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Rapporter från Indien
Färska rapporter om Indien finns även här: |
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NEWS & VIEWS [September – December 2011] |
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DHARAMPUR & KAPRADA BLOCK
GENEROUS TUFF CONTRIBUTION FOR DHARAMPUR VPSS has received contribution of SEK 265000 [RS 1955000] from Tuff - Sweden. This generous fund is collected mainly by Swedish Sister Schools through their Operation One Day Work [OODW] and Tuff members. Out of this impressive figure, SEK 16000 is from the Mangograms scheme – which has generated big attraction. This is a collection mainly from several Tuff members. From this on – going support, mango saplings are distributed in the poor communities of Dharampur Block, at half the original price. The rest is contribution from the beneficiaries. This is how 108500 mango saplings have been distributed in last two decades, making a big impact on mango – production in particular and economy in general. For the total picture of the utilization of Tuff contribution, a tabulated report will appear in the next Bulletin. Main expenditure is after schools. It covers buildings, salaries, food expenditure of students, teaching material, wells, computers and normal school activities. A small amount [about 7 % of the total] is spent after running the Project in about 100 villages, covering 80,000 tribal inhabitants.
Wonderful Performance of Finninge Sister School [From a letter of Kari Sundel – from Finninge Sister School]
“Finninge has broken all previous records. It is
obvious that the dedicated team and the students
have worked very hard, with the wonderful
cooperation of the parents. The support will go in a
long way to educate the kids of an illiterate
society.
It is so inspiring that the school is selling things
made by the kids, make performances before parents
and serve them coffee, to collect fund for
Dharampur, to fulfill the needs of our schools .
The credit for this generous support goes to
Finninge & several other Swedish Schools like Kumla
– Strand – Tyreso Skola – Bergtorps - Alea etc. -
nicely motivated by Tuff.
TALENT
SCHOOL :
AN INNOVATIVE EXPERIMENT This project involves students of Shrimad Rajchandra Vidya Vihar [High School] at village Tamachhadi and Adarsh Madhyamik Vidyalay [High School] at village Vaghaval.]
Model Budget : Talent School [Full budget for the following is worked out in response to an inquiry from a well wisher]
· Summer Vacation Coaching Camp of 10 days [Budget for one year: RS 150000]
School Exchange Trips
Teachers’ Training
‘Food First’ Program For 2012
FIVE
YEAR PERSPECTIVE PLAN
RECOMMENDATIONS
FUNDING REQUIREMENT OF RS 18700000 FROM RAMKRISHNA MISSION AND CONTRIBUTION OF RS 17300000 FROM THE COMMUNITY . GRAND TOTAL: RS 36000000.
Matunia Model Village
Expansion
: Male – Buffalo Program
Occupy Wall Street Movement : COMMENTS From my reply to a Swedish teacher who asked about 'Occupy Wall Street' movement]
NEWS IN BRIEF
DREAM PROJECT
[Responses are welcome for this Dream Project]
At the Bottom of Poverty
Bhikhu
Vyas & Kokila Vyas |
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2011 |
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N
E W S - B U L L E T I N
March
- August : 2011 VISIT to SWITZERLAND In last May
Koki – me and Rajesh Shah [Based in Bombay & active in Dharampur
since more than a decade] visited Switzerland
[first
time] and Sweden for three weeks.
Support from The Netherlands
Results of Final Examinations
Jump for Higher Education The new Science Gymnasium - Shrimad Rajchandra Gurulkul started in last July by the Ashram is a great a boon. We supported the initiative from day one, as the science faculty was badly required. It is a great opportunity for Dharampur – Kaprada students [also girls] who are now highly motivated for advanced studies. The Ashram is also having boys' hostel in their Gurukul [value – based school]. Of course, the girls [from the Gymnasium] stay in the Hostel at Bilpudi. The Gymnasium is 4 km away from there. The arrangement [with 50 % support] for transport for these girls has been made. The VPSS team [guided by Koki] of experienced teachers took responsibility to develop a new garden from zero, in this science school [having 9th grade also]. It may be noted with gratitude that the Primary and High school Complex at Tamachhadi are totally supported by S. Rajchandra Ashram. A talent group in different subjects [from that Ashram] visits Tamachhadi Schools as volunteers, every month. They are creative fun teachers.
Vocational Training
Trained Nurses on Work
Talent School – Latest
Experiment After four years of the exercise, the students will be in a better position to choose their further studies or carriers. Again, we would be able to guide the students better, as we will have a close and constant contact of 4 years. The Vocational Guidance in this case will be more meaningful. All the deserving and needy students will be provided economic support, as may be required. The donations are forthcoming. The students are also expected to follow values as part of their holistic development - not just teaching subjects. Accordingly, they put up tiles on the new room to be used by them in future, for this particular assignment. Their stay in the hostel was on self - supporting lines, without servant assistance.
Mango Plantation |
Matunia Model Village Plan The
friends of late Hitenbhai [the dreamer of the Plan]
supported all the plans that have been executed in Matubnia
and are likely to provide more support. They represented
Bombay Chartered Accountants Society. A delegation of the
society visited Matunia and other places around two months
ago. They were rather happy. They took keen interest in the
rebuilt houses. It is sort of an innovation - replacing mud
– plinth by cement plinth, to save them from insects [wooden
poles] This is how more houses will be rebuilt turn by turn,
on the same pattern. We are planning to cover the whole
Soil & Water Conservation
Last Phase of Dharampur Project - Concentration: Kaprada
Block
· We required two community flour mills. The manufacturer was new to us. We requested for some concession. He was kind enough to donate one mil [ RS 15500] against one purchased. ‘Buy one, take on e free’ system. They are a great relief to the schools, as the milling is done in the hostel [school]
·
A 16 minutes documentary film was
prepared by few interested friends. Actually they are top
govt. officials, who have no idea of Dharampur. They visited
Dharampur activities casually with their friends. After the
visit, they thought of documentation. They revisited
Dharampur – The outcome is the film, with no expenses. · An old gentle man from Bombay is supporting our school since last 8 years. As we are getting enough support for schools, he had an idea. He fixed 300000 rupees for three years in our name with interest in the bank. We will be free to use the accumulated some for any requirement of any school or hostel, after the maturity of the amount now lying in the bank. What a concern for future and what an also idea of support for activities in Dharampur. · Spent RS 38000 for health program as support to needy [minus concession form Shrimad Hospital, as well as medicines kept in the schools and the hostel. · Project coordinators and a few village leaders visited male – buffalo sheds – some 600 km away in the project jeep, to work out animal transportation [almost free] schedule. Now the animals will start coming to Dharampur – Kaprada hamlets in big trucks. · In near by district town Valsad a boys’ hostel has been started. One of our main donors has also supported this hostel, with an understanding that Dharampur boys joining University [in Valsad] would get benefit of the hostel. One of our ex – students has got the benefit. · One poor tribal land owner has donated about half a hectare of land for the hostel for girls in Bilpudi. The girls are helping him in his agriculture in the neighborhood. Now VPSS has fixed drip irrigation scheme for irrigating his j land. He being a tribal farmer govt. has provided 75000 rupees as subsidy [100000 rupees total cost], while the rest 25000 rupees is contributed from project fund. The farmer has started irrigating his soil and is growing vegetables. Appreciating his support 500 mango plants have been grown on the soil, without charging any contribution from our poor donor · One lady Surgeon and a sociologist lady were with us for two days. We visited some places, as they intend to start some sort of Health - Project as well as awareness drive in women, in the villages around Dharampur. One Indian doctor [practicing in US as a surgeon] also wants to return and work in the community, amidst remote villages. Earlier he moved in Dharampur villages with him and suggested some health groups, to join hands. He did it during his second visit. We talked to him during his visit. He apprised us of his [and of the group] future plans.
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VEDCHHI PRADESH SEVA SAMITI T. No. 0912625220154 [Valod] & 0912633240015 [Dharampur] Tuff Friendship House; VEDCHHI – T. Valod – D. Tapti : INDIA [Branch of VPSS – Udyogvadi – VALOD]Post – Code : 394640 [ Valod] & 396050 [Dharampur] |
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NEWS BULLETIN September : 2010 - February : 2011DHARAMPUR & KAPRADA BLOCK TUFF – VPSS COOPERATION |
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Tuff
Support
Tuff organization of Sweden is the most dependable partner of VPSS in the field of development, since last 3 decades. Tuff has provided support for many schools & non – schools programs earlier in Valod area. Furthermore it remained deeply involved in educational & socio – economic development of Dharampur Block, when VPSS resolved to redirect its attention, in that remote forest region. The flow of support continued unabated here. The latest aid of RS 1736224, generated mainly through OODW by Swedish Sister Schools was received by VPSS recently. VPSS & Dharampur community are highly grateful to Tuff for the same. A mention should be made of Mango Saplings distribution program, which has generated great interest in Tuff circle.
Study Team of Tyreso Skolan
Marvelous Gift
Unique Birth
– Day Present from Tuff
More & More
Computers
Tuff Support
for Livelihood Programs
Trip to
Sweden
LOCAL SUPPORT & CURRENTS SOIL/WATER CONSERVATION & CLIMATIC DISTURBANCE A delegation of Bombay Auditors’ Guild, led by its president, moved in Dharamur Block, to study the performance of on – going soil/water conservation programs, supported earlier by the Guild. They as well got an idea of our plans for 2011 [before monsoon]. It was an exploratory trip for that purpose – rather fruitful. Because, as recommended by them, one Trust of Bombay, donated RS 1111111 [first installment] for this program. 25 check – dams have been repaired out of the target of 40 existing dams, from this support and contributions of some well – wishers. The repairing of the rest of the dams is in progress. 15 new dams have been constructed [total 422 – so far]. 25 more are to be constructed [in progress], before it starts raining. The design is the same: People build dams, accepting half the labor charges in form of food – grains. The other program of soil – bunding is also going ahead simultaneously on the same lines. This year, otherwise also poor Dharampur Block faced vagaries of nature also. The standing crops [paddy - the main crop] were badly damaged [see last N. Bulletin] by untimely heavy rain. It continued for more than a month, after regular monsoon was over. It also disturbed the time - table worked out with the community, for the second [winter] crop. The ripe time for sawing seeds was over and the soil was still wet. Of course, some daring farmers have sawn seeds – given at half the price by VPSS to them. It may give some additional yield. VPSS is planning for a crash relief program on principles of food - security. The said program under our active consideration will take the form of subsidized rice distribution at the door - steps of the needy families, before monsoon; when the situation may turn critical. This will add to the food - grains remuneration, people are normally getting against their labor for check - dams and soil - bunding This in totality will be substantial livelihood help. The government is just thinking on these lines [food - security]. We executed such a plan last year with the help of local volunteers. It was such a boon. The Trust mentioned above & some other sources have promised to support this pre - monsoon ‘Food Security’ relief plan, for the poorest of the poor families, whose storage bags may be empty, before and during monsoon days. One of the team – members, after meeting the Girls in the Hostel of Bilpudi wrote to us, after the visit: “It was very much enlightening to find a nice small hostel for Tribal girls, nurtured by Kokilaben, with utmost love & compassion. There was a hope for better tomorrow in the sparkling eyes of the girls for which Kokilaben is putting best of her in terms of everything We are proud of the leaders of the projects for the courage, care and concern about future of these girls. They are indeed blessed with loving and caring parents. I am still whispering the sweet wordings of their prayer [in Gujarati]. It was such joyous feeling.”
