Bharata Mata College Is a Nationally Accredited

Bharata Mata College is a nationally accredited ‘A’ grade arts and science co-educational institution of higher learning in the aided sector under Bharata Mata Educational Trust owned and managed by Archdiocese of Ernakulam- Angamaly. The Bharata Mata School of Social Work has stretched its wings by establishing a registered Non-Governmental Organization namely “BeFORE”(Bharata Mata Extension for Organic, Research and Environment). The new extension center was registered on August 9th 2017 under the Travancore Cochin Literary, Scientific and Charitable societies Act,12th of 1955.Through BeFORE, we take the opportunity for upgrading our social commitment towards the society and also enrich our interest in networking and involving with the various stake holders for the upliftment of the society.

The ongoing projects of the BeFORE are,

Colony development programme: - The colony development programme is a unique programme of BeFORE which focuses on the integral and holistic development of the marginalized colony with support of various stake holders.Curremtly there are two projects are running.

• KannankeryColony,Chittethkara

This project is with support of the fund provided by PT Thomas MLA.The students from the college also had participated in the various programmes like need assesmentsurvay,PRA etc.

• Rajeev Nagar colony,NGO quarters Thrikkakara

This project aims to establish women empowerment programme in the colony along with the Students strengthening programme through education support, Formation of balasabhas and providing awarenesss generation programmes ,soft skill development trainings to the students of the colony

Placement of students for their field practicum

• Field practicum is essential for social work student. BeFORE provide practical lab for students in the community where the students can integrate their academic knowledge with field practice.

• 30 Students are exposure to 13th, 15th,18th and 35thward of Thrikkakara Municipality where they will be engaging women entrepreneurship programmes, strengthening of adolescent groups,anganvadi and balasabha, educational support to the students by providing tuition facilities, and organizing other activities like spoken English for women, waste management awareness programmes etc. Along with various wards students are placed in 2schools where they will be engaging counseling service, handy craft making, various awareness programmes etc.

‘enTribment- Kuttampuzha’

BeFOREstreches its work to Kuttampuzha tribal area, through the project, ‘Be-FOR Kuttampuzha’.

Be with Kttampuzha is a project which focuses on the uplift ment of the children, youth and adult in to a postive stream, empowewring the inamtesof tribal hamlets of Kuttampuzha panchayath thorugh entrepreneurships,educational support, skill development programmes and cultural club activities etc.

As an initial step problem identification and programme discussion were finished through participatory methods.

BeFORE ACTIVITIES

August 18TH Survey at Kannengery Colony: BeFORE

A survey was conducted at the Kannengery colony adopted by BeFORE on. The objective of the survey was to identify the problems existing in the colony, to prioritise the problems the problems and submitted the detailed study report to the SC department. The idea is to develop Kannengery colony as a model colony. Survey

September 4th:Report presentation at Kannengery colony As directed by the PT Thomas MLA the studied report has presented in front of the inmates of the colony and Mr. Anwar, implementing officer SC department. The report presentation was in video format. The content of the presentation was major issue of the colony in priority wise.

Student strengthening programmes

Observation of International Old Age Day: October 1st 2017 The MSW First year Batch observed this day by visiting the Old Age Home in namely “Home for Aged located in Aluva”. The students organized a half day programme to interact with the inmates of this old age home. The programmes included various games involving these aged mothers and fathers. The students contributed evening snacks for them. The MSW faculties Dr. Sheena Rajan Philip, Mr Pinto Simon, Ms. Anita Annie Mathew, Ms. Honey Mary John and BeFORE Project Coordinator Mr. Tony M Tom guided the students and attended this programme.

