Don Bosco Development Society DBDS Mumbai

STUDENTS OF MORD BATCH-4 FELICITATED WITH CERTIFICATES

2011-11-30T20:54:00.003+05:30

Patrick Corda
BORIVLI, NOVEMBER 30, 2011: The batch-4 students ofMoRD (Ministry of Rural Development) from Bosco Boys Home, Borivli were all delighted as they received their trade certificate on November 29, 2011. Ninety one students coming from different areas of Nashik, Jawhar, Whada, Talasari, Amravati and Shahapur, walked into the institute of Bosco Boys Home on August 29, 2011 to learn a trade in Welding, Hotel Management or Automobile.

Twenty four of these students discontinued the course with a valid reason, leaving behind sixty seven of them who spent ninety days in their respective domain. On completing their practical, theory, and on the job training eighty percent of these students were also placed in different organisation as per the requirement. The students were really happy on receiving the certificates and thanked the Director of BBH, Fr. Anthony Santarita and the trainers of different domains for giving them this beautiful opportunity to be recognised with the certificate of DB Tech.

INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT THROUGH GOOD GOVERNANCE

2011-11-25T22:20:00.000+05:30

Mahesh Kumar
MATUNGA, NOVEMBER 25, 2011: Don Bosco Development Society organized a one day workshop on November 24, 2011, on the importance of good governance in, inclusive development. About twenty five Salesians and senior staff members participated in the workshop. The focus of the sessions was on Right to Information, National Rural Employment Guarantee Act and Right to Water.Mr. Nikhil Dey, Founder member of MKSS and Co-convener of NCPRI spoke on MKSS’s journey in the enactment of RTI, NREGA, and presently, the Lokpal Bill. He stressed the fact that civil society participation is critical in enacting good development laws and ensuring their proper implementation. He shared his views on the working of RTI and NREGA in different parts of India. He was of the opinion that although RTI and NREGA may not be functioning at their best, they have certainly bridged the gap between the rulers (government) and ruled (citizens). The RTI has given the people the tools to make systems and functionaries accountable. Because of the NREGA, minimum wages have been raised all over the country. Mr. Dey said he was convinced that these laws were definitely contributing to the development of poor and backward groups.

The speaker for the afternoon session was the ‘Waterman of India’, Mr. Rajendra Singh, who received the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2001 for community leadership in water conservation and management. Presenting his experiences, he stressed the need to respect the traditional knowledge and wisdom on water among local of people, and criticized the corporatization of water and natural resources. He also stressed the need to engage youth and women in development issues, as this is the section of society that takes their commitment to social issues seriously. Further, he briefed the participants on the Water Parliament which he has established, encompassing the over 1000 villages he had worked in during the past thirty years. Finally, taking questions from the audience, he touched upon various issues including the linking of rivers project, big damns, mining on river beds and pollution of water bodies.

All the participants were highly appreciative of the sessions, and said that besides the new ideas that they had picked up during the day, they weregreatly impressed by the lives and commitment of the speakers. Concluding the programme, Fr. Savio Silveira said that through this workshop, the Development Office wanted to begin the process of drawing up the roadmap for the next five years, for the development work carried out in the Mumbai province. This next phase of our work would be characterized by the Rights Based Approach, and would focus on people’s participation and ownership of the development process. The workshop ended with vote of thanks to the speakers.

ENSURING A SAFE LIVING- KAPADVANJ

2011-09-11T20:25:00.000+05:30

Cl. Evangelo D’Souza
KAPADVANJ, SEPTEMBER 10, 2011: The family budget program for the leaders of the self-help groups of Kapadvanj block was held at Don Bosco Kapadvanj, Gujarat. The program was organized by Don Bosco Action India with the Dristi Staff of Kapadvanj.

The focus of the event was to enable the participants to organize and plan their monthly budget to ensure a safe and secure living. Ms. Surekha and Mr. Mahesh of Don Bosco Action India graced this occasion with their presence. Ms. Ramila Gohil of World Vision, Ahmedabad and Mrs. Rinky of ICECD (International Centre for Entrepreneurship and Career Development) were the main facilitators for this training. They dealt basically on the income sources of the family, the ways of expenses and guided the participants in preparing a monthly budget for their own family. Group work and presentation methods were used in this training. The sixty five participants truly felt that the program helped them to organize and plan their life.

The program was an eye-opener to the candidates. It enabled them to foresee and plan their life.

TAKING HOME A GREEN MESSAGE- MATUNGA

2011-08-26T23:58:00.001+05:30

MATUNGA, AUGUST 26, 2011: This year, the Ganesh Festival will take on special meaning for four hundred and fifty children from seven schools across the city, who participated in workshops on ‘Green Ganesh’ over the last two days. The sessions were part of the Green Schools Campaign that these schools are involved in, conducted by GreenLine, the environment education-action project of Don Bosco Development Society.

The programme began on August 25, with Dominic Savio High School (Andheri) playing host to two other schools—Holy Family High School (Andheri) and Don Bosco High School (Borivli)—at a two-hour workshop. With more than two hundred children of all ages in attendance, the resource team from the Young Environmentalists Programme Trust demonstrated the process of moulding Ganesh idols from clay, and the importance of using natural, degradable decorations. The children seized the opportunity to show off their artistic skills, crafting well-made idols using only clay, flowers, leaves, and coloured grains and pulses.

The next session on August 26, saw an even larger number of students—two hundred and forty in all—attending the workshop. The participating schools were St. Joseph’s High School (Wadala), Auxilium Convent (Wadala), Our Lady of Good Counsel High School (Sion), and the hosts Don Bosco High School (Matunga). The GreenLine team opened the session with Fr. Savio Silveira explaining how a return to traditional, eco-friendly practices would make for a more enjoyable and environmentally safe celebration.

After crafting their clay idols, the children couldn’t wait to share their learnings with family and friends. As Vedangi Chintawa, a ninth standard student from Our Lady of Good Counsel High School stated, ‘I’ve enjoyed my first experience making eco-friendly Ganpatis, and will share this idea with my friends’. Another participant, Karan Parmar from St. Joseph’s High School, said that ‘although all my friends and neighbours may not agree to go green, I will keep trying till I convince them’. The message of Green Celebrations was aptly summed up by the teachers from Auxilium Convent, Ms. Rukmini and Sr. Fidelis, who said, ‘The children present today are only fifty out of the total strength of our school. But we will make sure that they teach the other students and spread the message of environmental responsibility to as many people as possible’.

HOSPITALITY SKILLS TRAINING IN PUNE

2011-08-23T09:24:00.000+05:30

PUNE, AUGUST 22, 2011:August 6, 2011 was a memorable day for the fifth batch of the Hospitality and Catering students of Don Bosco V.P.K. Chinchwad, Pune as they were facilitated on the completion of their course. Mr. H.N. Sriniwas Sr. Vice President of Taj Hotels and Resorts was the Chief Guest for the evening. He was accompanied by Mr. Vasant Ayyapan Director Sustainability, Mr. Surinder Singh - General Manager of Taj Blue Diamond, Ms. Foram Nagori Manager C.S.R. and Ms. Sunaina Checkker H.R. Taj Blue Diamond who graced the occasion.

The programme started with the traditional lighting of the lamp. The comparer for the evening was Mr. Alfred Rodrigues. Students of the senior batch welcomed the guests with a bouquet of flowers as a token of appreciation for their support. The Director Fr. Corlis Gonsalves introduced the guests and through a PowerPoint presentation explained the work done at the institute. This was followed by a welcome song sung by the Don Bosco choir. A meaningful skit enacted by the students who highlighted the aspect of Hope. Three of the students from the outgoing batch spoke about their experiences after joining the institute. They thanked the fathers and faculty members for all the support and encouragement they received, as they are now ready to accept and face the challenges in life more confidently.

The students from North East India entertained the gathering with a bamboo dance and a hip hop dance which was applauded by both the guests and the audience.

The Chief Guest Mr. Sriniwas addressed the students and spoke about the importance of values and commitment, disciplined behaviour at work and in life to remain happy with self and others.

The programme concluded with the choir singing “We shall overcome”. Mr. Sriniwas, Mr. Ayyapen and Mr. Singh gave away certificates to the students of the outgoing batch. Fr. Gonsalves thanked Mrs. Fatima Sebastian for organizing this programme. This was indeed a day of joy and achievement for the institute.

A CHALLENGING INITIATIVE TO CARE FOR THE FUTURE

2011-08-18T19:09:00.000+05:30

Pavita Fernandes
WADALA, AUGUST 18, 2011: On August 9, 2011, Fr. Savio Silveira and his team visited our school to brief our leaders and the concerned students on the ‘Zero Garbage’ campaign initiated by the Green Line this year.

A thought-provoking power-point presentation highlighting the dangers and ill-effects caused to our Mother Earth due to the ruthless and selfish acts of human beings was projected on the screen for the participants. The focus was yet again on the three R’s of the environment, ‘Reduce, Recycle and Re-use.’

To further this campaign, a detailed planning – by students and teachers - was necessary. Hence the significance of certain procedures and action plans. Fr. Silveira, together with his assistant, Miss Lyra, explained the manner of conducting a ‘Waste Audit’ in the school which would form the basis for further action.

These effective insights coupled with the accomplishment of receiving the ‘Best Initiative award’ last year, were enough motivation for our students and staff to initiate a plan for the year ahead. The leaders are all set to carry the ‘Green line’ torch to illumine the path leading to a waste-free and clean environment.

REGISTERING FOR THE UID CARD

2011-04-20T23:08:00.001+05:30

Surekha Pednekar
MUMBAI, MATUNGA, APRIL 19, 2011: In 2010, the Government of India declared that every citizen will be issued a Unique Identification Number (UID) to help them access schemes and to serve as an identity document. Don Bosco Development Society (DBDS) has partnered with Indian Bank to ensure the issue of UID cards to all its SHG members and to the residents from project areas.

The UID drive began on April 11, and concluded on April 16. The registrations were done at the Don Bosco Provincial House, Matunga. A total of 1038 people were covered under this initiative. The staff of DBDS and Indian Bank ensured that the documents were prepared without any mistakes and that people were able to fill out their forms properly.

This drive was part of DBDS on going program to ensure that citizens are able to access government services in the city. DBDS is presently working on issues concerning the public distribution system, water and sanitation.

GREENLINE ANNOUNCES GREEN SCHOOL AWARDS

2011-03-20T22:41:00.004+05:30

Mumbai, March 18, 2011: 18th March 2011 marked the conclusion of the first year of the GreenLine Project, as the winners of the Green Schools Campaign were announced. Twelve schools from across Mumbai participated in this campaign, which was launched in October 2010.

The programme began with an overview of the Green Schools campaign, followed by a session on waste management by Dr. Amiya Kumar Sahu (President, National Solid Waste Association of India). The winning schools were then announced and received the ‘Maschio Foundation Awards’ from Fr. Edwin D’Souza (Chairman, Maschio Foundation). They are: Greenest School: Sacred Heart High School, Vashi; Runner up: St. Dominic Savio High School, Andheri; Best New Initiative: St. Joseph’s High School, Wadala. Each of the winners then made a presentation on the green projects they are implementing in their schools.

Prof. Jürgen Kleinwächter, a renowned international solar energy expert from Germany, was also present for the programme. He explained that creative thinking is the basis for developing new technology, and encouraged the students to work towards sustainable development with both ‘heart’ and ‘intellect’. Another important event of the day was the release of the short film ‘Beautiful Earth ‘, produced by GreenLine.

The GreenLine project is an initiative of Don Bosco Development Society Mumbai, and was started in October 2010. The aim of GreenLine is to enable people in the city of Mumbai to adopt more environment-friendly lifestyles and to make ‘green’ choices. We have realized that there are many people who would like to make sustainable choices, but don’t know how to begin. That is where we come in—at GreenLine, we aim to help individuals and institutions to implement practical and cost-effective solutions to green their way of life.

ECOLOGY TRAINING CAMP HELD AT DBYS KARJAT

2011-03-20T22:40:00.002+05:30

Karjat, March 12, 2011: A group of 17 persons (12 women and 5 men) from a tribal community in Dayasadan, Zankhvav, Surat, Gujarat attended a training program from 9th to 12th March 2011 at DBYS Karjat. The group was introduced and trained in the various environment friendly projects developed here.

The aim of the camp was to create an awareness of our responsibility to protect and care for nature, especially for the tribals - whose life is so connected with the environment. Besides this awareness, the camp also aimed at training the participants to use the environment in an eco-friendly way for social and financial empowerment. The basic mantra to achieve this would be Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle; with the punch line "Kachre Mein Paisa Hai"

In keeping with these fundamentals, the participants were introduced to the various eco-friendly projects such as the bio gas plant, bio compost, bio fertilizers, grey water recycling, kitchen waste recycling, paper recycling, plastic recycling, charcoal making, tapping solar energy, use of innovative 'chulas' to reduce pollution and eliminate cutting of large trees for cooking. All these projects have been developed at the centre. They were also introduced to innovative farming, like bottle garden, growing vegetables in sacs etc. An important aspect of the training programme was that the participants were not only given theory, but also ‘practicals’ so that they would be able to easily replicate these ideas in their villages.

WOMEN’S DAY CELEBRATIONS AT KAWANT

2011-03-20T22:39:00.002+05:30

Kawant, March 7, 2011: Women’s Day at Disha Don Bosco, Kawant, was celebrated on 7th March 2011. Members from almost all the Disha SHGs participated in the event—a total of more than 500 women. The day began with registration of the participants, followed by fete games organized by the Scouts and Guides of Don Bosco School, Kawant.

The games proved to be very exciting for these hard-working women, who enjoyed themselves thoroughly. It was interesting to note that those who were least ambitious ended up winning more games than anyone else!

In addition to the games, the staff of Disha Don Bosco also organized a Sickle Cell Awareness Programme, in which 380 women participated. This programme was conducted by Mrs. Sunita P. head of the Sickle Cell Awareness Programme for Kawant Taluka.

This was followed by a cultural programme and the announcement of the prizes for the Best Self Help Group and the Best Adivasi Group Dress. The winners of prizes for the Best SHG prize were Gayatri SHG from Jamli and Ramdevpir SHG from Limdi. The award for the Best Adivasi Group Dress went to Geeta SHG from Nanichickli.

The chief guest for the occasion, Mr. Milind Gupte (Regional Director of NABARD, Vadodara district), encouraged the women to take advantage of the various vocational training courses conducted by Disha Don Bosco and NABARD. Quoting the example of many Indian women who have achieved great success, he encouraged the women of Kawant to take up leadership positions and make use of the opportunities open to them.

This Women’s Day celebration was also an important event for the staff of Disha Don Bosco, as they have become the first NGO to register 50 SHG’s in the ‘Mangalam Project’ introduced as part of the Vibrant Gujarat 2011 programme. Women can make a difference in the life of the community, and Disha’s aim is to women to be the change we want to see in this beautiful world.

TRAINING WORKSHOP ON SOCIAL AUDITS

2011-01-02T18:37:00.000+05:30

Greg Almeida sdb
KAWANT, DECEMBER 31, 2010: Disha Don Bosco organized a one day training programme on December 30, 2010, for the Vigilance and Monitoring Committee (VMC) members of the different villages in the Kawant Taluka, at Don Bosco Kawant from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., as part of the ongoing Governance Project. Of the hundred and ten VMC members who were invited for the workshop, eighty five persons were present. This relatively large turnout was a good indication that the village leaders are interested in knowing about the NREGS. The resource persons for the day were Mr. Shailesh Parmar and Mr. Sanjay Parmar from DRISTI. The topics that they covered were the roles and responsibilities of the committee members, functioning of the NREGS, Social Audits and problems related to Social Audits.

The training programme began with a video film on a Social Audit that was held at Varnagaam, Dholka Taluka. This was followed by a presentation on the roles and responsibilities of the VMC members vis-à-vis the NREGS. It was surprising to note that some of the participants were not even aware that they were members of the VMC in their respective villages and had no idea regarding their role in this scheme. Mr. Shailesh explained in detail the functioning and responsibilities of the VMC members and how they should conduct a Social Audit. He gave examples of Sabarkanta Taluka, where people took the initiative of following up the social audits with the help of NGOs and this resulted in much benefit for the villages. Problems and difficulties related to payment, muster roles, work order and job cards were expressed by the VMC members. The resource persons answered their questions and also presented them with strategies to tackle these problems. Mr. Sanjay Parmar concluded the workshop with a film on Social Audits that was held in Sabarkanta Taluka by Unnati. The participants expressed their gratitude to DISHA Don Bosco for organizing this awareness programme.

YOUTH SPEARHEAD VILLAGE DEVELOPMENT

2010-11-20T23:55:00.000+05:30

Anto Thomas
MAHARASTHRA, NOVEMBER 20, 2010: Bosco Samajik Vikas Sanstha, Valvande (BSVS) initiated a process for developing perspective plan for the tribal and rural villages across Thane district in Maharashtra. Initially, it is planned to develop perspective plan for ten villages in Jawahr and Mokhada Talukas and later all the villages will be facilitated to develop their perspective plans. In view of that, BSVS started developing the capacities of the tribal youth from the selected villages. From each village, ten to fifteen youth will be selected and trained in village Perspective Development Plan. BSVS facilitators from the selected villages also would be trained along with the village youth. These trained youth, facilitators and BSVS staff would motivate and facilitate the villagers in developing their own perspective plan.

In view of the above, BSVS has started conducting workshops for the village youth and facilitators in perspective development. In each workshop, youth from five villages and their facilitators will be the participants. First such workshop was organized in Valvande from November 16 to November 18, 2010. Duration of the workshop was for three days. Mr. Sebastian Francis from Sadan, Pune and BSVS team members was the resource persons for the workshop. Thirty eight youth from Koshimshet, Bharwarpada and Sambarpada attended the workshop. Social analysis, Classification of issues, Comparative analysis, Response analysis, Context analysis, Identification of strategic issues and Preparation of action plan etc were the topics covered in detail during the workshop.

Youth are highly impressed and motivated on the workshop. They are convinced about the importance of having a perspective plan for their own villages and confident in facilitating the process for developing it. Kashinath Nande from Koshimshet said “I learned about village concept and perspective development. I learnt different methods in developing perspective plan and it is encouraging to do so’. Ravi Bhasra from Bharwarpada expressed that “I learnt about classification of issues and comparative analysis, and I am highly impressed about this method and I got a new vision through this workshop”.

WORKSHOP ON FINANCIAL INCLUSION

2010-11-20T23:51:00.001+05:30

Mayuri Rajbonshi Rajbaruah
BORIVILI, NOVEMBER 20, 2010: The workshop on financial inclusion at Bosco Boys Home, Borivili resulted in eighty applications for PAN cards being submitted by the marginalized youth undergoing vocational training at the institution. Of these, sixty applicants received their Pan cards, which will now serve as identity proof while seeking employment in different companies. According to these youth, producing PAN cards to employers have not only helped them prove their identity but have also helped them to obtain job offers.

The “Connect All India” network of Don Bosco Research Centre is adhering to its aim of helping out more underprivileged by connecting them to the various instruments of Financial and Social Inclusion.

To popularize the concept in rural Maharashtra a meeting was organized at Bosco Yuva Pratisthan, Karjat. Various NGOS working with the rural population participated and were made aware of the different social and financial inclusion instruments like PAN Card, no frills bank accounts, pension plans and so on. A practical demonstration of operations and the correct way of filling up forms was part of this workshop. The importance of financial and social inclusion of the poor and the benefits for the NGOs was clarified during the question answer round. The workshop concluded with a plan for administrative convenience and the sustainability of the model.

Following up with the previous meeting on PAN Card application in Lonavla in the month of October, many villagers from Thakerwadi and Pangloli have applied for PAN cards to gain valid Government identity proof.
Along with collaboration with various nationalized banks, the Centre has also been approached by Corporation Bank of India with a proposal for issuing no frill accounts to the beneficiaries through the use of “Connect All India” network.

