One Fine Day, 1973: A young systems engineer at a leading company left his job walked into the open wide world. Having had his share of daily grind, he longed for something more; something beyond. He took a journey within – followed Buddhism, meditated, organized meditation retreats and by chance stumbled into environmentalism.
He got himself involved in ecological conservation of the virgin rainforests of Australia which were under threat then. It was during these pursuits and demonstrations that he felt himself connect with the emotional and spiritual side of the Earth. He felt himself respond to Earth in dimensions other than the five senses. He realized that his work went beyond ecological conservation and was fighting for Life on the planet and for the planet itself – which is alive.
He is Australian Rainforest Protection Activist – John Seed.
26th December 2009, Chennai: A youthful old man on the dais was talking about Deep Ecology while strumming his guitar, singing poems and love songs for Earth. As a part of his lecture tour to India, he came to reiterate his message of the living Earth, and how we have forgotten to connect with it. He was John Seed in person – live, talking, and singing his beliefs.
John Seed needs no introduction as he is a well known face of rainforest activism. Having worked for 30 years for the protection of rainforests worldwide, John is still going strong in his message to protect our living Earth.
What is remarkable about his life story is that he did not drop from the sky. He was an ordinary human being and a normal person like you and me. He still is. He has a life, loved ones, fears, and his share of daily grind; just like we all do. But he had the courage to keep it all aside and dive head long into the ideals that grew in him.
He did not start with a big bang or an NGO. He simply tagged himself with the causes he could feel within and connect to. He learnt on the fly. He learnt what he was fighting about, after getting involved in the fight. All he had was a bit of conviction that he was doing the right thing. He did come a long and is raring to go for more.
As a part of his lecture tour to India, John Seed has been travelling all over the country talking about Deep Ecology, Rainforest Conservation, and his past works in different parts of the worlds. His talk in Chennai was centered on the efforts in stalling development of neutrino observatory, and various ecological conservation work undertaken in different parts of the world.
John Seed’s Role in Stalling the Neutrino Observatory in Niligiri Biosphere, Tamil Nadu
India-based Neutrino Observatory (INO) was a proposed particle physics research project to study atmospheric neutrinos in a large deep tunnel/ cave near Masinagudi in Tamil Nadu, India. It was one of the biggest experimental particle physics projects to be undertaken by multiple institutions, for the first time in India. The proposed project location falls near the Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu) which is rich in wild biodiversity putting two tiger reserves and elephant corridor at Singara, at risk.
As a part of the experiment, more than 2 kilometer tunnel would have been constructed to build an underground 100,000 ton neutrino detector. This Neutrino Observatory was planned to be constructed in the heart of the forest region of Singara, the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve (NBR).
Within the Niligiri Reserve lie six protected areas (PAs) – The Wynad Wildlife Sanctuary, Nagarhole National Park, Bandipur National Park and Mudumalai Tiger Reserves and the Mukurthi National Park and Silent Valley National Park. All these protected areas which house rare and endangered species, including the Tiger. Large tracts of reserve forests connect these different National Parks and Sanctuaries and form more or less continuous forests from the animal’s point of view.
Immense care would have been required during construction and operation phase as the area is a corridor for the movement of Elephants. The proposed site’s access road was cutting across a vital elephant corridor that connects the Eastern Ghats and Western Ghats. Needless to say that this project would have spelt doom to the elephant, tiger and many other animals habitats and also affecting the flora of the region.
In November 2009, the Ministry of Environment (India), denied permission for the Department of Atomic Energy (India) to set up the India-based Neutrino Observatory (INO) project at Singara.
John Seed played a major role in stalling the Neutrino Observatory project. He started his email campaign by sending letters to the project stakeholders such as the politicians, scientists, administrators, including the government. The awareness of the erstwhile unknown project caused media uproar and this project was stalled at its design stage.
Thanks to John Seed and many more environmentalists and activists like him, many species of the Niligiri were saved from intrusion and gradual extinction. John Seed’s work towards ecological conservation in India had resulted in saving the Niligiri Biosphere and its fragile ecosystem.
Deep Ecology and Conservation of Nature – Lecture by John Seed in Chennai
On 26th December 2009, John Seed, as a part of his second lecture tour to India spoke about Deep Ecology. Here is introduction on his program.
Deep Ecology is a philosophy of nature, which sees that underlying the environmental crisis there is a psychological or spiritual disease stemming from the illusion of separation between humans and the rest of the natural world. The late Arne Naess, Emeritus Professor of Philosophy from Oslo University, Norway, who coined the term “deep ecology”, pointed out that our “ecological ideas are not enough to protect the Earth, we need ecological identity, ecological self”. With a presentation that includes music and poetry, John Seed shows us how to nourish our ecological identity and align ourselves with Earth.
The experience of deep ecology leads to a deepening of our love for the natural world and empowerment and vision for the protection of Nature. In the 2nd part of this presentation, John will speak of this and show a couple of short films about his projects for the protection of nature in South India including the reforestation of Arunachala in Tamil Nadu and the protection of the world’s largest remaining population of wild Asian elephants in the Nilgiris.
John Seed’s lecture was fun, interesting, enlightening and musical. We were more than happy with his rendition of songs and poems. He shared his experience in Thailand, where Buddhist monks tie a saffron cloth around a tree deeming it sacred. The wood cutters do not cut such trees. By this some trees are being saved. And in Sri Lanka, sacred grooves are earmarked and no one harms those. These are the indigenous ways in which the clergy is trying to reach out to protect Mother Nature.
He also spoke about the remarkable work undertaken by Annamalai Forest Restoration Foundation where trees were planted and protected on the mountains in an ingenious way, inspite of dry weather conditions. Thanks to efforts like these, there have been no major forest fires in Tiruamnnamalai inspite of the harsh dry climate.
He also spoke about the community therapy programs that are conducted by him and his organization that involves healing of people, sensitizing them to the environment, etc. Between Deep Ecology and paeans of love for Earth we were treated with video footage of some fabulous work by India’s ace wildlife film maker, Shekar Dattari. Here are some of the video clippings.
Reweaving Shiva’s Robes
Long Live the Elephants
John Seed’s passion for Earth was felt through out session. He is one of the remarkable persons who have done their bit and continue to do so. The key messages he left for us were:
> We are trying to save the Earth now, because we are worried about us; not the Earth.
