & other Tuff Projects with her two sons long back. What an involvement of her and her neighbors, who arranged a flee market for Dharampur. The support coming likewise has a shuttle message of Gandhi & the famous economist Shoemaker: Small is Beautiful.

Petersons’ Reading Room
We have all praise for those who contributed for Petersons’ Reading Room, to commemorate birthdays of Margaretha & Gunnar, both lovers of Dharampur. The Reading Room is .now ready in the Girls’ Hostel - Bilpudi. The couple has been very active in cooperation in general and between Tuff/VPSS in particular. Great.

More Wells
Olga Well With the contributions of their friends and two activist daughters: Delby and Diana. Earlier Edmundo well was constructed in the memory of late husband of Olga. This is another well. The couple [family] will be remembered fondly in this spirited way in Dharampur. The couple worked for Tuff as also their daughters.
Tyreso Rotary Well : The contributions came from the members of Tyreso Rotary, through Tuff. Once I visited the Club and had the proud privilege of speaking to the members of the Rotary club in Tyreso.

Hostels for Gymnasium Students
This is the second year of the Girls' Hostel for the Gymnasium level [11 – 12 grades] students in Bilpudi. There are 38 girls. A Rain Water Harvesting Tank is ready by now, filled with rain water – to be used in next March & April. VPSS has received two Sewing machines and 4 computers. The girls now learn computer in extra time and practice sewing before and after school – hours. The hostel provides food to 10 boys [11 - 12 grades], as they were found in a desperate situation. Three of them were motivated to join science stream. As their Gymnasium is a little away from other schools, they have been provided bicycles. VPSS could not build a hostel for boys, as no suitable land was found. Learning about this accommodation problem, a tribal neighbor on his own, offered his modest house [extension of his road – side shop]. The problem has been resolved likewise. The suitable land is just found and the deal is on way. The construction hopefully will start in November [after monsoon]. Once the hostel gets going, the Gymnasium level boys [like the Girls’ Hostel in Bilpudi] will not have to walk down to schools from their homes from long distance. In the new emerging head – quarters of Kaprada County, the problem was the same. There also the arrangements for food and accommodation for 9 students have been made. This is how all aspiring students of Tamachhadi high school are studying.

Vocational-Training : Second Batch
After financing Tamachhadi School – Complex, Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram is going to provide total support for the expenses of the second batch of about 50 trainees. It is for the Technical & Vocational Training Program. It has good potential for jobs. Very good training was given to 42 boys & 22 girls [The first batch] in Dalit Shakti Kendra [Nani Devati]. The support for the first batch came form Bombay friends. The second batch will join training shortly. The interview process is just over in the Girls’ Hostel. 38 youths came there at short notice. Still more applications are coming. We hope to send 50 trainees for different trades of their choice. Wonderful interest has been generated in diversified training, going to prove an ideal livelihood program in this employment - starved Block. Our new and enthusiastic activist supporter Bhavana Shah joined us last week for two days, for the follow – up of training program for youths, concluded 2 months back. She also met the second group of 38 youths, joining training next week. She discussed with hostel girls follow – up of sewing training that they had.

Some encouraging observations from the program – supporter and the institute:
‘I visited the training centre at Nani Devati Trining Institute. All the trainees sent by VPSS were very happy at the end of training and full of energy. At the Dalit Shakti Kendra [Institute] Dharampur students were frontrunners in all areas viz. art, skill, and sports. They were winners in most of the games as individuals and as team. In the elocution competition seven Dharampur students were in final round. The art and handicraft teacher was very happy with one talented student in [drawing] and other boys in that subject. Some of the normal paintings and glass painting by them were kept in the display at the institute. Now more students can go for training and they need to join different training areas in which there are better chances of getting employment and higher income for them. Very good beginning has been made. The program g has a bright future’.
[From a letter of the representative of the trust who supported the program]

‘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.’
[From a note to Koki from the director of the Training Institute Mr. Martin Mekvan]

One More High School
After Tamachhadi [now in the 5th year] one more residential high – school [grade 8] with 30 students has started from last June in village Vaghval. Now there are 105 students [8/9/10 grades] in Tamachhadi High School. 4 rooms were ready before the start of the school, with generous support from K. C. Trust of Bombay. We have got support for beddings and other furniture for new Vaghval H. School and 25 new students in Bilpudi Girls’ Hostel from Raj Foundation [Bo.]