NATIONAL WORKSHOP ON RURAL MARKETING

2010-10-17T12:26:00.004+05:30

Anand Raj
MUMBAI, OCTOBER 15, 2010: Don Bosco Action India, the network of the Development Offices, organized a two-day Capacity Building Workshop on 13th and 14th October, at Don Bosco Provincial House, Mumbai. The theme for the workshop was Rural Marketing, and 20 participants from the various development offices attended this workshop. Setting the premise of the workshop, Fr. Savio Silveira, National Convener of DB Action India, welcomed all the participants and spoke about the importance of right attitudes in the field of development work.

The aim of the workshop was to equip the participants with the necessary ideas and tools to introduce the concept of structured marketing and innovative strategies in their respective programmes. Dr. Mala Shrivastava, professor and marketing consultant, (NMIMS University), facilitated the first session; she presented an overview of the concept of Marketing and then explained the existing rural market environment in the country. In the pre-lunch session, she enlightened the participants on the concept of consumer behaviour and the factors affecting it. The session focussed on several important areas such as Targeting, Segmentation, Positioning, and Approaches to Rural Segmentation.

Mr. Niranjan Amte, marketing head and consultant with Future Group, facilitated the post-lunch session on Rural Market Research and Distribution Strategy. This session involved many discussions and exchanges of ideas. During his presentation, Mr. Amte shared several examples and experiences from the industry. The second day focussed on market linkages, communication strategies, and innovation in rural markets. In this session, Dr. Mala also discussed the major findings of recent researches on rural marketing. The last session looked at the Scope, Opportunities and Challenges in Rural Marketing.

Closing the programme, Fr. Savio Silveira thanked all the participants for their active participation and the DB Action Team for coordinating the workshop successfully. The workshop concluded on an enthusiastic note with the participants expressing their desire to apply these concepts in their programmes.

INTERFACE MEETING AT ANAND - GUJARAT

2010-10-11T18:49:00.000+05:30

GUJARAT, OCTOBER 11, 2010: On October 7, 2010 at 11’o clock, approximately twenty-four railway personnel assembled to attend a meeting at Anand (Gujarat) railway station in the waiting room on platform number five. This meeting was organized by Don Bosco Snehalaya. To begin, all were invited to join in the prayer bhajan -Tumi Ho Mata, Pita Tumi Ho. The aim of this meeting was to sensitize railway personnel about the grim conditions and sad realities of street life and to get in touch with one of our caring communities – the railway personnel (TCs, railway staff and railway workers) to make them aware of these children’s difficulties, to treat the children with respect and dignity, to understand them better and also to enter into a good working relationship with the railway personnel, who are an important contact group for our marginalized boys.

The Director heartily welcomed the participants for the meeting and he introduced the institution and staff to those who were present. Mr. Francis Dodia our outreach coordinator requested the participants to introduce themselves to each other and afterwards he asked them to share their experiences with street children whenever they came across them on the railway stations or in the trains. Mr. Waghela (Station Supritendent) and Mr.Mathur (CMI) shared their experience. They told us that as soon as a vagrant child is found on the railway platforms the immediate action taken by them is to hand over the case to the RPF who will later contact some NGO. After the sharing was over the Director took over with a power point presentation on Snehalya and Child care and protection. In the PowerPoint Presentation the work of the institution was well explained. The staff also shared their experiences with platform boys. At the end our Outreach Coordinator thanked the entire group of participants for dedicating special time for this meeting.

The participants were happy to have this meeting and to give whatever help was required to Don Bosco Snehalaya in its work with railway platform and street children. By the help of this meeting they came to know many things about child care and protection and became aware of the work carried out by Snehalaya in Vadodara. At the start, the participants seemed a little apprehensive about the programme but they soon got interested and we dare say, it turned out to be a very fruitful interface meeting. Snacks and tea were arranged to conclude the meeting.

JAWHAR SUICIDES

2010-09-22T19:54:00.006+05:30

Savio Silveira sdb
MUMBAI, SEPTEMBER 22, 2010: Since the past two years, the Development Office has been advocating that we should use the Rights Based Approach in our developmental programmes. In this context, a question that I am often asked is: What exactly is the Rights Based Approach to development?

Today’s Hindustan Times (Mumbai edition) has carried three articles, including one on the front page, of Sitaram Pandu Gavanda, who committed suicide on 15th September, in Chondipada village of Jawhar taluka, Thane district. Desperate poverty drove Sitaram to this step. According to one of the reports, twenty-four tribals, mostly farmers, have committed suicide in Jawhar taluka since January 2010.

The most common reason for poverty in this, and most rural areas, is lack of employment. To address this problem, the government passed the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) in 2005. Unfortunately, even five years later, most rural people are unable to draw benefit from this Act. Kailash Jadhav, Additional Collector in charge of the Employment Guarantee Scheme (EGS) in Jawhar, admitted that the EGS has been non-functional in the taluka for the past 18 months. “If the EGS had worked, Sitaram Gavanda could have been saved,” said Ramchandra Navsu Barph, the local police patil.

Inability to access food grains is another huge issue in rural areas. The above mentioned news reports point out that the Public Distribution System (PDS) is in tatters in Jawhar. In Sitaram’s village Chondipada, for instance, only 20 of the 270 families have ration cards, which means the others cannot access food grains through the PDS. Again, 169 families in this village fall under the Below Poverty Line (BPL) category. Hence, these families are entitled to more grain at less price; but since they do not have a ration card they cannot avail of this benefit.

The immediate reason that pushed Sitaram to commit suicide was sickness in the family. He was suffering from TB and his ten year old son Nilesh was down with fever. The day before he committed suicide, Sitaram asked his wife Kamal to take Nilesh to the hospital for which he gave her Rs 100. “That was all he had. He told me he had to choose between Nilesh and himself,” Kamal said.

Sitaram was entitled to employment, but was unable to access work that would have brought him an income because the EGS has not been functioning in the taluka since the past 18 months. He was entitled to low cost food grains, but could not feed his family since the PDS there had collapsed. He was entitled to free medical services, but could not avail of the same since this service too has collapsed. Sitaram was entitled to live, but he was forced to kill himself since he could not access any of those entitlements that would have enabled him to stay alive.

The Rights Based Approach is about enabling people like Sitaram access their entitlements. It is about helping people like Sitaram live.

EDUCATION AND RIGHTS - KAWANT

2010-09-04T13:03:00.001+05:30

Lyra Pinto
KAWANT, AUGUST 31, 2010: Twenty-nine development staff from across Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh met at DISHA Development Centre (Don Bosco Kawant) for a training session on the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyaan (SSA) and the newly-enacted Right to Education (RTE). The centres represented were Kawant, Chhota Udepur, Kapadvanj, Alirajpur and Jhabua.

The aim of the session was to gain an understanding of the provisions of the SSA and RTE, and to learn how to enable people in the villages to secure their right to education under these programmes. The first resource person for the day was Ms. Rita Bhatt, the Director of the NGO ‘Abhiyaan’ (Baroda). She stressed on the need for development workers to secure people’s participation to ensure the success of community-based programmes. She also explained that the SSA does not confine itself to mainstream students but also has provisions for children with special needs. The challenge is to secure the correct enforcement of these provisions despite government apathy.

The second resource person was Mr. Ramanbhai Rathwa, the head of the SSA Block Resource Centre of Kawant taluka. He explained the structure of the SSA implementation system, and also the roles of people’s committees such as the Village Education Committee. The staff understood that a significant amount of money is sanctioned by the government for educational facilities; however, the quality of education remains low.

The program gave the participants the chance to understand two different points of view—that of the government and of an independent NGO—on the functioning of the education system. The staff from all the centres thanked Fr. Gergory Almeida and the development team at DISHA Kawant for organizing this program.

SECURING THE RIGHT TO FOOD

2010-08-22T22:43:00.002+05:30

Surekha Pednekar
MUMBAI, AUGUST 21, 2010: Many of the residents of Garib Niwas Nagar had reason to celebrate on Saturday, August 21, 2010 as their long cherished dream of owning a Ration Card, became a reality. Being pavement dwellers, with no proof of residence, securing a ration card was no simple task. After almost six months of struggle, the Development Office was able to secure this facility for 41 families. These cards were distributed to the respective families at a simple function, held at Provincial House, Matunga.

The Chief Guest for the function was Fr Ajoy Fernandes, Vice Provincial, and the Guest of Honour was Mr Gajbhiye, Ration Inspector. Addressing the gathering, Fr Ajoy Fernandes complimented the Development Office for securing the ration cards for these disadvantaged and needy people. He further pointed out that this card would not only enable the people to access grain and other commodities through the public distribution system, but it would also serve as a proof of identity for them. Speaking next, Mr Gajbhiye explained that most government offices were understaffed and the officials were overburdened with responsibilities, hence they were often unable to reach out to those who needed public services the most. He said it was good that NGOs like Don Bosco had come forward to assist underprivileged communities to benefit from urban public services. He expressed his confidence that this partnership between government agencies and non governmental organizations would help poor urban communities to draw substantial benefit from government services and schemes.

Garib Niwas Nagar is a community of pavement dwellers in the vicinity of Don Bosco, Matunga, made up of about 300 households. While some of these pavement dwellers are daily wage labourers, most of the others earn a living by collecting and selling garbage. The Development Office has been working in Garib Niwas Nagar since the past one year. Enabling the people here to secure their right to food is the first project that has been taken with this community.

PROMOTING RIGHT TO EDUCATION

2010-07-30T20:15:00.007+05:30

Ranald Lopes sdb

CHHOTA UDEPUR, July 28, 2010: While enacting the Right to Education law may have been relatively easy for the Indian Government, ensuring that every Indian Child, and especially children in remote villages, can actually benefit from this law is going to be a mammoth task. It is an interesting coincidence that as the RTE comes into force, the ‘Governance Project’ being implemented by several Don Bosco centres in Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh enters into Year 2, and the thrust for this year is enabling people to secure the proper implementation of Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) in their villages.

Against this backdrop, Lok Seva Kendra, Chhota Udepur organized a training workshop on Wednesday, 28th July, which was attended by 94 Village and SHG leaders from 20 villages. The programme began with Fr. Ranald Lopes explaining the role that LSK planned to play to secure the proper implementation of the RTE and SSA in the Chhota Udepur villages. Mr. Prakash Ahire then introduced the resource persons for the occasion, Ms. Gangaben Rathwa (Taluka Kelwani Nirikhsak) and Mr. Makarani (SSA Resource Centre Coordinator).

Ms. Gangaben Rathwa enlightened the participants on various issues such as the importance of the birth certificate, the government’s educational system, administrative procedures, schemes available for women and children, etc. She also stressed the role and responsibility of the parents in ensuring the education of their children.

Mr. Makarani then made a detailed presentation on the RTE and SSA. He further pointed out that while these may be excellent laws and schemes, their proper implementation will not happen unless they are monitored by the local people. Hence, the SSA had put in place a body called the Village Education Committee (VEC) that is responsible for education at the village level. The RTE Act has now made it compulsory that every school should have a School Management Committee (SMC) that is responsible for the monitoring and development of the local school. Seventy five percent members of the SMC should be parents or guardians of the children, while the other twenty five percent is to be made up of teachers and local authority members. This body is expected to play a critical role in furthering education in the villages.

Finally, a film on the SSA was screened, after which Fr. James Tuscano proposed the vote of thanks.

ANNUAL MEETING OF DIRECTORS

2010-07-07T09:03:00.002+05:30

Ashley Miranda

MUMBAI, JULY 2, 2010: The Annual General Body Meeting of the Directors of the various Don Bosco centres in Western India was held on 30th June and 1st July 2010. While the first day of the meeting was dedicated to a variety of business issues, the second day was dedicated to inputs and reflection on the ‘Rights Based Approach to Development’. The resource person for these sessions was Dr. Yogesh Kumar, Director of the NGO Samarthan from Bhopal. The session began with a short video clip in Hindi presenting a very meaningful reflection in song on the right to work, the sad reality of unemployment and the dignity that work brings.

At the very start of his presentation Dr. Yogesh pointed out that poverty whatever its form or shade, whether in rural or urban areas has the same pain. The temptation that we need to resist though is to reach out to those who are marginalized or underprivileged in various ways with Band-aid Solutions focusing on welfare. To bring about real change we need to focus on ‘direct democracy’ and ‘citizenship’. It is only by building capacities and by helping people look at themselves as citizens who can demand their rights and entitlements can we bring about change that will benefit all and will last. Speaking about the Gram Sabhas, Dr. Yogesh said that we need to get people interested in its functioning because it represents the collective strength of the people. In order to do so, however, we need to strengthen the functioning of various interests groups that go to make up the Gram Sabha. Foremost among these groups are the women’s’ groups, the SHGs, PTAs, youth groups etc.

Dr. Yogesh then went on to speak of the importance of ‘community monitoring’ in all development projects. A culture of transparency and accountability fostered through the setting up of vigilance committees and through well conducted social audits contributes a great deal to building up the collective strength of the people. He cautioned those present that the goal of audits and committees should never be to victimize anybody. Those who are part of the administrative machinery may have their shortcomings but it is no point antagonizing them. Besides not all are corrupt; there are many who are actually sincerely interested in the good of the people. We therefore need to create the right environment where the officials can perform their duties and the people can access their rights.

DEVELOPING AGRICULTURE IN ALIRAJPUR

2010-06-25T09:48:00.005+05:30

Kamlesh Dodia

ALIRAJPUR, JUNE 25, 2010: The monsoon season may have arrived, but that does not bring much cheer to the farmers in Alirajpur (Madhya Pradesh). Although agriculture is the primary occupation of the people here, it is not a source of much income. The undulating terrain, scanty top soil and insufficient rain, lead to poor agricultural outputs. Besides this, the crops that are grown are largely for home consumption. Hence, this subsistence agriculture practiced by the tribal villagers, has done very little to improve their economic condition.

In order to make a dent in this gloomy scenario, Don Bosco Alirajpur Shaishanik Samajik Kendra has recently launched an Agricultural Project on a pilot basis. The idea is to experiment with some new crops and also innovative methods of agriculture that would help the farmers get better returns from their fields. Based on the learnings of the pilot phase, the project will then be scaled up in the following years.

The first crop that we are presently experimenting with is ginger. A group of 20 farmers from 10 different villages was selected to pilot the ginger experiment. Mr. Chandarsinh Bhagat, a local expert, gave this group systematic training in ginger cultivation. He conducted practical sessions at his wadi and also provided the ginger shoots to the farmers. Over the past ten days, under the personal supervision of the Development staff, the selected farmers have grown the ginger in the plots prepared for this cultivation. All the necessary care is now being taken to ensure that it grows well.

The other plans in this project include horticulture development, vegetable plantation, and eventually also the System of Rice Intensification (SRI). All these possibilities are being explored keeping in mind the soil and climatic conditions of the region. The initial response of the farmers has been enthusiastic. We are hoping to have some good results so that many more farmers can then benefit from this project.

NREGS DEMANDS SUBMITTED TO DISTRICT COLLECTOR

2010-06-20T21:44:00.001+05:30

Mayank Parmar sdb

GUJARAT, JUNE 15, 2010: Don Bosco Kapadvanj organized a protest gathering in front of the District Collector’s Office on 14th June, 2010. About 30 village leaders along with the staff of Don Bosco took part in this day long hunger strike to highlight the irregularities in payments to NREGS workers.

The preceding month had been spent preparing for this event. Ever since the NREGS work has started in the villages, people have had many complaints regarding the payments: often they are underpaid, the payments are regularly delayed, and in some cases no payments have been made for work done several months ago. Although the NREGA stipulates that payments should be made every fifteen days, there is not a single instance in the Kapadvanj Taluka where this has actually happened. Don Bosco, along with the village people, has been trying to resolve this problem for many months, but failed to receive the necessary cooperation from the taluka officials. Hence, it was decided to hold this protest. Data from several villages in the taluka was gathered regarding this problem, and a memorandum to the Collector was prepared.

At around 12.30 noon, Fr. Mayank Parmar and a group of village representatives met the Collector and placed their demands before him. The key demands were: payments should be done in 15 days; compensation should be given for the delayed payments; payment rates should be increased; taluka and village panchayat officials should involve the local people in the scheme so as to improve its implementation.

The Kheda District Collector promised to look into the matter immediately. He also said that he would forward these demands to the District Rural Development Authority (DRDA) and the State NREGS authorities. He was appreciative of the role being played by Don Bosco in securing the proper implementation of the NREGS in the Kapadvanj taluka.

STATE LEVEL CONSULTATION ON INTERNATIONAL ANTI CHILD LABOUR DAY

2010-06-13T23:01:00.000+05:30

Godfrey D’Sa sdb

MUMBAI, JUNE 13, 2010: Balprafulta, a Don Bosco Child Rights Organization, along with Holistic Child Development of India (HCDI), Campaign against Child Labour (CACL) and CARE (Mahrashtra), on the occasion of the International Anti Child Labour Day, organized a State Level Consultation on June 11 and 12, 2010, with participants from both Government and Non-Government Organizations. For quite some time now, those working in the area of Child Labour felt that an upsurge had to be created in Maharashtra to curb the exploitation of children in the labour market. Hence Balprafulta, celebrating its Tenth Anniversary, took the initiative to bring about a convergence of various stakeholders and move towards preparing a Vision Document for the eradication of Child Labour in Maharashtra.

From Government Organizations those who participated in the Consultation were DCP Sheela Sail (Mumbai Crime Branch) and DYSP Mr. Ghondhe (Maharashtra) of the Home Department, Mr. Illwe (Director of Labour Cell) and Mr. Shailendra Pol (Asst. Labour Commissioner) from the Labour Department, Ms. Jayant Pavnikar from the Department of Women and Child Welfare, Mr. Suryakant Kulkarni and Ms. Farida Lambe from the State Child Rights Commission, Dr. Mane from the Mumbai University Law Department, Ms Neelam Gorhe, MLA and Shiv Sena spokesperson, and Mr. Waidande from YASHADA. Also present were representatives from UNICEF, CRY, Childline India Foundation, Saathi, Pratham, CCVC, YUVA, Td.H, FACSE, Shikshan Haq Abhiyan (Western Maharashtra), Nari Probadhan Manch (Latur), Apulki (Jalgoan), Apeksha (Amravati), ARC (Pune) and others. In all over hundred people enthusiastically participated in the two-day proceedings that centered on finding new ways to make the Government focus on the issue of Child Labour and at the same time create a groundswell to make people more aware of this malaise in our society.

Some highlights of the Consultation were:

- Enforce the implementation of the J.J. Act (2000) along with the Amendments (2006) and entirely scrap off the Child Labour Regulation and Prohibition Act of 1986.

- Using the J.J. Act as central, amalgamate all other child related laws and create a new Child Protection Act.

- Transfer the responsibility for children (everyone below the age of eighteen) from the Labour Department to the Department for Women and Child Welfare and work towards strengthening this Department.

- Presently the entire process of Re-Integration of children after rescue is weak. Work towards building a comprehensive plan which will support the re-integration of children into mainstream society.

- Use the provisions allowed in the Children’s Act and insist on creating Children’s Courts. This will enable fast track prosecution as well as create greater sensitivity towards vulnerable children.

- Right across all Departments of the State, it must be unanimously accepted that a child is anyone who has not completed eighteen years of age.

- Scrap the term “Child Labour” and instead use a more inclusive term “Working Child”.

- To create groundswell and increase awareness, focus on sustained advocacy by regularly raising questions on children in the Assembly, insisting on budgetary provisions for children and writing in the newspapers about the plight of working children.

A spark has been ignited and Balprafulta along with many others wish that this spark turns not only into a flame, but grows into a fire that will purge away the exploitation our children suffer under the hands of unscrupulous employers. A unanimous cry from all the participants was to work towards making Maharashtra a ‘Child Labour Free State.’