> That we live in an illusion that humans are central to everything on Earth.
>Earth has always said YES to human beings. It still does.
>That what happens to nature, happens to us.
>That we are living in a world of wounds – wherein its hard to think about ecology.
>That religions and religious postulates have bred in arrogance in humans since time immemorial(going by the story of creation).
>That our language deceives us to believe that we are better. And that plants and animals that do not speak are inferior.
>That you don’t have to go too far for answers. Nature is explanation itself.
Here are some of the soul warming songs that John Seed sang and strummed in Chennai at the Book Point Auditorium (Anna Salai):
>I just wanna celebrate; celebrate life…
>Now the Lord made the world in just six days
>Love Song to the Universe – Remember that you are standing on a plant that is evolving…
>Ode to the Mother – I was once blind…
You can find the lyrics and music notes of these poems and songs and a collection of more soul warming songs on his website.
To know more about John Seed, the founder and director of the Rainforest Information Centre in Australia, please visit his Rainforest Information Website
Inspiring post, Ishrath and an eye opener definitely. John Seed is big on deeds indeed. It makes me take a long look at the man in the mirror. Yes, it is time we connect with the emotional and spiritual side of earth – in dimensions other than the five senses.
Thanks for this positive review Isharath, interesting that you were able to remember so much and so accurately of what I spoke – I wish that newspaper reporters could do the same! I’m now in Mumbai where I addressed about 350 youth at Techfest yesterday and on soon to Delhi and Mumbai for the last few events of my tour.
John: You are most welcome. It was an honour for us to have you in Chennai. And I hope and pray that you message does not get drowned in the modern world noise. Good luck for your tour and hope that we get to read about how they went. Keep us posted. Cheers!
Richard: I wonder what stops us from taking a leaf out of his book. What are we scared of. I ask myself.
The Rainforest Information Centre has been funding RDAS for tree planting projects and women’s tailoring work. Here is info about the group followed by donation information. If you would like to make a donation and receive tax deductibility in the US, UK, Canada or Australia, please visit our donation page.
Rural Development Afforestation Society (RDAS)
RDAS is a legally registered non-governmental organisation (NGO) duly registered with Government of Tami Nadu and also having registered No: 56/1995, womens welfare activities and Reforestation rehabilitation activities, and work for urban and rural have
Environment and Agriculture
In this semi-arid part of India, Tamil Nadu, Tiruvannamalai District, the environment is in a critical state due to decades of abuse, i.e. over planting cutting of trees, and population overload. The drastically diminished annual rainfall has also contributed to its ravaged state.
In many areas the basic requirements for plant growth are no longer viable. Seventy percent of the Indian population must make its livelihood from agriculture in spite of these critical problems in light of this department of environment and sustainable agriculture has been created to deal directly and force fully with these problems and bring about sustainable solutions.
The village community land model Farm and Training Centre:
A productive model farm was created 3years ago, on a 50 acre stretch of barren land, which is centrally located to most of our villages. It has subsequently been transformed into a multi-functional training centre, modern vermin compost pit. The farm is accessible to all, and contains a research development center founded to support the village farmers. It is used also to demonstrate the viability of good agricultural plant nursery, worm culture and other environmental practices. Agricultural experts, permaculture trainers and research specialists are frequently invited to hold discussions, seminars and practical demonstrations for the local farmers staff and land less labor farmers.
Within the training centre, permaculture information centre, there are modern audio-visual facilities and accommodations for the visiting trainers farmers from India and the west take advantage of the farms ongoing training programs, through which they gain practical experience, in order to full fill their requirements.
Sustainable Agriculture
RDAS is involved in a very successful reforestation program that contains and helps reduce the rampant soil erosion brought on by over grazing and over-cultivation. It also encourages the preservation of endangered species of 25,000/- trees and plants in the Melkachirappattu, Iruthayanagar, Kilkachirappattu, Ganthipuram, Meyyur villages community land farm nurseries. Trees are cultivated that provide shade, fruit, firewood, herbal medicine and fodder with special emphasis on drought resistant fruit trees. All these trees are made available to the village people at a very nominal cost and free of cost and assistance is given in their planting and maintenance as well as teaching of propagation methods i.e. grafting, seed collection etc of trees and shrubs.
Sustainable farming techniques such as developing crop diversity, sound crop rotation patterns and crop compatibility strategies are also demonstrated. The village womens group, youth clubs, farmers clubs who learn these techniques, teach and demonstrate this knowledge to their respective villages.
Trainees become convincing trainers. Composting and the rational use of farmyard manure and organic fertilizers, together with biological pest and weed control methods contributes to the health of the environment as a whole.
Cash crops of fruit, vegetable and medicinal herbs, together with drought-resistant species of mango, sapota, guava and pomegranate are continually being experimented with, to ascertain which varieties give the best yield within the prevailing soil and climate conditions. In addition, varieties of vegetables (like green zucchini and broccoli) not native to India are being introduced locally. Experiments with seed propagation are also underway to increase productivity and disease immunity.
Agricultural Cooperatives
To reduce operating costs and to make farming more viable for those who cannot afford any modern equipment, the society has established agricultural cooperatives. Two tractors, a variety of farming implements and ploughs, are hired out by the society to the local small farmers, at rates that cover only our maintenance costs. To increase productivity, the farmers are invited to attend numerous seminars talks and training sessions (in their mother tongue) on a wide variety of modern agricultural techniques; in this way, these small farmers can also develop and prosper.
Throughout the organization, (whether in the administration, the clinic, the many workshops, the school, the gardens in the fields or in village work), hundreds of people from different backgrounds and levels of education live in a deep, unforced and natural reciprocity; this precious mutuality should in due time transmit itself into the villages.
Watershed Program
All life rests on the finding and successful retention of water. Even when the monsoon rains do come the water run-off is substantial due to the ravaged landscape. The society watershed program was implemented to help absorb the water into the underground water table before it dissipates. Soil regeneration efforts like land contouring and the reforestations program, help to conserve rainfall, while mulching, drip irrigation methods and sprinklers, have reduced water consumption by as much as 80%. Water conservation is further promoted through the ‘Share a well’‚ program, a 100 ha watershed land development programme.