Health Check
up Camp – Tamachhadi
Matunia
Model Village Plan
Vocational
Training
Volunteers
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Male - Buffaloes
A Film about Dharampur Project
Blankets during Cold Wave
Visit of Mr. Gunvant Shah
Visit of a Radical Gandhian
Visit of US
Surgeon
Visit of Forest
Officials
A DREAM - PROJECT The step - by - step development has taken place in last 22 years, in the field of education in Dharampur. First to start [actual] were 6 Residential Primary Schools, initiated with Tuff support. Then VPSS jumped into 2 High Schools [7 years ago], followed by a hostel for girls [11-12 grades], 5 years ago. Then there was a major shift [4 years ago] for Vocational & Technical Training The training was followed by part support for self – employment, for those who got trained in various trades. The scheme worked well and is progressing nicely. The latest is a 'Talent School' – an innovation project, just being initiated. This is yet at a preliminary stage. The broad picture of the concept is as follows: Those economically poor, but exceptionally bright students from several High Schools of Dharampur Block are being identified. By now the I. Q. & Aptitude Tests of 95 students has been taken by experts. 3 specially qualified ladies from that group utilized latest technology, for testing objectively. It was for the first time that the students got exposed to this type of test. The result is being evaluated to make final choice, to go ahead. A meeting [sort of seminar] of some experts from Gujarat and VPSS senior teaches was held in Bilpudi, to give a final shape to the plan. The meeting with the guardians of chosen students will follow shortly. They will be taken into confidence about the emerging plan and will as well be explained the concept of Talent Schooling. We will seek their cooperation. The chosen ones will be given special coaching during vacations. Over and above that, books and other learning material etc. will also be provided to those students. There will be exposure trips as well constant monitoring of them, through periodical tests and personal visits will be an on - going process. It will be more of learning [self - study, thinking - analyzing], rather than usual class - room teaching style. Guidance will certainly be required - on distant teaching [conference] lines, as the students will continue in their schools [no separate schools]. Experts will be invited off and on to give guidance on various subjects. The process will continue for 5 years [8 -9 -10-11-12]. After 12th, the best students will be given vocational guidance for further studies in the Universities and /or other special courses of their choice and aptitude. They will be given financial support, as may be required. Some donors are interested in this type of schooling. The objective is to create Quality Leadership amongst the poor, at the grass - roots level.. It does not matter, if some of the graduates take up jobs in government or other agencies. The dream is to see to it that talent does not run away to cities; but stay on in rural area, to serve the community. VPSS aspires to create ‘Leadership of the Poor, by the Poor & for the Poor.’ NEWS IN BRIEF
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Bhikhu – Kokila Vyas VEDCHHI PRADESH SEVA SAMITI Project Office : Tuff Friendship House – Near Gandhi Vidyapith : Vedchhi [T. Valod] 394641 [D. Tapi] Vedchhi Ph. [0262 5]220154 – Mo. 9429885232 : Dharampur Ph. [02633] 240015- Mo: 9429871070
[Branch of Vedchhi Pradesh Seva Samiti – Udyogwadi : Valod -
394640 : D. Tapi] |
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DHARAMPUR short AGENDA for 2011. FIGHT AGAINST POVERTY & MAL- NUTRITION By Bhikhu Vyas & Kokila Vyas, October 2010 [Slightly abridged] |
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VPSS through its several community-oriented successful programs has now reached to a stage, when it should not tolerate poverty any more in Dharampur & Kaprada Block. We have generous support from various quarters. Over and above ongoing programs, some practical agri-based programs have been worked out, with our workers & leaders. They are as follows:
1.
2.
3.
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2010
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Ekonomi.
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Vår indiske partner Bhikhu Vyas har skickat en uppställning över de 300 000 kr som Tuff (Tyresö Ulands- och FredsFörening) skickade till Indien 2009. Dessutom har han också tagit med en privat gåva och ränta, så det blir totalt ca 332 000 kr. Uppgivna summor i Rupies har räknats om till kronor. Siffrorna i kronor är ungefärliga, dock utan större felaktigheter. Se den ekonomiska uppställningen i 21 punkter här nedan. Kortfattade förklaringar på vad pengarna har använts till visas. Där framgår att driften av skolorna Virekshetra och Vankhas helt finansieras med Tuff-pengar. Dessa är två av de sex skolor i fattiga Dharampur som tidigare uppfördes med enbart Tuff-bidrag.
EXPLANATORY NOTES WITH BRIEF REPORT
1. Total support for this school – as mentioned in the table, came fromTuff. 2. Total support for this school – as mentioned in the table, came from Tuff.3. During frequent review - sessions in last March - April, we came to the painful conclusion that the Mobile Van was not functioning to our satisfaction and the response of the Government Village Primary Schools was not positive. We could not resolve the problems. Fortunately another NGO ‘ARCH’ [an expert Health/Education group] in Dharampur was searching for such a Van. So the hands were changed smoothly. Now it is working nicely by ‘ARCH’, mainly for health & general education. It is given away with token price. ARCH is fully coopeating VPSS in ‘Quality Education’ program, managed in Girls’ Hostel [Bilpudi]. They are as well training VPSS teachers & High School students.4. Medicines and Hospital charges are born 50 % by VPSS and 50 % by Shree Rajchandra Hospital working in Dharampur. It is practically free for our teachers & students and with part concession [as may be the case]; for poor patients.5. This is a trial project in three schools – a success and a boon, as the electric power disappears frequently VPSS spent 50 % from Tuff funding. Rest 50 % is provided by another NGO. Finding success, more street lights for the rest of the schools are on way.6. Expansion of computer lab in Girls Hostels [Bilpudi] – to be used by the girls and also students of other VPSS schools, when they stay in the Hostel [for a week - turn by turn], for intensive coaching as well as for Tamachhadi High School.7. Travelling expenses to and fro of all the VPSS schools, who attended the Fair. Food, auditorium facilities, light, microphone, audio - visual system, accomodation and all other facilities were provided by Shrimad Rajchandra Asharam of Dharampur. The devotees of the Ashram were so happy with the Fair that they have invited VPSS to organize such a Fair. New plans were also thought out, as a follow – up, like Boys’ Hostel for Gymnasium level students [done]. Video - film available. The preparations are on. |
8. Cost of materials.9. Following demand from Gujarati [only] knowing supporters of the Project, a pictorial and factual report, covering the period from May 2009 to May 2010 was published a couple of months ago. Last year it was ‘ A Journey of Two Decades’. [Both Sent to Tuff]10. In all VPSS Schools, for extra reading, the books were received by substantial price reduction [60-65 % of original price] from one NGO, having a mission of motivating reading habits. Text–books are received free. Special books are given at concession rate.11. The coordinator [also expert in computers] keep on moving from school to school for supervision, guidance, taking tests and experimentation. He also looks after Vocational & Technical Training Program. Support comes from Shree Rajchchandra Ashram.12. This building was constructed about 18 years ago, with the contribution from Tyreso Commune. It is now very useful for keeping materials for Dharampur Project [godown] in particular and store - room in general. There is also one extra room for visitors.13. Tamachhadi Primary & Secondary Schools [with hostels] did not have year – round reliable drinking water facility. It is permanently resolved with 2 bore wells. This became possible with an examplary contribution from Yim Fun at Kumla School, her relatives and friends. Actually the support was meant for only one school; but it proved useful for two schools. Please see Tuff Web for more details of this ideal contribution.14. With the distribution of 6800 mango plants this year [good monsoon – just over], the figure crossed 1,00,000 mango trees, in last 18 years. This program is supported by Tuff, all through-out. Of course, about 50 % is the contribution of beneficiaries, with more concession to our school students [families], as a linkage of schools, with the guardians.15. The 2 coordinators [local youths and with VPSS for all the last 21 years] constantly take rounds of about hundred villages [area of operation] in Dharampur & Kaprada [Siter –commun], situated in hills and forests. They move on Motor Bikes, [where ever possible] or on foot, to motivate people, guide them for new plans, to execute the finalized programs and to prepare progress - reports. They as well deal with collecting community – contributions, as fixed out for the programs. They collect mango plants from the mother nursery and distribute them [also other such items] in TUff lorry, almost at the door - steps of the listed families. They as well handle the difficult program of managing male – buffaloes [living creatures], coming from very long distance in big trucks. The animals are delivered to the beneficiaries at fixed points. Main programs.Small Check Dams, constructed by the community. · Soil Bunding [Digging & shaping agriculture fields by the community] Rain Water Harvesting Tanks [Digging by the beneficiaries]Male Buffaloes· Seeds [Winter Crop & Vegetables] and plants for fruits [Main – Banana] Mango Plantation Program, covering a large area Mass - Marriages [Cluser – based huge organization] Motivational trips of farmers to successful plans [new crops – dams – bunds] 16. Just before this monsoon [letter part of May and early June] about 300 familes [found wanting food to eat] were provided rice with concession. Rice is prime [No : 1 and some times only] food – stuff, for the people in Dharampur and kaprada.17. There is a sea - change in the area of communications, in last five years.7 out of 9 schools and a hostel have telephone accessibibility, with improvement in services – mainly in mobile sector. All the coordinators and key – persons in the management have mobile phones. This is a big leap forward, improving efficiency and speed, at all levels. 18. The lorry was fundedd by tuff some 22 years ago; first for Migrant Balwadies and later on [till today] for Dharampur Schools [transporting food – grains, vegetables & other materials of daily needs] as well as various development programs. The fuel cost is born by all the schools and other non – schools progrms, as may be the case.19. Jeep is for travelling from Valod to Dharmapur and from there to schools & villages.20. Motor Cycles are provided to 3 coordinators, the office - superintendent and the driver. It makes things so quick & efficient, for such a comprehensive project.21. One full – time office – superintendent is employed For total work for Dharampur Project. He looks after normal clerical work, accounts, banking, auditing, purchase, maintenance of vehicles and other things. VPSS has no other paid staff, in the office.More about Tamachhadi Girls’ Hostel & Dharampur - Kaprada Holistic Project The total expenditure for a separate Hostel Building for girls at Tamachhadi High School as well as repairing of toilets & bathrooms comes to RS 443000. This may be reimbursed from the next installment, coming from Tuff. With the inclusion of this item, Tuff Economy exceeds RS two & a quarter million. Quite an impressive figure – a record. Of course, the total expenditure of Dharampur Holistic Project exceeds a crore of rupees [more than 10 m. rupees] The rest of the finance is the contribution from Indian supporters as also the community, mainly in form of labor like Dams/Bunds. |
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N E W S B U L L E T I N DHARAMUR & KAPRADA BLOCK May - June - July – August : 2010 |
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TUFF SUPPORT FOR DHARAMPUR MARCH VPSS Schools & TUFF : Major Thrust A decade and half aged VPSS Schools are now well set. They have taken a routine shape and are models in different clusters of a vast area. They are spread out in the entire Dharampur & Kparada area [the whole block] Two schools are entirely [food – salary and other daily needs of the pupils] run with Tuff support. Out of the other 4 primary and 2 Secondary, 4 have been provided drinking water facilities, with electric motor pumps. At three schools, old roofs of the central halls have been replaced by new ones. One badly needed Girls’ Hostel Building [High School] is added in Tamachhadi, as also new sanitary arrangements in both the wings [Primary & Secondary]. The Girls Hostel at Bilpudi has now a giant new well, incidentally also used for irrigating vegetable crops by the tribal donor, on whose land the spacious & imposing Bilpudi Girls’ Hostel is situated. We have also added more plants. All the schools have got mango plants and new variety seeds as also telephone services. New books were purchased and journals for general knowledge adore the display box. Routine sickness [quite many in monsoon] and in case of serious sickness support was given – fully financed, including special transport arrangements. Small trips were organized. Also the surrounding community got benefit of the primary medicines, kept in the schools. CDs have been provided as teaching aid for teachers, as well as new computers have been added. Vehicles are arranged for weekly classes to and fro Bilpudi [Quality Education, by turn]. Running cost of Girls’ Hostel is financed. A special coordinator supervises the schools. Bulk food material etc. and weekly vegetables from Surat are managed by Tuff lorry. The Mobile Van was managed, but we did not succeed. The Van is handed over to one sister NGO, handling the training program of our teachers/students & running mobile Health Unit. On account of flexible nature – with free hand, Tuff fund proves very useful as bridging support for any unseen school requirements and in emergencies, in entire Dharampur Block. Mango Plantation Crossed 100,000 Figure This year the program is a big success - with 6800 mango plants distributed in several villages. The students and teachers of all VPSS Schools [6 Primary & 2 Secondary] were given special concession, to encourage plantation in their fields. This is our approach – ‘Linking schools with the Society”. For all other beneficiaries, it is half the rate [20 RS per plant]. Even 62 newly - wed couples, under our 'Mass Marriages' program were given 10 plants each. It was a wedding gift from Tuff money. 6 families who lost their bread – earners were each given 10 plants free – as part of a composite plan, devised for them. VPSS could not reach the target of 100000 mango plants last year, on account of less rain. Fortunately, we have crossed the target of the current year and as well the magic figure of 100000 mango plants, spread out in last two decades. The credit for this success goes to Tuff, for this ever-expanding program. VPSS team and the group working hard at the ground level are very happy and grateful. How nice that the program is proving more and more attractive amidst Tuff members, Sister Schools & others - giving high hope for the future! All here were happy to learn that selling Christmas Mangograms in Tyreso etc. was a great success. New Initiative Against Food Scarcity