WOMENS SELF HELP GROUP IN KAPADVANJ

2010-06-12T20:49:00.000+05:30

Parmar Mayank sdb
KAPADVANJ, JUNE 12, 2010: Ekta self help group of Navapura, Kapdavanj Taluka organized a women get together with fellowship meal on June 10, 2010. This celebration was called in collaboration with other four groups who were completing their three years of existence. Originally it was planned to have the get together in Navapura but due to heavy rains and cyclone it was shifted to Don Bosco, Kapadvanj. Jagriti group of Alampura, Roshni group of Nazamiya, Umang SHG of Nava Muvada, Ekta SHG of Bapuji Na Muvada, and Disha SHG of Sonipura were a part of the get together.

More than sixty five women were a part of this celebration. Fr. Ivan the Rector of the house welcomed the gatherings at Don Bosco and told them that he was happy to host this function for the betterment of women.

Mr. Manibhai D. Patel M.L.A. of Kapadvanj taluka was the chief guest for the day. Women themselves called him so that they could share their problems with him. Expressing their opinion the women presented a memorandum stating their problems related to water and road facility in their Muvadas. Mr. Patel told that it was for the first time that he saw women coming up on stage and giving a speech in Kapadvanj taluka. He said that he would consider their application and assured them to do the needful.

Fr. Mayank in his speech told them to go beyond SHGs and get involved in social activities and addressed them at Gramsabha level and even ahead. It was nice to see women remembering the previous director of DRISTI Fr. Gregory and the staff for helping them form these SHGs. As an act of gratitude women presented a token of appreciation to the director of DRISTI and to their animator. Women voiced out saying that we are happy to be part of Don Bosco Self Help Group.

A NEW LOOK AT EDUCATION

2010-05-20T20:19:00.002+05:30

Gregory Almeida sdb

KAWANT, MAY 18, 2010: For a long time, we have been wondering why Kawant taluka has remained underdeveloped despite Don Bosco being present in this area for more than 25 years. We have now realized that there are two main factors that need to be addressed to bring about development:

1. A change of leadership

2. Practical exposure in education

A change of leadership is possible only if youngsters are trained to become sarpanchs, talatis, mamlatdars or work for government organizations that will transform the villages.

Second, education must include practical exposure. Students in schools and colleges should be taken to the villages to understand why development is not taking place and how they can help solve this problem. Perhaps there are government schemes that should be made to work; maybe they can educate their parents on these matters. Exposing children to the realities of village life will make their education more relevant.

To achieve this aim, Kawant Education Society organized a training-cum-exposure programme to enable children to understand and solve the issues in their own villages. On May 6, 2010, the standard Ten students of Don Bosco, Kawant attended a one-day workshop on the provisions of the NREGA. The next day, May 7, 2010, they returned to their villages to document the progress of the NREGA works, explain the Act to their parents and other workers, and interact with village functionaries regarding the implementation of the NREGA.

The students identified the problems related to the NREGA and also checked documents such as the job cards of workers. They learned that some government functionaries can be helpful while many others resent anyone checking or questioning their work. The entire exercise was also an opportunity for parents to learn something from their children and to understand the benefits of practical education.

Kawant Education Society firmly believes that students should be exposed to all the issues in rural areas, so that they can help their own people in their villages. Many schemes do not work because of lack of awareness and information. Creating awareness is the first step towards change in the rural areas. Let’s HOPE and begin the change from the bottom.

GRAMSABHA AT INDARSINH KI CHOKI

2010-05-06T16:46:00.001+05:30

Kamlesh Dodia

ALIRAJPUR, MAY 6, 2010: There was a special gramsabha held at Indarsinh ki Choki to commemorate the hundred and ninetieth birthday of Dr. Bhimrav Ambedkar on April 14, 2010. A hundred and one villagers along with Nodal officer Mr. Sisodiya, Cluster Resource Coordinator Mr. Vincent, a renowned sanyasi turned Sarpanch Mr. Chandarsinh Bhagat, Dt. Sarpanch Mr. Lalusinh, Panchayat Secretary Mr. Joharsinh, Mr. Kamlesh and Mr. Irshad from Don Bosco marked the day with their esteemed presence.

The Gramsabha was tactfully organized early in the morning for two reasons. The first one was to keep the villagers away from drinking ‘toddy’ or ‘mahuva’ (country liquor) and another one was to allow them to go to collect ‘mahuva’ in the afternoon as it was their livelihood. The strategy worked well and it turned out to be one of the best gramsabhas ever had in this village as the villagers unanimously approved all past resolutions. They also commonly agreed to all proposals made for overall growth and development of their village. They had a common consent to build a panchayat building, a school building, community hall and other development works such as shelf of project of NREGS, building RCC road etc.

Nodal officer Mr. Sisodiya appealed to the villagers to support their young and enthusiastic Sarpanch who has a dream to make his village one of the model villages in the entire district of Alirajpur. Cluster Coordinator, Mr. Vincent explained them about right to education and urged them to send their children regularly to school. Mr. Irshad Ahmed humorously showed them ways of killing two birds by throwing one stone in their own dialect namely earning their livelihood and creating local assets in their village by taking advantage of MGNREGS.

Mr. Kamlesh from Don Bosco ended his short speech encouraging them to increase the number of women present in gramsabha as no development work was ever possible without their presence.

Last but not least, the Sarpanch Mr. Chandarsinh thanked everyone for their support and cooperation and promised them to do his best to fulfill his awaiting dream.

PLANNING MEETING FOR SKILLS PROJECT

2010-04-20T21:46:00.002+05:30

Manish Parmar

MATUNGA, APRIL 20, 2010: A meeting was held at Don Bosco Provincial House, Matunga on 19th April 2010 to finalize details of the Skill Development Programme that is being promoted by DB Tech India. This project, which aims at training and placing in employment 50,000 youth across India in the next two years, is being funded by the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD). The objective of the project is to enable rural youth, living below the poverty line, secure a job and thus improve the economic conditions of their family.

The meeting began with Fr Michael Fernandes, Provincial, addressing the participants who had come from the three states of Maharashtra, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. He complimented DB Tech India for taking up this project and for the efforts they had put in to ensure its successful implementation. He called on the Salesians of the province to make a wholehearted commitment to this project, since through this project we would be serving the truly poor and marginalized youth. He reminded the participants that the province had both, the facilities and the expertise to take this project forward; all we now need is the determination to make the project work.

Fr Joseph Aikarchalil, National Director for DB Tech India, then gave the participants a detailed overview of the project. He explained the different stages of the project – mobilization, training and placement – the methodology of implementation, and the monitoring and reporting systems. He not only clarified the doubts raised by the participants, but he also assured them that the DB Tech national office would be available throughout the implementation of the project to assist the centres with any difficulty they faced. Before the meeting concluded, the participants met in state-wise groups to work out practical details concerning the project.

NREGS Job Card Distribution Camp At Kapadvanj

2010-04-20T09:37:00.003+05:30

KAPADVANJ, APRIL 8, 2010: All through the past year, Dristi Don Bosco has been consistently working at enabling rural households in the Kapadvan taluka draw maximum benefit from the National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGS). One of the villages that we have been focusing our attention on is Chapatya, belonging to Jagadupur panchayat. The people of this village had tried several times to get their Job Cards, but all their efforts were in vain. Even the written applications that they had submitted to the village and taluka panchayat offices had yielded not fruit.

However, all this changed on 7th April 2010, when Dristi Don Bosco organized a Job Card Distribution Camp in this village. Through the combined efforts of our staff and the villagers, the government officials were pressurized into issuing Job Cards to 54 households in this village. What made the event special was that the Talati, Sarpanch and all concerned government officials were present at the Camp to extend their service to the people. ‘Be the peoples’ servant before being a government servant’, was the underlying message of the day. This event has empowered the people to now take up other issues with the government.

WOMENS DAY WITH A DIFFERENCE AT DON BOSCO KAWANT

2010-04-19T22:10:00.000+05:30

KAWANT, APRIL 19, 2010: Kawant was once upon a time known for its cultural heritage and beauty, but as time passes, one can see the changes that are taking place in their life style and culture. The sight at Holi (Gher) was an eye opener. People from all walks of life would come on Gher day, to see the beautiful adivasi cultural dances in the town. But this year, the sight was disappointing. Only two or three groups were seen in the town giving their best shots. The community of Don Bosco, Kawant decided to revive the adivasi culture by inviting the different dancing groups of Kawant taluka on April 14, 2010, a day marked for Dr. Ambedkar Jayanti and Women’s day.

The day began with the fete games organized by the scouts of Don Bosco followed by the cultural dances from four different groups of Umti, Nakhal, Raisingpura and Vazepur. Each group was given Twenty minutes to perform on the stage and the winner was the group from Raisingpura. Rathwa women’s group from Kawant performed a skit on the role and importance of Gram Sabha in the villages. Many women realised that the key to the development in the village is through attendance and raising ones voice in the Gram Sabha. The chief guest Mrs. Kiran Lohani spoke on how to revive the adivasi culture, women being the best to bring this change. Fr. Byron, too spoke on the importance of Adivasi culture. He said that one should not feel shy or feel small in acknowledging ones culture. Adivasi culture is rich and well recognized all over the world. All cultures are equal in the eyes of God. A turn out of Three hundred and Ninety Two people was seen for the day. Special prizes were given to all the groups by the chief guest.

BGVK BAL MELAVA

2010-03-22T23:15:00.000+05:30

Rosario Vaz sdb, Bento D’Souza sdb

AHMEDNAGAR, MARCH 22, 2010: “India lives in its villages,” these words of Nehru proved to be truly prophetic on Sunday, March 21, 2010. 254 children from 13 villages around BGVK performed beyond all expectations and came up with an energy packed Dances and Radio Arts (songs, skits, plays, drama, speeches, jokes, mimicry and talks).

“This did not happen by chance but by dint of a year of hard regular, singleminded, persistent team work,” said Fr. Rosario Vaz, the man behind the scene. “In the beginning, there were a lot of difficulties to hold evening studies in the villages, the girl-children were not allowed to come as they had to attend to household work, funds were not available, distances were too much for children to walk for the evening classes and return late at night. Educating the village child is difficult because of their mindset. Why do girls need to study if they are to be given in marriage? This is a question most often in parents’ minds. Looking at the melava it was encouraging for the organizers and for the children themselves to realize that the sky is the limit. It brought out the best in them in terms of hidden talent and skills. Their performances made them see themselves as productive members of society. Gratitude goes to the Fr. Edwin D’Souza, Rector of the Shrine, Matunga for sponsoring the event.”

The whole program began with a prayer recited by a child and a speech by Fr. Alex Gonsalves. The Director of CSRD, Dr. Suresh Pathare was the Chief Guest. An entire galaxy of dances was performed with gusto and verve. On stage, they were transformed into dancing queens, princesses and ballerinas. In all, 89 participants performed on stage in a total of 25 items. At the start of the music as if touched by magic, decked in beautiful ornamented costumes they danced with josh, pomp and timing making it an event difficult to forget. The children needed no supervision during the event and the discipline was praiseworthy.
After lunch, a few dances still carried on. The children prepared the dances and performed without any adult help. All received prizes. Each one left with a T- shirt and token prizes. With the BGVK idols shining, the future of India is bright. BGVK, the premier institution that takes care of the grassroots has arrived at a point of focus, caring for the education of the future generation. Truly, the villages are lovely, dark and deep and there are promises to keep, and miles to walk before we sleep, but for now it is, “Bravo BGVKan Idols!!!”

MELA FOR VILLAGE CHILDREN AT NARUKOT

2010-03-22T23:12:00.000+05:30

Kamlesh Dodia

NARUKOT, MARCH 22, 2010: The campus of Don Bosco, Narukot was vibrant and vivacious from dawn to dusk on March 14, 2010, when nearly five hundred children from 28 villages had a march past of sorts with their tutors. The Balmela organized by Narukot Education Society under Village Education Project managed by Fr. Brian and Coordinator Ms. Bharti saw these children enjoying themselves singing songs, dancing ‘timli’ and having scrumptious food generously served by the students of the technical institute. Innovative and children friendly games put up in well organized stalls by the boarders trapped the attention of the children where they had a chance to win a variety of prizes.

A splendid cultural show prepared by the little children and students of both school and technical followed. It was marked by the esteemed presence of the chief guests Rev. Frs. Richard and Byron sdb, sarpanchs of nearby villages and other invited guests. Fr. Byron in his speech stressed on three important things: positive thoughts, hard work and honesty.
Fr. Brian in his thanks giving speech took a note of meticulous efforts of Frs. Stanny, Bros. Damodar, Ajay, Ruban, Justus, Romero and other staff members for organizing this magnificent ‘mela’.

BOSCO SAMAJIK VIKAS SANSTHA CELEBRATE WOMEN’S DAY

2010-03-22T23:11:00.000+05:30

WALVANDA, MARCH 17, 2010: World women’s day was celebrated with much pomp at the Walvanda Centre, Jawhar block on March 10, 2010. The theme of the programme was to give “equality of right, equal opportunity to every one”. The purpose of organizing such a program was to encourage women to come forward and bring togetherness for the sustainable development of women through mobilization of women. Around 500 women participated in the event with enthusiasm.

The programme started with the welcoming of women and the chief guest Mr. M.D.Gangurde the Tahsildar of Jawhar and offering garlands to Savitribai Phule by Fr. Anaclate with other guest. The introductory address was delivered by Mr. Sanjay Shinde wherein he shared the history of celebrating women’s day and the background of the organization.

M. D. Gangurde addressed the women on women development schemes. He mainly focused on schemes and their benefits which women should avail at the village level. An action song followed in which the women took part whole heartedly. Dr. Kshirsagar focused on poverty and its linkages to women’s underdevelopment. He spoke about general problems faced by women and how it affects the development process through various live examples. He also talked about importance of self help groups. Dr. Aruna Patil talked about Women’s health and their problems.

Fr. Anaclete addressed the women and mentioned that he was happy to see a large gathering. He added that the organization is ready to support and enhance the skills of women through various training programmes.

A memorable cultural programme followed. The vote of thanks was proposed by Mr. Melvin Pangya.

ALIRAJPUR CELEBRATES WOMEN'S DAY

2010-03-22T12:57:00.001+05:30

Dominic Martis sdb

ALIRAJPUR, MARCH 20, 2010:

March 13, 2010 was an important day for the adivasi women of Alirajpur, who came together for their very first Women’s Day celebration at Alirajpur Shaikshanik Samajik Kendra (ASSK). About 130 women from the villages around Alirajpur attended the celebration.

The festivities began with the women welcoming the special guest, Ms. Shobna Omkar (President of the Women’s Congress, Alirajpur), as well as the oldest and youngest members in the gathering. After this, the entire crowd proceeded to the hall for the lighting of the lamp and the Chief Guest’s address. The programme continued with groups from various villages performing songs in their traditional style. Later in the day, the SDM of Alirajpur District, Ms. Jamuna Bhinde, also joined the celebration.

The highlight of the programme was the inspiring speech given by Kavliben from Bhedwa village, who spoke about the power of collective action by women, the strength and capabilities of rural people and her own pride in being an adivasi woman.

The programme concluded with dancing, singing and gifts for all the participants. For the women of Alirajpur as well as the staff of ASSK, the event underlined the importance of building the strength of the community, and especially of the women.

WOMEN’S DAY CELEBRATION AT DHARAVI

2010-03-15T22:09:00.001+05:30

Surekha Pednekar

MUMBAI, MARCH 15, 2010: It was an afternoon packed with great energy and good cheer as Women’s Day was celebrated in Dharavi on Saturday, March 13, 2010. This event, organized by Don Bosco Development Society (DBDS), witnessed the turnout of over 1200 women from different slum communities in Mumbai. Besides the women from the Self Help Groups promoted by DBDS in Dharavi, there were women from Matunga, Mahim, Wadala, Sewri, Kurla, Santacruz, Andheri and Jogeswhari.

The programme got underway with a prayer song and dance, after which the lamp was lit by the dignitaries on the stage. These guests of honour included Ms. Jamila Begum from Yuva; Ms. Varsha Parchure from Apnalaya; Mr. Robin Thomas from Tata Trent; Mr. Savrimuthu, General Manager of Indian Bank; Fr. Edwin D’Souza, Rector of Provincial House; and Fr. Elson Barretto, Director of DBDS. Other senior officials from the Mumbai Municipal Corporation were also present on the dais.

The afternoon saw a good mix of speeches by the dignitaries and cultural items by the women. While Ms. Jamila Begum and Ms. Varsha Parchure spoke on the theme of water, Mr. Robin Thomas focused on the issue of plastic bags and the environmental problems they caused. Mr. Savrimuthu enlightened the audience on the micro-credit schemes being promoted by the Indian Bank and also distributed loan cheques to 18 different SHGs amounting to a total of Rupees Forty Five lacs, to be used for launching small business enterprises. Fr. Elson Barretto described the various initiatives undertaken by DBDS in the city, especially the women’s development programmes. The highlight of the evening was a Fashion Show Contest in which 25 women participated. These contestants, decked up as ‘new brides’, walked the ramp to the enthusiastic applause of the audience. The programme concluded with the distribution of certificates to 175 women who had successfully completed a variety of skills training courses organized by DBDS in different slum areas in the city during the past few months.

BEAUTY ON WOMENS DAY

2010-03-11T12:30:00.001+05:30

Ranald Lopes sdb

CHHOTAUDEPUR, MARCH 8, 2010: The 45 day Beautician course drew to a close on March 7, 2010 as 27 girls from the tribal area culminated their course in Beauty, sponsored by the NABARD bank. Though the World Fashion Centre is at Paris, LSK vouches that Chhota too will someday make its place on the Fashion Map. It was heart warming to see young girls now prepared in a new way of income generation activity. LSK organized this 45 day workshop with the help of Laura Abreo a well know beautician from Mumbai who directed the girls on beauty tips and make up. This was not all, to venture into this business one needs finance, hence called the SBI director of Chhota was called to speak to the girls and show them how to secure a bank loan with 50% deduction for their new venture. The girls are now empowered to begin their own enterprise and earn a handsome living. Certificates were also distributed and each one also got a basic make up kit to begin this needful and fashionable business.

ACCENTURE-TAJ VALEDICTORY FUNCTION AT BOSCO BOYS

2010-03-09T22:45:00.002+05:30

Manish Parmar

BORIVLI, MARCH 9, 2010: The first batch of 52 students who successfully completed the ‘Accenture-Taj Skills Development Course’ were awarded their certificates during a simple yet solemn valedictory function held at Bosco Boys, Borivli on Saturday, March 6, 2010. The Chief Guest for the occasion was Mr. Vasant Ayyappan, Director Corporate Sustainability, Taj Group of Hotels. Also present on the dais were Fr. Ajoy Fernandes, Vice Provincial, Fr. Savio Silveira, Fr. Anaclete D’Mello and Fr. Anthony Santarita.

This three months training programme promoted by DB Tech India and funded by the Accenture Company, had the Taj Group of Hotels as the knowledge partner. The four domains in which training was offered included Hospitality Service, Restaurant Service, Indian Cookery, and Bakery and Confectionery. Besides this, the students also received training in Conversational English, Computer Basics and Life Skills. The good blend of theory and practice that the training offered enabled the students to gain a fair amount of competence over the different domains. Further, besides the classroom sessions, the students received hands-on experience in different hotels, and were taken for exposure visits to the Taj President Hotel at Cuffe Parade and to the Taj Sats Air Catering Centre.

Speaking during the function, Mr. Ayyappan complimented the students for the keen interest they had displayed throughout the training period. He encouraged them to keep working hard and assured them that Taj would assist them in building their careers. Some of the students came forward to share their experience of the past months and to express their gratitude to the institution. They were full of praise for the excellent training that they had received and for the personal interest taken in them by the management and staff. After the certificates were awarded to the successful students, the programme came to a close with the vote of thanks proposed by one of the students.

BIS #1771 FARMERS TRAINING AT ANAND AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY

2010-02-19T18:43:00.000+05:30

Kamlesh Dodia
NARUKOT, FEBRUARY 19, 2010: “Down the ages we have been making use of age old techniques learnt from our ancestors and we could have continued them if we did not have this training. This exposure for five days has in fact opened our eyes towards new era of using modern methods and techniques of growing agricultural products that will eventually help us to live a better life.” Madhuben Nayak proudly proclaimed her wisdom through these words.