Agricultural equipment
Because this region is predominately agricultural, there is a tremendous need for inexpensive but quality agricultural implements. To meet this need, the society recently embarked on a project of designing and building farm equipment which is closely suited to local land conditions, and yet affordable to the farmers. For this reason an agricultural equipment division with rotary ploughs, cultivators, levelers and cage wheels has come into being.
Community Development
These are men selected by the village folk themselves to represent them, and to present their needs to the society. They have all received appropriate training in social work. As they are an integral part of their respective communities they have deeper insights into the real situations and can more easily identify the most destitute and miserable. Through these helpers, food, clothing and other essentials are regularly distributed to the need widows, the handicapped, the elderly, and the abandoned are cared for by these workers. These village helpers are part of the effort to ensure that the individual communities will ultimately be independent of the society in all social and economical affairs, and that they will be able to take over the full responsibility of caring for those in need within their villages. Towards this end, individual gifts such as cows sheep, goats, oxen, ox-carts, bicycle rickshaws, sewing machines etc are donated to certain inhabitants. For other individuals the society has set up small shops, such as bicycle rentals and handicrafts/tailoring, sewing machines etc.
Rural Community Development
The various programmes for community development grew quite organically out of the field of permacultural information and Reforestation/ Agroforestry promotion and now run hand-in-hand with it. From the beginning it was obvious that many agricultural developments were a a direct result of poverty. People lived in the most appalling conditions! poor nourishment, lack of hygiene and infested drinking end bathing water, made a mockery of health and environment awareness. Such problems are being overcome slowly by the on going efforts to raise general living standards, and especially through permaculture, sustainable agriculture education,
Also for generations, this poverty has prevented any semblance of community life within the villages. Being daily preoccupied with physical self-preservation, there has been no energy or will to care for others. The result is that any communal spirit that might have been, has degenerated, long ago, into the feel of ‘each one for himself only’.
Village Upliftment: (Community Centers)
The RDAS, Society is in the process of Iruthayanagar Village Community Centers for our 23 villages benefit. The aim is to have one building for each cluster of villages through which more and more people can be drawn into group activities.
These centers will focus on the traditional trades, such as wood carving, tailoring, leaf-painting, weaving and other handicrafts. The centers also offer training on tree nurseries and permaculture to the poor farmers every week on two days in different villages.
Working together not only enhances the communal spirit in the villages but also helps to whittle away the entranced prejudices and caste consciousness.
Women Development
In spite of their humble status in the poorer classes, women are in fact the backbone of Indian society. Here the mother plays the major role and bears the heaviest burden of caring for the family and bringing up the children often down trodden, neglected, ill used, or even abused; they nevertheless demonstrate a resilience, perseverance, patience and enduring reliability which gives support to the entire family. In recognition of this tenacity of spirit, and realizing that, without the total involvement of women in our project, no enduring improvements can be made, the Rural Madhar Shangam working women society was formed in 2004.
Rural Madhar Sangam
The Rural Madhar Sangam (working women society) is a vital outreach program in to the villages. Made up of responsible village women, its aim is to raise the living standards in the villages. At their regular meetings, the women discuss specific issues at the village level, voice their needs and are encouraged to share their problems, fears and frustrations. In this way they draw closer to each other regardless of caste or creed.
The problems of providing for a family are common to all. The Rural Madhar Sangam arranges activities such as lectures on hygiene and family harmony. It makes women aware of the difficulties of early marriage, and the dowry system, as well as the necessity of education for girls. Through the Rural Madhar Sangam, the women become eligible for interest free loans from the RDAS Society with which they can initiate small business (Women Tea-shops, Vegetable Shops, Poultry Units, Tailoring shops, Handicrafts)
A large number of women have found work in this way and with the help of Rainforest Information Centre (Australia) and Cottonwood Foundation (USA) this program is continually expanding.
Another aspect of Rural Madhar Sangam work is as a permaculture information centre offering skills training in day-care, non-formal education for drop out childrencombind with the planting of fruit trees, local trees, leaf-painting, block printing, development of kitchen gardens, embroidery and tailoring.
Iruthayanagar Village Day-Care Centers
In 2004, a day-care center was opened for the Iruthayanagar children of the women employed by the RDAS society. It was expanded to include children from other villages: Kilkachirapattu, Melkachirappattu, Gandhipuram enabling their women to go to work and to contribute to the family income. Both Tamil and English are spoken at this centre to better prepare these children for subsequent schooling.
Evening Schools
Although public schooling is free in India, village children are often needed by their families to work in the fields and help in the home. Because of this, their formal education is often ignored. The only time left for their education is the evening. Because of this, RDAS set up 3 evening schools in the villages (Iruthayanagar- 32 children, Melkachirapattu – 42, Kilkachirappattu – 28, children) where basic subjects such as reading and writing (in Tamil) arithmetic and simple English are taught. All class essentials such as notebooks, pencils, chalk slates are provided by the RDAS donors. Many pupils have, after this evening schooling, been able to move onto the RDAS Society, the local state Tamil medium school (or) one of the society vocational training programs.
A Cultural Program
Education should do more than satisfy just head and hands. Indian culture has traditionally aimed at spiritual richness, which finds its outer expression in the arts, music, dancing and acting. The Governmental School now employs teachers for Bharatnatayam, the devotional dance and classical music of South India. The rural children are taught to recapture in music, dance and drama the myths and legends of their ancient heroes and heroines. The disciplines of Hatha Yoga and Pranayama, which aim at the harmonious balance of body, mind and soul are also taught. These activities are aimed at 10 village school implementing and acquainting the children with the rich cultural heritage that their impoverished village lifestyle has denied them until now. Instead of comparing themselves unfavourably with westerners, they are able to acquire their own self-esteem by becoming familiar with the values within their own culture values which they can now proudly share with others.
Tailoring
30 women are presently trained in Melkachirappattu and Iruthayanagar and Annanagar area working in this vocational training. The Tailoring Trainees receive a stipend during their six-month training period and are later employed by the society making clothing for local shop or they are assisted in starting their own businesses locally at the village level.