Paddy [rice] is the main crop in Dharampur area. It requires lot of water. Last year it was half the normal rain [50 inches]. It adversely affected production. The community did get 110000 kg rice [Food for Work] through our Dams - Bunds and other labor - intensive programs. But that was not enough. During our visits [in last May] of remote villages, we were face to face with semi – starvation. Immediately followed meeting with our coordinators. By way of migration to nearby industrial towns, the community did earn some money; but there were no grain - shops. So they had to walk down for 10/15 km to nearby town, just to buy rice - their main and almost only food. Again, the traders charged high prices. A solution was suggested by one worker. ‘Can we not make arrangements to sell rice, at concessional rates?’ We took a spot decision to step – in. Of course, there are subsidized food - material shops [known as Ration Shops], run by the Government. But they are not efficient and in all the villages. Thus direct rice - selling plan was born - the first ever Trial Project started by VPSS. Two trucks [10,000 kg.] of rice were ordered. The rains had just started. Rice reached a day before. The distribution was successfully handled by our coordinators, helped by local volunteers. This is befitting holistic nature of the Project. This being a new initiative, Tuff money was used.. Just before it starts raining, till the first crop is harvested, food-shortage is an acute problem here. Our normal income-generating programs were coordinated with the limping crisis. It did make some impact on ‘War against Poverty’; but the problem is so huge that yet it persists. We hope to expand the program on still bigger scale in 2011 [before monsoon]; when the food - bags would practically be empty with the community. Finance will not be a problem. New Girls’ Hostel Building : Support : Tyreso Skola VPSS has constructed new Girls' Hostel Building in the High School in Tamachhadi. Total support came from Tyreso Skola, through Tuff. In this building not mud – bricks, but stones from land [a gift of nature] have been used. It generated employment for local people. The building looks more aesthetic as well. The older girls now have separate facility. It decidedly is eco - friendly. It is a diversion from traditional practice and a message for the community. More About Mass Marriages A man with defective leg got married to one mentally weak lady, in last April. They had two kids. The couple was surviving on begging in a near – by industrial town. The report from last N. Bu. was seen by one Bombay – based gentleman. Prompt came his e – mail: Can we not make this family financially independent, so that they may do away with life of begging? Various alternatives were considered immediately. .At long last, it was found that he has two brothers and the joint family has some land on river - bank. On our advice, the gentle man financed an electric motor pump for irrigation, to get more vegetables and banana production by 3 brothers [including the couple]. A practical solution. The news encouraged 7 other farmers there, to follow the example. All of them were promptly provided pumps, of course at half the market price. Rest of money utilized from flexible Tuff Fund. The beauty of funding! It has a new dimension also, over and above big saving of money for poor families and a chance to get married in this cheap and organized way - a dream of every pair's life. Some of them wait till they are quite old [see the photos in Tuff Website] and have perform the ceremony, when enough money is collected. Some even manage to obtain loan from money - lenders [heavy interest] Result: They become sort of bonded laborers for years and years. Strangely enough, the families become poorer by getting married. It is a complex social phenomena. VPSS is going to organize bigger event next year. Support is already offered. . For the last Mass .M. VPSS got partial support from a Swedish couple Orjan – Greta. Male Buffaloes: Unique Self – Supporting Program Amidst heavy rain, VPSS workers distributed 250 male - buffaloes in distant hamlets. Still more are coming. The animals were brought in 18 trucks from a distance of about 500 km, from different points and handed over to the beneficiaries [from waiting list – a big list is still waiting], close to their hamlets. Transportation is rather a challenging job, with police enquiries on the travel rout. Inquiries coming to BIlpudi all the time. People are extremely happy with this program. It is so cheap, with only 50 % transport cost. It comes to RS 500 to 600 per animal, while in the market – far away, the price of one animal is now around RS 3000. The rest 50 % transport cost is born by NGOS – who run cattle – depots. VPSS provide bridging support for extremely poor families. In hilly area the farmers prefer male buffaloes in agricultural operations. Again these animals are not easily available in the district. There is still stronger demand, even after delivery of about 3500 animals, in last decade and a half. An ambitious program is worked out for the next year, in collaboration with several Cattle - Depots of Gujarat. .A team of VPSS coordinators and farmers has just visited the Depots all over Gujarat, for future planning. |
To be latest, 3 Trucks with 42 animals arrived in at place.. On account of heavy rains, it was not possible to move further. The farmers rushed to the central place, getting messages to take away animals. It was so difficult to control them, when they were being unloaded. The farmers and even general public ran here and there. They succeeded finally. As more waiters rushed in, it became difficult for the coordinates to pacify those who were left out. Such strong is the demand. As more animals are coming, the left-outs have been promised.
OTHER
EVENTS
Full - Fledged Second High School of VPSS
‘Quality Drive’ Intensified ‘Quality Drive’ on educational front is gradually shaping well, by and by. 3 more teachers have been added on part time basis. There are two regulars. Every - week the grade - wise students come to Girls’ Hostel for intensive study, followed by tests of different subjects and review – discussions. 5 more computers purchased from Tuff funding, mainly for the Drive and for High Schools. For primary schools, 5 well – qualified teachers have been added. On account of drastic policy - change by Govt., 8th grade has now become part of primary [day] schools. Till last year it was part of High School. We have continued 8th grads in both our High – Schools, with reduced number [total 38] This shift has created problems for many existing NGO high schools like ours. Govt. has appointed trained science / Maths Teachers in their Primary Schools – making it difficult – nay impossible to get trained Science and Maths teachers. Otherwise also it was not that easy in our remote High Schools. We are trying to manage with part-time teachers. But we are facing a problem, which we never visualized during our long March, in the area of education. Finaced by Visitors The core – Group members regularly visited Dharampur & moved extensively for review of all the activities, as also other on – going development programs in the villages. One of the pillars of this group Mr. Hiten Shah suddenly passed away. He fathered Matunia Model Village Plan and was all after it. The rest of the Core Group have offered full support to fulfill the dream of Mr. Shah. The local leaders are busy with consultations, to revise the Plan and work out the strategy of implementing it, in absence of Mr. Shah. Our coordinators join them Mr. Shah successfully tried to computerize VPSS accounts and make them more systematic. NEWS IN BRIEF · In a gala function VPSS was presented 2 cows by Rajchandra Ashram of Dharampur. This is for the Girls’ Hostel - additional program. More cows are offered. · One of our students completed Gymnasium. Then he got further training in Rural Engineering at a distant place. He is now an expert welder & has got a job there only. · An article about Dharampur Project appeared in a Gujarati Weekly, published in US. A friend here knew about it from US source. He visited us, for more information. · 4 senior teachers attended 6 Days camp of young workers. The subject was Gandhian Ideology, Quality Education in particular & other subjects on development. · With the expansion of socio – economic development programs and coverage of additional remote villages, one more coordinator is added. It is from Tuff funding. ..
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25 new girls [11th grade ] got admission in Girls’ Hostel of
Bilpudi · 6 families affected by tragic jeep accident near Tamachhadi [8 deaths] were given roofing tiles as well as 10 mango plants each. Earlier they were provided food ration for 6 months and all treatment and incidental expenses. Along with others the families got jobs in dams & bunding program extended in the area. [See last N. Bu.] · 700 Packets of new and quality variedly vegetable seeds were distributed to the guardians through VPSS schools and also to other farmers. It is done from Tuff fund.. · Rajachandra Ashram is providing free butter – milk to our schools · A report of last one year’s activities of Dharampur has been published. in Gujarati. · 17 boys went for Vocational Training, an ongoing program supported by one Ashram · 2 new wells have been constructed. The digging part was taken care of by the beneficiaries. The rest of the support [for material] is from flexible Tuff funding. · 4 years ago VPSS started a Hostel for Gymnasium girls. VPSS could not start such a hostel for boys, though funds were available. From that money, finally we started a Boys’ Hostel, at another place. Another Ashram started the Hostel. It is badly needed for boys for advance education. We proposed/cooperated the venture at initial stage.7 new Check Dams have been constructed, as a follow up of Mass M. 40 were ready, as planned for the year. The total reached to 407, irrigating 3500 hectares Out of the 47 done before monsoon, 45 are in good condition. 2 have been broken. 30 have good storage of water & rest 15 have less water. Useful during dry spell. From My Two Letters
Unique Way Of Working : It is highly appreciated that all Tuff work is managed by volunteers – young and old [unpaid]. That means each and every rupee [SEK] is sent to the partners, like VPSS. This makes Tuff unique and different from other Aid Agencies. If we can overtake greed, major battle is one. It is not that difficult, requiring just commitment and mental power. It gives such a profound inner joy, that all the wealth of the world is nothing before it. There is nothing to compare. Tuff's work culture is a unique and inspiring example. Great.
Approach In Dharampur The holistic approach of 'Dharampur March' is its salient feature. Dharampur is an extreme case, full of problems, with challenging logistics. In such a scenario, one - sided [or rather loop - sided] development process will not deliver desired and fast results. We also have learnt a lot from our work and contacts with the community. This is the 22nd year of the start of our actual work and to be exact, 25th year of the beginning of casual contacts, with the community. We also grew with the growth of the project, as also the Holistic Pattern that has been followed gradually. Education & Economy are 2 equally important wings of the project. |
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OUTCOME OF EDUCATION :
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Bhikhu & Kokila Vyas Vedchhi Pradesh Seva Samiti Central Office: Udyogvadi – Valod : D. Tapi : 394640 Project Office in Valod : Tuff Friendship House : Vedchhi : 394641 Project : Kanya Chhatralay : Bilpudi: T. Dharampur: D. Valsad : 396050 Phones: Vedchhi (02625) 222451/220154 – Dharampur (02633) 293698 Mo.9429871070 |
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UNIQUE & PRODUCTIVE MASS MARRIAGES
VPSS organized fourth Mass Marriages [M.M.] in
May 2010. |
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Good Wishes for OODW of Tyreso Skola |
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At the outset let me express my great pleasure for the on - going support of Tyreso Skola, for our schools in Dharampur. They are functioning in remote forest. Over a decade and a half ago, VPSS made modest beginning, by establishing schools in bamboo sheds, with grades ½, in some villages. Immediately followed support from TUFF, our long - standing NGO partner in development. It was all the more qualitative, as the funds were generated by several Swedish Schools by way of OODW, through petty jobs, conducted by students. So inspiring that Tyreso Skola also has joined this 'March' by contributing for a Mobile Van, then for a class room in Tamachahdi school and again a well in our new Hostel for Girls' for 11th/12th grades. We have launched a ‘Quality Drive’ for improving educational standard of all our 8 schools [now 6 primary & 2 Secondary]. The students of all those schools stay in the Girls’ Hostel for a week, turn - by – turn; to get guidance of expert teachers. With this sudden expansion, we required a well in the Hostel. It came up there, with the support from your school. We find that education is making a great difference in the lives of the kids. We had been facing mainly two problems in our schools: Non - availability of primary infrastructure facilities like class rooms, toilets, drinking water, teaching-learning material and such other basic requirements. Another sensitive problem is that in government day schools, most of the children are not getting opportunity to discover and realize their potential. Our schools very modestly try to bridge this gap, as they are all residential schools and the teachers stay with the kids. They work with dedication, not only through class-room teaching; but by taking up creative measures like drawing, singing, gardening, tree plantation, social services when required, gatherings & study - trips etc. |
This holistic approach make subjects interesting
and the schools attractive, for those who see
the face of the school for the first time in
life and whose parents can not read or write.
It is so stimulating to learn that two teachers of your school: Jonas Hugosson & Kerstin Andersson are going to visit our schools. Before that, we will be in Sweden. During our visit, we look forward to meet you, to congratulate you for working for our Schools, with so much of concern. We will get an opportunity to give you first – hand information of the use of your support, how simple are our schools & the way we work in the schools and the community. We are passing through a stimulating phase at present and all the schools are doing well. They are like torch - bearers in this dark region. You are not giving them only materialistic support – very much needed of course; but an opportunity for progress. All of you are a source of strength for our schools and other development activities in Dharampur That is how, you are joining a mission of development in the third world and peace at large. Last but not the least; let me congratulate Tyreso Skolan for getting Tuff Prize, which your school so much deserved, by its action in strengthening solidarity, leading finally to peace in the world - so much needed today. With many thanks again and the best wishes.