Plan for 2 New Programs
Shrimad Rajchandra Asharam – Dharampur [Supporting VPSS generously for several programs in Dharampur Block] is taking up 2 new and innovative programs. One is to provide food to the students, struggling to study further, after SSC [10^th grade]. The food - packets will be distributed to these students, coming from remote hilly forest villages - [15 to 25 km away]. They leave their homes early in the morning and reach home at around 7 in the evening. No public transport is available for most of them. So they have to make long walks and then travel by private jeeps, piling from mid – points. These students eat some simple food at home, when they start for schools. They go almost without food for the whole day. Such students will be provided supplementary food shortly in all their Schools [5]. Another program is of tutorial classes [after school hours] for supplementary teaching vital subjects in 10th grade [for SSC - 10th grade exam] in 8 schools. Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram is financing this program also. Koki is active in the coordination of these twin programs. It is good in a way that she will come closer to the the schools [not under VPSS] to some extent at higher level. On account of supplementary food program contact will be established with elder students as well. Good for future.

Male Buffalo
The distribution of male buffaloes is making good progress. Earlier 2000 animals were distributed in several villages. These animals are brought from about 800 km distance in special trucks. The program was temporarily suspended as half the transport cost to be born by the beneficiaries went on increasing on account of galloping diesel price. But the beneficiaries badly required the animals in their agricultural operations. They were rather over – motivated, resulting in ever mounting pressure from them, to bring animals. They were prepared to bear higher cost, as compared to the price locally, these animals were found cheaper. So the cycle got restarted in the middle of the monsoon, with the result that 300 more animals have reached to the community

Support from Rotary Club [Bomaby].
A group of members from Rotary Club Queen’s Necklace visited dams and other programs. They supported 40 Check Dams [now 336] program last year and are as well supporting one school. They were pleased with what they saw. They had an intensive discussion with our field – workers about our approach and future plans. There were other group and individual visits from Dharampur well-wishers

Medical Camp
A Medical Camp for the cluster [group of villages around Vaghval village] was organized by one voluntary association of Surat City in Vaghval School – Complex. There were 8 doctors of various disciplines and as many volunteers – including our teachers, as guides. About 400 patients took advantage of the camp. Obviously the treatment was free, but medicines as well. Koki joined the group and was all praise for the skill and commitment of the whole group. Earlier three serious cases [health] were provided timely support.

Story of 2 Decades
VPSS has just published a pictorial report in Gujarati [local language] of work done in Dharampur & Kaprada, during last two decades - with facts, figures and description of how the project grew step–by–step and took Holistic Shape, without any road - map, as also future course of action. This is for the first time that such a report is published in Gujarati. The English Version will be out soon.

NEWS IN BRIEF

The ‘Mobile Van’ has restarted in Panchayat Schools of Khanda Block, - directed by qualified teachers. It has sustained the interest in the schools.
We have received laptop from a US relative. It is a great boon, as now the communication can be handled from Bilpudi Office [in Dharampur] also.
We have visited 2 new schools and hostels, as requested by one Indian donor and one foreign donor group. The information has been collected and provided to the concerned parties.
An old colleague of Valod visited us. One Australian lady is married to his brother. The group took keen interest in Dharampur Project. The Australian lady desired to send her daughter to work in Dharampur, as a volunteer. The girl is interested in social work. We will gladly cooperate.
Now all our schools have computers and teachers of the subject. The computers are used as teaching aid also by special teachers. VPSS has purchased CDS prepared by experts for subjects teaching. They are proving useful and generating interest in the students – Quite effective.
4 youths aspiring to become primary teachers and 1 more to become engineer have been provided support. The trainee teachers have promised to join project schools, after their study is concluded.
3 schools were selected by health groups for special check – up, with nice follow/up for acute problems found in some of them, in course of checking.
The students of the Girls’ Hostel prepared kits of educational materials for the schools of Dharampur & Kaprada. The teachers of our schools helped them by turn, as it was a big job. They worked on behalf of and as directed by Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram of Dharampur.
A plan for 100 Mass Marriages in next March – April is worked out. We have received promise of full support for this quite an expensive program.
Both Koki and Bhavana visited one big school of about 750 students [Grades: 7 - 8 - 9 -10 -11]. One Foundation from Bombay is going to finance the project, which may cost about two million rupees.
One of our lady workers is now moving in the villages to find our pregnant women. The ‘Mother/Child Care’ plan is being recast on promotional lines.