Leaf Painting
The artistically gifted can develop within the society by being trained in the delicate art of leaf painting. Leaves from the local peepal tree are collected, soaked and brushed, until the outer leaf is separated from the filigree-like skeleton. These transparent, fine, leaf structures are then dried and painted with lovely motifs. After completion, they are pasted on handmade paper and sold as greeting cards.
There are more than 75 designs to date, made by the artists themselves. This division has expanded and currently has 5 painters 15 trainees. The training period is one year although quality control is still implemented after this time. The quiet harmonious atmosphere that pervades the working area is captured in the cards. Most are sold in the locale where they are appreciated for their uniqueness and flair.
Bag Making
20 women widows are currently making large bags with brightly coloured motif and hand-woven out of strips of plastic. These are selling well in the Tiruvannamalai Town and campus carry-alls.
Doll Making
Handmade Indian dolls in traditional dress are the most recent addition to the Handiwork training section. These Collectors dolls are proving popular with school, public and local, tourist alike.
Incense Sticks
Initially in Annanagar area, a small group of women were trained in this art. Several months ago, with loans from the society Rs.5,000/, this has now become a successful income generating project giving work for about 15 widowed women. We have now been able to transfer this unit out of the society, and into the capable hands of an enterprising Iruthayanagar Village women.RDAS/Women Group leader Selvi now runs this unit totally independent from the society.
Incense sticks are used in nearly every Indian household and are readily sold on the local market. In the future, export possibilities are also opening up, enabling even more women to be employed. The beauty of this work is that it is wholly independent of the weather, with its many extreme moods in India.
Formerly, our village women could only earn for their families as heavy field and construction labourers, an exhausting work. The incense making is so much more convenient and suitable to their nature.
Embroidery
This was our first year handicraft section, started in 2005, with only five women. It now employs 15 women training full time. Every year 15 new trainees join the section, Melkachirappattu where they stay for a total of three years programme 2005 to 2008. While in training we need a modest stipend and after six months they are paid per-piece. The bulk of their production has been linen, dresses and children’s clothing and is sold primarily in India Tiruvannamalai. The embroidery produced by these women is now truly up to an excellent standard.
Medicinal Plants Conservation Park
South India has a 3000 year old Medical Heritage, one of the oldest in the world. It also has one of the richest botanical traditions with over 1000 species of plants, medicinal herbs and plants from the core of the Indians’ ancient medical lore. The society in partnership with an international Non-Governmental organization, Rainforest Information Centre and Cottonwood Foundation is helping with the conservation of India’s Medical Plants. We have established a botanical garden of local herbal and medicinal flora which will serve as a living seed bank for the preservation of the rapidly disappearing species.
Plants are collected and brought to the center for propagation. An inventory of available varieties and their uses have been made. Over 200 medicinal species alone have been planted in the villages to provide a simple and inexpensive solution to many common ailments and diseases. Effective treatment can now take place at home. Villagers are asked to report the efficacy of these herbs in treating specific diseases. We then store this information in our data seed bank, for the use of our research partner in Australia, USA, India.
We request that you kindly consider our appeal and extend your kind consideration by funds/donation some amount to our RDAS to carry out the above activities at an earliest date.
We enclose here with some photographs of the field work in Tiruvannamalai facing some problems relates to basic needs for your kind reference.
We request your earliest assistance in this regard, please with a request to convey this message to your friends, donors, like minded well wishers for extending their kind assistance to RDAS, to carryout this above activity in vast level.
We accept Cheques, Demand Drafts, Cash donations etc., all should be sent to the address given below.
P. Subramanian,
Secretary
Rural Development Afforestation Society
Melkachirappattu Village
Meyyur Post
Pin Code – 606 753
Tiruvannamalai Taluk & District
Tamil Nadu ˆ India
Email
Thanking you and inviting your earliest assistance, please.
Yours in people‚s service
p.subramanian
(RDAS) SECRETARY
John Seed is a global hero and an inspiration to us all. If only there were more like him to help save our planet from ecological destruction by human greed.
Thank you John for all you have done.
hey ishrath,
thanks for the post. I missed this lecture unfortunately, stuck at work. so it is really nice to have your post.
cheers!
romila
Romila, you did miss a fantastic lecture. However to be in touch with John Seed, you can subscribe to his mailing list or visit his website for the same. You will be updated of the campaigns he is part of and if you want to get involved with them too. Good luck to you.
Deep Ecology and Conservation of Nature – Lecture by John Seed in Chennai
January 22, 2010 By Ishrath in Eco-conservation/ Wildlife Conservation18 Comments
One Fine Day, 1973: A young systems engineer at a leading company left his job walked into the open wide world. Having had his share of daily grind, he longed for something more; something beyond. He took a journey within – followed Buddhism, meditated, organized meditation retreats and by chance stumbled into environmentalism.
He got himself involved in ecological conservation of the virgin rainforests of Australia which were under threat then. It was during these pursuits and demonstrations that he felt himself connect with the emotional and spiritual side of the Earth. He felt himself respond to Earth in dimensions other than the five senses. He realized that his work went beyond ecological conservation and was fighting for Life on the planet and for the planet itself – which is alive.
He is Australian Rainforest Protection Activist – John Seed.
26th December 2009, Chennai: A youthful old man on the dais was talking about Deep Ecology while strumming his guitar, singing poems and love songs for Earth. As a part of his lecture tour to India, he came to reiterate his message of the living Earth, and how we have forgotten to connect with it. He was John Seed in person – live, talking, and singing his beliefs.
John Seed – Rainforest Conservation Activist
John Seed needs no introduction as he is a well known face of rainforest activism. Having worked for 30 years for the protection of rainforests worldwide, John is still going strong in his message to protect our living Earth.
What is remarkable about his life story is that he did not drop from the sky. He was an ordinary human being and a normal person like you and me. He still is. He has a life, loved ones, fears, and his share of daily grind; just like we all do. But he had the courage to keep it all aside and dive head long into the ideals that grew in him.
He did not start with a big bang or an NGO. He simply tagged himself with the causes he could feel within and connect to. He learnt on the fly. He learnt what he was fighting about, after getting involved in the fight. All he had was a bit of conviction that he was doing the right thing. He did come a long and is raring to go for more.