Bhikhu Vyas [On behalf of the schools, the people of Dharampur and VPSS - 24/05/2010] |
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N E W S – B U L L E T I N D H A R A M P U R & K A P A R A D A [January - February - March - April : 2010] Cooperation of Tuff - Sweden |
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9 Visitors from Sweden. Dharampur schools & community were highly privileged to have 9 Swedes [in three groups] amidst them. The mention has been made in the last N. Bu. of the two groups, who visited us in December. The report that we received from the third group of seniors is self – explanatory. The same is reproduced here. Accept minor factual corrections nothing is removed, this being report based on extensive visits at grass - roots. As it covers many of our on - going activities, the same are referred briefly in this Bu. Please treat this as main News Bulletin: Now let us turn to the report, as it is:
Swedish Translation of ‘Hind Swaraj’ by Gandhi 'Hind Swaraj' - means Real Independence [Swaraj] of India [Hind], written by Gandhi. It vividly depicts the clash of two cultures - largely materialistic [consumerism & greed - based] one, which was fast spreading those days and sustainable [need - based] as well as eco - friendly - Gandhi's dream of new socio - economic - political [spiritual, to use the terminology of Gandhi] one. He felt so strongly and wrote down ' Hind Swaraj ' in one go. Heartening to learn that Ake is one of the translators of this tiny book Exciting to learn that the Swedish translation [also] of this historic book - was made public in the Finnish Capital Helsinki
Mango Program - Crossing 100000 Figure in Monsoon Drive to buy Christmas Mango grams to send to relatives and friends is a creative and fruitful idea indeed. The help finally goes to the poor in Dharampur. How nice that Malin [visited Dharampur] has designed Christmas Mangogram as Greeting Card, with one of Dharampur student’s drawing on the front page. A few words from a letter written to the contributors
“ We were much impressed & encouraged to learn that you have generously contributed for our mango plantation program in Dharmpur Block. I just want to tell you that we highly value your token support for the program. Your involvement is quite a stimulus for our workers. We have distributed 95500 plants in last 15 years at half price with excellent results. The target in next monsoon is to distribute at lest 4500 plants, touching the magic figure of 100000.
Congratulations : Tyreso Skola Congratulations to Tyresö skola. for receiving Tuff Prize of SEK 6000. Importantly it will facilitate two of the teachers - Jonas Hugosson and Kerstin Andersson to visit Dharampur next year. They are welcome. We are happy to learn that the school is organizing OODW on 4th June and is planning to support a Dharampur School.
Good Wishes: Kumla for OODW on 12th May I have seen how hard all of you work on OODW. I found the atmosphere so warm when once we were there, when the ‘DAY” was in progress. Ours is such an exemplary relationship! Such ‘Day’s in the past by many Swedish Sister Schools like yours have made and is making education possible, for children of illiterate masses in Dharampur in particular, as also economic development in general. You are giving a new future - A HOPE - to them.
While congratulating Kumla, several things surface in my mind. Most important is the contribution of Yim Fun Wu for 2 bore - wells [mentioned in last N. Bu.] I have also heard that Kumla has launched a symbolic program of mango - grams purchase, the plantation finally taking place in Dharampur - the other end of the world. It was so stimulating to learn that Kumla teachers also have contributed for a well. Only recently we happened to visit one village - having acute drinking water problem. The community has dug a well there. They badly required material. It was the spot decision to take up that well, with assured Kumla support. It will be ready in a month, before it starts raining. I have seen an article in your paper 'Tyrso Nyheter' with the headline "KUMLA SCHOOL IMPRESSES AGAIN". I was happy to learn that when you were shown that article, all of you applauded & got excited. All this shows that yours is not simply monitory support; but genuine involvement. Most importantly, it gives feeling of solidarity, so much needed in present world. [from a letter]
Moving Letter : Why not visiting Dharampur [ From a letter of a Swedish teacher]
Action in Dharampur Mud Check - Dams Crossing 400 Mark C. Dams give a new hope for ‘Fight against Hunger’ in Dharampur- Kaprada Block An extensive report: A Decade of Dams & Soil Bunding ’ with full coverage is in the offing It was a small beginning a decade ago, without any technical skill in us – just enthusiasm and demand of the community. But we approached few NGOS, well-versed in the subject and. some friendly engineers. Fortunately few of our workers picked up the skill [now they are experts, as bear –foot dam engineers] – during visits of success stories, organized by VPSS. Today - during a decade - VPSS has constructed 401 Check – Dams. 361 were ready and 40 have just been added [this year], with a generous support from one Indian Trust Body. 13 more are on way [see M. Marriages report below] Now dams is our best community based program. Hopefully, it will help 3000 hectares of paddy crop [during dry spells in monsoon and] and second crop of mainly vegetables in winter. To sum up, 3 benefits are obvious:
· Support during monsoon & Irrigation support for second crops · Reaching existing wells & water facility for cattle · Supplementary jobs at the door – steps of the communities
Soll – Bunding We have evolved a pattern, where people have a final say in suggesting programs for their betterment. Out of the several action - plans on these lines soil - bunding expanded very fast on larger scale. .A trial project of soil – bunding was initiated a decade and half ago, in 3 selected villages, involving 80 farmers. They constructed bunds of stone on their own land. Accordingly, the above mentioned beginning was made, with the initiative of the community Then it was galloping all the years, with fantastic results[Repot is to come out] The farmers got grains on ‘Food for Work’ pattern. This was about 50 % of the actual wages. The rest is considered as labor contribution. The same norms have been followed, all these years.
Summing Up Though this self-generated local employment is a short-term work attacking hunger to some extent, regarding long-term benefits, erosion of precious soil was stopped. Also about 3,000 hectares of wasteland got reclaimed or repaired, and moisture got preserved. New & better crops are being grown now in roughly 20,000 hectares of new fields [Earlier barren land]
[For more facts/figures and understanding of the concept pl. see past N. Bu. on Tuff Web]
Rain Water Harvesting Tanks {RWH} There are already 6 community RWH tanks in our schools – very useful in summer months. Last year, with the support of A group from Switzerland 7 trial tanks were constructed for families, with labor contribution of the beneficiaries. Finding a success, 20 more Tanks have been constructed, on same pattern as above. The program is supported by an Indian Trust. It is a pleasure to recollect that three RWH Tanks were built on the same pattern, some 13 years back, with Tuff support. But it took long for the community, to accept the novel idea.
Land – Mark: Vocational Training for Girls It was a landmark event during the 'Development March' of last two and a half decades [contact, planning & actual action] in Dharampur Block. 60 girls from poor families [age 16/20] of remote forest villages left the Girls' Hostel [Bilpudi].for an advanced Vocational & Technical Training in one Institute, 350 km away from Dha. VPSS did very well in this field in last one year, with generous support of Shree Rajachandra Ashram. [See past N. Bulletins].
Exchange Visits of Villagers It was a real motivational and educative experiment of sharing achievements, knowledge and aspirations. 45 persons from Matunia [Model Village - on way to fast development] went to Seltipada [a success story – with second crops] in our lorry. There was good exchange of views and experiences between both the groups. The Matunia group was taken around the dams and fields by 25 farmers of Seltipada. They are performing rather well, since last so many years. They have a good net - work of small check - dams, wells, soil - bunding and engines [Holistic water management]. Also mango trees, new seeds and other programs.
Matunia Model Shows the Way In this Model Village [on way], we are trying out several initiatives. They never had second [winter] Crop. Now almost the whole village has taken the crop, with excellent success [5 to 10 times returns]. People were very excited to see the crop and when they got good cash also by selling special fodder seeds - grown for the first time. One of the villagers tried out entirely a new vegetable crop, with great success; because a check - dam has been constructed last year, touching this field. Now that he has seen remarkable result, more people would follow. We planned the second crop, mainly relying on moisture. The ides has clicked. Matunia certainly will have positive impact [more production] by and by in surrounding villages. That is the plan. VIAS provided them quality seeds at subsidized rates. Totally 7 check dams have been constructed [see below] Pregnant women’s’ program has been restarted here Next year. VIAS is going to try out subsidized re- - housing program in Matunia. The selection of families is in progress. One Trust has offered generous support Another Trust is taking up a cement check dam here, on the site selected by VPSS team A well qualified tribal lady lives amidst community & coordinates all the Development Plans.
VPSS has constructed 8 check - dams earlier in this village. They are also helpful for second crop. But we planned the second crop mainly relying on moisture – the focus of the program.
‘Health - Camp in Tamachhadi Parle Biscuits’ Trust organized Health Check - Up Camp, in Tamachhadi High - School. There were 45 people [doctors, para - medicals and support team] in all; who conducted the Camp. Our teachers were volunteers. A little over 1200 patients took advantage. Not only were the patients [all diseases] examined and treated with free medicines; but all were given a packet of biscuits as well as a medicinal sop. Those with serious problems were treated in the Trust hospital. The camp helped real poor - those [most of them] not having money, even for traveling to see doctors in far away Dharampur. The Trustees also joined the camp. I took them to 2 bore wells & told the story of quality support of Kim. They were rather wonder - struck. The photograph of Kim [with a banner of Kumla Skola in hand] was still there.
Students’ Fair The Students' Fair of all our schools was held in Shree Rajachandra Ashram [Dharampur]. . About 500 students of 5/6/7/8/9 grades of all our schools participated in that gathering The students were divided in different groups of Drama, Songs, Dances, Drawing, Science and Library etc. It was education through experience and fun, culminating in performances of all that they learnt. There were 20 resource persons from several parts of Gujarat as guides.
Result of the Fair Immediately after the 'Fair' joint meeting of Ashram activists and VIAS group was held in presence of the mentor of Ashram Re. Rakeshbhai. The focus was on quality education in general and upgradation of 9/10/11 & 12th grade students in particular, through expert teachers [to be employed by Ashram]
Cow – Shed : New Chapter One lady from Bombay visited Bilpudi with a proposal to start Cow - Shed in Bilpudi Hostel. A group of devotees looking after cow - project [Shri R. ashram] also visited Bilpudui an made the same sort of offer. Great. The plan is under active consideration, at the moment. A new chapter.
Dharampur Group to visit Sweden Koki – Rajesh – Bhikhu are invited by Tuff to visit Sweden for about a month. The trip may take place between the middle of September to middle of October: 2010
Visitors from Switzerland Two highly motivated ladies from Switzerland visited Dharampur briefly. This is their second visit. They told us that they aspire to follow OODW TUFF model in some environment – friendly schools in their country. Please visit Tuff web for more news.
Koki’s visit to Shanti Niketan Koki attended the All India Conference of Gandhian Sarvodaya] workers in Assam -[on border of China]. On return trip she visited Shanti Niketan [Tagore].
Eye Operation of Bikhu Vyas I underwent eye – operation [cataract] a in march, so rather slow in moving, and correspondence. .I am fully recovered and on the job, as before.
Economic Development from M.M. [Latest] Can we some how make the man with leg - defect financially independent? Suppose he can set up a small shop or run a telephone booth. We will finance his investment. We can provide him artificial leg. We would support full medical treatment, so that he can move around freely. We should also try & see if his wife [with mental problem] can be given some medical treatment. Please admit the kids in our schools. [From a letter of a donor from Bom.]
Published by Vechhi Pradesh Seva Samiti : Valod May 2010 |
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En återblick från Bhikhu, maj 2010
TAMACHHADI SCHOOL IN DHARAMPUR [Total Support TUFF ; 1993 - 2003] |
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The Beginning
The Mini school in village Tamachhadi was
started by Vedchhi Pradesh Seva Samiti {VPSS] in 1993.
Educational Front For children it was impossible to attend Government Day Schools, on account of the distance from home, lack of transport facility, irregularity of teachers, as well as geographical challenges like flooded rivers and high mountains. In order to promote education amidst such a scenario, the only answer left was to start schools with residential facilities. We established schools aiming at All - Round Development. They are located not only within four walls, but are thriving with many other activities & welfare schemes in the surrounding hamlets, as mentioned above. Our schools are more like spring – boards of Development
Start of a Primary School It was the first generation that attended the schools, when we started 6 residential primary schools, up to 2nd standard in 1993. One of them was in village Tamachhadi. The community spared waist land on the top of one hill, facing dense forest. Side - by - side is a river. Of course, it is a wonderful landscape, as also now is our beautiful school. Gradually, we reached to 7th standard. Tamachhadi is motivating the children of the near - by hamlets, to attend the day schools and to add more standards in neighboring villages. Till then, our students were attending village school, run by the government, with extra coaching in or hostel [with all the elements like a regular school - teaching]. Dissatisfied with the quality of education and neglect by those schools, we resolved to run directly schools of our concept [without govt. aid]. Accordingly, we approached the government for recognition of our schools. Tamachhadi was the first school to get such recognition, after hesitation. Then 3 schools followed suit.
