WHAT WE DO: Some Projects
Nursing course
There is a huge shortage of nursing staff in this area because very many trained nurses have gone to work abroad. So now there are more opportunities for Nursing Assistants with fewer qualifications. We are running a one year diploma course for 30 girls.
Human rights for tribal peoples
Adivasis, India's original people, are badly treated. Those living near Gingee left their tribal hills long ago (often after being cheated of their ancestral lands) and now occupy roadside and waste ground around villages. In theory they are entitled to special rights from the Government but in practice they are often abused and exploited because they are largely illiterate and unaware of their rights. We offer training in capacity building to help them claim these rights.
Organic food production by women
We encourage women to grow food on marginal pieces of land because this will help with vitamin deficiencies, which are common, and will provide an income from the sale of surplus vegetables and of other products like worm compost. At our agricultural centre we offer training in organic methods (e.g. green manure and vermi compost) and in the production of spirulina, a nutritious food.
Help for gypsy children
Gypsies are traditionally nomadic, going from place to place, and most are illiterate. They are not entitled to government help and earn a very small income by making necklaces, hunting and begging. We have set up creches with educational playthings to help introduce their children to education.
Homework centres
There are many school dropouts in this area, especially at ages 14/15 when children have to pass important exams. We try to address this problem by running informal education centres where both children at school and those who have dropped out get extra help and encouragement.