Kantibhai Bariya from Ishwariya village looked at it from another perspective as he said, “It was a privilege to be part of this training as it provided us a chance to be one and united although we belonged to different villages, age, sex, class, caste and religion.”

Such was the impact of the second successive farmers training organized by Don Bosco, Narukot in collaboration with Anand Agricultural University, Anand from February 6- 10, 2010.

Having had regular inputs from scientists of Anand Agricultural University every morning on topics such as drip irrigation to save water, use of natural and organic manual, system of rice intensification, all farmers both men and women had a march past through huge fields of bananas and paddy to witness modern techniques of agricultural products, in gigantic galleries of the famous Amul dairy to see technological wonders of automatic processing of milk and in lanes of Anand city to experience hustle and bustle of urban life.

It was enriching and memorable experience for all of them for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, the majority had a chance for the first time to be away from their villages and to breathe in urban area. Secondly, it provided them a chance to be together as there were farmers from sixteen different villages of diverse age, sex, caste and religion. Thirdly, they gained knowledge of modern methods and techniques of growing agricultural products with less water. Finally, they also had a chance to explore new places like the Amul dairy and Vehrakhadi (picnic spot).

Metardada from Gandhra, the eldest of the group expressed gratitude to Fr. Stanny Ferreira and to the Development staff on behalf of the entire group for organizing this versatile training.

DB ACTION HOLDS NATIONAL WORKSHOP

2010-01-31T13:05:00.002+05:30

Anand Raj
HYDERABAD, JANUARY 31, 2010: Don Bosco Action India, the national network of the Don Bosco Development Offices, held a two day meeting cum training workshop, on January 28-29, 2010 at the Provincial House, Hyderabad to discuss strategies for strengthening the network and plan for a national level project. Two staff members from each of the 10 Development Offices attended this meet.

During the inaugural session, Fr. Sudhakar, Executive Director of Bosco Seva Kendra, Hyderabad, welcomed the gathering and pointed out that this was the first time ever that staff members from all the partner organizations that constitute the network had come together for such a programme. Fr. Noel Maddichetty, the Provincial of Hyderabad, addressing the participants, said that our development work should empower marginalized communities to change unjust social structures. He further stressed that the focus should not only be economic development but rather all issues faced by underprivileged communities.

Getting down to work, the pre-lunch sessions were conducted by Fr. Savio Silveira, National Convener of DB Action India. In his presentation, he enlightened the gathering on the vision, mission, objectives and structure of the network. He also outlined the national priority area for the next three years, i.e., empowering Self Help Groups to access government and other programmes to enhance their livelihoods. Finally, he discussed with the team the Action Plan for 2010, and the roles and responsibilities of all the members in realizing this plan. In the afternoon session, all the Development Offices were given the opportunity to make a short presentation on the programmes being implemented by them. The final session of the day was dedicated to planning the national level project to be taken up in 2011.

The second day was facilitated by Ms. P Madhavi from ACCESS Development Services. The theme for this training workshop was: State of Microfinance Sector in India - Present Status, Future Challenges and Critical Gaps. The sessions focused on several important areas such as Microfinance Models, Microfinance Institutions, Ideological Issues, Financial Products etc. The workshop gave the participants a realistic idea of the present state of the microfinance sector in India, the hype that envelopes it and the fact that barely five percent of poor people in India actually benefit from microfinance services. The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Mr. Cecil from Kolkata.

REPUBLIC FIESTA

2010-01-31T13:04:00.000+05:30

MUMBAI, JANUARY 28, 2010: Four hundred children from the bastis of the K-East Ward of Mumbai gathered in the hall at Dominic Savio, Andheri, on Republic Day to culminate a fortnight of activities that were initiated in seventeen schools in the neighborhood.

Children need opportunities to express themselves in a variety of ways. Balprafulta initiated a program in various municipal and private schools in the K-East Ward through which thousands of children got the opportunity to give went to their feelings in creative ways. Some wrote essays, others gave speeches, some others expressed their ideas through skits and a few others used their artistic talents in preparing meaningful posters. The best of these were presented on the stage at Dominic Savio’s at the Republic Day celebrations organized for the children.

A study report on Child Rights was also released on the occasion. The study report was compiled from the data collated from 13,556 children who took part in a campaign entitled “Hamari Suraksha, Hamara Adhikar”. The study revealed that children hardly had a say in decisions made on their behalf, opportunities for quality education and healthy recreation was badly lacking and some children were put to work in order to augment the income of their family.

Republic Day celebrates the freedom we enjoy because our constitutions guarantee us our fundamental rights. Unfortunately, for many, these rights are still a distant dream!

FINAL STAGE OF WATERSHED

2010-01-13T13:58:00.000+05:30

CHHOTAUDEPUR, JANUARY 13, 2010: On January 6, 2010, the Lok Seva Kendra staff along with Fr. James had a special preparatory meeting with the villagers and Sarpanch of Baroj to plan the final stage of the Watershed project. The village development project has seen a complete shift in the development and lifestyle of the villagers who are now just not better off monetarily but are aware of the potential they have with regards to water and land. Though it is a watershed project the community based dimension is also very strong to get the people united and make decisions on a common basis. The villagers gathered enthusiastically to take on the final lapse and make the best of the resources offered to them.

THINKING AHEAD — BARODA SHGS

2010-01-12T15:08:00.002+05:30

Lyra Pinto

BARODA, JANUARY 12, 2010: The leaders of 16 SHGs facilitated by Don Bosco, Makarpura (Baroda) came together for a day of assessment and planning on Sunday, January 10, 2010. Having strengthened their groups and financial position over the past few years, these SHG members had expressed their desire to take up further programmes related to livelihood and development of their communities.

Accordingly, an input and planning session was conducted for the leaders of these groups by the staff by Don Bosco, Makarpura. Through games, activities and group discussions, the 36 women who attended this session identified a few areas they would like to work on, such as water and cleanliness issues in their community and income generation programmes in their groups. At the end of the session, they committed to discussing these issues with their group members and formulating a concrete action plan. Their assertiveness and enthusiastic participation proved that these city women are eager to improve their lives, and are capable of transforming their communities.

WOMEN EMPOWERMENT IN CHHOTA

2009-12-14T16:42:00.000+05:30

Ranald Lopes sdb

CHHOTAUDEPUR, DECEMBER 14, 2009: On December 10, 2009, 25 girls from the village received a Government certificate for a 45 day long course on tailoring and embroidery. The regional head of NABARD Mr. Gupte was present to hand over the certificates to the empowered girls. The girls were all eager to receive this training which has now given them a new source of livelihood. They would also be allowed special loans from the bank to bring a new sewing machine. The girls took a lot of pains to attend this course daily for 5 hours. They are now happy to begin a new enterprising business in their own villages.

DBDS - ALIVE ALERT ACTIVE!!!

2009-12-04T18:32:00.001+05:30

Natasha Almeida

MUMBAI, DECEMBER 4, 2009: The month of November saw Don Bosco Development Society organize two important events in the city of Mumbai. The first one being a ‘ Cleanliness Campaign’ at Prakash Nagar, Mahim and the other an ‘Issue based Meeting’ at Kane Nagar, Antop Hill.

Ten students from Tilak Maharashtra University in collaboration with DBDS organized a Cleanliness Campaign at Prakash Nagar, Mahim where DBDS has its centre for community classes. Before the idea of the Cleanliness Campaign evolved the students of the community class participated in a drawing competition based on cleanliness organized by the students from Tilak Maharashtra University and DBDS. The women who attend community classes also showed interest by participating in a group discussion based on Garbage Management.

The competitions and discussions led to a Cleanliness Campaign on November 18, 2009. Mr. Dalvi Beat officer from Mahim police station helped in the awareness of the campaign. The Guest of Honour for the occasion was Mr. Subhash Patil, Senior Officer of the Garbage Management Department at the BMC. People who participated in the campaign were those who primarily reside at the Mahim Police Quarters and the slums of Prakash Nagar. On the occasion Mr. Patil spoke on Solid Waste Management and a short informative film was screened on the same issue. “Disposing garbage in the right way is the duty of a responsible citizen”, he said. Ms. Surekha Pednekar from DBDS explained that if we need to keep our society disease free we need to stress on cleanliness not only inside our homes but also on the outside. The children from the community classes put up a short play depicting the importance of disposing dry garbage and wet garbage in the right way.

On November 24, 2009, an issue based meeting organized by DBDS in collaboration with the ‘Ration Kriti Samiti’ was held at the Kane Nagar, Antop Hill. Gharib Niwas Khana, Kane Nagar, an undeclared slum of Mumbai holds 200 houses and a population of 1200 people. The main agenda of the meeting was to secure Ration Cards for the slum dwellers of Kane Nagar. Approximately 50 people attended the meeting. Mr. Sandeep Suman from Ration Kriti Samiti briefed the attendees on the right to food. Considering that everyone has a fundamental right to be free from hunger DBDS in collaboration with personnel from

Ration Kriti Samiti will help them secure basic food through Ration Cards. The meeting also focused on ways and means to curb corruption at the local shopkeeper to consumer level. Ms. Surekha Pednekar from DBDS who was present for the meeting said, “The right to food is a human right and is a binding obligation well-established under international law, recognized in the Universal Declaration on Human Rights. These slum dwellers also have the right to adequate food.”

The follow up meeting on this issue will be held on December 6, 2009, where forms to secure Ration Cards for the dwellers of Gharib Niwas Khana will be filled in.

DBDS #049 DBDS CONTINUES TO EMPOWER THE LESS FORTUNATE

2009-11-24T19:44:00.000+05:30

Natasha Almeida

MUMBAI, NOVEMBER 24, 2009: November 15, 2009 proved to be a day of empowerment for those students from Dharavi who had enrolled themselves for the tailoring, computer literacy and English speaking courses conducted by Don Bosco Development Society in collaboration with Ekvira Mitra Mandal as they received their certificates with much pride on completion of the three month long endeavor.

220 students received certificates from Mr. Mahadeo Shinde President of Ekvira Mitra Mandal and Mr. Baban Sonawane, Secretary of Ekvira Mitra Mandal. Also present for the event was Ms. Surekha Pednekar from Don Bosco Development Society. The programme began by invoking Gods presence and presenting floral tributes to the guests and teachers.

The highlight of the programme was two students who were housewives from the slums of Dharavi delivered a thank you speech in English expressing their gratitude for the skills learnt at the course. Proposing the vote of thanks Ms. Surekha mentioned that the success of the course was only possible because of the co operation and participation of the students.

At the same time 21 boys between 15- 19 years are being trained to repair mobile phones at the Jeri Meri centre, Kurla in collaboration with Janshikshan Sanstha. This training will last for a period of 50 days empowering them to accomplish added skills and have an edge in society.

DBDS #048 GERMAN TEAM VISITS CHHOTA UDEPUR

2009-11-18T07:30:00.002+05:30

Ranald Lopes sdb
CHHOTA UDEPUR, NOVEMBER 17, 2009: For the people of Baroj and the staff of Lok Seva Kendra (LSK) Chhota Udepur, November 6, 2009 was an exciting and memorable day, with the visit of special guests.
Mr. Hans-Jürgen Dörrich, Director of Jugend Dritte Welt, Germany; Mr. Reinhard Heiserer, Director of Jugend Eine Welt, Austria; and Mr. Michael Mager and Mr. Jörg Einsiedel from the Grohe Company, Germany, visited LSK to understand the progress of the projects underway there. After a warm welcome by the staff of LSK, the guests made a few quick stops at the bakery, technical centre and other programmes running in the campus. The highlight of the day, however, was the visit to the village of Baroj, where LSK is implementing a watershed project supported by Jugend Dritte Welt.
At Baroj, the guests were greeted enthusiastically by the villagers, who had prepared a grand programme in their honour. After the programme, they visited the various sites in the village where watershed work is underway, and interacted with the people to understand the impact of the watershed on their lives. The LSK staff explained the methods used to execute the project, and took note of suggestions made by the visiting team.
Through their visit, the team was able to see the difference that their support has made to the lives of the people. After spending several hours in the village, the guests left with a sense of satisfaction and the intention of returning as soon as they can!

DBDS #047 SOCIAL AUDITS IN CHHOTA UDEPUR

2009-11-18T07:28:00.003+05:30

Ranald Lopes sdb
CHOTTAUDEPUR, NOVEMBER 17, 2009: With the release of the Gujarat Government’s order calling for social audits of the NREGA across the state, Lok Seva Kendra (LSK) Chhota Udepur began facilitating the process by organising a training programme on 5th November for members of the Village Vigilance and Monitoring Committees (VVMC) from villages in Chhota Udepur Taluka.
The session was conducted by the staff of LSK, who had themselves attended a similar programme as members of the Taluka Resource Group. More than 120 committee members from 19 Panchayats, as well as the TDO and other local officials, attended the session. The objective of the programme was to enable the committee members to understand the concept of a social audit and prepare them to conduct the audits in their own villages.
Since then, LSK has also been involved in facilitating the actual audit process in 22 Panchayats in the taluka. This experience has revealed that much more preparation is necessary to strengthen the committees, improve the audit process and ensure transparency in the implementation of the NREGA. At present, LSK is involved in ensuring that true and verifiable audit reports are presented during the ongoing Gram Sabhas in Chhota Udepur Taluka.

DBDS #046 RURAL AGRICULTURAL WORK EXPERIENCE (RAWE)

2009-11-09T19:51:00.003+05:30

NARUKOT, NOVEMBER 9, 2009: “It was one of the rare and the best experiences of village exposure program I have ever seen during my profession.” Dr. N.B. Chauhan expressed his gratitude to Narukot Education Society.

“It was well organized and timely managed program that provided us an opportunity to learn about socio-cultural and agricultural conditions of tribal.” one of the students named Nirav stated in his thanksgiving speech.

The students and the faculty members of B.A. College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural University, Anand had an enriching experience at Narukot Education Society, Narukot. Rev. Frs. Stanny, Brain and the staff of Development Society left no space for them to complain. They in fact, remained on their toes to make sure that the students and the faculty members would have a comfortable stay in order to fulfill their desired educational objectives while enjoying marvels of nature in and around the campus.

It was under Rural Agricultural Work Experience of the college, a total of 68 students and 17 faculty members stayed at Narukot from September 22 to October 11, 2009. During this course of time, they visited at least thirty villages to have an interaction with the farmers to learn about land holdings, irrigation, practices of crop production, animal husbandry and horticulture. Apart from that, they were also interested in learning about socio cultural life of the villagers.

In addition to that Fr. Stanny keenly shared his experiences of being in the Society and in this area working for socio economic and cultural development of the tribal. They were blissful to know about mission and vision of the Society. The boarders too were lucky to receive wisdom and knowledge from some of the learned and experienced professors who were obliged to talk to them about techniques of crop production, weather forecasting, remote sensing etc.

DBDS #045 YUVA DAY AT DON BOSCO KAWANT

2009-11-06T22:36:00.004+05:30

Gregory Almeida sdb
KAWANT, NOVEMBER 6, 2009: November 3, 2009 was a unique day for Don Bosco Kawant as it celebrated the Yuva Day for the youth of Kawant taluka. The crowd that was supposed to be expected was just 100, but then the numbers went on to cross 180. It was an amazing sight to see youngsters in the Hall, waiting anxiously to begin this day of animation. This Yuva day was an event organized by the Youth Coordinator, Br. Ramesh Durairaj . The Youth day began with a prayer service well animated by the boarders. The remaining part of the day was well organized by the staff of the DISHA DON BOSCO development office, Kawant.

The day marked with the introductory talk by Fr. Gregory Almeida, highlighting the role and importance of Youth in today’s world. He gave an example of the Model village in Maharashtra, Hirve Bazaar, where the newly elected Sarpanch, Mr. Popatrao began the village work with the help of the village youth to bring transformation in the village and today the same village is been projected by the Centre as the Model village for all other state. It has received numerous awards in the field of development due to the help of these youths. A time has come to bring the same transformation in the villages of Kawant.

The remaining part of the day went on smoothly with the development staff, taking different sessions on NREGs, Gram Sabha, Panchayati Raj and Social Audit. It was also an enriching experience for the staff to know that there are youngsters in the villages willing to learn and fight for a common cause.

A time has come to animate these youngsters on a daily basis who will bring a change in the villages of Kawant. Special thanks to Br. Ramesh for his vision and insight in arranging this programme for the youth. Also to the DISHA development staff for planning, arranging and taking the different sessions on Gram Sabha, NREGs, Self Help Group, Social Audit and Govt. Schemes. All in all it was a great day for Don Bosco, Kawant to begin work for these needy youth.

DBDS #044 SHG MOVEMENT LAUNCHED AT NERUL

2009-10-26T22:06:00.003+05:30

Monty Rodrigues sdb
Navi Mumbai, October 26, 2009: Don Bosco launched the Self Help Group movement at Nerul in Navi Mumbai with a training programme on October 23-24, 2009. The training was conducted by Ms. Surekha Pednekar and Mr. Melvin Pangya from the Don Bosco Development Office, Matunga. The first day of the programme was dedicated to helping the participants gain an in-depth understanding of the present socio-economic and political situation, and the impact it has on weaker and marginalized sections of society. On the second day, issues pertaining explicitly to Self Help Groups were taken up. This included sessions on the objectives of the SHG movement, methodology for forming of groups and strategies for the successful running of the groups.
A total of 23 participants attended the training programme. The sessions were extremely lively and the talks were interspersed with games, songs and other practical exercises. At the close of the programme the participants resolved that they would immediately go about forming SHGs in Karave village. A training workshop will be held for these newly formed groups on November 25, 2009 at Don Bosco, Nerul.

DBDS #043 OCTOBER IN GUJARAT

2009-10-26T14:21:00.004+05:30

Lyra Pinto, DBDS

The biggest preparation needed was a change of heart.

October was marked in red letters on all our calendars. It was the month for the crucial ‘planning’ Gram Sabhas, in which the NREGA works for the coming year would be decided. In more than 30 villages for more than a month, people had held meetings, planned, argued, attended training sessions, made lists, changed the lists, argued some more, and had finally zeroed in on what they really wanted for their villages in the coming year.

What was left, however, was that change of heart. Even among the leaders whom people had chosen to speak at the Sabhas, few actually believed, really completely believed, that they could have a say in local affairs. That control over the development of their village could be in their hands. Years of being ignored, threatened, and lied to by government officials had killed their belief in themselves. Still, people agreed to attend the Gram Sabhas and present their plans.

And then October came. What a joke! A Central Government circular declaring the start of the ‘Year of the Gram Sabha’ ordered that all Gram Sabhas be held on 2nd October instead of on the appointed dates. The order had been carelessly delayed at the district level, and reached the various blocks only on 1st October.

With no time left to change the dates or inform people, the block level authorities in Chhota Udepur promptly created registers showing miraculously high attendance at all the imaginary 2nd October Gram Sabhas. In Kawant, the Gram Sabhas actually continued according to schedule for a few days, till the authorities realised that such an order had been passed. In Jambughoda, the block officials had no clear idea what to do, and so declared that all Sabhas had been properly conducted on 2nd October. In Alirajpur, no one yet knows what happened. And in Kapadvanj, the authorities simply claimed they knew nothing about it at all and continued life as usual.

But for people in the villages, something had changed. This was not just another meeting that they hadn’t been told about. It was one they had given a lot of time and energy to prepare for. And talking to them a few days after the whole incident, we realised the reason for this change. People are angry, upset at being cheated, and determined to make themselves heard. With this anger comes a new courage, and with this courage, the conviction that the will of the people is stronger than any lazy officer or any stamped piece of paper.

The change of heart is finally here.

DBDS #042 BOSCO PLUS HEADING TOWARDS SAKSHAM

2009-10-02T15:10:00.003+05:30

Natasha Almeida
MUMBAI, SEPTEMBER 25, 2009: The batch of July ’09 of the Bosco Plus skills training programme concluded at Don Bosco Matunga with 24 youth successfully completing their training in basic life skills, spoken English, computer skills and retail management. From those who had lost their jobs recently to students who had dropped out during their school or undergraduate studies, these young people from the slums of Mumbai were eager to learn the skills that would enable them to secure decent employment.