Next Phase: High School The next logical step was a high school. After reaching 7th grade in Tamachhadi, when we started dreaming of it; we did not have enough land and adequate funds. In the initial stage, we got donation from Tuff to purchase land & repairing existing buildings. It is a landmark step, when finally we started a high – school in a remote village like Tamachhadi, in June of 2004. There was no facility of a High School those days in around 20 villages. It is a great boon for this cluster. Fortunately one Ashram of Dharampur fully adopted the H. School & Pr. School
We are trying to imbibe value – based education. This includes Habit - Formation, Community - Living, Social Service, Creativity & Clean Environment. With limited land the school is also trying to grow vegetables. Salient features:
The Latest Projects For improving the quality of education VPSS has started Training Camps of teachers and Coaching Classes of students in basic subjects in our Girls’ Hostel. The school complex [both primary & secondary] has been facing drinking water problem in summer. To resolve it VPSS has built big Rain - Water Harvesting Tanks in both the sections. To be latest, 2 bore – wells fixed with Kumla support. Class room built with support of Tyreso Skola. Construction of Girls’ Hostel is on
Conclusion For the area where the first generation is seeing the face of schools, almost all parents are illiterate and pr. schools are not imparting basic education seriously, a beginning is made in a track, where most of the villages get cut off during monsoon. Tamachhadi and our other schools provide some sort of models. We are in the direction of holistic progress, still the twin challenges are there for VPSS: To expand education & generate experience growth. Our efforts are on. |
2009
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NEWS BULLETIN - DHARAMPUR September - December 2009
Unique Contribution from Yim Fun of Kumla School |
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TUFF – VPSS cooperation has a history of 30 long years. It is a stimulating story of continuous contributions from Swedish Sister Schools & some kind individuals. But that from Yim Fun [working on kitchen staff of Kumla School] is so unique. Overhearing that a group of 3 teachers from Kumla were to visit Dharampur, she came forward with a personal support of 5.000 SEK – least bothered about what would be the result and where. Ake asked me, what the money could be used for. After consulting my colleagues, I told him that we would like to sink a bore – well, in one of our schools. When the news was conveyed to Yim, she was so overtaken and thought that the amount [according to her] would not be sufficient. She increased the sum to 7,200 SEK. The inspiring story did not end then and there. Later on, Yim happened to visit her native place - Hongkong. Her relatives and friends knew some how about her resolve. They also were inspired and added their contribution. The figure finally expanded to 10,000 SEK, which is now rupees - 60,000 in Indian Currency. All of yes here are so impressed with her Quality Contribution. As Ake in his response mentioned : ‘Yim Fun does not at all belong to the richest 90 percent of Swedes’.
Instead of one, two bore – wells, fitted with electric motors are now nicely operating – resolving drinking water problem of two schools, instead of one - The Primary School & the High School in Tamachhadi. The beauty of these wells is that, we found water at the first trial and in good quantity. Three teachers from Kumla – surrounded by over - excited students have been to both the wells [More about their visit in the next Bulletin – First one of 2010]
Visitors from Sweden In the middle of December, two intellectuals from Sweden visited Dharampur as well as few old [Pre – Dharampur] Tuff – supported schools around Valod. They extensively visited schools as well as on – going community development programs. They wanted precisely to understand the holistic nature of the Project. We told them the story of ‘Dharampur March’ in great details; the pioneering role played by Tuff and had intensive discussions about several topics. A few lines from a recent letter from Ake, concerning the visit of two persons :
“ To-day I got a letter from Jelena, who together with Neven Milivojevic visited you some weeks ago. She was positive about Koki and you, but also about the projects. Not only as an anthropologist, but she also sounded inspired to participate in the India - Tuff cooperation”.
Stepping Up Mango Plantation : A Tuff Project Mango Program is a Tuff Project. Let the latest exchange of letters speak for the project: “ Glad to hear about the wonderful response for Mangograms program - taken up with such a zeal and sense of commitment by Tuff activists. We have so far [in 14 years] distributed 95,500 mango saplings in Dharampur/Kaprada Communs. More than 500 are planted in the Girls' Hostel in Bilpudi”. [My reply] “ Our selling of mangograms is reaching a new record this year. More than SEK 25 000 has been paid for mangograms “ [From a letter of Ake] [From a letter from Malin Castenfors to Ake Sandin. She invented Christmas Mangograms] :
“ I am so incredibly happy that the Christmas Mangograms have been sold so well. I am often thinking of my time in India in 2006. The visit [with three others] in Dharampur was the high-light of the journey. To see Tuff Projects and be treated with such hospitality is something that really has influenced my way of thinking and seeing upon life”.
Radio Tuff's Marianne Stieger (Robert Library) performed at a small cinema in Malmö. She told the audience about our cooperation and sold mangograms for SEK 685.
Summary from my letter to Ake, over this remarkable success:
“ Please congratulate Marianne for her successful performance in a small cinema in Malmö. What a distance and what closeness at the same time! So far and so near. Even after shifting from Tyreso, she has sustained her interest in Dharampur. We are fortunate to have such committed and concerned friends She seems to have impressed upon the audience [quite unaware about Dharampur situation] so very well, resulting in selling of mangograms for SEK 685 [quite an amount]. It is little over RS 4,000 now. Adding as much amount as matching contribution from the beneficiaries, the figure jumps to more than RS 8,000. That is enough for a little over 200 saplings. A small gesture; but immediate result, with nice impact.
Cannot but share another [last] letter from me to Ake:
“ Glad to learn how successful is the idea of selling Magogram - so imaginatively coordinated with Christmas. How nice to learn that many more people [include important persons in public life] called you and ordered Mangograms for using them as Christmas Gifts. With wonderful efforts of Tuff, the number of plants in Dharampur is going to increase”.
In Kumla every new teacher is greeted with a mangogram. What a wonderful involvement!
Redirecting Tuff Support – Why & How? I will respond today mainly to the questions some parents have raised [In one School]. I can understand all that, as we cannot expect them to comprehend what has been achieved here, so far away. On the other hand, the credit [roots] goes to some spirited Swedish Sister Schools, who organize OODW, year after year. The resulting development takes place here, in the most needy and deserving hilly - forest Block of Dharampur, in such a remote and logistically challenging corner. Again, with the passage of time; two new dimensions have been added. The canvass here went on widening and also [may be] original concept of Tuff of Sisterhood [school to school]. But now the beneficiaries are not just schools; but as well poor communities. I am aware that this makes things rather complicated to understand there and to explain for all of you, to the parents in particular and Tuff members in general. But what I term as ' Face to Face ' poverty [we are amidst it] in Dharampur and also VPSS philosophy about development work demanded new direction, with BROAD - BASED HOLISTIC APPROACH to be precise - attack on poverty, not only educational poverty, but materialistic poverty as well. This led us to strange programs like Mass Marriages, Male Buffaloes [apparently nothing to do with schools] and few more such programs, demanded by the community. We never imagined all this, or even remotely planned; when we entered casually the dark area of Dharampur & Kaprada Talukas [Communes – making a BLOCK] and started the journey. The result: Host of schools & non – schools socio-economic programs – name any. TUFF friends [mainly who visited Dharampur and they are many] are well aware about them and the process that took place during the long ‘March’ Let me specifically mention some non - schools plans. They are Wells - Rain Water Harvesting Tanks, Mango Plantation, Check Dams, Soil – Bunding [to arrest erosion], Oil Engines, Health - Care, etc. – etc. and now a ‘Model Village Plan’ – just shaping. Another important dimension is that of substantial community participation [unique response in Dharampur] & generous donations coming [in last ten years] on increasing scale, over and above Tuff support [The BASE], mainly from Indian Trusts [also overseas] and individuals. This is how the project went on expanding much faster than we ever could visualize. From a modest start, we went on extending newer programs for larger population, touching the life of about 100000 people, in more than 100 villages. The expansion is still on and seems limitless, if we could manage. You and Gunnar are witness [20 years ago] that when we started just night – classes, with small budget of Tuff [we have now crossed 10 M. rupees] and without any road – map. Now there are roads after roads, leading to many directions and dimensions. This is what I describe as NATURAL GROWTH Coming to schools also, there is no dearth. As from few night classes, the project got expanded to 6 Primary and 2 Secondary Schools, a Girls' Hostel, a Boys' Hostel, a Mobile Van & Vocational Training Program This expansion is of great value for poorest of the poor families of Dharampur Block.
[After this explanation, I gave few concrete examples of the school projects, from support]
Winter Camp In Chandvagan School , one institute from Baroda & VPSS jointly organized 4 days Vacation Camp for kids of 5/6/7/8 grades. They were 62 - 40 from various cities and towns of Gujarat as well as 22 from Dharampur Schools. The theme : Face to face with forest and tribal families, living below poverty line [BPL}. For 3 days, the kids moved extensively in the forest guided by our workers - walking, climbing, visiting caves & water falls, enjoying lunch arranged by the community, visiting families around the school to have a close look in their day - to - day life in particular and become aware about their life - style in general, as well as trying to understand their living standard.- why it is like so. All this was followed by the discussions and sharing experiences every day. The focus was on analysis of the situation [poverty and disparity, to be precise], with likely solutions. This was for the first time we held such a mixed camp. It was a success, as we could assess from the feed - back of the kids.. Their responses & feelings were positive & touching. In past, we have organized several camps on different issues in Dharampur. But this really was unique, in last 2 decades.
Check Dams & Soil Conservation We are now building 40 new mud/stone check - dams [total will touch to 400], over and above soil - bunding [conservation] and repairs of few existing dams. We have received over a million rupees from a Trust Body], for this ambitious plan. Their representatives visited Dharampur, to assess the situation and see the existing dams, as well as standing crops – the outcome. The result was obvious.
All these programs [also soil –bunding] are labor - intensive and follow ' Food for Work' principles. They will create more employment, resulting into more food grains distribution [short – term gain] at the door - steps of the people. On account of very weak monsoon, crop production is hardly 50 %. The situation would be alarming in summer months. The check - dams and other programs like soil – conservation hopefully will provide some relief.
Survey of 40 Old Dams As required by one Bombay – based Rotary Club [with major matching contribution from Rotary International], our staff just conducted survey of 40 check – dams supported by them. 36 are found in good condition; while 4 are damaged. The dams provided water to save standing crops during dry spells in monsoon. The workers got food – grains worth a million rupees, as wages. One of the objectives of the dams is to provide water to cattle. That way, it proved a boon to the community, in this water – starved region. We are going to repair dams which are damaged. The total population covered in one way or the other : 15,839
The recharging process continues, even after the dams dry up, as their main source of water collection is rain. The main purpose is to catch good amount of run - off water, that flows from the catchments area. Even if the dams preserve water for 6 to 7 months; they continue raising water table of surrounding wells. Dams indirectly help in reforestation as well as mango plantation. About 40 % is labour contribution of the community. The rest of the wages are paid in form of food – grains only. Some other NGOS also got inspired and took up this program. In such dams, people feel that they are their dams (assets) and hence they immediately repair them (being close); before much damage takes place. With supportive water management programs (like soil - bunding, new wells, engines etc.) this is shaping as, sort of a composite plan.
Cement Dams We are not in favor of cement dams, as they are costly, not labor - intensive and eco - friendly But we have visited and selected two sites, where such dams only could work The matter has also been discussed with our dam - workers as well as the community, Finally we have agreed to build 2 cement dams, as a trial. The proposed sites are in small rivulets and the normal dams could not stand strong currents, during monsoon. Few groups earlier visited Dharampur to study the proposal. We have just got their positive response. . Rain Water Harvesting Additionally, 20 Rain Water Harvesting Tanks are coming up. The digging is just finished by the beneficiaries. The rest of the support [for material] is coming from one Bombay Trust Body. We have been executing all such plans since last 15 years; but this time we are coordinating it, keeping in mind the challenge ahead. Two oil – engines ate given for irrigation and one more bore – well [for a hamlet], is on way.
Quality Drive in Education The Girls' Hostel is now shaping as a centre for Quality Education, for all our schools. The ‘Drive' for upgrading academic subjects [explained in the last N. Bu.] and creating general awareness is very much on. One expert teacher is helping Koki. Of course, this is a preliminary stage [advance, compared to our remote schools]. A good beginning is made.