WHAT A LOVE FOR DHARAMPUR !

I got a post card from an ex-professor [now age 94].
He is a great lover of Dharampur. He is one of the members of one Trust [established long back by him and his colleagues]. During last 10 years, he pressed the Trust twice successfully, to contribute money to construct 2 class rooms in our schools. Since last 2 years, the Trust is diverting support to some well off schools. The professor was very unhappy. He had been struggling last 3 years to press the Trust to contribute for at least one class – room as before, for a school in Dharampur He was not succeeding, as on account of his age [3 years ago – 90] and staying far away in Pune [Bombay side], he was unable to attend Board meetings. But he did not give in for all the last 3 years. We were not pressing, but to our great surprise, we got a cheque for a class room. In his post card the old man expressed his great satisfaction [and more importantly relief]. Outwardly, the professor acted for Dharampur; but in return, he got unmatched inner joy.

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
[June – July – August : 2008]

Bhikhu Vyas & Kokila Vyas

The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience,
but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.

MARTIN LUTHER KING

Med anledning av Strandskolans Öppet hus den 9 oktober för Tuffs projekt i Indien kom följande brev från Bhikhu

To he Students & Teachers

Strandskolan

Tyresö

I came to know from Ake Sandin [TUFF] that Strandskolan is organizing 'Open House' on October 9th. Please accept our congratulations for your continuous support for schools in Dharampur. All of us - the students & the teachers are highly impressed for your concern and commitment, followed by an imaginative and solid action.

__________________

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]

RECORD MANGO PLANTATION 2008 !
[DHARAMPUR & KAPRADA]

THESE ARE SOME PICTURES OF THE MASSIVE MANGO SAPLINGS DISTRIBUTION, AT 40 % COST. IT IS JUST FINISHED.
AS ASKED BY THE COMMUNITY, TOTALLY 6,000 HIGH QUALITY PLANTS HAVE BEEN PURCHASED FROM REPUTED MOTHER NURSERIES AND TRANSPORTED TO THE HAMLETS OF THE PEOPLE – ALMOST AT THEIR DOOR STEPS.
25 % OF THE TOTAL PLANTS HAVE REACHED TO THE GUARDIANS, THROUGH THEIR KIDS; UNDER OUR PROGRAM - LINKING DEVELOPMENT BETWEEN SCHOOLS & THE COMMUNITY.
THE MAJOR SUPPORT FOR THIS HIGHLY RECEPTIVE PROGRAM CAME FROM TUFF SWEDEN. AN AMBITIOUS PROGRAM IS UNDER ACTIVE CONSIDERATION FOR YEAR 2009. WE HAVE APPROACHED MOTHER NURSERIES; AS WE HOPE TO CROSS 10,000 PLANTS NEXT YEAR, TOUCHING THE MAGIC FIGURE OF 100,000 PLANTS.
6,000 MANGO PLANTS GIVEN THIS YEAR BROKE ALL RECORDS OF LAST FIFTEEN YEARS.

Collection	Distribution
For Family	Tuff Tempo

TOTAL MANGO PLANTS DISTRIBUTED : 90,000 (until June 2008)

The surrounding pattern is a repeated detail from a photo of a mango tree.

NEWS DIGEST : DHARAMPUR
April-June 2008

Support From Tuff Sweden

Study-Team of Tuff - Sweden

A Board Meeting of Tuff members was arranged in their office to get first-hand information about Dharampur Project from 3 members team. The team visited Dharampur a couple of months back. In the meeting there were few friends who knew Dharampur since long.
A letter [summary] from one of the team members:

‘I had heard so much about fantastic work you do. A beautiful memory that will stay forever is when I could hear the children laughing in the night [after prayers]. I woke up to that wonderful sound and I could also hear someone talk. I was on the bed outside and it was completely dark. Suddenly there was that wonderful laugh – May be the most beautiful sound in the world. I asked you the next morning what had happened. You told me about your meeting with the children. It just feels me with joy to think about that night. In Bombay it was really comforting to hear Rajesh & Bhavna talk about the future of Dharampur. The world needs more of your kind.