Oct 17th - Pattum –Koythum& Inauguration of BeFORE: Human beings relationship with nature is inevitable. As our Bible rightly states, we are created from soil and we shall go back to soil. This bondage with natural beings has continued since the origin of manhood. Our MannariyanManasariyan Project is a stepping stone in building your bondage with agricultural practice and thereby focusing on the idea of learning by Doing. We started this project giving reverence to this year’s World Social Work Day theme “Promoting Community and Environmental Sustainability”. The student’s journey of exploring the nature began with the ‘Vithayutsavam’, on World environment Day. This upland cultivation of Shreyas paddy arrived at its harvesting phase on 17th of October 2017. This day celebrated the harvest of upland paddy as well as the launching of the BMSSW Extension Centre namely Bharata Mata Extension for Organic, Research and Environment (BeFORE). For the first time in the history of Bharata Mata College, this upland paddy cultivation has created a massive recognition for the college as well as the Department of Social Work. A successful and colorful event that carved a remarkable history in the hearts of BMCians. The “Pattum – Koythum: The Upland Paddy Harvest Festival and the inauguration of BeFORE” was conducted on 17th of October 2017 which began at 2:00 pm at the Bharata Mata College Campus. This programme became a grand success with the cooperation and coordination of college management, BMSSW students, students of MBA, NCC Cadets, faculties, agricultural department and all like minded people associated with Bharata Mata College. ‘A big Salute to BMC Fraternity’. The programme was colourful with the presence of our chief guests inclusive of His Excellency Mar. Sebastian Adayanthrath (Auxilliary Bishop, Ernakulam – Angamaly Arch Diocese), Rtd. Justice CyriacJoesph, Fr. Varghese Kalaparambath (Founder Director of BMSSW), His Excellency Bishop Thomas Chakkiyath, His Excellency Bishop Jose Puthenveettil, Ms. K. K. Neenu (Chairperson, Thrikkakara Municipality), Mr. Dileep Kumar (Former Vice Chancellor of Sri Shankara University of Sanskrit), Ms. Jessy Peter (Chairperson, Kalamassery Municipality), Ms. EeshaPriya IAS (Sub. Collector, Ernakulam), Rev. Fr. Paul Cherupilly (Director, Welfare Services Ernakulam), Mr. Varghese M.D (GM Administration, Cochin Shipyard), Mr. P. G Prageesh (Chief of Corporate Communications, Air India Express), Ms. Vijaya M.K (Kudumbashree District Mission, Ernakulam) and Ms. Geetha (Agricultural Officer, Thrikkakara). With the involvement of these chief guests the occasion became a memorable event. His Excellency Mar Sebastian Adayanthrath delivered the inaugural speech and officially launched the BeFORE Logo followed by lighting of the lamp by the guests. Further, His Excellency Mar Sebastian Adayanthrath and all the invited guests officially inaugurated the paddy harvest festival by involving themselves in harvesting. The koythuFestival gained momentum with the Folk Music live Performance by the ‘OORALIS’ Band based in Thrissur. The college students enjoyed and welcomed the music and paddy harvest heartily. The invited guests and students were served with Tapioca, chutney and Black Coffee prepared by The BMSSW Students to recollect the typical food practice of our Kerala Farmers. It is with immense pleasure we stand together as BMC family to state that we sowed the seeds and we harvested with the great contribution of our BMC students. Oct 17th - Pattum –Koythum& Inauguration of BeFORE:

Nov 4TH2017: Anti-Corruption Awareness Week: The MSW first year students received and opportunity to perform a flash mob in two specific locations as part of Anti Curruption Awareness Week. The programme was organized in collaboration with the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau. They successfully performed flashmob in Central Mall and in Ernakulum South. The student’s actively participated and received applause in conveying the message against corruption practice in Kerala. The Faculties Ms. Anita Annie Mathew and Mr. Tony M. Tom Accompanied the students.

Anti - Corruption Awareness Week: Nov 4TH

Nov 14th 2017: Children’s day observation week As part of the children’s day observation BeFORE organized awareness campaign on child abuse in collaboration with Integrated Child Protection Unit(ICPS) and Social justice department. Social work students of BMC performed street play and flash mob at Kakkanad open air stage and Kalamassery HMT junction. Nov 14th 2017: Children’s day observation week

‘enTribment- Kuttampuzha’ December-2-8

‘enTribment- Kuttampuzha’is a project which focuses on the upliftment of the children, youth and adult into a postive stream, empowewring the inmates of tribal hamlets of Kuttampuzha panchayath thorughentrepreneurships,educationalsupport,skill development programmes, cultural club activities etc.As a n initial step BeFORE organized a 7 days residential camp in Thalavechapara settlement with the first year msw students of Bharata Mata School of Social work.The major objectives of the camp was to conduct a detailed study on the problems in hamlet along with the identification of posible strategies, and Renovation of BRC Schools in Thalavechapara hamlet.

The camp was conducted during the period of 2nd to 8 th of December. The students were accompanied by Mr. Pinto Simon, Ms. Honey Mary John and Mr. Tony M. Tom. Within the 7 day camp, we involved in shramadhan(Renovation work of Badal School), conducted seminars for tribal families based on the study conducted in themselves, and organising cultural events for the tribal families.

From 6th on wards, the students were also accompanied by our college Manger Fr. Jacob G. Palakkappily, Dr. Aype Thomas (College Principal), Dr. Sheena Rajan Philip (HOD, Dept of Social Work) and few second year students. On 8th the students left the tribal colony towards Thrikkakara. enTribmentKuttampuzha, December 2-8

Anti alcohol and drug awareness campaign: Dec 10th at Edamalayar In association with the Forest department, Kothamangalam BeFOREorganised a one day “LahariVirudhaBodhavalkarana Campaign” to spread awareness about social issue that are affecting in the tribal hamlets in VengoorPanchayath.The students organised street play for the inmates in hamlets of Edamalayarafprest range.