As a part of his lecture tour to India, John Seed has been travelling all over the country talking about Deep Ecology, Rainforest Conservation, and his past works in different parts of the worlds. His talk in Chennai was centered on the efforts in stalling development of neutrino observatory, and various ecological conservation work undertaken in different parts of the world.
John Seed’s Role in Stalling the Neutrino Observatory in Niligiri Biosphere, Tamil Nadu
India-based Neutrino Observatory (INO) was a proposed particle physics research project to study atmospheric neutrinos in a large deep tunnel/ cave near Masinagudi in Tamil Nadu, India. It was one of the biggest experimental particle physics projects to be undertaken by multiple institutions, for the first time in India. The proposed project location falls near the Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu) which is rich in wild biodiversity putting two tiger reserves and elephant corridor at Singara, at risk.
As a part of the experiment, more than 2 kilometer tunnel would have been constructed to build an underground 100,000 ton neutrino detector. This Neutrino Observatory was planned to be constructed in the heart of the forest region of Singara, the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve (NBR).
Within the Niligiri Reserve lie six protected areas (PAs) – The Wynad Wildlife Sanctuary, Nagarhole National Park, Bandipur National Park and Mudumalai Tiger Reserves and the Mukurthi National Park and Silent Valley National Park. All these protected areas which house rare and endangered species, including the Tiger. Large tracts of reserve forests connect these different National Parks and Sanctuaries and form more or less continuous forests from the animal’s point of view.
Immense care would have been required during construction and operation phase as the area is a corridor for the movement of Elephants. The proposed site’s access road was cutting across a vital elephant corridor that connects the Eastern Ghats and Western Ghats. Needless to say that this project would have spelt doom to the elephant, tiger and many other animals habitats and also affecting the flora of the region.
In November 2009, the Ministry of Environment (India), denied permission for the Department of Atomic Energy (India) to set up the India-based Neutrino Observatory (INO) project at Singara.
John Seed played a major role in stalling the Neutrino Observatory project. He started his email campaign by sending letters to the project stakeholders such as the politicians, scientists, administrators, including the government. The awareness of the erstwhile unknown project caused media uproar and this project was stalled at its design stage.
Thanks to John Seed and many more environmentalists and activists like him, many species of the Niligiri were saved from intrusion and gradual extinction. John Seed’s work towards ecological conservation in India had resulted in saving the Niligiri Biosphere and its fragile ecosystem.
Deep Ecology and Conservation of Nature – Lecture by John Seed in Chennai
On 26th December 2009, John Seed, as a part of his second lecture tour to India spoke about Deep Ecology. Here is introduction on his program.
Deep Ecology is a philosophy of nature, which sees that underlying the environmental crisis there is a psychological or spiritual disease stemming from the illusion of separation between humans and the rest of the natural world. The late Arne Naess, Emeritus Professor of Philosophy from Oslo University, Norway, who coined the term “deep ecology”, pointed out that our “ecological ideas are not enough to protect the Earth, we need ecological identity, ecological self”. With a presentation that includes music and poetry, John Seed shows us how to nourish our ecological identity and align ourselves with Earth.
The experience of deep ecology leads to a deepening of our love for the natural world and empowerment and vision for the protection of Nature. In the 2nd part of this presentation, John will speak of this and show a couple of short films about his projects for the protection of nature in South India including the reforestation of Arunachala in Tamil Nadu and the protection of the world’s largest remaining population of wild Asian elephants in the Nilgiris.
John Seed’s lecture was fun, interesting, enlightening and musical. We were more than happy with his rendition of songs and poems. He shared his experience in Thailand, where Buddhist monks tie a saffron cloth around a tree deeming it sacred. The wood cutters do not cut such trees. By this some trees are being saved. And in Sri Lanka, sacred grooves are earmarked and no one harms those. These are the indigenous ways in which the clergy is trying to reach out to protect Mother Nature.
He also spoke about the remarkable work undertaken by Annamalai Forest Restoration Foundation where trees were planted and protected on the mountains in an ingenious way, inspite of dry
weather conditions
. Thanks to efforts like these, there have been no major forest fires in Tiruamnnamalai inspite of the harsh dry climate.
He also spoke about the community therapy programs that are conducted by him and his organization that involves healing of people, sensitizing them to the environment, etc. Between Deep Ecology and paeans of love for Earth we were treated with video footage of some fabulous work by India’s ace wildlife film maker, Shekar Dattari. Here are some of the video clippings.
Reweaving Shiva’s Robes
Long Live the Elephants
John Seed’s passion for Earth was felt through out session. He is one of the remarkable persons who have done their bit and continue to do so. The key messages he left for us were:
> We are trying to save the Earth now, because we are worried about us; not the Earth.
> That we live in an illusion that humans are central to everything on Earth.
>Earth has always said YES to human beings. It still does.
>That what happens to nature, happens to us.
>That we are living in a world of wounds – wherein its hard to think about ecology.
>That religions and religious postulates have bred in arrogance in humans since time immemorial(going by the story of creation).
>That our language deceives us to believe that we are better. And that plants and animals that do not speak are inferior.
>That you don’t have to go too far for answers. Nature is explanation itself.
Here are some of the soul warming songs that John Seed sang and strummed in Chennai at the Book Point Auditorium (Anna Salai):
>I just wanna celebrate; celebrate life…
>Now the Lord made the world in just six days
>Love Song to the Universe – Remember that you are standing on a plant that is evolving…
>Ode to the Mother – I was once blind…
You can find the lyrics and music notes of these poems and songs and a collection of more soul warming songs on his website.
To know more about John Seed, the founder and director of the Rainforest Information Centre in Australia, please visit his Rainforest Information Website
Spread the Love
Comments
Prakash says
January 22, 2010 at 1:52 pm
Inspiring post, Ishrath and an eye opener definitely. John Seed is big on deeds indeed. It makes me take a long look at the man in the mirror. Yes, it is time we connect with the emotional and spiritual side of earth – in dimensions other than the five senses.
Reply
john seed says
January 24, 2010 at 2:34 am
Thanks for this positive review Isharath, interesting that you were able to remember so much and so accurately of what I spoke – I wish that newspaper reporters could do the same! I’m now in Mumbai where I addressed about 350 youth at Techfest yesterday and on soon to Delhi and Mumbai for the last few events of my tour.