My reply: ‘I am well aware that you and all at Tuff [supporting us since 3 decades, without a break] are so concerned about who will carry on the torch of development in Dharampur. It is so pleasing to learn from you that you felt comfortable to hear them [Rajesh and Bhavna]talking about future of Dharampur. Yes we couldn't have made a better choice’.

Tyreso School Worked for Tamachhadi School

The problem of drinking water in Tamachhadi boys' hostel [High School] becomes acute in April - may. We had planned to resolve the problem there by constructing an under ground 'Rain Water Harvesting Tank' [5 other VPSS schools have all ready such tanks]. The work is in progress. Tyreso school of Sweden collected about RS 2,40,000. It is almost double the amount than last year – when Tyreso School joined Sister Schools Cooperation. The kids of this primary school did petty jobs by organizing ‘Operation One Day Work’ [OODW} voluntarily for this ‘Tank‘. Of course, the support is more than required for a tank. It would be utilized for other requirements of the school. Getting the news from Ake, I immediately wrote to him:

“It seems that the Sister Schools are in healthy competition with each-other. They are also in competition with themselves, breaking their previous records. Beneficiary - Dharampur - means the poorest of the poor and most deserving communities. All these Sister Schools, admirably coordinated by Tuff are helping the communities of Dharampur to help them selves. The people there are actively participating in the development struggle’. Tyresö Skola has every right to be proud of. They have done a wonderful job for an unknown region - far away, at the other end of the world. Real and exemplary solidarity, in this strife - torn world. Feel like running to Tyreso School and hugging the small kids’.

Four Sister Schools Working for VPSS Schools

Four more schools also worked on the same lines [News just received] for funding VPSS schools. From their funds 2 schools will be fully and 3 others will be partially supported, mainly for food expenses, salaries and teaching materials.

3 New Wells

Three new wells have been constructed with the support of Tuff. Two of them will be named :

OLGA WELL

TYRESO ROTARY WELL.

One More Room in Tamachhadi

VPSS has constructed one more class room – cum - reading room in Tamachhadi Primary School. It is named PETERSONS’ READING ROOM, to commemorate the Birth - Days of long - time Tuff activists and great lovers of Dharampur : Margaretha [70] and Gunnar [75].

Mango Saplings

This year it is planed to distribute 10,000 more mango saplings, for which support has been received from Sweden. The preparations are in progress, as the monsoon has set in, a pre-condition for mango plantation. 75,000 mango plants have been distributed at half the cost with the help of Tuff, in last 15 years. Great.

VPSS – INDIA

Mass-Marriages

During the last Guardians' meeting in Vaghval School, some young guardians raised the question of Mass Marriages in their cluster. There was a quick result, in just one month. Mass Marriages of 82 couples in two villages on the same day were organized. The entire show was efficiently managed by the community leaders. It is an important social reform, a considerable saving for the community in general and a boon for the poorest of them in particular. Most of those who got married in Mass Marriages program could not afford the expenses which are normally heavy. They desperately waited for years, for this auspicious event.

The traditional gifts for the couples came from 'Friends of Dharampur' [Bombay], as also expenditure for mass meals for about 8,000 people. Our only endeavor was to make it as cheap as possible, so that it could be replicated in future on bigger scale. The expense [Couples/Donors] for 82 pairs [164 persons] did not exceed rupees 2,50,000. The coordinator of the marriages asked Koki: ”600 kg rice has been saved. What to do?” The bags reached to nearby VPSS schools: Vankhas & Vaghval. What a spirit of poor! After reading the report of mass marriages and viewing the photographs of the event. It is very encouraging that we have received an offer for the entire expenses for 100 couples, next year.

Guardian’s Gatherings

Guardian's Gatherings were held in all VPSS schools. About 400 guardians attended them. 40 percent were mothers. The students performed nicely and exhibited their creations. Lively discussion for future plans followed the meals, with focus on soil/water conservation, mango plantation, forestry, wells & introduction of latrines [latest program].