“Be-FOR Chellanam” Decmber When Okhi hit costal area the hands of BeFORE extended its helping hand to chellanma where the storm effected badly in Ernakulam district. The disaster management were carried out through different stages. 1. Construction of sea wall with sand, December 12-13 Initially sea wall was constructed with sand filled sacks with the help of 180 students and staffs from Bharata Mata College.In that 2 day activity 500 meters of area was covered.The activity was supported by NSS,NCC,AICUF and other departments. 2.Kit distribution to the affected people in collaboration with Malayala Manorama December 19 Kit distribution to the affected people in collaboration with Malayala Manorama was done through the MBA Students of BMC. 3. Organized medical camp for the public,December 21 When BeFORE conducted a field study in the affected area, it was revealed that many of them were affected with varios kind of health issues and fear.To help them out with the same BeFORE organized a medical camp in collaboration with Lissy hospital.183 people were benefited through this medical camp.MSW students and staffs from various departments devoted their time and efforts for this initiative. Along with medication, Children and adults used counselling facility as well.

Chellanam

“BeFOREVijayeebhava” Its our duty to extend our service to the marginalized section of the community to bring them into the main stream.As part of that BeFORE identified Rajeev Nagar Colony to extend our services .Based on a study conducted by the students of Bharata Mata College among the women in Rajeev Nagar colony, we could realize that providing an entrepreneurial activity to the women will enhance the overall perfomance of the family. BeFORE proposed project to K Chittilapilly foundation which was finally sanctioned. It focuses on the empowerment of women community which will make positive and sustainable social changes. The overall objective of the project is empowering women through entrepreneurship to make the family sustain and to establish gender equality. Specific objectives:

• To provide business platform for women from low economic background.

• Motivating the women to survive from their backwardness.

• Empowering women through, trainings, motivating, planning etc

• Enhance the family condition of the women

Inauguration of the project was conducted in Bharata Mata College seminar hall on 3/2/2017 at 3.30 p.m.The inaugural functoin was chaired by Fr.Jacob G Palackappilly ,Manager(Bharata Mata College) and President(BeFORE).Beneficiaries of the project, faculties and students from various departments were also present for the function.Mr.BentlyThadikaran,Project Manager of KochaousephChittilappilly foundation addressed the gathering.There he prsented about KochaousephChittilapilly foundation and the motive of Vijayeebhavaproject.The seed money was distributed to the beneficiaries in the function.

Dr.AypeThomas,PrincipalBMC,Fr.BintoKilukkan, Asst.ManagerBMC,Mr.TM Ashraf, ward councelor 35th ward also addressed the gathering.Mr.Tony M Tom,Projectco-ordinatorBeFORE and Ms.AmruthaMurali,first year student of Bharat Mata School of Socail work delivered the welcome speach and vote of thanks respectively.The function came to an end by 5 pm after the refreshment.

Beneficiaries of the BeFORE- Vijayeebhava

Orupidi campaign Madhu, a tribal man was the victim of an arrogant literate mob who took charge of the law and order of the society. He awas brutally beaten up to death for stealing etables from a near by shop. As we belong to the same community, it is our duty to do penance to his soul. As a result, we organized a campaign involving the staff and students of Bharata Mata College in the banner of BeFORE, “ orupidiariMadhuvinu” to remaind the society that, we need to extend our hand to the needy and deprived. All the students were asked to bring a hand full of rice and it was collected and was given to a near-by old-age home. Students also formed a human-chain in sea-port air- port road inorder to observe our protest for killing Madhu. “OrupidiariMadhuvinum”

Human chain

Recognition from district administration

Five students from second year MSW recognized from district administration for Volunteering in “NummaOonu Project”, a project to make Ernakulum hunger free district, on October 9 at Collectors chamber.

Observation of World Mental Health day

On the 10th of October the 1st year students of Social work from the Bharata Mata School of Social Work in association with Kusumagiri Mental Health Centre organized an awareness program on the theme Psycho logical problems among the youth. Students performed Street play and flash mob at Kakkanad open stage.

CHEKUTTY DOLL MAKING WORKSHOP

In solidarity with the cause of handloom cottage industries reconstruction, as well as a precursor to the National conference, the organizers also hosted within the college premises Workshop on making chekutty dolls out of handloom cloth ravaged by the flood. The event was hosted in association with Kerala Sastra Sahitya Parishad

FLASH MOB BASED ON ‘CHILDLINE SE DOSTI CAMPAIGN’

As part of the observation of children’s day BeFORE awareness programme in collaboration with the Railway Child line. Students performed flash mob in South railway station.

Orientation programmes I. Dr.SheenaRajanPhilip,UBA Coordinator of Bharata Mata College and Mr. Tony M Tom Asst.prof. and project coordinator form Bharata Mata College attended the orientation programme organized MHRD at AICTE auditorium New Delhi on 25/4/2018.

II. Mr. Tony M Tom Asst.prof. and project coordinator the workshop held on 30 July 2018 at KarshakaBhavanam of the Central Training Institute, Kerala Agricultural University at Mannuthy, Thrissur.

As the direction given Bharta Mata College has started UBA programme in the selected clusters.