Second Crop The Winter Crop Drive [explained in the last N. Bu.] is very much on - on a bigger scale. We visited many villages [a few Swedes joined us], where the people came forward. It was great to observe green carpet [first time in many villages], instead of grey fields. It certainly will compensate to some extent, the deficit – resulted on account of last weak monsoon. VPSS has spent RS 300000 [got support from one kind individual] for distribution of seeds, much in advance. This follows our latest emphasis [see last Bu.] for 'Food - First'. We will be coordinating water management programs to fight food - shortage, which may be on higher scale this year, mainly in summer months. We had planned the 'Drive' long back, with good success of 'Trial Project' in last winter [See the last Bulletin]
Visit of NGO Team We had about 40 visitors in Vaghaval School and then in Bilpudi Hostel. They were the supporters of Sewa Rural NGO - most of them doctors and other like - minded NGO representatives. The topic was: Dharampur Model and its value - based approach. It was sort of a mini – seminar, inspiring for NGOS, individual workers and youngsters dreaming to join some such stream in poor localities. One American girl also joined the group.
Model Village A very well - qualified tribal lady lives amidst the community and is spearheading this pioneering concept. She has successfully implemented ‘Winter Crop’ plan, started building check – dams as well as soil - bunding there. She is motivating parents for immunization program for kids and other welfare plans of the government, targeted to the women. A recent addition from the project is food – nourishment program for pregnant women and children. A cement dam and general Health Check – Up camp are on the cards
A trip of the farmers from Matunia [Model Village] to Seltipada village [a success story] was a real motivational exercise and educative experiment of sharing achievements, knowledge and aspirations. 45 farmers from Matunia went to Seltipada in TUFF lorry. There was good exchange of views and experiences between both the groups. Matunia group was taken around the dams and fields by 25 farmers of Seltipada, who have performed extremely well, since last few years, on account of new water management schemes. They have a good net - work of small check dams, wells, soil - bunds and engines. Also mango program, new seeds, second crop and other community development programs have been effectively implemented in that cluster. This was the first experiment of its type. Enthused by the first trip, a second equally successful trip was arranged in another village, where a ‘Toilet Project’ has been successfully introduced by two other NGOS jointly. This is to motivate the community for introducing toilets [a new thing] in Matunia Model Village. We are hopeful.
Winter Crop program in particular is attracting many visitors to Matuniya [out of 10 selected for expanding this crop]. It was recently visited by one expert, to prepare a Blue – Print of the proposed Model Plan. The village never had Winter [Second] Crop. Most of the farmers were rather skeptical in the beginning; but after viewing initial success and also on account of close contact of our lady worker staying with them, they expanded the program in rest of their fields, followed by the neighbors, one after the other. One of the villagers tried out entirely a new vegetable crop, with success, as one dam constructed last year is close to his field. On account of the remarkable result, more people may follow him, next year.
During our initial contact - meetings before monsoon, the community decided not to allow free movement of their cattle after rains. Otherwise, this is a common practice in forest villages. This was our precondition, before embarking upon the 'Winter Crop Drive'. VPSS has also constructed few check dams earlier, in this village. They are as well helpful for second crop. An interesting incident took place at the last community meeting. A group taking special interest in this village also was present. It included a 94 years old gentle man. The road to Matunia was not quite jeepable. So we held meeting, close to the main road. The old man did not agree to go to the hostel and rest. He attended the meeting silently, which required a little walking on rough terrain.
Vocational Training The on - going Vocational & Technical Training Program has started creating self - employment of those who got training in last year and a half. The Program as well its offshoot self - employment plan is supported by Shrimad Rajachandra Ashram [See the last Bulletin]. While touring with guests, we visited a tailoring shop and one two – wheeler garage, run by those who were trained last year. We have 60 such cases on record. Great
Male – Buffalo 700 animals were given to 350 [two to each] families The figure has now reached to 2800 The program is supported by many Trusts [distance from - 500 to 600 km from Dharampur Block], looking after welfare of animals. A delegate from one of the Trusts visited Dharampur recently for review and further planning. They have agreed to cooperate in future. The animals are very useful in agricultural operations and they are echo – friendly. Great.
Two Activists of Bombay Two Bombay - based activists for Dharampur [Mr. Rajesh Shah & Mrs. Bhavana Shah] repeatedly visited Dharampur, to help us for on – going projects. Recently Rajesh came with a friend and walked for about 60 km, from one school to another. Bhavana – also recently came with his US – based son & her husband, The son was keen to see work going on at the grass – roots. They were happy to see the second crop, in a vast area, soil – buding and the underground water – tanks, being dug by the beneficiaries. They also made an in – depth visit of one school – in session
Tragic Accident & Relief A serious jeep accident killing 8 persons took place here. Our workers rushed to the village of the victims [very remote] and provided immediate relief. When some Bombay friends came to know about it, they wanted to give more and meaningful help, I visited the village along with them and met the families of the victims. The Bombay friends are helping generously for immediate and long - term measures. They include support for hospital - treatment and food – grains, to be provided for a year, to those families who lost their bread - earners. VPSS is going to give them free mango plants [Tuff Funding] and we are also going to cover the families under our on - going water – management programs, so that the affected families could carry on food production. The boys and girls eligible for schooling will be admitted in our schools. As desired by our kind supporters, the families will get roofing tiles, before monsoon.
NEWS IN BRIEF
Common Sense & Community Spirit VPSS has constructed a check dam, about 8 years back in village Hetpada. It has proved helpful to the farmers, all these years. The Village Council is resourceful. They managed to get support from the government and renovated the dam. A well was constructed earlier from Tuff Funding [well program]. It is now on the edge of the dam and provides year - round drinking water [recharging]. To keep the dam full, the leadership has managed for a diesel engine, to get back leaking water. When I visited the spot recently with two Swede friends, I found water [dam was full] not being used in agriculture. They replied; ‘The community has decided not to use water this year, as many families are making bricks. We have got support for our rehousing from the government.’ Salute to their common sense and wonderful community spirit.
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Bhikhu Vyas & Kokila Vyas ; Draft : 12 - 01 - 2010 VEDCHHI PRADESH SEVA SAMITI Project Office : Tuff Friendship House - Vedchhi [T. Valod] 394641 [Branch of Vedchhi Pradeha Seva Samiti – Udyogvadi : Valod |
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Hur används TUFF-pengarna
i Indien? Se nedan). Det är hela 20 olika projekt! Det gäller de 300 000 kr vi skickade senast.
Siffrorna i rupier kan divideras med 6 för få antalet kronor.
Åke, tel 712 4463 |
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Dharampur Comprehensive Development Project
Schools At the outset, let me explain the position, as it went on developing and changing. The trend is still on, of more funds coming from local sources, without asking. The latest example is that of ‘Low Cost Mini Lunch’. We have started it in one big day high school. The support came from a Trust of Bombay. Actually they suggested this program to try out. Finding it worth - while and well - managed [after a trustee visited program in school], the trustee is asking to add one more school As for VPSS, in the field of education, it is running now 6 primary schools and 2 high schools [with hostels], 2 hostels [one for girls and one for boys] for Gymnasium level students, 1 Mobile Van and 1 Vocational Training Program, The latest addition is mini meal, which I have mentioned above Substantial involvement of Tuff is in the following programs [education]. Major contribution of Tuff is utilized after schools [education] But we have not hesitated to initiate seeds for Winter Moisture Crop [second crop] – not depending upon rain, to produce more food – grains. This may prove history – setting, as we are facing draught - emerging crisis - now much needing Winter.Crop.
Virekshetra School The school is having 105 students in grades 4-5-6 -7, with three teachers. One of them is supported by one Trust [Parle Biscuits]. There are 2 cooks. No other servants or peons. The hostel is managed on self – help principles, by teachers & students It include cleaning the rooms and the premises, water – management, gardening, other daily routine activities [like washing clothes & cleaning dishes etc.], serving food & helping in cooking – as part of broad [value – added] practical education [not only bookish] All the students attend next – door village day – school. The students get intensive coaching before and after school – hours, in the hostel. They are now having all the facilities of permanent nature, as also computers, coming from different donors under schemes for all the schools. In this school, about 90 % support is from Tuff
Vankhas School The school is having 120 students in grades 4-5-6 -7, with four teachers. One of them is supported by one Trust [Parle Biscuits]. There are 2 cooks. The rest of the pattern is the same as above. The only addition is the floor mill and oil engine on our well. For this school [4th one], we have received the permission of the government, to run it directly by VPSS. The permission is up to 6th grade, so the 7th grade has to go to the village school [for one year] - 5 five minutes walk from our school. So the students of 4/5/6 grades do not now require to go to the village school. In this school also, about 90% support is from Tuff. In short, these 2 schools are Tuff schools on original pattern
Vaghval School Here now we have a School – Complex, having Primary & Secondary School [with hostels of course], like Tamachhadi. The P. School having 4/5/6/7 grades is recognized by the government and run directly by VPSS Like Vankhas the 7th grade has to go to the village school in the neighborhood [for one year]. We started here High School last year [recognized by the government] – now having 8th & 9th grades There are 165 students [Pri. & Se.] and 9 teachers. The pattern is the same as Virekshetra / Vankhas.
Since last 6 months, one big Trust from Bombay [like Tamachhadi School Complex] Has fully adopted this school, with hostel, providing expenses for the whole year. The High School is fully equipped, with all the facilities – having all the class rooms as well as Science Laboratory Building, nice Library, Staff Rooms, new Sanitary Blocks, Water Arrangement & Computer Lab. The Trust is fully involved with the school, to the extent that they visit Vaghval periodically. They have an ambition to make Vaghval a ‘Model & Modern Educational Institute’ This long introduction is to convey, why bridging fund was not required for this school. This is an unexpected, but permanent arrangement. The rest of the Schools – Hostels – Mobile Van and Vocational Program are adopted by different Trusts. Of course, as before, we liberally bridge [Pl. see separate Chart] the financial gap from flexible funds in our hands, generously provided by Tuff. Of course, the pattern has changed exact from a particular Swedish School to a particular Dharampur School. I am fully aware that this pattern makes the motivating exercise difficult for Tuff friends. I have elaborated this point earlier in my several letters to you and hinted in my messages to the S. Schools.
Few More Points
Other Small Supports to the Schools For our schools we get free text – books, note – books at nominal rate and good amount of furniture as well dresses and even snacks, occasionally.
From only Schools to Holistic Pattern The project has taken not only real holistic shape, but is becoming broader and larger, with commendable flow of funds from Indian Sources, over and above regular Tuff funding. There were no local funds for the first whole decade. Tuff was our only partner. With this change, the original style [School to School] went on changing, with linkage of education with socio-economic progress of the community - both these aspects of life, with ever expanding programs [you have my periodical News letters].
No Government Funding - Real People’s Project [Exceptional] Now I must conclude with these final remarks: The yearly budget is touching a crore [10 millions] of rupees, with about one-third contribution from local communities, mainly in form of labor & totally no govt. funding – thanks to Tuff, Donors & People
Bhikhu Vyas [For VPSS] D. 03 -09 - 2009 |
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Resultat av 20
års verksamhet! Rapport från Bhikhu maj 2009 |
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TWO DECADES : ACHIEVEMENTS
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THE LATEST DRIVE
917 kilogram seeds given to 334 families, just in 3 months produced
18,007 kilograms of grains ! |
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KUMLA SKOLA FÅR SOLIDARITETSPRIS
(Pressmeddelande från TUFF)
Kumla skola i Tyresö har ofta kallats svenska skolmästare i internationell solidaritet. Det är välförtjänt, för sedan början av 1970-talet har skolan varje år gjort dagsverken för mycket fattiga jämnåriga i indiska skolor. Redan 1975 uppfördes i delstaten Gujarat en skolbyggnad med fem klassrum, som än i dag bär namnet Kumla Wing.
Sedan dess har Kumla bidragit till många av Tyresö Ulands- och FredsFörenings (Tuff) projekt i Indien. Det har blivit skolbibliotek, skolmatsalar, skoltoaletter, skollaboratorier, ja till och med en medicinfabrik. På 1990-talet fick tack vare Kumla och andra skolor 3000 barn till säsongarbetande sockerrörshuggare ”a smile for a while” som indiska partners uttryckte det. Dessa hårt arbetande och extremt lågavlönade bodde med sina familjer i eländiga läger, där det för Tyresöpengar år efter år uppfördes 50 stora skoltält och anställdes lika många unga lärarinnor. Där fick barnen elementär undervisning, ett mellanmål per dag en uppsättning kläder.
De senaste åren har Tuffpengar, bland annat från Kumla, finansierat sex skolor bland de fattigaste av de fattiga. De finns i det tidigare så försummade indiska området Dharampur. Där får uppåt tusen barn till analfabeter undervisning, logi och mat.