Unique Contribution

Dharampur region has not yet entered the latrine - age. Earlier we tried to introduce latrines, with little success. One regular donor of Dharampur came to know of this deplorable state of affairs. He offered to support the program of latrines for workers. It was revealed that 50 out of 55 of our workers are not having latrines. Immediately followed an action - plan. Our 21 workers have been selected in the first batch. These families will have latrines in their homes - first time in life. A unique gift. The same gentle man donated woolen sweaters to all our 800 students and teachers - workers last winter. It was a great relief.

Vocational Training

VPSS has launched on first of May technical/ vocational training program for the youths and for those who could not fair well in academic subjects. There has been overwhelming response. Against the target of 50 trainees, 62 turned up in the first interview. We now have a waiting list of 70 applicants. 40 boys and 22 girls are undergoing training in Dalit Shakti Kendra in 11 trades, near Ahmedabad. Being the first such venture, VPSS has financed in full, with generous help from well – wishers of Bombay. When we visited the institute recently, we were extremely happy to learn that one of our girl students who opted for police training was interviewed on Radio. She boldly explained that she wants to become a police, to eradicate corruption from public life. Nice training is being imparted. An ambitious training [for jobs & livelihood] year – round program will be carved out, once the trainees are back to Bilpudi Girls’ Hostel.

Soil–Bunding & Check – Dams

A generous donation has been received for soil - bunding and check – dams program from Allana Trust of Bombay. One of the officials of the trust visited Dharampur at the end of March. He was happy with the performance, as 90 % of work was completed before the dead – line, from their half a million rupee donation, against the same amount of labor contribution of the beneficiaries. The official asked our team, if we could continue bunding work. Our workers started visiting villages and planning with them accordingly. The work restarted and before the end of May, it covered more land. The picture is as follows, with the work done before and after April.

Soil – Bunding: 1150 hectares of land of 1128 families in 17 villages has been reclaimed. The fields will be under crops now onwards with more progress, when new fields will be carved out. Totally 7, 80,136 C. Ft. of work has been done by the beneficiaries. The workers received 84,200 kg of food – grains, as half of the wages. Rest is their labor contribution. To date, 19,150 hectares are reclaimed.

Check – Dams: Before the end of May, 20 new check - dams have been built by the community in 18 villages. The total work stands at 3, 21, 033 C. Ft. The workers received 30,800 kg of food grains, as half of normal wages. [rest is labor contribution]. To date 336 mud – stone check – dams have been constructed. Next year will be a consolidation phase, now that so many dams are ready. We will concentrate particularly on repairs, maintenance, utilization of water, more production accordingly, as well as better water – management in general.

Against this expenditure for Soil – Bunding and Check – Dams VPSS has received donations of RS 9,00,000 so far. VPSS has spent RS 12,07,500 for food grains. We have received an offer from one source for bridging support.

Near 100 % Result of Tamachhadi High School in SSC Examination

In Shrimad Rajchandra Vidya Vihar [High School] of Tamachhadi, 26 out of 27 students got through in recent S.S.C. exam. Last year [first S.S.C. batch] there were 28 students and 27 got through. There was no facility of secondary education in about 30 villages of that cluster, having population of about 25,000. All the girls passed in both the batches.

New High School in Vaghval

VPSS has started another High School in Vaghval. 30 students have been admitted in 8^th grade [with hostel facility], on the very first day. It is highly appreciated by the community, having no such facility in that cluster also [like Tamachhadi], for secondary education, for about 25,000 people. The buildings for the school have been constructed.

‘Earth Care Award’ for VPSS

Vedchhi Pradesh Seva Samiti received national 'Earth Care Award’ on ‘Earth Day’ for Dharampur Project, some two months back. The award is instituted jointly by Times of India news paper and one Delhi – based Climate Trust.

Computers in VPSS Schools

Computer subject has been introduced in VPSS schools. We have received 25 computers so far. The special teachers will now go on visiting all the schools.

Expansion in Girls’ Hostel

In Bilpudi Girls' Hostel construction of more rooms for girls [for 60 in 11th/12^th grades] has been completed. 75,000 liters Rain Water Harvesting Tank is under construction. In Chandvagan School also 2 more rooms have been constructed. They are stone houses - a beginning of environment - friendly construction.