I. UBA at Kuttampuzha.

The Kuttampuzha village is located in Kothamangalam Tehsil of Ernakulam district in Kerala.It is the only tribal region in Ernakulam which is around 60 km from Bharata Mata College. A meeting was organized at Kuttampuzha Panchayath Office were Panchayath President, Vice president Standing committee members, Kuttampuzha range officer, Tribal development officer, Tribal extension officer were present to discuss about the UBA programme. In the meeting it was suggested that prior approval from the Divisional forest officer is compulsory for the activities inside the forest and other activities can be carried with prior approval from the forest department and Panchayath.

Meeting held at Kuttampuzha Panchayath  Survey at Thalavechapara : 9th June 2018

As an initial step a household survey was conducted on 9th June 2018 under UBA in Thalavechapara Hamlet, Kuttampuzha. Around 65 houses were covered in the survey. Students from Bharta Mata College along with the faculties, MsRenyRajan and Mr Tony M Tom conducted the survey in a systematic manner.

The detailed study and problem identification of Thalaverchapara hamlet were done through the survey.

 “Satchel Pooyamkutty” :26th June 2018

A new mission was taken up by Bharata Mata College as part of UBA to light the lives of 80 children at St George UP School, Pooyamkutty, Kuttampuzha. The main objective of the program was to identify the needs of children and provide them with books and stationary for them. As part of this, every department was informed to contribute books and other stationeries which are required for these children. All the students ,teaching and non teaching staffs of the college actively participated in this venture by contributing in the best possible manner.

Distribution of books and school stationeries to children of Pooyamkutty School On 26th June 2018, under the initiative of Bharata Mata College(BMC) Fr Jacob G Palackappilly(Manager BMC), Mr Tony M Tom(Asst.Professor BMC)and 11 students of Bharata Mata College visited St George UP School, Pooyamkutty as part of the mission taken up for UBA to provide books, bags and umbrellas to 80 needy children. Vice President of the Kuttampuzha panchayath Mr.Biju,ward member of that locality and the Manager of St.George UP school also were presented in the program. The program was inaugurated by Fr Jacob G Palackappilly by giving away school bags and umbrella to student. 80 students were provided with the required stationary by College. All the children seemed very gleeful on receiving the books bags and umbrellas. This initiative showed up to be very successful and this motivated the students to take up more responsibilities and initiatives for such causes and missions.

 Food Distribution at Thera Hamlet, Kuttanpuzha

When Flood occurred in Kerala Kuttampuzha was of the major affected area.When flood hit the people of Thera hamlet were trapped inside the forest because of the excessive flow of water of the flood and they were denied with basic facilities like food and other needs. On September 1st, 2018 food materials was provided for the needy people of Thera( a small hamlet which is 16 km inside the forest area) under the Bharta Mata College. The Students prepared food kits for about 25 families. It was coordinated by Fr. Jacob .G. Palackappilly, (Manager BMC), Mr. Tony M Tom(Asst.professor and Project coordinator), along with 10 students of BMC.. This activity was a great help for the poor people of the hamlet.

House visit at at Panthapra

Awareness session at Uriyam Petti

Considering all these Bharata Mata College identified a gap in inculcating ethnic knowledge with academics and found missing in tribal hostels.Based on the idea that to decrease dropout rates extracurricular activities are needed to be implemented in the hostel.

3 day theatre oriented camp at Thalavechapara hamlet A 3 day camp was conducted at Community hall Thalavechapara from 22nd- 24th May. Around 72 participants were actively participated in the camp.Students and elders from other hamlets also were presented in the camp. People who all are well known in traditional Kooth,Kummiyadi,Kummiyadi Song, Kottu and so on were gathered for the camp from uriyam petti,Thera and Thalavechapara. Among 72 participants 25 were from Uriyampetti and 8 were from Thera and the rest were from the Thalavechapara hamlet itself.The camp focused to create intrest in students towards their traditional art forms and awareness sessions focused on the importance of Education for their upliftment.

Objectives of the camp are,  To identify each one’s interest and to identify who all are capable of understanding and studying the traditional art forms.  To form a group to train them later for sharpening their own traditional knowledge a. The camp included 3day theatre workshop for the age between 12-20 under the leadership of Mr. Jamshid,(Theatre artist Sree Sankara Sanskrit University, Kalady). For the children from the age 4- 12, painting workshop were conducted under the leadership of Mr. Dinu,(artist Sree Sankara Sanskrit University, Kalady). The camp focused on building self- esteem, observation skill, presentation skill and so on. Output of the camp  Camp helped the students to attain self confidence, to realize what all are the capabilities they have,to identify the children who all are well in painting, acting etc.  At the end of the camp a 20 minute play was performed by the student which was completely developed by them.  Elders who are well in traditional folk songs taught the students kummiyadi and kooth songs.  Camp helped to spot out the children, youth and elders who all are well in their traditional art forms.

Food Breakfast,Lunch, snacks and dinner were prepared and given to the campers during the camp.

Plan of action/Follow up activity  Form a group who can perform and teach Muthuvan traditional art forms to others.  Inculcate this ethnic knowledge with academics in tribal hostels. Hopefullyall these attemptsmay help to reduce the rate of school drop outs.

The success of the camp was only with the support got from Tribal department and Forest department .