A valedictory function to formally mark the end of the course was held on September 24, 2009 at the A.V Hall at the Provincial House, Matunga. This certificate distribution ceremony was held on behalf of Bosco Plus and Tata Trent Ltd., who collaborated with the former in conducting examinations and interviews with the students. The event was graced by the Guest of Honour Mr. Nirmal Naik, Senior HR Manager, Tata Trent Ltd. Besides the team from the Mumbai Development Office, in attendance for the event were Fr. Savio Silveira, Mr. Robin Thomas, Program Co-ordinator, Tata Trent Ltd. and Mr. Niranje Amte, Examiner of Retail Management at the Garware Institute. The event commenced with the opening address by Ms. Surekha Pednekar from the Development Office which was followed by a welcome song by students of the current batch.

Fr. Savio Silveira in his address mentioned the only objective of Bosco Plus was to train the students for a period of two months and help them secure a job. Mr. Niranje Amte, in his address spoke about ‘Reviving and Revising’. Drawing from his long experience and citing a simple example of the Hare and Tortoise story he mentioned that even slow learners are helpful in winning the race. It’s Co-operation and not competition that wins at the end of the day. Mr. Robin Thomas whilst addressing the students said that the facilitators will only provide the resources for the battle but the ultimate battle on the field has to be fought by the students themselves.

Mr. Nirmal Naik, the chief guest who presented the students with their certificates, encouraged them to make the most of what they have learned and to build their careers one step at a time. After giving them a brief idea about the retail sector he encouraged the students to sort out their queries.

The vote of thanks was delivered by Sagar, a student of the July batch who secured an over all first position. He expressed his gratitude towards the course facilitators and thanked them whole heartedly for their support. The students in turn expressed their determination to sharpen their skills at every opportunity. Kudos to the Bosco Plus team who are surely headed towards Saksham!

DBDS #041 GRAM SABHA PREPARATIONS IN GUJARAT

2009-09-21T16:17:00.002+05:30

Lyra Pinto
KAWANT, SEPTEMBER 21, 2009: The staff of five centres in the Gujarat region—Kawant, Chhota Udepur, Alirajpur, Narukot and Kapadvanj—gathered in Kawant for a training session conducted by the Unnati Organisation for Development Education, in preparation for the upcoming October Gram Sabhas in Gujarat.

The 31 staff members who attended the programme took full advantage of the opportunity to clarify their doubts regarding the procedures of Gram Sabhas and the planning of works under the NREGA. Their field experience in dealing with these topics over the last one year threw up many interesting questions, and also enabled them to explore possible solutions to the problems dogging the smooth functioning of the NREGA and Panchayat Raj Institutions in their villages.

The resource persons, Mr. Roshan and Mr. Jasmin, also described Unnati’s experiences and strategies for strengthening the people through Gram Sabhas. By means of a detailed explanation followed by an analytical exercise, they went on to train the participants in facilitating social audits of the NREGA through Gram Sabhas. The programme ended with a question and answer session during which the participants were able to clarify some of the finer points involved in the NREGA planning process.

The staff who took part in the session came away with clearer knowledge and increased confidence in their ability to empower NREGA workers in their villages through Gram Sabhas.

DBDS #040 TRAINING PROGRAMME AT WALWANDA

2009-09-19T14:08:00.002+05:30

Manisha Kande
WALVANDA, SEPTEMBER 19, 2009: Bosco Yuva Sanghtana organized a three days residential training programme on NREGA and role of Panchayati Raj Institutions for the village animators at Walvanda centre, Taluka- Jawhar from September 11- 13, 2009. The purpose of the training was to strengthen the animator’s capacity and elucidate their role at the village level. 43 animators from Jawhar and Mokhada block attended and participated in the training. The resource persons were Mr. Saby Francis and Mr. Arun Hivale from Organization SPREAD.
The emphasis was laid on the Perspective Building of the animators, on social development, the situation of the tribal community by using different methods like Venn diagrams and games.
Dr. Anil Patil, professor at the Jawhar K.V. College, addressed the animators on the Adivasi lifestyle with live examples and strongly clarified their role at the village level. It was an inspirational and motivational session for the animators.

The resource person engaged the participants in the ‘SHRAMDAN’work for one hour as their self activity. During the break the animators played a game on unity which helped them to understand their capacity and their imaginative ideas. In the evening a play on social issues was organized by Sir Kanat with assistance from the Vakadpada group. The play focused on spreading awareness at the village level by effective use of media. A movie on NREGA named ‘Jau tithe khau’ was also screened. The movie very well portrayed the corruption behind the scheme.
The last day of the training started with the folk Adivasi action song ‘Aamhi Adivasi por’ by a participant. The resource person gave inputs on MREGS and NREGA. Mr. Melvin Pangya explained the main provision under this Act and the work proposed in the Gramsabha by villagers. The training enhanced the knowledge of the animators to think in a positive way and work effectively in the villages.
The training ended with the action plan of work by every animator for six months on awareness building at village level and creating a network for activities of the Gram Sabhas. One animator from each centre shared their experiences about the training.

DBDS #039 TRAINING PROGRAM ME ON GRAM SABHA

2009-09-11T23:02:00.004+05:30

KAPADVANJ, SEPTEMBER 10, 2009: On September 5, 2009, Don Bosco, Kapadvanj organized a training program on the Gram Sabha. From the selected eight villages to be the model in the Kapadvanj Taluka, there were 82 men and women present. The training aimed to empower people and prepare them for the forth coming Gram Sabha.

Beginning with the welcome at 11a.m with a power point presentation on Gram Sabha, social worker Nikunj Parmar explained the participants the basic details of the Gram Sabha. Most of the participants had never attended a Gram Sabha and admitted of not knowing its functions.

The women present for the training program honestly said that they thought women were not allowed to attend any Sabha. During the power point presentation many of them raised questions about a Samiti.

After the presentation a movie on Gram Sabhas was screened. Post lunch Fr. Mayank Parmar spoke about various ways to take village problems to the higher authorities’ during the Sabha and the importance of NREGA in Gram Sabha.

The most interesting part of the training was the mock Gram Sabha. During this session Fr. Isaac posed as the Talati, Fr. Mayank as Sarpanch and the staff members as Gram Panchayat members. The social worker conducted the Sabha. The participants learnt how a Sabha was held and what responsibilities do different Samitis carry.

The participants were cleared of their doubts and were immensely grateful to Don Bosco, Kapadvanj for organizing the training programme. The training ended with the vote of thanks delivered by social worker Nikunj Parmar.

DBDS #038 SHELTER R&D CONDUCTS COUNSELLING WORKSHOP

2009-09-11T22:59:00.002+05:30

Daskshayani Madangopal
MUMBAI, SEPTEMBER 10, 2009: The R&D department of Shelter Don Bosco, Matunga conducted an animated Workshop for Social Workers as Counsellors on the September 9, 2009, for 18 Mumbai based NGOs working with children, youth, slum communities, commercial sex workers, domestic workers and those working with children in municipal schools. 40 participants from these various backgrounds attended a very effective, animated and interactive workshop.

The workshop was initiated by Fr. Barnabe D’Souza. The sessions were conducted by Prof. Tarana Pitawala of SNDT University and Director of Sinara Education and Career Counselling Insitute and Ms. Rupal Vador co-author of a Manual “Social Workers as Counsellors” by the R&D, published by Tejprasarini.

Prof. Pitawala got the group involved in practical nuances of counselling in their situations in the field. There were several sessions in getting the participants taking roles of the ‘counselled and counsellor,’ counselling skills in listening, rapport building, assessing the problem and goal setting, understanding the situation and responding accordingly.

Ms. Vador went through the Manual ‘Social Workers as Counsellors’ with the participants on how to use the manual in their settings. Each participant was given a copy of the manual. This prompted the participants to request for the other manuals of the R&D centre.

Fr. Barnabe introduced the FINO Savings cum identity card to the participants and gave them an opportunity to discuss it with their Directors to take it further for implementation in their organizations.

The Workshop ended with an announcement of a follow up workshop on October 10, 2009, in Maria Ashiana, Lonavla for the NGOs of Pune district on the same topic and a soon to be released (October) manual on ‘Eliciting People’s participation in Community Development’ a research based manual on Shelter Don Bosco’s experience of working for urban and rural communities.

DBDS #037 THANK YOU TEACHER!!!

2009-09-07T23:26:00.003+05:30

Natasha Almeida
MUMBAI, SEPTEMBER7, 2009: A cultural programme and felicitations marked Teachers’ Day celebrations on Saturday, September 5, 2009 at the Maschio Centre, Matunga. The celebrations were organized by Don Bosco Development Society to felicitate teachers from the community centres at Mahim and Matunga and Bosco Plus at Dharavi.
Amidst the chatter of the excited children, students who had gathered from different areas welcomed Fr. Edwin D’souza, Guest of Honour and the teachers by way of an aarti. Soon after a short cultural programme followed which saw the students put up songs and dances in appreciation for their teachers. In their own way the students not only entertained but also provided valuable information about the origins and history of the Teachers Day celebrations in India.
Fr. Edwin D’souza, in his address made a mention of two important words that the children need to use towards their teachers, namely, ‘Thank You’ and ‘I Love You’. He also said that the best gift a student could give a teacher would be that of excelling in their studies and other activities.
In the end floral tributes were handed over to the teachers. At a time when the country struggles to give teachers their due recognition, in a small corner of Mumbai, these under privileged children with twinkling eyes came forward in gratitude and humility to appreciate their teachers – their second mothers. The aisles of Maschio Centre echoed of ‘Thank you teacher’ long after the children had left for their homes.

DBDS #036 WOMEN CONNECT WITH RTI

2009-09-07T23:24:00.003+05:30

Natasha Almeida
MUMBAI, SEPTEMBER 7, 2009: On Friday, September 4, 2009, Don Bosco Development Society (DBDS) organized a one day
workshop at Dharavi, in association with Ekvira Mitra Mandal, a community organization. The workshop focused on developing and promoting awareness about RTI among women who are part of the Self Help Groups and the Tailoring Course at Mahim and Dharavi, as well as providing a platform for these women to interact with each other.

Along with the 120 women, present for the workshop, was Fr. Elson Baretto, Director of DBDS and Fr. Savio Silveira, Executive Director DBDS. Fr. Elson, in his motivational address made mention of an anecdote ‘Ghar ka malik kaun?’ This got the women all ears for the workshop.
The resource person for the day was Mr. Praful Shinde, a leading RTI activist for the last twenty years from Sampark Sanstha. Mr. Shinde, a former resident of Dharavi, mentioned that he felt more than comfortable to deal with women coming from a place where he resided earlier. After giving a brief history of the origins of the RTI Act, Mr. Shinde step by step dealt with the whole process of RTI. The four hours workshop also consisted of an open forum for the women to raise questions and clear any doubt about the RTI. Issues ranging from education to poverty and governance were raised, with the women showing awareness about various social and general issues in their neighbourhood.
Surekha Pednekar, from Don Bosco Development Society, said, "This workshop was primarily designed to allow the women from the slum areas to learn about this tool and allow them to solve any doubts they may have about its operation."
Shweta Bharati, a resident of Mahim who participated at the workshop said, “I am thankful to DBDS and more than happy to have attended this workshop. This information will surely help me and my fellow residents to deal with the water issues in our area. We not only learnt about RTI, but also got to know the mindsets of women from different areas and their views."
In conclusion, Ms. Pednekar delivered the vote of thanks. The women left the community centre high on energy already discussing how to make the best use of the information they have received.

DBDS #035 RETURNING TO THE VILLAGE, REVIVING THE GRAM SABHA

2009-08-29T12:03:00.005+05:30

Gregory Almeida sdb
KAWANT, AUGUST 29, 2009: August 27, 2009, marked a major event for Don Bosco Kawant, as the students of Standard IX visited Singalda village to witness a Gram Sabha LIVE!

Before visiting the village, the students were briefed about the importance and purpose of Gram Sabhas through two short videos dealing with the benefits of attending Gram Sabhas and the practical problems that people face while participating in them.

The students were welcomed by the Sarpanch and Talati of the village, and were given a place of honour at the very front of the gathering! As the meeting progressed, it was obvious that the officials were making a special effort to conduct the proceedings properly and answer people’s questions, even if it was only an attempt to leave a good impression on the children! The people of the village were also happy to have the students in their midst, and this strengthened their resolve to participate actively in future programmes.

At the meeting, the students were able to put all their classroom knowledge of Panchayat systems into perspective, as they witnessed first-hand the way in which government systems function in the villages. The experience helped them understand that although many factors prevent people from claming their rights, they can move towards empowerment by insisting on participating in Panchayati Raj institutions.

With the Governance Project taking shape in our province through a focus on the NREG and Panchayati Raj, this visit helped the students realize that it is their turn to return to their villages and participate in programmes such as the Gram Sabha. While many students leave the village after completing their studies, today’s experience helped the children understand that proper guidance, organized strength and leadership can also enable people in the rural areas to live a dignified life.

Attending the Gram Sabha reminded these future leaders of their responsibility towards their villages. The entire experience recalled the story of the film ‘Swades’, wherein the educated hero returns to his village to lead his people to a just form of development. And at Don Bosco Kawant, the time has come for our young people to return to the villages to bring about a CHANGE FOR BETTER LIVING.

DBDS #034 EMPOWERMENT BEGINS THROUGH GRAM SABHAS

2009-08-29T11:58:00.006+05:30

Gregory Almeida
27th August 2009, Kawant

For the first time in the history of Don Bosco Kawant, development has taken a new shape—empowerment through Gram Sabhas.

A couple of months ago while reading the newspaper, I came across the shocking news that Kawant is the most backward taluka in the state of Gujarat. How could this be possible? We have been working in this area for more than 25 years. Where has the development work gone? Were the facts and figures mentioned in the newspaper correct? These questions pushed me to look at the latest website regarding the Gujarat government’s tribal development programmes. I was once again surprised to find that it had no information about Kawant taluka. Most of the funds allotted for tribal development are being used for security training.

This year, Don Bosco Development Society has initiated a project called the Community Ownership of Governance Initiative. The aim of this project is to enable rural communities to participate fully in local self governance and thereby access the institutions and policies that are meant to serve them. And these policies can be effective only when people participate in Panchayati Raj Institutions and Gram Sabhas. The Gram Sabha is a useful platform for people to voice their concerns and mobilize their resources for the development of their villages.

During the last month, I was happy to witness Gram Sabhas in a few villages in Kawant taluka. The main objective of these Sabhas is People’s Empowerment. They are an opportunity for the poor and the marginalized to rise up economically, socially and politically. It’s a place where they can ask for information on various programmes and schemes, and review the ongoing works in their village.

We are now adopting an approach which enables people to realize that it is their right to get the State support that they need to improve their life. The awareness of different programmes and schemes could be the starting point to bringing a major change in their lives. Youngsters in the villages can be motivated and trained to become capable talatis, sarpanchs and mamlatdars who will implement these programmes and schemes correctly. Right leadership with a proper value system is the key to change in the villages.

I have few suggestions for those interested in such an approach:

1. Acquire total knowledge of the issue or programme in question. This is crucial because the officials in these areas exploit the fact that most people are uneducated; even the talatis and the sarpanchs do not completely understand these programmes and are not interested in implementing them.

2. Encourage educated people to take part in the Gram Sabhas. This includes individuals such as teachers in the village school and rural health workers.

3. Ensure total involvement of the people. Make sure that people are informed about their Gram Sabhas at least 15 days in advance and are prepared through role plays, discussions and other methods.

4. Check the implementation of resolutions. Every ‘tharaav’ passed in the Gram Sabha should be followed up at the village, taluka and district levels.

5. School children should be taught about Gram Sabhas. These children are the future leaders of the village, the ones who can guide the better implementation of village programmes. Prepare them to be talatis and mamlatdars and local leaders.

6. Clarify the role of the organization. The organization’s function should be that of animating and guiding the people, creating awareness about their rights and duties, and enabling them to secure their dues.

7. Teach youngsters in the village to access and disseminate information. Young people can be taught how to use computers and study various schemes that can be implemented in their area.

8. Focus on building unity in the community. This is necessary to get any resolution passed and carried out.

I believe the best is yet to come, wherein all the people begin to realize the importance of Gram Sabhas as a tool for Empowerment and Development.

DBDS #033 SHG …. ONE STEP TOWARDS DEVELOPMENT

2009-08-22T00:28:00.002+05:30

Melvin Pangya
BORIVLI, AUGUST 21, 2009: Bosco Yuva Sanghatana, Borivli organized a three days training program on Self Help Groups for the poor and marginalized women from Shivaji Nagar. Thirty five women from Gouri Nagar, Shivaji Nagar and Sai Dham slums attended this training programme.

The training began with the lighting of the lamp by Fr. Anaclete D’mello and Fr. Anthony Santarita. Mr. Melvin Pangya introduced brief the organization and its various initiatives in the province. He mentioned that the organization not only works in urban but also to reaches out to the poor and marginalized groups in the tribal areas. Fr. Anaclete, in his address encouraged the women and said that It was indeed commendable that women from Shivaji Nagar came together to learn about Self Help Groups. He added that the organization is ready to expand the support not only women but also wants to reach out to youth and children of the area.
The session began with the introduction of the participants by way of an ice breaker. The women actively participated in the training. Societal analysis, concepts and importance of SHG’s and how to conduct meetings were the areas that were touched upon in the training.
Mrs. Anju Limbachiya one of the participants expressed her gratitude and said that the training served as an eye opener. The participants have assured that they would willingly work under the guidance of the organization. The training helped to clarify their many doubts related to SHG’s. The training ended with the song “Hum Honge Kamyab”.

DBDS #032 DBDS WORKING TOWARDS WOMEN EMPOWERMENT

2009-08-20T22:21:00.003+05:30

Natasha Almeida

MUMBAI, AUGUST 19, 2009: The scorching heat of the Mumbai sun and the dusty air did not deter the spirits of the women from the slums of Dharavi who had gathered on the afternoon of August 17, 2009 at the Ekvira Mitra Mandal community centre for the inaugural tailoring class.

“Aaj class ka pehla din hain”, chirped Laxmi, a housewife from Dharavi. She and her friends were visibly enthusiastic about their first day at the class. Other than the sixty women who had gathered at the community centre, Fr. Savio Silveira, Mr. Jairam Chowgule from Ekvira Mitra Mandal, Mr. Vijay Rajput, Mr. Sunil Katkar and Mr. Manish Daliya from Vijay Apparels; Mr. Arun Birade from the Apparel Training and Designing Centre were present for the inauguration ceremony.

Ms. Surekha Pednekar from the Mumbai Development office delivered the welcome address after which floral tributes were presented to the guests. The afternoon saw the women students perform an aarti for the machines while the breaking of the coconut to ward off evil followed. In her introductory address Ms. Pednekar mentioned the keen interest of these women to learn tailoring. The women wanted to contribute to their partners earnings so that their children would be able to have a better education.

Fr. Savio, in his address mentioned that only screaming and shouting slogans for women empowerment on Women’s Day is not enough. He added that they needed to move ahead by developing skills. Mr. Chowgule from Ekvira Mitra Mandal gave a simple yet interesting example about a vehicle with two wheels. He compared the vehicle with life and the two wheels to a husband and a wife. In order that the vehicle should function well both the wheels need to be in balance. In the same way, even a husband and wife need to support each other. If the wife develops her skills and contributes to the income of the family, the whole family will benefit. Apart from the tailoring course Don Bosco Development Society also trains for basic computer skills and spoken English at the same community centre at Dharavi which benefits youth and children from the surrounding locality.

After the tailoring course jobs will be provided to these women by Raj Apparels. Visits to factories will also be arranged as the course progresses. These classes will be held regularly for the next two months. It is commendable to see these women balance out their household chores and their regular classes. Don Bosco Development Society is surely heading towards Saksham- women empowerment in all fields.