Reply
Ishrath says
January 25, 2010 at 5:10 am
John: You are most welcome. It was an honour for us to have you in Chennai. And I hope and pray that you message does not get drowned in the modern world noise. Good luck for your tour and hope that we get to read about how they went. Keep us posted. Cheers!
Richard: I wonder what stops us from taking a leaf out of his book. What are we scared of. I ask myself.
Reply
Richard Jones says
January 24, 2010 at 11:37 pm
John Seed is a global hero and an inspiration to us all. If only there were more like him to help save our planet from ecological destruction by human greed.
Thank you John for all you have done.
Reply
romila indira-sudhakar says
February 2, 2010 at 6:45 am
hey ishrath,
thanks for the post. I missed this lecture unfortunately, stuck at work. so it is really nice to have your post.
cheers!
romila
Reply
Ishrath says
February 4, 2010 at 5:33 am
Romila, you did miss a fantastic lecture. However to be in touch with John Seed, you can subscribe to his mailing list or visit his website for the same. You will be updated of the campaigns he is part of and if you want to get involved with them too. Good luck to you.
Reply
romila indira-sudhakar says
February 4, 2010 at 6:16 am
thanks. will do that.
Reply
Ansul says
February 18, 2010 at 11:43 pm
Loved it! Thank you as always…for sharing such great things…
Reply
subramanian says
July 8, 2010 at 2:49 pm
DEAR SIR,
MR.JOHN SEED,DIRECTOR,
LIS MORE,NSW,AUSTRALIA.
Greetings from subramanian,RDAS project work is going moon soon in our areas good rain starting our project work starting in tiruvannamlai district creating reforestation programme in our target areas 6 villages our past year starting programme and new areas also planting work doing 15,000 seedlings planting lake bund and hill in thanimalai areas and schools and communituy land planting work starting 2010 -2011 programme sir.
kindly request to you your assistance RDAS need our project work areas all workers now pit work doing and next rain planting work doing sir.
kindly request to you your assistance letter i am waiting sir.
thanking you
yourssincerely
p.subramanian
rdas
tiruvannamalai
india
Reply
subramanian says
August 12, 2010 at 7:36 am
DEAR SIR,
GREETINGS FROM SUBRAMANIANrdas/ric/tiruvannamalai project work in tree planting activities around villages and tiruvannamalai areas ,our donor mr.john seed ,directer of RIC/AUSTRALIA,SUPPORT TO ME SIR,IF YOUR HELP OUR PROJECT TO MY DONOR MR.JOHNSEED ,YOUR DONATION AND FUNDS SENDING TO AUSTRALIA .
THANKING YOU
YOURSSINCERELY
P.SUBRAMANIAN
Reply
subramanian says
August 14, 2010 at 12:12 pm
RURAL DEVELOPMENT AFFORESTATION SOCIETY
MELKACHIRAPPATTU,VILLAGE,MEYYUR,POST
TIRUVANNAMALAI.TK.DT,TAMILNADU,INDIA
=============================================================
GREETINGS FROM RDAS /Rain Forest Information centRURAL DEVELOPMENT AFFORESTATION SOCIETY
MELKACHIRAPPATTU,VILLAGE,MEYYUR,POST
TIRUVANNAMALAI.TK.DT,TAMILNADU,INDIA
=============================================================
GREETINGS FROM RDAS /rain forest information center,Australia/TIRUVANNAMALAI ,INDIA project work is going on well our donors supporting program me.
RDAS ANNUAL REPORT 2004-2012
RDAS Through this initiative, two hundred twenty two medicinal Local herbs have been identified up-to-date of which thirty five plants have been standardized for cultivation in the villages, Each village is provided with one standard set, free of cost, planted to serve as a model herbal garden. Villagers can buy additional saplings from collaborating nurseries at highly discounted rates eg nadir herbals provide saplings at 5 Rs a piece.
The project offers trainings camps to teach villages the benefits of these thirty five plants, and how to identify grow and use them as medicines as well as dietary/nutritional supplements.
Trained RDAS volunteers, women self-help group members who are part of the Eco-club team, conduct personal follow-ups during village visits regarding cultivation and utilization of herbal gardens and serve as reference points for additional guidance.
To widen public exposure, RDAS holds seminars and exhibitions, and displays these gardens during local festivals. The project has also secured partnership with the Indian Herbs Research and Rural Development Afforestation society.
A delegate to the Rain forest information centre, and a member of the alliance for Earth ways, cotton wood foundation, Rainforest concern and the Ecologos institute charitable Registration. With preeminent leaders of the world to forest peace and harmony his humanitarian efforts to rural his rehabilitation project for prisoners in India and abroad are internationally acclaimed, He is the source of strength and inspiration for hundreds of volunteers involved in these project. Who has been associated with the project sine its inception, introduced project and shared with the secretary the transformation it has brought about in the rural areas.
We invite the support and participation of all individuals groups and organizations in this endeavor, which is destine to bring a permanent trans formation in the lives of people who are trapped in hopeless economic and social situations.
There is a vital need to expand this project to cover other rural areas. You can fund different RDAS activities, individually or collectively, for a specific area and a certain duration, RDAS will create an opportunity to acknowledge the donor with in the villages, A maximum of four banners will be displayed for any sponsored RDAS activity (i.e Tailoring Training centre, Tree planting, Herbal Garden Develop and Environmental Health Awareness rogramms, organic training centre , health care water and sanitation CAMPS, Eye Camps) excluding, children sponsorship scheme will be announced, community development,
Some special donation modalities are dusted below.
Grass root level measures for conservation and education about the environment are an integral part of this project. Afforestation of the waste lands near the villages and within residential and common areas of the villages is also undertaken.