UBA at Puthen Velikkara Puthenvelikkara is situated in Ernakulam District of Central Kerala in India. Puthenvelikkara is on the banks of rivers Periyar, Chalakudy and Kottapuram lagoon. The main source of income for people comes from agriculture.

Meeting with Panchayath Officials A meeting was conducted at Puthen Velikkara Panchayath President and other officials were presented. In the meeting detailed discussionswhere took place about the activities to be.

 Flood relief cleaning work at Puthanvelikkara on August 30-31st (2018-2019)

Since Puthen Velikkara is located in the banks of river Periyar and Chalakkudi Puthenvelikkra is the one of the worst affected area during the flood in Ernakulam district. Bharata Mata College ,Thrikkakara conducted a 2 day flood relief cleaning work at Mary Ward school Puthenvelikkara .. By the supervision of , Asst. professors Honey Mary John Reny Rajan and Mr. Tony M Tomalong with 50 students visted the school for two days and cleaned up the entire school. The cleaning work begin from 10 am in the morning and lasted till 6:30 pm in the evening. The students work really hard to clean the school which was badly affected by flood .The school was coverd with every kinds of waste including toilet waste ,all the practical lab tools and equipments were damaged and was scattered .The class room was filled with dirty water and reptails , The students altogther worked hard to bring back the class room to the old state and this was a good experience for all the students

A meeting conducted at Puthen Velikkara Panchayath After the flood to reframe the activities under UBA. President ,ICDS Supervisor, Kudumbasree Chairperson ,wards members and other officials were presented. In the meeting detailed discussionswhere took place about the activities to be. The discussion suggested that, a. The Panchayath could not collect the accurate data about the loss incurred in self employment programme in flood.The Bharata Mata College will help to collect the accurate data in ward vise. b. Awareness classes and psychological support needed for the anganwadi children and their parents. Based on the discussion Bharta Mata College has already started the data collection and organizing awareness classes. Students from Bharata Mata College visit Puthen Velikkara Panchayath in every Friday and Saturday from the month of September. o So far students covered 200 households to find out the loss of self employment units over 3wards

UIBA at Vadakkekra Vadakkekara is a Village in Paravur Block in Ernakulam District It is near to arabian sea and Vadakkekara also is on the banks of rivers Periyar, Chalakudy and Kottapuram lagoon. Meeting.

Meeting with Authorities A meeting with Panchayath president, Vice president, ICD Supervisor, Secretary of Vyapara Vyavasabhavan and other staffs were conducted and discussed about the activities to be carried out.. The discussion suggested that, c. The Panchayath could not collect the accurate data about the loss incurred in shops in Vadakkekara panchayath in flood. Bharata Mata College will help to collect the accurate data in ward vise. d. Awareness classes and psychological support needed for the anganwadi children and their parents. Based on the discussion Bharta Mata College has already started the shop vice data collection data collection and organizing awareness classesthrough ICDS project. Students from Bharata Mata College visit Puthen Velikkara Panchayath in every Friday and Saturday from the month of September. o So far Students covered and collected data 212 shops in 6 wards

 Report of Goonj’s project in vadakkekara panchayath As the part of UBA the Bharata Mata College selected ward number 18 in Vadakkekara panchayath which is mainly affected by flood and conducted a study with women’s in sc category. This study mainly focus to identify flood affected women’s economic status and also to identify their interest in entrepreneurship and self employment. The Bharata Mata college conducted a survey in ward 18 and 28 members showed their interest in entrepreneurship and self employment program. The college have been conducted regular meetings with the members and select 17 members to start a tailoring unit in association with Goonj. The organization Goonj was showed a sustainable model because the main problem faced the entrepreneur was the selling of product or identification market. In this project the Goonj is providing the raw materials and the final product ie, bed were collected by the goonj itself. The goonj is providing 75 rupees for ped bed made by the group. The panchayth president Ambros, ward member Biji , Tony M Tom(Ast.prof.BMC) , representatives from Goonj were participated in the meeting.

A study on the impact of flood and resilience among children in Vadakkekara panchayath.

Kerala flood 2018 was the major worst flood affected by Kerala state . children are the most vulnerable group among adults. So the Bharata Mata college had conducted a survey in vadakkekara panchayath after 3 months of flood to identify the impact of flood in children and to identify the resilience among children . 250 samples collected from different students in the vadakkekara panchayath. The data was collected using impact of event scale and child youth resilience measure.

The data shows that the children have impact of flood after the 3 months of flood. The results says that there is chance to have post traumatic stress disorder. And some students says that they have strong feelings about the flood. The study also shows that the children have only less participation with the community.

 It was also revealed in the study that they are in need of awareness.  Awareness class at Vadakkekara on 24/11/2018 A class about use and misuse of internet, child sexual abuse, a section about POSCO Act were conducted at Kunjithai Anganavadi,Vadakkekara.

Awareness programmes

 Students conducted awareness class for the children in B .M Nagar kennadimukku on 22/12/2018 We conduct class on the significance of re use of plastic and the awareness on sex education..