DBDS #031 TRIBAL RIGHTS RALLY

2009-08-20T22:16:00.005+05:30

Subhash Shirsath
CHHOTA UDEPUR, AUGUST 18, 2009: S. F. School ground, at Chhotaudepur
was abuzz with activity on August 4, 2009, as more than fifteen thousand tribals gathered for the Rally and Jahir Sabha for Tribal Rights of Forest Land and Forest Assets under Forest Act of 2006 organised by the Adhivasi Mahasabha, Gujarat on World tribal Day. Apart from the tribals, 39 NGO partner- members of Adhivasi Mahasabha from Vadodara, Dahod and Panchmahals districts, 69 Van Adhikari Samitee members and tribal farmers from villages of Jambughoda and Halol talukas participated in this rally.

In this rally, the tribal people were seen with banners, posters and shouting slogans. A sharing session at the rally brought out the grievances the young and old faced with the forest department. After which the Adhivasi Mahasabha’s team members made the people aware of their rights.

Fr. Xavier, who has been working for tribal development for the last 20 years, was the resource person for the day. Drawing from his long and rich experience in this movement, he shared several interesting issues with the people. He emphasized the need of coming together and fighting back to tackle common problems. Fr. Xavier finalized 14 issues of forest land farming and land issues of 10,000 tribal farmers which have been submitted to the Regional Collector.The rally ended with the traditional performance of a tribal dance.

DBDS #030 NARUKOT YOUTH LEARN NEW SKILL

2009-08-20T22:14:00.002+05:30

Subhash Shirsath

NARUKOT, AUGUST 18, 2009: A workshop on Hand Pump Repairing was organized by Don Bosco Education Society, Narukot in collaboration with Gujarat Jal-seva Talim Kendra, Gandhinagar, from July 28 to July 30, 2009. This workshop was specially designed forthe youth of Jambhughoda Taluka .

Mr. G. K. Chug, Chief Executive Training Officer- GJTI and Fr. Brian Boothello, Vice Rector Narukot Education Society were among others who inaugurated workshop. Mr. G. K. Chug motivated the youth to change their attitude of callousness and take the initiative to protect public property.

The first day of training the participants learnt the basic set up and expansion of their own enterprises using their newly-acquired skills, handpump cleaning and care, tools of handpump repairing and methods of handpump installation. The next day of the training, the participants had indoor practical sessions of installing hand pumps. After which, all trainees were divided into three groups through which they repaired seven hand pumps in Jambughoda, Narukot and Jhaban villages. On the last day of the workshop, three hand pumps were repaired in Narukot village.

In conclusion a valediction programme was organized wherein the participants received certificates and reading material. The participants agree to take their newly acquired skill forward by repairing the hand pumps of their own village. 55 youth from 25 villages have benefitted from this workshop. Considering that hand pumps are a necessity in every village, the course will enable the young people to maintain the assets of their village and build a sustainable livelihood for themselves.

DBDS #029 DB TECH MUMBAI HOLDS MEETING AT DBCL

2009-08-18T00:01:00.002+05:30

Anand Raj

MUMBAI, AUGUST 14, 2009: Don Bosco Centre for Learning (DBCL), Kurla, organized the meeting of Principals of the Technical Training Institutes in the Mumbai Province on August 13, 2009. The meeting began with a prayer song, after which Fr. Adolph Furtado, Director of DBCL welcomed all the participants. In the first session of the day Fr. Savio Silveira made a presentation on the emerging trends in the Indian economy and their impact on youth. He spoke about the growth that India is witnessing in the manufacturing and service sectors, the demographic dividend that India enjoys, and the skills gap that the country is facing. He further went on to explain the National Policy on Skills Development and the role that DB Tech India wished to play in the national skills mission.

In the next session Mr. Amar Patinkond, Principal of St. Joseph’s Industrial Training Institute oriented the participants on the Modular Employable Skills (MES) programme. He explained the salient features of the scheme and emphasized the importance of this programme in the skill development sector today. He presented a few concepts and ideas involved in delivering quality training to the young through these short-term programmes.

During the post-lunch session, Mr. Soman, Principal of Don Bosco Maritime Academy explained the role that DBCL would play in the monitoring and evaluation of the Technical Institutes in the province. Drawing from his experience, he elaborated the responsibility of each institute in the province in promoting quality and need based technical education. In the discussion that followed, all the participants were in consensus to treat the following areas with top priority: attention to improve quality in the training, need for taking up short term courses with government linkages, scaling up the number of students, strategies for sustainability of programmes and better-coordinated placement services. The meeting concluded on an enthusiastic note with the participants expressing their resolve to take the skills development sector in the province to new heights.

DBDS #028 WORKSHOPS AT R&D

2009-08-17T23:58:00.003+05:30

Sangmitra Shirodkar

MUMBAI, AUGUST 14, 2009: The Shelter Don Bosco Research Centre (R&D), Matunga conducted workshops between August 10 and 13, 2009. Three major workshops were held on Basic Research Techniques for Co-ordinators/ Social Workers, Critical Field Reflection/ Analysis for Field workers and Advanced Practices of SPSS (Quantitative) and NVivo (Qualitative) Packages. The workshops were excellently executed by Dr. Bipasha Biswas, Assistant Professor, School of Social Work, St. Louis, Missouri (USA).

The staff members from Balprafulta, Development Office, Shelter Don Bosco and the R&D participated in these different workshops and had a lot to contribute as well as learn in the interactive sessions. Dr. Biswas gave an insightful orientation to the Micro system that social work is done in. She provided that work done even with individuals has to be referred to in the Meso system, the Exo and the Macro system. The workshops dealt with deisgning and managing small scale immediate field studies. It helped field workers to critically analyze their field interventions, reflect on their cases during report writing and consequently bring more effective inputs to their reports and the organizations’ interventions.

The three workshops were aptly culminated with field visits and meetings with groups from the various community sites of the displaced populations the R&D has been involved with. An enriching experience through which the participants understood that work interventions need to be more effective and focused.

DBDS #027 WORKSHOP ON NREGA AND PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUTIONS

2009-08-15T11:53:00.004+05:30

Melvin Pangya WALVANDA, AUGUST 13, 2009: Bosco Yuva Sanghatana organized a three days residential workshop for the Grampanchayat Members on August 7- 9, 2009 at Walvanda centre, Jawhar on the Importance of NREGA and Role of Panchayati Raj Institutions. The purpose of the workshop was to strengthen the Gram Panchayat members to implement the NREGA Act at the village level and allow the participants to have a better understanding about the Local Self Government. Forty three participants attended and participated in the workshop.

The inauguration of the workshop began with the traditional lightening of the lamp by the Sarpanch, Mrs. Sunanda Laxman Geval and other Panchayat members. The resource person from SPARSH- Center for participatory learning gave inputs on perspectives of Development and Poverty. The session was focused on explaining the NREGA Act: its main features, different formats, the administrative structures to lodge complaints. It also dealt with the role of GramPanchayat and importance of Gram Sabhas. The session was well executed and the participants visibly had their doubts cleared.

In the end Fr. Anaclete D’mello addressed the panchayat members and spoke about the role of the members in creating awareness. He also perceived that each family should have a Job card. He mentioned that there should be more participation from women to be present at the Gramsabha and demand for the work.

The Panchayat members were encouraged and enlightened about this workshop. Mr Mahadu Khirari, Sarpanch from Aase expressed that the workshop really helped them to understand the role of Gram panchayat in the village development. Participants pledged to take active part in awareness building.

The workshop ended with the lighting of the candle by each participant- a sign of spreading awareness in tune with the song “Hum Honge Kamyab”.

DBDS #026 UNDERSTANDING THE NREGA AT KAWANT

2009-08-15T11:50:00.004+05:30

Gregory Almeida sdb

KAWANT, AUGUST 13, 2009: For 145 SHG leaders and community members from the villages of Kawant, August 12, marked one of the first achievements in their efforts to secure their rights under the NREGA. The programme, organized by the DISHA social work team, began with a screening of a film explaining the Act and its implementation. This was followed by a short session in which Fr. Gregory, the director of the DISHA team, introduced the objectives of the day’s programme and encouraged people to participate actively and share their experiences.

The Chief Guest for the day was Mr. Manish Patel, the Deputy Programme Officer for the NREGA from the District Rural Development Agency, Vadodara.The next session comprised a set of case studies, in which people from various villages presented the status of the NREGA in their area and the problems that they face in securing work and wages under this Act. It was encouraging to see that some people had come prepared with their questions and did not hesitate to speak confidently to the Programme Officer.

In the last session, Mr. Patel addressed the questions raised by the people and suggested solutions that they can use to claim their rights. He also made immediate note of two cases and assured the complainants that he would take up the issue with the concerned authorities. He then went on to explain some of the processes involved in the implementation of the Act, such as the appointment of supervisors at the village level, the opening of accounts and the release of funds at the District, State and Block levels.At the end of the programme, the participants came away with a sense that it is possible to make the government machinery function the way it should. The DISHA staff also gained a better understanding of this law and how they can enable people to use it effectively.

DBDS #025 INUAGURATION OF EMPOWERMENT CENTRE

2009-08-15T11:46:00.007+05:30

Melvin Pangya

MUMBAI, AUGUST 12, 2009: The afternoon of August 11, 2009, saw the collaboration of Jan Shikshan Sanstha and Babali Pada Rahivashi Seva Sangha with Bosco Yuva Sanghatana with an objective of empowering women from the slum area of Babali Pada. More than fifty enthusiastic women gathered for the inauguration at the Empowerment Centre which will conduct a full fledged practical training in the field of tailoring. Fr. Anaclete D’mello graced the occasion as the chief guest.

The inaugural function commenced with the welcoming of guests by a traditional aarti. The opening address was delivered by Mr. Gajanan Gavade who introduced the chief guest and the other honorable guests. He stated the goals of the organization which focuses on empowering the marginalized women by making them independent. Mr. Melvin Pangya briefed the participants on the merits of the organization and its various initiatives in the filed of social development. He categorically mentioned that the organization intends to work not only with women but also the marginalized youth in our society.

One of the participants Mrs. Manisha Bamane took the opportunity to thank the organization for its dignified work in the field of women empowerment. She also mentioned that the local Mandal has done comendable work by collaborating with Don Bosco.In his address Fr. Anaclete thanked the local mandal for giving the opportunity to work with them. He further elaborated on the spectrum of opportunities that lies not only within the slums of Mumbai but also with the tribal’s of Thane District. One of the programmes in the pipeline is a course for the unemployed youth in spoken English, Computer Education and Life Skills.

Mr. Dayanand Patil, a Development Office staff member reiterated the eagerness of the committee in ensuring success of this programme by mobilizing the local mandals. The programme concluded with the vote of thanks to all its members.

DBDS #024 DESIRES TO DREAMS

2009-08-15T11:41:00.002+05:30

Natasha Almeida

MUMBAI, AUGUST 11, 2009: It all began when a few teenage girls from the slums of Vadala, Kings Circle and Matungas Labour Camp approached the field workers of Don Bosco Development Society and expressed their desire to learn a basic skill that would help them run their households and benefit them in the long run. The girls, all between the ages of 15- 23 years, most of who were school drop outs or married at an early age showed eager interest in making good use of their free time which was otherwise whiled away at home.

Don Bosco Development Society, therefore, took a step ahead and initiated a basic Beautician and Tailoring course in collaboration with Janshikshan Sanstha from Dharavi, which was inaugurated on August 7, 2009, at the Maschio Centre, Matunga in the presence of Frs. Edwin D’souza and Savio Silveira. A total of 15 girls have enrolled for the Tailoring course while 17 girls have enrolled for the Beautician course. Janshikshan Sanstha has provided two female facilitators for the both the courses.

The inauguration was held in a very traditional way. In true Indian style by the breaking of the coconut all evil was warded off, the ribbon was cut and the aarti conducted by one of the students. The welcome address was delivered by Ms. Surekha Pednekar from the Mumbai Development Office in which she spoke about the actual motto of starting off with these courses. Fr. Edwin D’souza in his address was ever welcoming for any sort of help required. He also mentioned that the space provided should be utilized well and efforts put in should show fruits. Fr. Savio Silveira added that this would be a new beginning for the girls and that they should take one step at a time to achieve greater heights.

The inauguration ceremony paved the way for the first class which was held on the same evening. The girls showed keen interest. Surely, this venture which will last for two months will prove beneficial for them in the long run to provide for themselves and their families. A new beginning that sparked off as a desire will eventually lead to fulfillment of their dreams.

DBDS #023 DBVPK WORKING TOWARDS WOMEN EMPOWERMENT

2009-08-15T11:39:00.000+05:30

CHINCHWAD, AUGUST 10, 2009: Don Bosco Vyawasaik Prashikshan Kendra (DBVPK), Chinchwad & Central Board Workers Education (CBWE) conducted a workshop on August 1- 2, 2009 for women empowerment. The workshop was based on general information about physical health, Income Generation & Self Help Groups, Banking & Savings, Personal Development and Hygiene through Yoga. Around 40 women aged 22 - 45 participated in the training.
The welcome address was delivered by Fr. Jeffery Fernandez, Principal DBVPK and Mr. Jagtap, Education Officer CBWE. Ms. Bhuvaneshwari, AGM Syndicate Bank who was present for the training praised the efforts of the institution in reaching out to the poor and needy by conducting such workshops. Information regarding Nutrition and TB were given by Mr. Suresh, Asst. Manager D.O.T. Certificates and a sum of Rs. 150/- sponsored by CBWE were given to all the 40 women who participated in the training programme. The Vote of thanks was delivered by Mr. Anthony D’cunha of DBVPK.
Prior to the workshop DBVPK’s Community women visited ISHWARI an NGO located at Phulgaon, Pune on July 30, 2009 along with Sr. Rozella and Mrs. Meenani from Mumbai.
The objective was to collaborate with other institutions working towards a similar Goal, to provide education to children in remote /rural area around Pune and to support deserted women & children. The Project targets areas like IIMT Project, Pre Primary Schools; Teacher’s Training, Home for deserted children and ISHWARI Center.
DBVPK is looking forward to work mutually with ISHWARI. More over a week long training programme in the month of August is also on the agenda.

DBDS #022 ANOTHER STEP FORWARD WITH THE NREGA

2009-08-15T11:37:00.002+05:30

Lyra Pinto

CHHOTA UDEPUR, AUGUST 10, 2009: Listening, learning and planning—August 8, 2009 was a day for all these at Lok Seva Kendra, Chhota Udepur. The atmosphere was festive as 178 SHG leaders from the surrounding villages came to LSK to attend a three-hour session on the provisions of the NREGA and the ways in which to access this Act. The resource persons—Fr. Mayank Parmar and Mr. Nikunj Parmar from DRISTI, Kapadvanj—explained the details of the NREGA and also described how villagers in their work area have benefited from this law.

Their session was followed by a talk from Mr. A. K. Solanki, the Taluka Development Officer (TDO) of Chhota Udepur. He assured the people that they could approach the taluka office for any help or complaints regarding the implementation of the NREGA in their villages. He also went on to describe some of the other government schemes formulated for adivasi areas and extended his support to the people in their efforts to claim their rights.

After this, Fr. James Tuscano concluded the programme by urging the SHG members present to take up leadership roles in their community. He emphasized the importance of speaking boldly and openly to both, government officials as well as fellow villagers. Surely, under the able guidance of Fr. Ranald Lopes and his social work team, the people of Chhota Udepur taluka are on their way to securing their rights under this law and building a more secure future for their communities.

DBDS #021 DBCL, KURLA. IT'S HAPPENING.!!

2009-08-15T11:30:00.003+05:30

Royal D’Souza & Chris Valentino

MUMBAI, AUGUST 09, 2009: The Don Bosco Center for Learning (DBCL) Campus at Kurla Mumbai has been agog with varied empowerment, livelihood and outreach activities. Newer programmes for development have been initiated to encourage especially the youth and the women from the lower economic strata to progress socially and economically. Concerted efforts have been initiated in areas of water conservation, environmental sustenance, apart from the courses that train volunteers to be leaders, facilitators for a better self and a better world.

Through its Social Service Wing, DBCL has initiated and executed several projects in these last two months. Entrepreneurship Development Programmes (EDP) for women, Basic Computer Courses for basti women, Part-time Automobile Course for Youth, Watershed Development Projects, etc. are but only a few exemplary activities.Drawing inspiration from Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru who said “you teach a girl, you teach the whole family,” the Entrepreneurship Development Programme was initiated in collaboration with the Brihan-Mumbai Municipal Corporation to help women from the economically disadvantaged strata to develop management skills, personality grooming, marketing, networking, banking and accounting skills, whereby they would be able to actually implement their creative ideas and thus improve their socio-economic status. As of now, eight such batches comprising 240 women from 30 SHGs have been imparted skills for livelihood.

Working on similar lines, Basic Computer Courses have been initiated to encourage people from the economically deprived sections, especially youth and women. Six batches have been successfully completed within a two-month period, with a total of 106 women emerging as computer literates who are now ready to tap at the keyboard and improve their lives.

Having studied the need for industry-capable employees, DBCL has through the auspices of the St. Joseph Industrial Training Institute (SJITI) taken up the MES (Modular Employable Skills) Programme of the Government and commenced a three-month Automobile Course, that includes theory and practical components, wherein youth from the slums and bastis will be trained in the basics of two and three wheeler repairs.

Another major project of DBCL, Kurla is the NSS (National Social Service) outreach activities with the entire concept of “reaching the unreached with technology”. Under this programme, 100 student volunteers of the DBIT (Don Bosco Institute of Technology) are engaged in reaching out to their less advantaged friends. Some of the activities that have been initiated and successfully completed are:· Teaching students and training teachers of the Brihan-Mumbai Municipal Corporation Schools in computers, English and Value Education.· Library Management for the Institute and Maths Classes for the weaker students of the SJITI· Language Academy and Spoken English Classes for the underprivileged women and youth of the neighbourhod slums and bastis.· Website Designing and Maintenance for the BGVK (Bosco Gramin Vikas Kendra) Ahmednagar, the BMC Social Work Department and the National Social Service Association.

Another ambitious project that has been launched is the “Jal Academy,” a project which handles sustainable and cost-effective ways of preserving the environment and sustaining people in rural areas. The first stage, which involved a survey-cum-research study, has already been completed. Facilitated by the DBDS (Don Bosco Development Society), the students accompanied by a few of the faculty visited the various watershed-development and environment-conservation activities in the rural hinterlands of Ahmednagar, Narukot, Kawant, and Chota Udepur, gaining immense first-information. This research-study, alongwith the detailed analysis and probable solutions were then presented to Fr. Savio Silveira, Ms. Lyra, Mr. Anand (DBDS), few members of the faculty and management. This is to be followed with an in-depth technological research and designing of working models which when implemented would prove beneficial in environment-conservation and watershed-development.

Slowly but surely the DBCL Campus at Kurla is spearheading a human transformation process with the aid of the latest technology, reaching out to the near and the far… it’s “Technology Aaj Kal” all the way!!

DBDS #020 ANOTHER STEPPING STONE FOR BOSCO PLUS

2009-08-04T22:46:00.002+05:30

Natasha Almeida MUMBAI, AUGUST 4, 2009: An enthusiastic air and hopeful eyes filled the A. V hall at the Provincial House, Matunga on the afternoon of August 3, as students from the batch of May 2009 of Bosco Plus gathered for their certificate distribution ceremony. This event marked the closure of the batch of 23 students who had enrolled themselves for the month long training in spoken English, life skills, basic computer skills and retail management. This certificate distribution ceremony was held on behalf of Bosco Plus and Tata Trent Ltd., who collaborated with the former in conducting examinations and interviews with the students.