The village vanashree Eco-centre is an ecological initiative to preserve the rich ecological heritage of the country. The kannamudaiyar Shiva hills conservation campaigni initiated during the international year of the mountain is an ongoing reforest Shiva programme to conserve and protect the kannamudaiyar Shiva temple forest. Near the society mothers rescurce centre” Iruthayangar, permaculture counciling centre,
In the past two years measures have been undertaken to conserve the ecology of these village mountain, Erikarai, School. Temple, Road Both Side Tree planting and at the Same time create facilities for Local visitors. Thus catering both to man and environment, cleaning campaigns focusing on removing plastic wastes and educating the visitors on the hazards of toxic wastes being dumped in the mountains from a part of on going efforts to inculcate nature awareness amongst the masses. As an endeavor to preserve and propagate the areas rich environmental resources, the village vanashree Eco center RDAS PART TWO tree plantation and supports the protection and propagation of native wildlife.
To create awareness amongst children about conserving our rich heritage, The village vanashree Eco-center conducts five day residential Nature Awareness programs involving live demonstrations guest lectures, audio-visual presentations, field trips and a hands -on experience scientific documentation and photography.
In addition, Ten thousands of trees have been planted in various villages of Tamil Nadu Through the project Large Scale 100,000 Hundred Thousands of Trees planting 2004 to 2012. AFFORESTATION endeavors RDAS/RIC CONTINU FOLLOWING NEXT FIVE YEARS.Trekking and outings in the wilderness would be an essential component of this program. Measures against Coaching of wild life illegal felling of trees and trade in wild life products will be initiated at the village Level.
Schemes for water conservation and rain water harvesting at individual house holds and the community as a whole are also implemented. Agriculture Land Bunding, Community, Temple Land Bunding Rain water harvesting Bunding work – 25 Villages implementing 2005-2012project.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT AND EDUCATION
The project supports destitute children and organizes children and youth development work for nearby tribal villages, discourses with girls, youth are held in educational institutions to introduce early character and social development. Educational Scholarships create possibilities for children who have been deprived of educational due to financial social and caste restrictions, scholarships provide books, educational free lectures are given to the general public as well as to hospitals institutions and universities on health and will-being the project is committed to sharing information in support of the donation quest for world peace ,global understanding and international co-operation. The Projects trans potency and presence on the world wide web, as well as the society numerous publications and partnerships with like minded organisation’s serve as a platform to improve personal and social well being.
Championing Women and Breaking Social Barriers:
One of the primary efforts of action for rural women way aim at empowering rural women, an of neglected section of the rural society.
Community education is imparted to tribal women and dhalith women through educational camps for personality development and personal empowerment health care and prevent live education is also offered to create awareness and sustenance of good practices.
On the other hand, through the initiative of RDAS crafts, the employed people are predominantly women from economically disfavored families. It is hoped that this endeavor not only will provide rural people with a means to livelihood, but will also preserve the rich creative tradition of rural life.
Community Health Programme & Water and Sanitation:
Through various health reach programme the neglected section of society and most remote areas are integrated to revitalize those most in need. Free medical and Eye camps as well as free dispensaries mobile camp and special program for the handicapped water Born daises, workers conducted regularly in the month in the rural area tribal communities to provide relief to the needy.
1. Rural Development Afforestation Society
The Rural Development Afforestation Society was established on march 15th, 1995.
The aims of the RDAS are
• To work for the reafforestation and conservation of Rural land 100,000 seedlings planting 25 villages our working areas project future 5 years planning .
• To generate awareness of our natural environment, its problems of loss of genetic diversity, erosion of soil and water and to seek solutions.
• To encourage participation in the regeneration and protection of animal, bird and plant life in the surrounding areas through awareness campaigns, educational activities, employment opportunities and other means.
• To contribute towards harmonious relationships among all living beings.
• To co-operate with other individuals and organisations who share these objectives.
The Rainforest Information Center (RIC), Australia, has recognized Rural erikarai tree planting reafforestation project all the villages.in south India.RDAS is executing the following projects:
Waste Land DevelopmentConverting the waste lands inside the MELKACHIRAPPATTU AND AROUND villages ,Temple corridors,school.road side and community land all the areas plant trees our donors project RDAS WORKING . and other Temple lands into beautiful garden of flowering plants, fruit trees and sacred trees of medicinal and herbal value.
VILLAGE Nursery (within the outermost, ie. fifth corridor, of the big Temple)A plant nursery with enough capacity to supply saplings for our yearly afforestation activity on the rural Hill and, temple lands on the village road. The nursery also supplies saplings to schools, institutions, individuals and NGOs.
Eco – Club Activities in Schools
Enthusing school children to form Eco-clubs, educate them through lectures, demonstrations and, video and puppet shows, towards better understanding about environmental degradation and the urgent need to protect trees, to prevent environmental pollution of all kinds and to grow as responsible citizens of the future.
Sustainable Agriculture Demonstration Farm
demonstration sites for:
Permaculture (permanent agriculture or permanent culture)
is the conscious design of agriculturally productive ecosystems which have the diversity, stability, resilience of natural ecosystems. It is the harmonious integration of landscape and people, providing their food, energy, shelter and other material and non-material needs in a sustainable way. Without permanent agriculture there is no possibility of a stable social order.
• Models for harnessing non-conventional energy resources like biogas plant, solar heater, solar energy for power generation and wind mills. These will result in less dependence on firewood for the growing population.
• Methods of soil conservation, effective water management.
• A well equipped laboratory for biological control of pests, soil testing and meteorological observations.
• A model sericulture and poultry farm.
• An education centre for students and villagers with facilities for periodical meetings, workshops, seminars etc.Revival of Traditional Herbal MedicineCampaign is being launched to educate the poor masses about the local availability of herbs and the need to change over to traditional herbal medicines, highlighting the economy, effectiveness, prophylaxis and absence of side effects.RDAS has also helped in the establishement of a Medicinal Plant Development area on 250 hectares of forest land near the KANNAMUDAIYAR temple land 3km around 10 village’s, adjoining the southern slope of the holy MELKACHIRAPPATTU Hill.VILLAGE Hill Afforestation Thousands of local plants of diverse species are annually planted on the environment education ,non formal education center for street children s benefit ,MELKACHIRAPPATTU hill b Rural Development Afforestation Society target areas 25 villages main project work areas. Construction of cattle guards, clearing of fire lines and dawn-to-dusk watching to drive prevent goats and cattle grazing and woodcutters, are steps that have resulted in enhancing survival of saplings. The severe, dry summers, the menace of goats and woodcutters, and arson by miscreants pose serious problem for the Society. RDAS feels that sustainable solutions can arise through direct involvement of the local people and accountability of authorities.