 Awareness class conducted at Athani and Manakkappady on Child Abuse, drug addiction and negative impact of mobile usage among children for parents and children

 Aids day awareness programme on 1/12/2018, Place: Kakkanad, collecterate and Aluva railway station On this day the whole social work trainees conducted an Awareness programme about AIDS through street play along with flash mob, to aware the public about the reality, symptoms, struggle and the situation of the AIDS patients and how the society has to treat them.

UBA at Udayamperoor

Among the selected villages, Udayamperoor is one such panchayat which has been analyzed for the above purpose. Udayamperoor is a suburb which is located in Cochin City in the state of Kerala .The place is located approximately 15km away from the center of Ernakulam City. Udayamperoor Panchayat consists of 20 wards. Majority of people living in this area belongs to SC/ST caste. Meeting with Udayamperoor Panchayath President and other standing committee members discussed the plan of faction which needed to be implemented. President suggested 7th ward of Udayamperoor panchayat. Astudy was conducted in the 7th ward of Udayamperoor panchayat,which consisted of 3 colonies, Chittethuthazham Colony at south paravoor, Kozhikearry Colony at south paravoor, Upputtiparambil colony at Kochupally.A study report was made on different problems faced by the people in their particular area by using primary methods of data collection ie; survey and interview schedule also applied problem tree (PRA tool) for analyzing these problem raised by the beneficiaries. Problem tree analysis is a participatory tool of mapping out major problems along with their causes and effects.

A REPORT ON THE ISSUES AND PROBLEM UNDER UDAYAMPEROOR PANCHAYAT AMONG SC/ST COMMUNITY

Unnat Bharat Abhiyan is a ministry of human resource development, Government of India program to uplift the rural community in India. The program involved engaging with neighboring communities and using technology for their upliftment.

As part of the upliftment program some villages have been adopted for the purpose of uplifting and building a better community by understanding their needs and problems and by overcoming their present situation through interventional strategies.

Udayamperoor panchayat had also been selected recently for "(Adarsha Gramam" ideal village) a project by P Rajeev MP and has a good track record in implementing projects in waste management , drinking water and other basic sectors.

Major landmark of Udayamperoor is the synod church, Nadakkavu Bagavathy temple and Poothotta kayal at the southern extreme bordering with the Chembu panchayat, Kottayam.

The total population of Udayamperoor consist 39,538 (according to senses 2011) which includes 2428 schedule caste people.

The trainees visited 7th ward of Udayamperoor panchayat,which consisted of 3 colonies, Chittethuthazham Colony at south paravoor, Kozhikearry Colony at south paravoor, Upputtiparambil colony at Kochupally. Trainees were able to identify different problems faced by the people in their particular area by using primary methods of data collection ie; survey and interview schedule.

The trainees applied problem tree (PRA tool) for analyzing these problem raised by the beneficiaries. Problem tree analysis is a participatory tool of mapping out major problems along with their causes and effects.

The major problems raised by the beneficiaries were scarcity of water during summer, stagnation of water around their premises, improper waste management system and lack of basic infrastructural facilities like narrow road and insufficient street lights. The main reason behind the scarcity of water is due to insufficient public taps, presence of salty water in their wells and absence of community well in the area. As a result people suffer from the scarcity of water especially for their domestic purposes.

Another problem identified was the stagnation of water in their premises. These colonies were surrounded by backwaters. During rainy season the water level in the backwater rises and enters in their houses. They do not have appropriate drainage facilities to drain this water out. The stagnated water leads to the spread of mosquitoes, rats and related diseases.

Lack of infrastructural facilities is another problem found in the area. People in the seventh ward have the problems like narrow road, in-sufficient street lights and unfinished public library. The other major problems were alcoholism and drug dependency among youth and children in this area. It was identified that the drug addiction among youth has often lead to illegal activities like robbery.

FINDINGS

General findings

 A good number of the people in the seventh ward belongs to SC/ST caste group

 Major problem raised by the people were scarcity of water, stagnation of water in the premises, lack of waste management system, poor infrastructural facilities, alcohol and drug addiction among youth.

 Majority of people have minimum of 3 cent of land

 None of the respondents are indulged in cultivation.  Majority of people belongs to BPL category

Problems related to water usage:

 Major problem raised by the people were scarcity of water, stagnation of water in the premises.

 Most of the house have their own private wells, but they were reported as having salty water in these wells and that they cannot be used for household purposes.

 The water which is used for washing and cleaning is let out in an open area.

 The colony is located in a slough region surrounded by backwaters, due to this reason water gets collected and there is no appropriate means or passage to drain out the water which gets collected.

 The backwaters are often polluted due to the dumping of wastes and the water released from every household goes directly to these backwaters polluting it more day by day.

Causes Effects

 Colony is located in a slough region  Pesting of mosquitoes, which leads to mosquitoes related diseases.

 Lack of proper drainage facilities to  Unhygienic environment drain out the water which gets collected in the premises.