För sina mångåriga insatser har nu Kumla skola just fått Tuffs pris för berömvärt lokalt solidaritetsarbete. Tuffs vice ordförande Monica Schelin, varje vecka medarbetare i Radio Tuff på 91,4 MHz, berättar:
-- Tyresö Ulands- och FredsFörenings pris för ”berömvärt lokalt freds- och solidaritetsarbete” har sedan 1993 vartannat år utdelats till föreningar, grupper och enskilda, från Luleå i norr till Värnamo i söder och Orust i väster. Det består av ett diplom och 7000 kr. Det är inte villkorat, fast nu hoppas vi, att Kumla ska använda pengarna som bidrag till lärares resa till de indiska projekten. Tidigare har många från Kumla besökt Tuff-projekten i Indien och blivit imponerade och inspirerade av hur förvånansvärt mycket och bra som uträttats för pengarna. Men i dag finns ingen kvar på skolan av dessa Indienresenärer. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Bhikhu Vyas: CONGRATULATIONS TO KUMLA SCHOOL, TYRESÖ (Gandhianen Bhikhu Vyas är tillsammans med sin fru Kokila och flera medarbetare, både hinduer och muslimer, Tuffs partner sedan 1979.)
We in Valod & Dharampur [India] are extremely happy to learn that Ake & Monica will give away TUFF PRIZE to Kumlaskolan on 16th of April. Please accept our heart - felt congratulations. As the pioneer of Sister Schools Cooperation - for organizing most successful Operation One Day’s Work (OODW) year after year - without a break, for last 30 [?] years, there could not be a better choice. OOWD may look small gestures on the face of it; but they have given concrete results : Salaries of Teachers & Food for Students, Buildings, Laboratories, Teaching Aids/ Equipments, Libraries, Sanitary Blocks, Water Works, Electricity . What not ?
We have seen all this happening in last two & a half decades, in many a schools in the poorest communities. Sister - Schools is a unique action - oriented concept, in the International Field. Again, Kumla has a habit of breaking former records. Let us salute your spirit of working for schools [and also other community development programs for poor] in our invisible corner, thousands of kilometers away from Tyreso. It had always been a great feeling for all the students and teachers here. I am so delighted to tell you that education [and development] are spreading fast amidst challenging logistics in the isolated commune of Dharampur, on account of generous contribution of Kumlaskolan, followed by many other schools, with wonderful coordination of Tuff.
When I am penning this note, my mind goes back to those exciting days, when I had been to your school, first time in 1984 and then several times, during my 7 visits of Sweden. It was an experience of life, to be amidst nice students & teachers, trying to generate support through several creative methods; a mix of fun, commitment and education!
While the families all over the world are becoming more and more self - centered, the Swedish Sister Schools Cooperation gives trust in the goodness of the wider society. It is such a delight to learn that there are schools like Kumla far far away, who are thinking of and are concerned for schools in our part of the world, Sister - Schools Cooperation is a practical model of Friendship in Action. In a way, you are joining a mission, targeted finally to peace and development. On account of many little efforts at many places, we may see one day, a new & better world - order. Let me congratulate you for TUFF AWARD & convey best wishes to the lovely students & friendly teachers. I hope that all at Kumla would sustain the traditions established by the stalwarts who are retired and carry forward the Torch ------------------------------------------- Bhikhu Vyas, Tuffs partner i Indien sedan 1979 |
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NEWS LETTER FOR SWEDISH SISTER SCHOOLS
DHARAMPUR EDUCATION
Girls’
Hostel/School We remain worried that our students are good in value – based education like cultural programs, music, dancing, arts, sports, social work [for example mini clinic for people], community life, gardening etc.; but are bit weak on academic side. Enthused with the trial - project as above, we have planned to give it a routine shape of a school from next June. The students of our schools will come to the Hostel, stay there for a week or so turn-by-turn, for learning different subjects intensively. For this purpose, the science equipments as well as more books have just been purchased. VPSS is going to construct Science/Computer Lab. & Library in the Hostel. The classes will continue more systematically there, next year. The training of VPSS teachers will be continuously on as well as special classes of senior grade students in one expert center. We are going to employ qualified teachers from next June. A librarian will coordinate library – work with emphasis on reading habits in all our schools. We used funds of Tuff for the Pilot Project & have got total support for every thing mentioned above from Sweden, for next year.
Advanced
Education
Vaghval - Model School In the meeting last week, between the Foundation team & Dharampur team, some goals were specified, to make the school a model. Glimpse of Goals, for next three years: 1. To send teachers for additional training & appointing extra subject teachers to upgrade educational standard. The science teacher is through out our ex - student and then was fully supported by VPSS, for his advanced studies. 2. Child development to be all-round in terms not only of studies but also in other extra curricular activities. All year – round Activity Calendar has been prepared. It would be enforced from next June. It would include field trip, sports festival and cultural day, where all the students should take part. 3. One Library teacher and one sports teacher to be appointed. 4. Laboratory will be fully equipped. 5. Computer room to be set up. 5 computers to be added [with present ones]. 6. Library to be reorganized and expanded. 7. An Exhaustive Progress Chart of each & every student to be maintained [to be introduced in all 8 VPSS schools & Hostels [now 2], with monitoring on.
New Boys’ Hostel
Vocational Training – Fastest Program For those youths [school drop - outs] of the area who completed training, a follow - up program is on way. We have covered the prospective and innovative ones, to start with. It is a livelihood program - jobs - the critical aspect of the dark economic picture in Dharampur. VPSS has giving to 30 of them, tools and equipments at subsidized rates, to set up their small entrepreneurships [like mobile phone repairing shop, sewing machines, carpentry etc.] The initial results are encouraging. More youths are going to be supported on self – employment lines as above, as soon as they complete training.
Support for New Schools MASS MARRIAGES : GREAT SUCCESS
Roots
Some friends from Bombay liked the concept - as it proved a great saving for poor tribals and resolved sensitive issue of life. Many of the pairs just could not marry till they are adults or old on account of abject poverty. Of course, they start living together [having children]. In tribal society this is accepted as normal phenomena. The offer of support from Bombay well – wishers was followed by two NGOS jointly in 2007. Furthermore in 2008 V.P.S.S. organized Mass Marriages in 2 villages - totaling 82 couples.
Further Progress
The Local expenditure was taken care of from the contribution of the couples - RS 500 [80 SEK] per pair. The community earlier promised to take care of the deficit, if any. This was settled in a week. When we knew of the deficit later on, we spoke to the organizers that VPSS could take care of it. But they were rather firm not to accept our offer. Their logic was : As the families had promised to bridge deficit, they should keep the promise. They even handed over two pairs of dresses to us, which were extra. The leaders who met us told us casually that 5 couples were too poor for even RS 500 contribution and hence they paid only partial amount. The committee allowed them to participate. Fine. Traditional Ornaments and Dress Material were gifts from one Bombay Trust. The expenditure for mass meals and other sundry items is a donation by another Bombay Trust. The Vessels, Shawl & Mango Plants are from VPSS [Base : Swedish support]. Water Management & Food Production
Check
– Dams
Food
Production : New Drive
Rain
Water Harvesting Tanks
Mango
Plantation IN BRIEF · 11th grade Hostel girls went on a study trip in Gujarat · A new Trust has been registered to manage expanding programs with local support - coming on increasing scale. Good prospects for future development · 9 wells are under construction and are about to compete · PVC pipe - lines given to 15 farmers for extending small irrigation from wells · 4 oil – engines given for the same purpose [Pipes and engines at half price] · The newly designed family latrines program will be implemented after monsoon. We are negotiating at present, with a friendly expert NGO. · As always Dharampur Project is attracting many visitors. There were 40 groups [one 23 members team from Rotary Club of Bombay, who supported 40 check – dams earlier as well as has partially adopted one school] and individuals like : Doctors - Clubs – Support Groups – Teachers – Social Activists, Bombay Colleagues active in Field Work & Project. Management. · Some drawings of VPSS schools were selected by ‘Step In’ friends. First they screen - printed them as Cards in Switzerland & sold them to support 'Rain Water Harvesting Tanks'. In the second round, more Cards were selected and printed in Bombay through one of our activist colleagues Bhavana [They became friends]. She got 3,000 cards screen - printed likewise. 1,000 of them have been sent to Tuff and 1000 have been sent to ‘Step In’. They bore the entire cost. The rest are for the well – wishers of Dharampur Project. · Two Health Check – Up camps were organized in Tamachhadi by one NGO Health Care Trust. 2500 people took advantage of the camps, where free medicines also were given. The students of all the schools were checked by different voluntary groups, with a follow – up treatment of about 50 students, for various diseases. 5 serious patients were given guidance & support. · A model ‘Village Development Plan’ [as Pilot Project] is being worked out. It is to be implemented after June - 2009 onwards. Total support is offered for it. · A well is being constructed in the Girls’ Hostel, as the number of water - users is growing. One Sister School from Sweden is going to work for this well. · 10 students from Dharampur joined Vacation Camp [Vanasthali – VPSS] · One American Foundation decided to contribute for school – development. · A post – graduate student from Gujarat University joined Tamachhdi, to visit Schools & Rural reconstruction programs, for field experience as part of study Bhikhu Vyas & Kokila Vyas VEDCHHI PRADESH SEVA SAMITI Tuff Friendship House: VEDCHHI : 394641 [January – February – March – April : 2009] |
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IN THIS LIFE WE CAN’T DO GREAT THINGS WE CAN ONLY DO SMALL THINGS, WITH GREAT LOVE MOTHER TERESA
A journey of thousand miles must begin with a single step LAI -TZE
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RELIGION OF POOR I happened to visit a farmer who grew winter crop under our seeds support program. He was describing his experience with great joy. He was telling us that he hopes to grow more food – grains from this second crop. A visitor accompanying me asked him ’ What will you do with more production ? ’ Prompt came the reply : ‘ Will do Dharam [religion]. I will distribute some food - grains to my 4 brothers & a sister. The rest we will use in family. I am not selling this food grains’
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DHARAMPUR - BULLETIN
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SWEDEN
The Next Five Year Plan [2009 – 2013] : Roots
The plan developed likewise. First is a summary of Åke’s letter, followed by my response
The ‘News Letter’ used by our Sister Schools in Sweden
‘Nice to learn that your school organized ‘Open - House Day' [or OODW – other schools]]. Those new ones working for our schools could not have an idea, what a job they have been doing for our resource - starved schools in poor communities, situated amidst challenging logistics, in vast Dharampur Block. It is a unique example of what kids could achieve, given the leadership of spirited teachers & wonderful coordinating role of Tuff – our Swedish partner NGO.
I want to tell especially to the new teachers [and all other Sister Schools for that matter] that Dharampur Project has taken a holistic shape in last 2 decades [report just published]. Education has remained our prime concern all these years, in this illiterate society. Main credit goes to the schools like yours, to make it possible. How nice that one teacher moved with my 'News Letter' to every class, telling the pupils ‘Dharampur Success Story’. Our schools try to impart education with social concern, having emphasis on culture & fine arts. In the field of education we have now reached to: 6 primary schools, 2 Secondary School [up to 10th], Mobile Van for 8 Government Primary Schools, a Hostel for 11th–12th grade girls and the latest - Vocational Training. Our schools have as well become the centers of socio - economic growth, in the locality.
While the world is becoming strife - torn, self - centered and economically chaotic [of late], the Sister Schools Cooperation - a marvelous concept gives an eternal hope. It is such a nice feeing for all of us here, to learn that there are schools, working hard for them, improving their record year after year. The teachers as well as the students obviously will come and go, but the Sister - Schools Cooperation has come to stay. This is a fond hope. Ultimately we survive on hope. It is simply great and inspiring. Thanks. [Summary of a letter written to one Sister – School of Sweden]
Visitors from Sweden Two friends from Sweden visited Dharampur. Orjan [82] came with his grandson. They visited Schools – Girl’s hostel – Check Dams – Soil Bunding and other on - going programs. 2 yeas back an Indian friend brought Orjan to Dharampur. Later on, he generously supported Dharampur work. Even during this visit, he offered support for a bicycle for the principal at Tamachhadi [as she had to run often between primary & secondary schools], stitching machines for the Girls’ Hostel and school – uniforms. The funds reached us. He was all praise for Mass Marriages and promised support for the next occasion. He visits India almost every year, since more than 40 years [?], to meet his friend [referred above] & to study development issues [and also to involve] as well as its solutions. He is a great lover of India and very well - informed. He has also given talks on R. Tuff. His main intention was to make his grand son [about 20] aware of Rural India and its problems. An excerpt [a portion in his own words] from a letter of Magnus:
‘I would like to thank you for my best trip ever in my whole life. Dharampur has a really beautiful landscape and when we went to all your schools and met all these wonderful children, I get a memory for life. Your work with children and education is very inspiring. It really touched my heart’.