The event was graced by the Guest of Honour Mr. Harshwardhan Goswami, Senior Manager Trainings, Tata Trent Ltd. Besides the team from the Mumbai Development Office, in attendance for the event were Fr. Savio Silveira, Fr. Elson Baretto, Fr. Edwin D’souza, Fr. Bernard Britto, Mr. Robin Thomas, Program Co-ordinator, Tata Trent Ltd. and Mr. Niranje Amte, Examiner of Retail Management at the Garware Institute. The event commenced with the opening address by Ms. Surekha Pednekar from the Development Office which was followed by a prayer song by a student from the current batch. The students of the current batch showed their whole hearted participation by also singing a welcome song ‘Bosco Parivaar’.

Mr. Anand Raj from the Development Office explained briefly the build up of Bosco Plus and how Tata Trent Ltd. got involved with Bosco Plus. Fr. Elson Baretto in his address narrated a motivational story to get the students going. Mr. Goswami, Guest of Honour spoke about his own example. He explained that to move ahead the students will require a healthy balance of hard work and smartness in work. “Show your worth by creating an example”, he added. Mr. Amte provided the students with inputs on developing the habit of reading. Before the certificate distribution could begin Mr. Robin made a mention of ‘Saksham’ i.e ‘Empowerment’: the most important motive of Tata Trent Ltd. for the tie up with Bosco Plus.

The motivational words were followed by the most important part of Distribution of Certificates. The faces of the students had a sense of achievement. Mahesh Sonawane was awarded for his hard work as the outstanding achiever of the batch. For the students it was not any other day of celebration but an opportunity to take the learning ahead. All 23 students fared well in the examinations conducted and 7 of them are already well placed with jobs. Mr. Nabil Ansari proposed the Vote of Thanks. Surely, this is another stepping stone for Bosco Plus and Don Bosco Development Society towards empowering the youth.

DBDS #019 YOUTH LEADERSHIP TRAINING PROGRAMME

2009-08-03T21:45:00.002+05:30

Subhash Shirsath NARUKOT, JULY 29, 2009: Don Bosco, Narukot organized a Youth Leadership Training Programme at Don Bosco Campus on July 26, 2009. Eighty-Two Youth from different villages participated in this programme. Prof. Dr. Roman Bhatiya, who has been providing training in rural development for the last 22 years, was the resource person for the day. Drawing from his long and rich experience in this field, he shared several interesting ideas with the youth. By doing so he targeted on improving the leadership skills of the trainees.During the training programme, games and group discussions were held which primarily focused on training aims, village issues and how those issues can be sorted out. The participants were motivated to lead actions to solve village problems of drinking water, road development, employment, education, health and electricity among other problems. Dr. Bhatiya also focused on different government schemes, rural acts and their rights for village development. The session was brought to a close by the screening of a film on the Gramsabha and National Rural Employment Guaranty Act. After the session by Dr. Roman Bhatiya, Fr. Stanny Ferreira enlightened the youth on issues connected to the Panchayati Raj. He focused on the role that the youth should play in these organs of local self governance and the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act.

DBDS #018 EMPOWERING YOUTH TO SPEARHEAD MOVEMENT OF NREGS

2009-07-25T21:56:00.001+05:30

Subhash Shirsath
NARUKOT, JULY 25, 2009: Don Bosco, Narukot organized the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) ‘Workshop and Sharing of Experiences’ at the campus on July 16, 2009. Thirty-four Village Education Programme (VEP) masters, from different villages of Narukot and from Lok Seva Kendra – Chhota Udepur, Kawant Education Society – Kawant, Alirajpur Shaikshanik Samajik Kendra –Alirajpur, Amrut Dhara –Kapadvaj, and Narukot Education Society- Narukot centres of development department representatives, participated in this programme. Advocate Mr. Himanshu Benker (Chief Secretary of Gramin Majdur Sabha- Gujarat), who has been working for Legal Rights of Rural Labourers and Rural Development for the last 16 years, was the resource person for the day.

Drawing from his long and rich experience in this field, he explained to rural youth the rights and provisions of National Rural Employment Guarantee Act -2005. He shared his own practical work experiences with regard to the NREGS, interesting ideas and methods with the trainees. He then focused on the awareness of villagers, building competencies for the rights of the people. Further, he also gave answers and details of NREGA‘s legal and practical problems. ‘Bandhi Lo Sahu Ked’- a film on the issue of the NREGS was screened for the trainees. After this session Fr. Stanny Ferreira sdb, encouraged and motivated the trainees to start an NREGA movement in the area. The next Leadership Training Programme will be organized on July 26, 2009. The resource person invited will be Prof. Dr. Roman Bhatia from Surat to further strengthen the cause.

DBDS #017 WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT IN CHHOTA

2009-07-09T16:07:00.005+05:30

Ranald Lopes sdb CHHOTA, JULY 8, 2009: Don Bosco Skills Training Centre once again completed another three-month course for new tailors. This time, the completion was not just with needles and scissors but with a brand new sewing machines. The twenty four simple village girls who came in daily to learn tailoring and emboridery accquired a certificate at the successful completion of the course. The surprise factor of the course was that each of the women got a sewing machine through JDW-BMZ for themselves to begin a new home business in their own villages. Thanks to JDW-BMZ who sponsored this Integrated Programme, which is just one of the many programmes they have initiated. Surely women's empowerment is just a step away in Chhota.

DBDS #016 THE TIME IS RIGHT!

2009-07-07T22:22:00.004+05:30

MUMBAI, JULY 7, 2009
Savio Silveira

Our focus all through June was definitely on the NREGS. The month began with a meeting at Chhota Udepur, Gujarat, to chart a definite course of action for the next three years on how to ensure the proper implementation of the NREGS in the villages we are working in. And the month closed with a staff training workshop, again at Chhota Udepur, which aimed at understanding a little more clearly the ground reality vis-à-vis the complex dynamics involved in actualizing this scheme. The days in between were spent in enabling each centre to get its act together and to actually step into the arena. And yes, the month also threw up a few quick successes, especially at Kapadvanj, where we had some of our village communities acquiring their Job Cards, applying for work and even getting down to work in two villages.

Against this backdrop, the budget presented by the Finance Minister in Parliament yesterday is heartening. He reiterated the Government’s commitment to the NREGS, announced an allocation of 39,100 crores of rupees for this programme, and even declared—although a little ambiguously—that the minimum wage under this scheme would be Rs. 100 per day. Rural India definitely has a reason to cheer!

But all this good news does not imply that we can now let down our hair. If anything, it is a call to further pull up our socks. We know just too well, that at the end of the day, it’s not about plans and schemes and budgetary pronouncements—it’s all about the delivery system. To ensure that the people can access the NREGS, that the crores of rupees pledged actually translate into employment and wages for the rural populace, that productive assets get created in the villages—that’s where we enter the fray.

In more than one way the NREGS has got the economics right. The challenge now is to get the praxis right too.

DBDS #015 VALEDICTORY FUNCTION AT DHARAVI

2009-07-04T17:38:00.002+05:30

MUMBAI, JULY 4, 2009: The afternoon of July 3 saw a large number of school dropouts, unemployed youth and housewives gather for the valedictory ceremony at Dharavi. The ceremony marked the closure of the Spoken English and Basic Computer classes that were held for a period of three months beginning April 1, 2009, by Don Bosco Development Society in collaboration with Ekvira Mitra Mandal as part of Don Bosco Tech. Those gathere d had been a part of the three month long venture.In attendance for the function was the team from the Mumbai Development Office including Ms. Laxmi, the Computer facilitator; Ms. Nushrat, the spoken English facilitator and field worker staff Ms. Sanjeevani. It commenced with the welcome address by one of the students. She spoke about her experiences at the course. This was followed by a welcome song sung in English by a few students. A few more students came ahead to share their experiences. It was heart wrenching to see a simple housewife from the Dharavi slums speak in English. Though she stumbled for words in between she picked again from where she had stopped.Before the distribution of the certificates Fr. Savio Silveira encouraged the participants to take what they have learnt ahead. He mentioned that it wasn’t the end and that things had just begun for them. A hilarious skit in Marathi put up by the students followed. The skit had everyone present in splits. Participants sang an English song which was commendable and yet another participant sang ‘Itni shakti hamein dena data’- a Hindi bhajan. Ms. Surekha from the Mumbai team explained to the participants the objective of collaborating with Ekvira Mitra Mandal, after which the certificates were distributed. The students promised her to come back in a month’s time much more improved and to lead by example.The vote of thanks was delivered by Ms. Nushrat the spoken English facilitator. This three months program has benefited 160 students in all.

DBDS #014 DBIT STUDENTS RESEARCH RURAL REALITY

2009-07-02T10:28:00.002+05:30

Royal D'souza KURLA, JULY 1, 2009: India’s status as a largely agricultural country with a growing population showcases that the demands on its limited natural resources are steadily increasing. Don Bosco Development Society (DBDS), through its partner organizations, is involved in natural resource management, community organization and skills training in the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. ‘Jal Academy’ is a new venture being launched by Don Bosco Institute of Technology (DBIT) in collaboration with DBDS. The purpose of this Academy is to work out practical ways in which technology can be used for the benefit of rural people, especially in the sector of water. To understand the needs of the people in the villages and their problems with regard to water, DBIT sent 20 students and 7 teachers for an exposure camp to Gujarat and Ahmednagar, from June 21 to June 27, 2009.In Ahmednagar the group was based at Bosco Gramin Vikas Kendra (BGVK), while in Gujarat they were based at the Don Bosco centres at Chhota Udepur, Kawant and Narukot. A key focus of the camp was to study existing water projects, so as to be able to design effective and low cost solutions to water problems, both, for domestic use as well as for agriculture. The students returned to Mumbai with several innovative ideas which they will work on during the year. The students are also planning to design a website for BGVK which will make people aware about projects like watershed development. The visit proved to be a good learning experience for the students and teachers. Thanks to the different centers which hosted the students and to DBDS for helping organize the entire camp.

DBDS #013 NREGS MEETING HELD WITH THE PEOPLE OF VENIPURA

2009-06-22T22:12:00.003+05:30

Mayank Parmar KAPADVANJ, JUNE 20, 2009: Venipura village is about fifteen kilometers from Kapadvanj town consisting about 56 households. About five kilometers to enter in to the village there is no road at all. This village falls into the Grampanchayat of Ambalyara which is about three kilometers. Yesterday our social worker Nikunj Parmar made a door to door visit and explained to them about the whole idea of NREGS. People were just aware of the Job Cards which were distributed but they had been taken back from them to issue it along with the snap. They had no idea of the purpose of this whole card. We had arranged the first general meeting with the people regarding this issue. We, together with Ms. Sarojben the Social worker from Kheda Social Service went for the meeting. We were taken a back that so far nobody is aware of the Gramsabha and when are they held. The date and timings are unknown to them. Ms. Sarojben explained the people about the primary importance of the act. Then Nikunj Our Project Coordinator explained the importance of Gramsabha and also expressed that without their cooperation nothing is possible. Afterwhich Fr. Mayank Parmar sdb, the Director of DRISTI enlightened the people on how one can make use of NREGS for the development of their village and at the same time guaranteed each household their 100 days of work. The meeting ended with forming the core group members which consisted ten of them from the men and women folk. Two leaders asked us to accompany them to the Talati office saying that we want to further proceed ahead with one hundred days of work. This core group together with Nikunj Parmar Our Project coordinator will follow up in getting Job cards for the people and they are looking forward of constructing the road themselves.

DBDS #012 GRAM SABHA AT VADAALI

2009-06-17T22:11:00.001+05:30

16th June 2009 Mayank Parmar
I learned about Gram Sabhas as a boy in my school days and later as an MSW student, but I had never witnessed one or been part of the show. But now that we have started working with the rights-based approach and encouraging people’s participation, as soon as we got news of the Gram Sabha scheduled for Vadaali, we took charge and started mobilizing the people. We went door to door visiting every house in the village and asked people to come for the meeting.

Vadaali is a group Panchayat, and three other villages are also part of it. So, we began with a general meeting with the people of Bapajinamuvada, where we gathered a majority of the women and a handful of the men folk. We conscientized them about their right to attend the Gram Sabha, and also informed them of the date and the time of the Gram Sabha.

On the day of the meeting, our team reached the venue before time, but we realized that none of the people from the village had come yet. So, we got into our jeep and went straight to Bapajinamuvada. We reminded the people of the Sabha that was to happen that day, and managed to convince five women to come with us to the venue. On reaching there, we found that the Sabha had just begun. Since the Talati had given us permission to participate in the Sabha, and had also scheduled time for us to speak to the people about the NREGA and other issues, we were eager for people to attend. How disappointed we were when only five women showed up!

The meeting began with an official from the health department explaining the latest government scheme regarding health. After this, the TDO addressed the people, and asked them to present the needs of their village. At this point, it seemed that this Sabha would be no different from all the others in the past, with the officials taking centre stage and the people remaining silent. But just as the TDO was about to conclude, I saw a flock of women entering the Panchayat office and literally shouting at all the people present there. These were the women of Vadaali village, and they came in a group of more than 50. They insisted that their village had a severe water problem and demanded that it be solved that same day!

I could see that our efforts had been useful, that these women had come with their arguments well thought out. Ultimately, the sarpanch and the Sabha agreed that the women would get their water the next day. Their demands energized the entire assembly and within the next few minutes, another group also came out very strongly with their demand for water. These people too, were literally shouting at the officials present at the Gram Sabha.

At this point, I noticed one of the men speaking forcefully, but could not understand what exactly he was saying. However, the women at the meeting immediately pounced on him and did not let him get a word in edgeways. I later gathered that he was opposing the women’s demands, and that they silenced him with the argument that it was they, the women, who had to manage the difficult task of fetching water.

After pacifying the women by promising them that water would reach their village the very next day, the Talati ended the meeting. I heard all the men murmuring that this was the first time that the women of Vadaali and Bapujinamuvada had entered the Panchayat office. They had never before been part of the Gram Sabha.

The entire experience left me questioning myself and all that I have picked up from my books and other studies. This Gram Sabha was a new form of education, real and unedited!

DBDS #011 VALEDICTORY FUNCTION AT MATUNGA

2009-06-15T22:07:00.003+05:30

Natasha Almeida MUMBAI, JUNE 13, 2009: The AV hall at the Provincial House, Matunga beamed with happy faces and fresh fragrance of mogra flowers as women from Jyoti, Virar and the slum areas of Mahim and Dharavi settled in for the Valedictory Function of ‘Skills for Livelihood through Sewing- Training’ on the afternoon of June 13, 2009. The sewing course for women was one of the activities of Don Bosco Development Society in collaboration with the Clothing Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI) and instituted by the Apparel Training and Design Centre (ATDC). Besides the team from the Mumbai Development Office, in attendance for the function were Mr. Jayesh Jasani, Deputy Chairman of Corporate Social Responsibility from CMAI; Mr. Vijay Sharma, Deputy Secretary, CMAI; Mr. Sunil Talekar, Principal of ATDC and Mr. Deepak Temgere, Facilitator for the training held at Mahim. The function commenced with the opening address by Mr. Melvin Pangya from the Mumbai Development Office. After the introductory round, a prayer song ‘Gyan Mandira: Satyam Shivam Sundara’ was sung by a few women led by Ms. Surekha Pednekar. The prayer song was followed by the lighting of the diya by the dignitaries and representatives of the participants. Mr. Melvin rightly stated, “Deep jalake hamne andhakar ko nasht kiya hai aur yehi ujale ke saath aage chalna hai”. A surprise element during the function was that a group of women for the Dharavi slums sang a welcome song in English. They seemed confident and had a satisfied smile on their faces. After the women from Dharavi added more enthusiasm to the function, Ms. Shweta a participant from Mahim came to the podium and shared her experiences about the training programme. She clearly beamed with self confidence and was all praise for DBDS and CMAI for the direction given. She added that she and the others now felt independent and were not afraid of venturing further. Mr. Vijay Sharma from CMAI while addressing the participants encouraged them not to stagnate at what they had learnt but instead take it ahead and help improve the conditions of the family. Mr. Sunil Talekar too shared his views about taking the learning process ahead. To this a participant from Mahim asked for help for starting her own business and taking what she had learnt ahead. This clearly reflected her dedication and enthusiasm to improve her family’s life. Fr. Savio Silveira thanked all the participants for their co-operation and was hopeful that a tailoring unit could begin in the near future. The motivational words were followed by the most important part of Distribution of Certificates. The faces of the participants had a sense of achievement. For them they had taken a brave step ahead and wished not to stop there. The Vote of Thanks was delivered by Ms. Surekha. The participants left with certificates in their hands, smiles on their faces and memories to cherish that would surely last a while.

DBDS #010 THE TEACHER

2009-05-29T22:40:00.004+05:30

Lyra Pinto
‘We have to find someone to take class in Bodgaam, atleast till we get hold of a local teacher’.

The situation was a bit worrying. Bodgaam, a remote village on the border of Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh, is a place where we are just beginning work, and many, many children are eager to learn to read and write. But given the low literacy levels, finding a teacher from the village was proving difficult.

So the next morning, as our team climbed into the jeep headed for Bodgaam, I was surprised to see a little boy, with notebook, pen and and a box of chalk in hand, jump in with a big smile on his face. ‘This is Kachla’, explained the centre director. ‘He will take class in Bodgaam until we find a regular teacher’. I was not convinced. The boy was a tenth standard student, and he couldn’t have been more than 14 or 15 years old. How would he ever manage a class of more than 50 unruly kids?

Kachla, though, seemed to have no such doubts. He talked and laughed non-stop all along the way, commenting on every thing and person we crossed on the dry, dusty road to Bodgaam. ‘Well’, I thought, ‘he seems cheerful enough’. But his true talents were revealed only after we got to the village. Rounding up the kids with a yell and a whistle, Kachla got them on their toes with a fast-paced game of dodge ball. His enthusiasm was so contagious that everyone joined in, even some of the parents and the shy older girls. Later, as he gathered the childen around a peeling blackboard, Kachla began his class with a bold statement—‘My father was uneducated, just like yours, and that wasn’t his fault. But I don’t have to be like him, and neither do you’.

He taught them to read the names of things they were familiar with—house, tree, dog, cow. He taught them to write in the dust, with sticks, and to count with stones. He used methods that have taken experts years to define, but he used them instinctively, with a confidence that came from knowing his people thoroughly. And that made this simple village boy a better master than the most experienced teacher.

On the way back, Kachla turned to me with his trademark lopsided grin. As if he knew what I wanted to ask, he said, ‘I know how to teach because I know how it feels to be illiterate while others around you can read. You don’t need great tools to teach these people, you only need great faith’.

In that one day, Kachla taught me more than the best teachers ever have.

DBDS #009 SHG BREAKS NEW GROUND IN AHMEDNAGAR

2009-05-16T19:23:00.002+05:30

Alex Gonsalves sdb AHMEDNAGAR, MAY 15, 2009: Empowering people through the Self Help Group movement has been one of the major programmes undertaken by Bosco Gramin Vikas Kendra in rural Maharashtra since the past two decades. Over the years, the SHGs have invested their savings in a variety of income generation projects which have all borne rich dividends. Moving beyond the stereotype projects, one SHG decided to invest in an altogether new item – the purchase of a JCB multitasking machine. On Thursday, May 14, 2009 there was a short function to bless and launch this newly acquired machine. The members of the Group were all smiles as they proudly stood around their prized possession. Present on this auspicious occasion were Fr Anton D’Souza, Fr Ivan Rodriquez, Fr Suresh Sathe the Social Work Coordinator of Nashik Diocese, several village leaders and other civil dignitaries. While the Group invested Rs. 5 lacs from its savings, Rs. 16 lacs were taken as a loan from the Corporation Bank to pay for this machine. This has been the highest investment that any of our groups has received from the Banks till date. The SHG members are confident that there will be quick earnings on this investment and that they will be able to successfully pay off the loan. This entire venture has been a great stimulus to the other SHGs, who are now considering creative and relevant ways of investing their savings. In the midst of the recession, our villagers are charting a bold new economic path for themselves!