 Affects water borne diseases.

Scarcity of drinking water

Causes Effects

 Insufficient public taps in the  Spread of diseases like food poison colonies.

 Presence of salty water in private  Leads to poor sanitation condition wells.

 Lack of proper storage facilities in their house.

Waste Disposal Issues

 The barren paddy lands were used for dumping waste as they do not have any appropriate means of waste management system.

 Degradable wastes are not managed properly and it is dumped out directly outside their houses without proper management and this leads.

 Due to improper waste management, the increased dumping of waste in a common area which is near their houses are increasing the pesting of mosquitos and rats.

 Spread of mosquitos are comparatively common in this area, no proper measures are taken to prevent the spread of mosquitos.

Cause Effects  No proper drainage system  Pesting of mosquitoes.

 People are not practising the use of  Spread of communicable diseases compost pit.

 Burning the wastes in household  Burning of plastics leads to premises respiratory problems  Dumping household wastes to barren paddy fields.  Burning of wastes leads to atmospheric pollution.  No appropriate waste management system.

Infrastructural Issues

 Most of the people who resides in this area have semi-pucca house

 It is difficult for the vehicles to enter into the Upputiparambil colony since it has a narrow road and people in this area finds it difficult to commute during an emergency situation.

 Due to this reason people living in the particular area find it difficult when they shift their household belongings as well as people during a case of any illness or death.

 Due to inappropriate measures to control the flooding of water into houses during rainy season, most of the houses, especially the ones near the backwaters finds it difficult as the water gets inside their houses.

REMEDIES

 Stagnation of water can be prevented by creating proper drainage system and lifting the land with the help of depositing soil to make the ground level equal with that of the house.

 proper waste collecting system can be made for maintaining proper waste management system

 Proper water storage facilities must be provided for the people which helps them to use to water during summer season.

 Medical camps and awareness camps can be conducted periodically in order to prevent the spread of communicable diseases among people and aware them about the same.  The path used by the colony people can be made broader with the help of government and local bodies

 SHG groups can be implemented for the recycling of certain waste materials and conducting other activities.

Other Activities

 As the part of UBA, the Bharata Mata college in collaboration with Goonj started woman empowerment program called vijayeebhava . this project is implemented in ward 35 of Thrikkakara municipality. Goonj supply stitching materials to the tailoring units and collect it back. They earn Rs.30/- per piece. As much as they stitch the material they get the cash which will directly credited to their bank account. It will help the self employment program to sustain.

Water Purifier Distribution at Kuttanad(2018-2019)

As the part of UBA and under the supervision of Bharata Mata College ,Thrikkakara has provided 100(50+50) numbers of water purifiers to the rural areas kuttanad .The estimated cost of each water purifier (sawyer) is about 5000 rupees. The purifier was supplied to the area after a quality test conducted in the flooded water by students and faculties from Bharata Mata College .The water was .1 micron clear and was ready to use for drinking purpose and many household activites.The group was under the leadership of manger , Fr. Jacob .G. Palackappilly, (Manager BMC), Dr. Sheena Rajan Philip, Mr. Tony M TomMr.Sherin Varghese (Faculties) along with students of club BeFORE. The working of water purifier was demonstrated by the club members to the local people ,so that they can use every drop of water without wasting it in an adverse condition like flood.

Study on the loss incured at shop during the flood

As per the Reirement from Vadakkekara Panchayath Bharata Mata College Collected the details about the loss incurred for the shop keepers in Vadakkekkara Panchayath in collaboration with Vyapara Vyavasayi Ekopanasamithi.

 Awareness class at Vadakkekara on 24/11/2018 A class about use and misuse of internet, child sexual abuse, a section about POSCO Act were conducted at KunjithaiAnganavadi,Vadakkekara.

Awareness programmes

 Students conducted awareness class for the children in B .M Nagar kennadimukku on 22/12/2018 We conduct class on the significance of re use of plastic and the awareness on sex education..

 Awareness class conducted at Athani and Manakkappady on Child Abuse, drug addiction and negative impact of mobile usage among children for parents and children

Renovation of MGLC School at Elumblassery In the study conducted in Kuttampuzha it was revealed that MGLC( Multi grade Learning centre at Elumblassery tribal settlement and Anchukudi tribal msettlement needed to be renovated. It is firmly believe that srudents need good environment and atmosphere to study well. BeFORE initiated to renovate the MGLC School. Students and faculties from Bharata Mata College volunteered in the mission. The programme was in collaboration with Forest Department and VanaSamrakshans Samiti (VSS) from the 22nd to 27 of January 2019. Along with renovation College has conducted awareness programmes and survey to know more about the community. The survey catalogued by the department to study better the needs, problems and strengths of the community through the direct interview .We could -complete successfully more than 80 individual families on 145 tribal mudhuvan residents and studied them deeply. The survey clearly pictured out the need of drinking water and protection from the wild animals’ encroachment especially elephants and wild boars into their cultivations and life as early as possible. Many were wounded and sadly killed due to lack of protective measures like electric fencing. People ask the forest department to protect them from these attacks and accidents. They also have pointed out the need for a clear and smooth walk way since they struggle to reach several destinations through the muddy roads and stony paths. Other findings are,  Problems related to drinking water, poor walk ways, poor protection to the lives from the threats from wild animals etc.  The neighbourhood conflicts and the lack of interest to continue studies if once dropped out from the schools.  The increasing usage of alcohol,tobaccoopium, hashish and marijuana is also seen in the settlement.