Visitors from Switzerland They were two ladies – one from Switzerland and another one, originally a Swede. The former [Fikki] was born in India, loved the country intensely and has regularly kept in touch with issues and some families, known to her from her childhood. The other lady [Maria] and Fikki became friends in Switzerland. The common thread - love & concern for poor. As they heard about Dharampur and came to know about Tuff [Web site] and very naturally VPSS activities in Dharampur, they started correspondence with me. Ake interviewed Maria on R. Tuff and put them in contact with me. Both of them had almost the identical tour plan in Dharampur as above. Of course, they visited other NGOS also. I think they were most impressed with our children’ drawings, rain water harvesting tanks and the mango plantation program, over and above schooling. We frankly told them that no funds are required for existing schools and other programs. But they carried with them Greeting Cards of our kids & got them screen - printed. They sent me copies and informed me that their NGO [I think in formation] planned to sell the cards and would like to support some programs in Dharampur from the income of the cards. I have regularly kept in touch with both of them, as I was highly impressed with their commitment and mature understanding of the burning issues, faced by poor. [Their report is available]. Am tempted to pick up a paragraph [shortened] from a long report of the group, to Ake:
‘Bhikhu took us around the area in a jeep for two days and showed us the work that they have been doing, with the help of TUFF and other donors over the past 22 years. We were able to see a check dam, view some soil-bunding projects, visit some mango plantations and most importantly, spend time at three of the seven schools that have been built for the tribal children. These schools are hugely impressive – not only for their commitment to the children, the dedication of the teachers and the obvious well-being of the children, but also for their philosophy, which quite clearly permeates every aspect of the schools. Education at these schools is much more than just the three “R”s (reading, writing and arithmetic), although these basic skills are certainly not neglected. But the intention is to educate children in the widest possible sense – to be ethical and productive members of their own society. Even the appearance of the schools, the little aesthetic details which show themselves in the organization of the tree-shaded gardens and the tribal decorations, painted on the walls, are part of the philosophy of teaching the children to appreciate harmonious surroundings and a pride in their heritage.’
Indian – Swedish – American Friend It was a chance meeting with one Mr. Kiran Gandhi, some 3 months back. When I came to know that he lived in Sweden for many years [and in America by turn] and still has a house in Stockholm, the dimension of relationship totally changed. The result went on developing gradually. He is now associated with Tuff, contacted them, had even visited Ake in his home & has spoken on Radio Tuff. He is going to visit Dharampur shortly
Mango Plantation The planning to distribute 10,000 more mango saplings in next monsoon is in full swing at the moment. We are likely to touch the figure of 100000 plants. This program is being supported by Tuff all the last 18 years, without a break. The reports are pouring in from Sweden, that more and more people are attracted to this eco - friendly program.
New Lorry The old one, purchased with the help of TUFF has been replaced with a new one, cutting short almost half the cost, as the Tata Company offered good price for the old one. The lorry is extremely useful in ever - expanding project, mainly for transporting food grains & vegetables etc. for so many schools in remote villages, food grain [wages] for construction of dams, wells and soil – bunding as well as school – buildings. Great.
INDIA
Vocational Training : New Chapter of the ‘March’ VPSS has started Vocational and Technical Training Program [referred earlier], with the help of one Institute near Ahmedabad. The first batch got nice training. The next batch of 44 completed training two months ago. Looking at the enthusiasm of the trainees [now 100], VPSS decided to ask for 25 % contribution for training fees. The response was overwhelming. That indicates the measure of success of this 6 months old employment [livelihood] program. It has started giving quick results in the area of skilled employment, a welcome diversion from ‘only agricultural’ economy of Dharampur. A follow up plan to rehabilitate those trained in first batch was worked out in the meeting held in the Girls’ Hostel. 15 boys & 10 girls who decided to start their own enterprise [repairing machines, tailoring, computers, mobile telephones etc] have been given 50 % support of about 50,000 rupees. The rest was their contribution. They were handed over tools and machine - kits in the Hostel itself. Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram of Dharampur provided the funds for training as well as support for tools. They have further offered help for next 5 batches. The target is to train 250 youths, on lines as before. This has proved the fastest livelihood program, in this employment – starved block. Very good potentiality.
Re - Housing : New Idea A large group of 22 Rotarians of Bombay visited some schools, check – dams and other projects in Dharampur. The Club has continued taking interest in our activities, after the check - dams program was earlier executed to their satisfaction. They have now adopted [75% support] one school [Chandvagan]. They gave hints to support more programs next year, which may get substantial aid from Rotary International [US]. We immediately handed over them three proposals as follows, after discussion with them: [1] Water - Harvesting [2] Vocational Training as well as Support for the next year. [3] Re - Housing program as a modest trial. This plan is based on a design, where the families could be supported for material up to concrete plinth [cement], as the wooden structure in this very heavy rain area does not last for more than 5/7 years. The rest the beneficiaries are supposed to build – as they will have material from old houses. If approved, this is new and land mark area in which VPSS may be entering, just as a trial.
Another Hostel One more hostel for boys [11/12th grades] is on the cards. The support is offered by the same source, which provided total fund for Bilpudi Girls‘ Hostel [for Gymnasium]. Finally we have found suitable place in a village close to Kaprada town. Both Koki & I recently visited the site – in the existing High School - cum - Gymnasium Complex It is still interior and poorer than Dharampur – adjoining to it. The construction is well on way. For practical reasons we have provided lodging - boarding facilities to a few students who studied earlier in Tamachhadi High School. For example Pandu [referred in earlier N. L.] was studying in a Gymnasium. He is from a village 60 km away from Dharampur. Having no hostel facility, he hired [with a group] a room in nearby village. While walking down to school he met with a serious jeep - accident. Fortunately he got recovered. Along with a few boy students now he is accommodated in an extra room in the Girls’ Hostel Complex
Recasting Dams Program The execution of massive repairs and renovation program of the existing check – dams has started. The outlets in 18 dams have been constructed, to control flow if water, just before the monsoon is about to depart. Furthermore, the re - construction is to start soon for deepening and widening some dams. The sites for 20 new dams have been selected, following the demand from the community. The construction will be carried out by the community, as is the pattern, developed during last decade of mud – stone check dams. The support and the promises of support have started coming, for over a million and a quarter rupees budget of repairs and new dams. Before embarking upon the program as above, the survey of all 336 check – dams was completed. A blue – print got worked out, taking village leaders into confidence. About 50 dams are irreparable. This is the picture.
Library & other Training Camps A two – day camp of 25 senior teachers and 20 students was held in the Girls' Hostel. The topic: Proper use of library and good reading habit. Three University professors guided the lot. In the Girls’ Hostel we have a well – set Petersons’ Reading Room. It proved very useful. There were also 3 other camps for teachers and students as above, in the Hostel: One for drawing, one for songs/music and one for introducing new books. As indicated earlier, The Girls’ Hostel is becoming the centre of all VPSS activities in Dharampur in particular, visitors [accommodation available] & management in general.
Record Visitors Mainly during the monsoon the record of visitors was broken this year. The stream continued after monsoon also; touching the figure of 90, mainly in groups as well as individually. All of them were genuine supporters of one activity or the other and quite a few, even contributed their ideas. Decidedly, one and all were well – wishers of Dharampur March. They were from Bombay support group, activists joining hand in field – work as well as future planning, University students, professors, journalists, doctors, auditors, artists, sister NGOS, VPSS friends [Valod] and those who are regular donors.
Health The parents rushed to the Hostel to seek aid for their three days old child. She had no hole for passing motion. The child was already admitted to a costly hospital in Dharampur town. Our workers approached the hospital. After great persuasion, they allowed the child to be shifted to Shrimad Rajchandra Trust Hospital, after taking a heavy fee. The child was operated and finally recovered, with nominal cost, provided by the Project. One of our lady teachers was taken up seriously ill, while one training camp at the Hostel was in progress. She got emergency treatment in S. Rajchandra hospital. 4 other critical cases like this and a few minor cases were helped or given guidance.
Tribute to Dharampur ‘I am immensely happy with the direction that my son has found after his interactions with all of you. I think that by bringing him to Dharampur, I have given him a gift that will last for lifetime. [From an auditor mother of a bright student of Bombay, due to join University]
Social scientists of the world unite. You have to invent a new social force to build new world - new man - new age
The slogan above and the Proclamation below of ‘World Social Forum’
ANOTHER WORLD IS POSSIBLE !
NEWS IN BRIEF
· The second residential high – school [grade 8] by VPSS in Vaghval, [30 students] is making good progress. Government approval [without aid] for 5th grade has just received. Gradually we will have 6th & 7th standard there. In two years’ time, it will be a full-fledged unit [5th to 10th], like now we have in Tamachhadi The 4th Primary School at Vankhas [starting with 4th & 5th grades] has also been approved by the government. Actually our application was rejected by District Office. Then we made an appeal to the state authority. Finally we got permission. · VPSS received sports items as a gift for all the schools and the Girls’ Hostel. · Scholarships program for higher education [mainly teachers’ training is continuing with 4 trainees. They will finish studies in April and then will join us.
THE SUCCESS STORY : CHIMAN
Chiman was a young boy of about 18 – in a half pent, when I visited Tamachhadi [ now famous ] for the very first time, invited by some young volunteers. They wanted to know us and more so, what we intend to do [no road – map at that time] in this forest and mountains. Chiman was on the road, where I got confused. He directed me to the hamlet where a small group was waiting for me. Later on chiman became an activist volunteer leader in Tamachhadi and around [followed by many others]. He joined the project briefly in the start; but left us to look after agriculture of the family. His parents were old.
About three months back, he met Koki in the hostel, as he had a problem. His daughter [now again 18] is studying in one Primary Teachers‘ Training College, in a village, about 7 km from Dharampur town. Along with other college students, she hired a room in Dharampur town. It was very costly and was found risky. Chiman wanted his daughter to be admitted in the Girls’ Hostel. That is gladly done. What a journey of about 22 years!
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VEDCHHI PRADESH SEVA SAMITI Tuff Friendship House : Vedchhi : 394641 : T. Valod : D. Surat INDIA (02625)220154 & 222451 for Vedchhi - (02633) 293698 for Dharampur - Mo. 9879569535 [September – October – November -December: 2 Bhikhu Vyas & Kokila Vyas |
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NYÅRSHÄLSNING
2009 FRÅN BHIKHU VYAS Bhikhu Vyas har i 30 år varit Tyresö Ulands- och FredsFörenings (Tuff) främsta partner i Indien, där han och hans medarbetare på ett beundransvärt sätt förvaltat pengarna från Tuff, vilka därför har räckt till förbluffande mycket: Många skolor, hundratals brunnar, 90 000 mangoträd och mycket annat.
De senaste åren har projekten koncentrerats till Dharampur, ett bergigt område i delstaten Gujarat, ca 25 mil norr om Mumbai (Bombay). Där finns ett par hundra små byar, bebodda av tribals, de fattigaste av de fattiga. |
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LET OUR FRIENDSHIP & MESSAGE OF LOVE GROW IN 2009 |
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All of us wish the listeners of Radio
Tuff and other colleagues, a peaceful and pleasant New Year. The
'March' in Dharampur is well in a take - off stage,
Our schools, generously supported by Swedish Sister Schools and
nicely coordinated by Tuff are like spring - boards for community
development. We will like to congratulate Radio Tuff in particular,
as a voice of peace, a pre condition for progress and justice. If we
take into account pre - Dharampur decade, around 25 schools
got support from Swedish Sister Schools:
2008 was a record, having the highest ever support for schools from Tuff. With an addition of one more high school in 2008, along with a hostel for Gymnasium Girls; we now have 9 educational units as well as a Mobile van, trying to upgrade educational standard of 8 village primary schools. The Mass Marriages [82 in 2008 & 100 on way in 2009] and the Vocational Training Program for school drop-outs are 2 mile-stones of 2008, in our journey for progress. Only last month, 50 first batch trainees gathered in the Girls' Hostel and chalked 0ut self employment - livelihood program. 20 youngsters have got sewing machines and other tools, to start their jobs, at | |