DBDS #008 TRAINING WORKSHOP FOR SHG LEADERS

2009-04-16T09:34:00.000+05:30

Karuna Gamit CHHOTA UDEPUR, APRIL 14, 2009: A group of 25 women, all Presidents and Secretaries of various Self Help Groups, were taken for an Exposure-cum-Training Programme to Behavioural Science Centre, Ahmedabad. After a set of “ice-breaking” games were played, the four topics that were to be dealt with were introduced, namely, Social, Economic, Educational and Political issues. The entire group was then divided into four smaller groups and each of these groups was asked to prepare a short skit on one of the topics. The skits were extremely creative and brought a variety of issues to the fore. Each topic was then dealt with individually and in detail. The women were made aware of their role and responsibility vis-à-vis these issues. It was pointed out that the SHG should not just focus on Savings and Lending, but all the members should jointly work for an all-round development of the village. Accordingly, it was decided that every month the SHGs would prepare an Action Plan for that month and report on its implementation during the meeting in the following month. The need of networking and forming a Federation with other groups in the region was also stressed. The entire programme was very beneficial to the women. Going out of their villages and mixing with women from other areas, the exposure from a rural setting to an urban one, travelling on the Expressway, meeting people of different cultures, etc. impressed them tremendously and certainly opened up their horizons. The women returned back to Chhota Udepur promising to put into practice all that they had learnt during this training programme.

DBDS #008 BOSCO YUVA SANGHATANA LAUNCHED

2009-04-08T20:13:00.002+05:30

Anand Raj MATUNGA, APRIL 6, 2009: Bosco Plus, a training and placement programme for youth from slum communities, initiated by the Development Office in April 2008, reached an important milestone yesterday, April 5, with the launching of the Bosco Yuva Sanghatana – a youth movement comprising all the former students of this programme. Over a hundred youngsters were present for this function which was held at the Provincial House, Matunga. The programme began with Mr. Melvin Pangya, Bosco Plus Coordinator, welcoming all the youngsters. Fr. Anaclete D’Mello then decalred the Bosco Yuva Sanghatana open. Explaining the objectives of the Sanghatana, Fr. Savio Silveira said that this youth movement was being launched so that all the past students of Bosco Plus could stay in contact with one another and that Don Bosco could keep providing these youngsters with additional trainings and placement opportunities. He also stressed that a key aim of the Sanghatana was to make the young people protagonists of youth development. Some of the past students then came forward to share their experience of the Bosco Plus training and how it had influenced their lives. Next, there were two guest presentations, one by Mr. Nitin Sawant from Max Life Insurance and the other by Mr. Robin Thomas from Tata Trent. Both the speakers focused on the present day opportunities in the job market and the type of skills and attitudes required for a successful career. Finally, Fr. Edwin D’Souza, Rector of Provincial House, addressed the youngsters. He called on them to become leaders and agents of change in their own localities. He also announced that the Maschio Memorial Foundation would award scholarships to deserving candidates from the Sanghatana who wish to pursue a Bachelors Degree in Social Work. The last segment of the afternoon was a cultural programme which included a fashion show, dances and songs. There was high energy all around with the youth clapping and cheering as the performers put up a spirited show. The programme came to a close with the youngsters expressing their thanks to the Bosco Plus team, not just for the training they had received, but more important, for having now brought them together into a youth movement. They stated that they were thrilled to belong to this youth movement that focuses on youth development.

DBDS #007 KAVLI

2009-04-06T12:29:00.003+05:30

Savio Silveira

I heard about her long before I ever met her.

‘You haven’t met Kavli?’ one of my colleagues asked me with a hint of disbelief and disdain in her voice.

And so the next time we were in Alirajpur (Madhya Pradesh) we rode down the dusty track that leads to Bhedva, a rustic tribal village, to meet Kavli. Bhedva greets you with that depressing embrace which you encounter regularly in the Indian hinterlands – callous scorched earth, hand-pumps that have long run dry, emaciated cattle gloomily munching the crusty leaves that the summer wind occasionally blows along…

A few moments later we are seated in Kavli’s hut and I suddenly feel the depression lift as I listen to her speaking animatedly. Much of what she is saying in her rhythmic tribal dialect I do not follow. But words do not matter. The determination etched into the contours of her face, the resoluteness in her eyes, the confidence in her tone, the energetic elegance with which she gesticulates… all tell her amazing story… the story of how she has boldly walked into government offices and demanded her rights, of how she has challenged obsolete cultural beliefs, of how she has taught her children to dream of a tomorrow very different from the yesterdays she has known, of how she has become the icon of hope for the restless women in the village…

And as I sat there in that remote nondescript village, listening to a seemingly ordinary woman, I understood the most important fact about development work. Development is not about projects, it is about people. It is not about change management, it is about change makers. It is not mega projects, but motivated people that usher in effective change.

Investing in people is ultimately the best investment for development.

DBDS #006 ON THE NREGS TRAIL

2009-04-03T18:31:00.000+05:30

Mayank Parmar sdb NARUKOT, APRIL 3, 2009: After having successfully commenced work on the NREGS in two villages – Hirapur and Dipapura – DB Narukot decided to take up the same in yet another two villages. Accordingly, on April 1, meetings were held in Duma and Thalki to explain the NREGS to the people. Fr. Stanny Ferreira, together with his team, explained in great detail to the villagers the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) along with its corresponding Scheme (NREGS). They pointed out that the Act guarantees 100 days of work to every rural household. Furthermore, the works to be taken up in the village should be decided by the Gram Sabha. The people who attended the meetings were very pleased with the information they received and expressed their opinion that this scheme would indeed be highly beneficial to them. In both the villages, it was very heartening that immediately after the meeting people came forward stating their interest to get into the scheme. Accordingly, the application forms for the Job Cards were filled in at once. While in Duma about 65 persons requested Job Cards, in Thalki over 100 people asked for the same. These forms were then submitted to the NREGS Programme Officer at the Taluka Panchayat and the process for obtaining Job Cards has begun. The experience in both the villages was very satisfying. If the NREGS is effectively implemented it will reduce distress migration from the villages and simultaneously build up the assets in the village.

DBDS #005 NARUKOT GETS INTO SANGATHAN MODE

2009-04-02T18:28:00.000+05:30

Mayank Parmar sdb NARUKOT, APRIL 2, 2009: Don Bosco Narukot organized a series of village meetings on March 30 and 31, with the aim of motivating women to join together and form Sangathans. This is a different model from the Self Help Groups. While in the SHG model small groups are formed, the Sangathan model brings together all the women of the village onto a single platform. Again, unlike the SHG model which tends to focus on savings, loans and income generation projects, the Sangathan works on issues that are relevant and important to the village community. The first meeting on March 30 was held in Zalaria, while in the afternoon a meeting was held in Hirapur. The following day, March 31, meetings were held in Chalwad and Gandhra. Ms. Nimiben Parmar, a Sangathan expert, was the chief resource person for all the meetings. She explained to the women the need to come together to resolve the various issues they are facing in their villages. Quoting several examples and success stories, she pointed out to the women that often what seems impossible in the beginning can ultimately be achieved through unity, creative thinking and persistence. Mr. Subhash Shirsath, DB Narukot Development staff, discussed several practical issues with the women, such as the actual difficulties that they are facing and what could be possible solutions. He assured the women that Don Bosco would guide them through the entire process. All the women who attended the meetings were highly enthusiastic about the Sangathan concept. Slowly but surely, this people’s movement is bound to usher in the much needed development in these tribal villages.

DBDS #004 WOMEN’S DAY CELEBRATIONS AT YERWADA

2009-03-27T18:26:00.000+05:30

Sandeep Kadam PUNE, MARCH 27, 2009: Bosco Samajik Sanstha, Yerwad organized the Women’s Day Celebration on March 19, 2009 at the Don Bosco Campus. About 170 women were present for the event. The programme commenced at 11.00 am with words of welcome and introduction by Mr. Melvin Pangya, Development Office staff, Mumbai. The dignitaries present for the occasion were Fr. Francis Kharjia, Parish Priest; Fr. John Gonsalves, BSS Director; Fr. Prakash Bhalerao, Editor of Niropiya; Advocates Mr. Bajirao Dalvi and Mr. Vijay Bhaskaran; Mr. Melvin Pangya, Programme Coordinator; and Mr. Anirudh Patil, Regional Coordinator, Save the Children, India.
After the lightning of the lamp by the dignitaries and a prayer by Fr. Francis Kharjia, Fr. John Gonsalves spoke in details about the work being done by BSS for the development and empowerment of women in the city of Pune. Next, Advocate Dalvi and Advocate Bhaskaran made a presentation on the different laws in our country that favour women and support their development. Following this presentation, Fr. Prakash spoke on the theme of equality between men and women, especially in our present day society. Speaking next, Mr. Anirudh Patil touched on a variety of topics including unity, cooperation and communication skills. Finally, the vote of thanks was proposed by Mr. Santosh Kale, Development staff from Don Bosco Youth Centre.

DBDS #003 RANG – A FILM FESTIVAL ON CHILD RIGHTS

2009-03-13T11:54:00.000+05:30

Leon Ratinam sdb ANDHERI, MARCH 13, 2009: A film festival entitled ‘Rang: Colours of Childhood’, was organized by Balprafulta on March 7 and 8, at its Andheri campus. The festival aimed at creating awareness on the rights of children by highlighting those situations which are barriers to the attainment of these rights. It also sought to sensitize the various stakeholders about the concerns of children and their issues. Millions of children in India are deprived of their childhood and struggle to exist as human beings. The festival tried to educate society about the need of creating child friendly environments which are necessary for the healthy growth and development of every child. The guests of honour for the inaugural function were Advocate Meenakshi Jaiswal, Chairperson of State Commission for Children of Maharashtra; Marathi Poetess Ms. Anagha Dighe and Social Activist Ms. Meena Naik. Balprafulta staff Ms. Nitha Philip and Ms. Mansi Chandorikar introduced the event after which Fr. Ajoy Fernandes, Rector, felicitated the guests of honour. Fr. Godfrey D’Sa, Director of Balprafulta welcomed the guests and further explained the rationale behind the festival. The film festival was then formally inaugurated by playing the song ‘Mera Bhi Toh Adhikaar Hai’.The films screened during the festival were ‘Raju and I’, an English film that highlights the issue of Child Rights, Child Labour and Child Abuse; ‘Ye Benakaab Chehare’, a Hindi film that focuses on Child Trafficking; 'Mulichya Jatila He Shobhat Nahi’, a Marathi film that analyzes the discrimination against the Girl Child in almost every household; ‘Lachchi’, a Hindi documentary that showcases the hardships faced by a domestic child worker; ‘Maanja’, a Marathi film that depicts the brutal sexual abuse that child labourers often face; ‘Ek Tha Bachpan’, a Hindi film that looks at the physical, mental and emotional trauma abused children face and how this impacts their entire life.In the discussion that followed the films several critical topics like child labour, abuse of children, discrimination against the girl child, role of education and flaws in the judicial system were highlighted. Those present for the various sessions were highly appreciative of the awareness the films and the discussions created. This is the first time that such a film festival has been organized by Balprafulta. We hope to make this a regular feature in our annual programme since it definitely is an excellent means of furthering the cause of child rights.

DBDS #002 EMPOWERING RURAL WOMEN IN KAPADVANJ

2009-03-11T11:52:00.000+05:30

Isaac Arackaparambil sdbKAPADVANJ, MARCH 10, 2009: Don Bosco Rural Integral Social Training Institute (DRISTI) Kapadvanj had a memorable second annual Woman’s Empowerment Day on March 8, 2009. 650 women from the SHGs established through DRISTI attended this event. Mr. Prakashchandra Christian (Deputy Secretary & Monitoring Officer: Govt. of Gujarat) was the chief guest. He spoke on Woman Power and brought to light facts of gender discrimination against women, with the rider that in actual fact women are the real enemies of woman, not just because of their inactivity in ushering the change needed towards transforming mindsets for upholding the rights of women, but for their proactive role in maintaining the status quo. He encouraged them to take the examples of Pratibha Patil, Sonia Gandhi, Kalpana Chawla, and Mother Theresa in using Women’s Power for change. He informed the women about the Gujarat Governments initiatives for Women’s empowerment and encouraged them to make the best of the opportunities created by Don Bosco in Kapadvanj. It was wonderful to witness the selfless commitment of the Staff, the Vocation centre boys, and the Confreres in executing this day efficiently and successfully.DRISTI had an eventful year under the able experience of its director Fr. Ivan D’Souza who took charge of the development works at Kapadvanj in June 2008 after the legacy was handed to him by the founder and former director Fr. Gregory Almeida. Just two years into its institution, DRISTI currently runs a total of 72 Self Help Groups for women in 36 villages with a total of 1250 members and this shows that the work has picked up with momentum thanks to the types of programmes held this year. These programmes for women empowerment include: Book-writers training, Animal husbandry, Monthly PMIC meetings conducted by NABARD to evaluate the groups, Training for the DRISTI staff, and a SHG picnic to Ambaji and Shamlaji. The efforts of DRISTI towards women’s empowerment have earned the delight of the Indian Bank Manager Mr. Saradva and the Nabard DDM Mr. Gurram at the healthy state of the groups and the competence of the women. Kudos!

DBDS #001 PROMOTING WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS

2009-03-09T11:47:00.000+05:30

Royal D’Souza KURLA, MARCH 8, 2009: On the occasion of ‘Women’s Day’ the NSS unit of DBIT Kurla organized a Handicraft Exhibition cum Sale on March 6, 2009 at the Don Bosco Campus. Three NGOs and 14 Women’s Self Help Groups participated in this event. The NGOs were National Association for the Blind, Asha Handicrafts and Sanskar Trust, while the Self Help Groups were from the Ghatkopar, Kurla, Vidyavihar and Santacruz area. These SHGs have been formed by the BMC under the SJSRY scheme.The exhibition was inaugurated at 10.30 am in the presence of DBTI Director Fr. Mario Vaz, Principal Dr. Joag and R&D Director Dr. Krishnamurti. Speaking during the inaugural function, Fr. Mario congratulated all the participants and wished them success in their business endeavors. He further said that the entire Don Bosco Educational Campus at Kurla is keen on supporting the SHGs, especially in the field of training. In this regard, he pointed out that so far 87 SHG members have successfully completed the Basic Computer Course, while 96 women have attended the Entrepreneurship Development Programme which was conducted by Don Bosco, Kurla. The exhibition was later patronized by the students of the college. The students visited all the stalls and enthusiastically purchased many of the exhibited items. This gave a great boost to the women who were all smiles at the overwhelming response they received. The exhibition concluded at 5.30 pm, after which the students went home carrying several handicraft items while the women went back carrying plenty of happy memories. The exhibition certainly achieved its aim of enabling the women gain an experience in marketing their products and thereby enhancing their entrepreneurial skills. Building self-reliance is ultimately the best strategy for development.

Don Bosco Development Society DBDS Mumbai

STUDENTS OF MORD BATCH-4 FELICITATED WITH CERTIFICATES

INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMEN​T THROUGH GOOD GOVERNANCE

ENSURING A SAFE LIVING- KAPADVANJ

TAKING HOME A GREEN MESSAGE- MATUNGA

HOSPITALITY SKILLS TRAINING IN PUNE

A CHALLENGING INITIATIVE TO CARE FOR THE FUTURE

REGISTERING FOR THE UID CARD

GREENLINE ANNOUNCES GREEN SCHOOL AWARDS

ECOLOGY TRAINING CAMP HELD AT DBYS KARJAT

WOMEN’S DAY CELEBRATIONS AT KAWANT

TRAINING WORKSHOP ON SOCIAL AUDITS

YOUTH SPEARHEAD VILLAGE DEVELOPMENT

WORKSHOP ON FINANCIAL INCLUSION

NATIONAL WORKSHOP ON RURAL MARKETING

INTERFACE MEETING AT ANAND - GUJARAT

JAWHAR SUICIDES

EDUCATION AND RIGHTS - KAWANT

SECURING THE RIGHT TO FOOD

PROMOTING RIGHT TO EDUCATION

ANNUAL MEETING OF DIRECTORS

DEVELOPING AGRICULTURE IN ALIRAJPUR

NREGS DEMANDS SUBMITTED TO DISTRICT COLLECTOR

STATE LEVEL CONSULTATION ON INTERNATIONAL ANTI CHILD LABOUR DAY

WOMENS SELF HELP GROUP IN KAPADVANJ

A NEW LOOK AT EDUCATION

GRAMSABHA AT INDARSINH KI CHOKI

PLANNING MEETING FOR SKILLS PROJECT

NREGS Job Card Distribution Camp At Kapadvanj

WOMENS DAY WITH A DIFFERENCE AT DON BOSCO KAWANT

BGVK BAL MELAVA

MELA FOR VILLAGE CHILDREN AT NARUKOT

BOSCO SAMAJIK VIKAS SANSTHA CELEBRATE WOMEN’S DAY

ALIRAJPUR CELEBRATES WOMEN'S DAY

WOMEN’S DAY CELEBRATION AT DHARAVI

BEAUTY ON WOMENS DAY

ACCENTURE-TAJ VALEDICTORY FUNCTION AT BOSCO BOYS

BIS #1771 FARMERS TRAINING AT ANAND AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY

DB ACTION HOLDS NATIONAL WORKSHOP

REPUBLIC FIESTA

FINAL STAGE OF WATERSHED

THINKING AHEAD — BARODA SHGS

WOMEN EMPOWERMENT IN CHHOTA

DBDS - ALIVE ALERT ACTIVE!!!

DBDS #049 DBDS CONTINUES TO EMPOWER THE LESS FORTUNATE

DBDS #048 GERMAN TEAM VISITS CHHOTA UDEPUR

DBDS #047 SOCIAL AUDITS IN CHHOTA UDEPUR

DBDS #046 RURAL AGRICULTURAL WORK EXPERIENCE (RAWE)

DBDS #045 YUVA DAY AT DON BOSCO KAWANT

DBDS #044 SHG MOVEMENT LAUNCHED AT NERUL

DBDS #043 OCTOBER IN GUJARAT

DBDS #042 BOSCO PLUS HEADING TOWARDS SAKSHAM

DBDS #041 GRAM SABHA PREPARATIONS IN GUJARAT

DBDS #040 TRAINING PROGRAMME AT WALWANDA

DBDS #039 TRAINING PROGRAM ME ON GRAM SABHA

DBDS #038 SHELTER R&D CONDUCTS COUNSELLING WORKSHOP

DBDS #037 THANK YOU TEACHER!!!

DBDS #036 WOMEN CONNECT WITH RTI

DBDS #035 RETURNING TO THE VILLAGE, REVIVING THE GRAM SABHA

DBDS #034 EMPOWERMENT BEGINS THROUGH GRAM SABHAS

DBDS #033 SHG …. ONE STEP TOWARDS DEVELOPMENT

DBDS #032 DBDS WORKING TOWARDS WOMEN EMPOWERMENT

DBDS #031 TRIBAL RIGHTS RALLY

DBDS #030 NARUKOT YOUTH LEARN NEW SKILL

DBDS #029 DB TECH MUMBAI HOLDS MEETING AT DBCL

DBDS #028 WORKSHOPS AT R&D

DBDS #027 WORKSHOP ON NREGA AND PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUTIONS

DBDS #026 UNDERSTANDING THE NREGA AT KAWANT

DBDS #025 INUAGURATION OF EMPOWERMENT CENTRE

DBDS #024 DESIRES TO DREAMS

DBDS #023 DBVPK WORKING TOWARDS WOMEN EMPOWERMENT

DBDS #022 ANOTHER STEP FORWARD WITH THE NREGA

DBDS #021 DBCL, KURLA. IT'S HAPPENING.!!

DBDS #020 ANOTHER STEPPING STONE FOR BOSCO PLUS

DBDS #019 YOUTH LEADERSHIP TRAINING PROGRAMME

DBDS #018 EMPOWERING YOUTH TO SPEARHEAD MOVEMENT OF NREGS

DBDS #017 WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT IN CHHOTA

DBDS #016 THE TIME IS RIGHT!

DBDS #015 VALEDICTORY FUNCTION AT DHARAVI

DBDS #014 DBIT STUDENTS RESEARCH RURAL REALITY

INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT THROUGH GOOD GOVERNANCE