PHOTOGRAPHS

Club B4 Orientation

An orientation has been conducted on 27/7/2019 for the members in Club B4. 48 students were participated in the meeting. The existing members and new members were participated. The session was divided Into two. From 10 am to 1.00 pm Mr. Benny Kurian has taken a session on topic Team Building. And the session was filled with activities and information’s. the second session was handled by Mr. Joshy Varghese, he has taken the topic environment conservation in daily life. And he said about the importance of protecting the nature.

After the session new executive committee of club B4 is selected.

Inauguration of Club B4 on 15th March 2018

BeFORE started its student’s wing “Club B4” in BMC campus. Through Club B4 we take the opportunity for upgrading social commitment of the students group towards the society. 90 student volunteers are now in Club B4 with an objective to contribute something good for the betterment of the society. Club B4 was inaugurated by Fr. Jacob G Palakkappilly, Manager BMCon 15th March 2018 at library hall. Dr. Aype Thomas, Principal BMC, Mr.K V Thomas, Vice Principal, Mr,JoshyVarghses, former mentor State Suchitwa Mission and Ms. Swathy Prasad addressed the gathering.

Fr. Jacob G Palakkapilly deliver inaugural address

Mr.Joshy Varghese, former mentor -State Suchitwa Mission deliver keynote address

Orientation work shop for Club B4

BeFORE activity

October – November

SELLING OF PAPER PEN IN NATIONAL SEMINAR BHARATHION NOVEMBER 1(2018- 2019)

As a part of moving into eco friendly culture, Club B4 initiated to make paper pen for national seminar conducted by Department of Social Work Bharata Mata College Thrikkakara , the club BeFORE students coordinated with department and they made 180 paper pen and sold to department of Social Work at a cost of 5 rupees per pen. This provide an income for the students who made the paper pen. . This was a role model for all the departments showing love towards nature.

GREEN DAY CELEBRATION (2018-2019)

On 4TH October 2018, NCC and Club B4 of BMC organized GREEN DAY. It was the thought of celebrating 150th Gandhi Jayanti in a greener way In Association with the love plastic programme of Mathrubhumi SEED and ITC pvt.ltd. Segregated plastic and paper materials will be sold through wow project of ITC.

Recognition From Mathrubhumi

Club B4 has been recognized by Mathrubhumi SEED (Student Empowerment for Environmental Development) in the college category for its best performance in promoting green initiative in the in and out side the campus. Award function was held at Bhavans VidhyamandirElamakkara on 21 /11/2018.Club members received certificate.

PATHYATRA 2019: SUCHITWA BODHA YAJNAM CAMPAIGN

Club BeFORE,NCC and NSS students received the opportunity to participate in the Pathayatra which is a cleanliness campaign which was started in the name “ShuchitwaBodhaYajnam 2010- 25” this was an initiative of Fr. George Pittapilly who propounded this campaign since 2010The campaign was organised by suchitwa mission Ernakulam, Haritha keralam Mission, Mitradham Renewable energy centre, Rajagiri College of Social Sciences ,Sahrudaya Services and Charities and Bharata Mata College. On 15/1/2019 the students from Bharata Mata College accompanied the padhyatra team to promote the cleanliness campaign by walking to Bharata Mata college from Kalamassery. A valedictory function was organised which was chaired by Fr. George Pittapilly in the College auditorium.Students from Govt.Polytechnic,Cardinal high school and Rajagiricollege,Members from JCI,Track,Seva,Sahrudaya also attended the function.

Cultural exchange programme

Interaction with the students of ” Ritsumeikan University and Rikkyo University “ from Japan was conducted in collaboration with the NGO Habitat for humanity. Students from Club BeFORE were volunteered along with the students from Japan in the construction of house at Aluva in collaboration with Habitat for humanity as part of the flood recovery programme.

On 22/2/2019 cultural exchange programme was organized in college where the students interchange their cultural knowledge and perfomed traditional dance forms. Also the students from both universities were appreciated for their tremendous hard work and kind heart by the Bharata Mata College by presenting mementos. The students were also interviewed by Radio BMC .

The programme was inaugurated by the honorable member of parliament Adv. K V Thomas .Ms. Sheela Charu Chairperson Thrikkakara Muncipality,Mr.Jijo Ward counselor,Fr.Jacob G Palakkapilly Manager Bharata Mata College, Dr.Shiny Palatty Principal Bharata Mata college, Mr. Prashanth coordinator Habitat for Humanity were addressed the gathering.