Poverty & Accident

A few months back we happened to be in one remote village, which was unapproachable even by jeep 4 months ago. One of the students of Tamachhadi High School is from there. It so happened that after getting through in S.S.C. exam, he joined a Higher Secondary School in Dharampur. This boy [and few others] managed accommodation on their own, around Dharampur town. This boy met with an accident and broke his leg. Some noble person found him lying on road-side and carried him to one private hospital in Dharampur. We knew about the incident the next day. I rushed to the hospital. We shifted the boy to a Public Hospital. All arrangements were made for the operation with 50 % cost to be born by the hospital and the rest by VPSS

In the men while the parents and the villagers came to know about the accident and rushed to the hospital. All of them were scarred with operation. They simply believed that the leg will be imputed. I returned to the hostel for a short period, leaving the follow - up to our coordinators. As soon as I left the hospital, the villagers decided not to go in for operation. Without waiting for me they managed for a jeep and left for home. The hospital people tried hard to convince villagers, but they were rather scarred. All of us were so sad, but could do nothing.

Koki immediately sent one worker to the village, to inquire about the condition of the boy. The worker could reach home, after walking and climbing 7-8 km narrow foot road, amidst forests and mountains, as there was no road for even motor - bike those days. The boy hardly could walk and was treated with some herbal local medicines. The family was hand - to – mouth

By chance we visited the village. There we discussed future study plan of the boy with his family. We came to know from the boy that he was preparing for the exam [11th], even in this condition. Koki took a spot-decision and ordered the boy to get into the jeep. The family and the villagers could not oppose. They simply followed in disbelief, waving hands to the boy, seated in our jeep.

The boy was accommodated in the new room, just constructed in the Girls’ Hostel. After long argument the boy was allowed to appear in the test. Our Hostel Rector took every care of the boy, including special transport arrangement. This is a happy end of a sad story.

THOSE WHO LIVE FOR OTHERS REALLY LIVE.
THOSE WHO LIVE FOR THEMSELVES ARE AS GOOD AS DEAD.

SWAMI VIVEKANAND

VPSS : Tuff Friendship House : Vedchhi : 394641 : T. Valod : D. Surat: INDIA

Bhikhu tackar

Med anledning av följande dagsverken 2008 har Bhikhu skickat tackbrev.

28-29 april: Alléskolan i Floda (Göteborgstrakten)

29 april: Södertörns friskola i Huddinge

7 maj: Kumla skola, Tyresö

5 juni: Tyresö skola

Här visas som exempel brevet till Södertörns friskola i Huddinge

To the Students & Teachers of Sister School Södertörns Friskola in Huddinge

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.
In 1988 when we entered this dark region, there were very few junior primary schools, ill equipped & under staffed. The picture has drastically changed and is still changing, with the message spreading to other groups in India , getting inspiration from Sweden.

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

[Tuff Friendship House : Vedchhi : 394641 : T. Valod : D. Surat : INDIA]

DHARAMPUR & KAPRADA

NEWS LETTER

February 2008

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 & 75^th 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’
in Bombay

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.
[201 pumps are operating in Dharampur and Kaprada [Thanks to Tuff - Last one given in Makadban 3 months ago]

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 17^th February, 2008.

Soil Conservation work has been done at following places:

Sr. No.	Name	Cubic Meters
1.	Matuniya.	35,383
2.	Nani Korwad.	93,057
3.	Moti Korwad.	92,055
4.	Jahgiribhawada (Morsingi).	49,041
5.	Nandgaon (Ghartafaliya).	23205
6.	Peeproti.	38481
7.	Aaslona.	24182
8.	Veribhawada (chokarpada).	52810
9.	Veribhawada (korifaliya).	23895
10.	Chandvegan.	24636
	Total Beneficiaries : 450	4,56,745

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/12^th 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 11^th – 12^th 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 6^th, but rejection of grade 7^that the same time, on flimsy grounds. Then we appealed to the appeals department –against the rejection. Finally the 7^th 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]

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.

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 29^th of February - 2008]

Bhikhu Vyas & Kokila Vyas

WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE IF WE CARE EVEN BY DOING SMALL THINGS
- IN A SMALL WAY

Tack till Strandskolan, Tyresö!

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

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]*
(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.
(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.
(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].
(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.
(9)	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.
(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.
[IMPLEMENTED BY VEDCHHI PRADESH SEVA SAMITI – DHARAMPUR BRANCH]