AIYANAR Land and all temple land tree planting work our project.
In the year 2004 to 2012, 250 acres of barren temple land and lake bund,hill,school land,farmers land and village land , surrounding the villages,about 25 village farmers request planting programme . shrine, were planted with a variety of tree saplings and flowering plants after adequate soil and water management measures. Water management work included canal for hill areas hill streams to the adjacent tank. The plants were looked after by RDAS by timely watering and dawn-to-dusk watching against cattle. A lush grove developed, and was handed over back to the temple authority in 2004 to 2012 all our dry land and community land tree planting project .
ERIKARAI – 250 .05 Acres ,15 villages and community land tree planting work .
In the year 2004-2012 bio-fencing of the surveyed boundary was done. Contour bunds were constructed to impound the rain water. Planting of saplings was started in 2004 to 2012 . A bore well was sunk and hand-pump installed in 2004 to 2012. So far thousands of diverse plants have been planted and are being well looked after.
Women in Development
RDAS has set up the MOTHER`S RESOURCE CENTER (Regd) with branches in TEN villages. The Society stresses thrift, nursery raising, organic farming, non-formal education, food preservation, vocational training, etc.
RDAS goal is the
• Promotion of a sense of gratitude to Mother Nature.
• Sustainable development which includes conserving nature’s resources such as biological diversity, soil, water etc..
• Replacement of environmentally unsound development activity by a safer strategy.
Directories
Rural Development Afforestation Society is listed in:
• ILEIA LEISA NETWORK IN INDIA- A register of Indian organisations involved in Low External-Input, and Sustainable Agriculture – October 1995 – published by ILEIA.
The Formative Years of RDAS & The Contribution of Rain forest Information Center , Australia, towards “Project village erikarai soil conservation and tree planting project 2004-2012
John button , an Australian settled in Tiruvannamalai, dreamt of a forested villages l. contact with John Seed and ruth of the RIC, Australia /Rural Development Afforestation Society
, was formally registered as a non-profit Society in the year 1995. The first Executive Committee consisted ,RDAS was aided right from its inception by Mr. John Seed (founder of Rain forest Information Center, New South Wales, Australia). The RIC has contributed over the years in two ways:
• Routing funds to support our projects.
The continuous and significant funding from RIC//COTTON WOOD FOUNDATION ,USA between 2004-2012 has helped generate the infrastructure for sustained development of all fronts of concern to RDAS .
A detailed project submission drafted by the RIC was submitted to the Australian the approval of the latter and start of release of the funds, the RIC sounded many individuals and institutions in America and Australia which heralded the first trickle-flow of financial assistance to RDAS and helped it to embark on activities like nursery raising, afforestation of the VILLAGE Hill and Eco-Club activities in school to start with. to assist RDAS .
By 2004-2012, the RIC was replaced by RIC of Australia. A project proposal (for the consolidation of the gains of the earlier 2004 TO 2012 project) was submitted by RDAS to RIC which in turn was recommended by Ms. RUTH Light to the Australian Government. This was approved, and RIC/OTHER DONORS gave a grant of (Rs.3,03000 )and more small grand supporting to me , for five more year for Project..
At present Mr.John Seed & RUTH ,director /RDAS are still continuing efforts to mobilize funds from well wishers, for the Arunachala Reforestation in India project more trees planting work doing donors ,in our areas main donors,following funding donors.
The RIC/Australia has been a relentless campaigner for protection of tropical rain forests in the world, projects all of which are damaging the ecology/causing environmental degradation, as a consequence.
If we are to ensure the safety of future generations, we must act now by contributing to environmental health and protection. We must start by respecting our land and reforesting it. This alone will improve water availability and quality of life. The society desperately needs more involvement, both financial and physical, from the community to enable meaningful spread of its work. We request you to join the campaign by liberal donations (time, material and money). Remittance stating donor’s name and address, may please be made favouring the
RDAS,TIRUVANNAMALAI ,INDIA PROJECT DONORS /RIC RAIN FOREST INFORMATION CENTER,AUSTRALIA /COTTON WOOD FOUNDATION ,USA/EARTH WAY FOUNDATION USA OUR PARTNER PAST 20 YEARS PROJECT WORK MAIN DONORS /TREES FOR THE FUTURE ,USA PAST 6 YEARS OUR DONORS PLANTING TREE PROJECT .
The project initially established Tree planting 10,00000, 2004-2012 project tree planting part one is Eri karai, Leg areas , Nursery development, organic Training programme and Tailoring Center to hold free courses in contemporary crafts for the rural Dhalith women, girls, it is hoped that this endeavor will not only provide an opportunity for livelihood to rural people, but also preserve their rich creative tradition.
Currently, the project employs about 18 works and Volunteers and animators to produce contemporary craft items in addition to traditional nutritional food products, both for village use and for sale to visitors.
Thanking you
Yours sincerely
p.subramanianer, Australia/TIRUVANNAMALAI ,INDIA project work is going on well our donors supporting program me.
RDAS ANNUAL REPORT 2004-2012
RDAS Through this initiative, two hundred twenty two medicinal Local herbs have been identified up-to-date of which thirty five plants have been standardized for cultivation in the villages, Each village is provided with one standard set, free of cost, planted to serve as a model herbal garden. Villagers can buy additional saplings from collaborating nurseries at highly discounted rates eg nadir herbals provide saplings at 5 Rs a piece.
The project offers trainings camps to teach villages the benefits of these thirty five plants, and how to identify grow and use them as medicines as well as dietary/nutritional supplements.
Trained RDAS volunteers, women self-help group members who are part of the Eco-club team, conduct personal follow-ups during village visits regarding cultivation and utilization of herbal gardens and serve as reference points for additional guidance.
To widen public exposure, RDAS holds seminars and exhibitions, and displays these gardens during local festivals. The project has also secured partnership with the Indian Herbs Research and Rural Development Afforestation society.
A delegate to the Rain forest information centre, and a member of the alliance for Earth ways, cotton wood foundation, Rainforest concern and the Ecologos institute charitable Registration. With preeminent leaders of the world to forest peace and harmony his humanitarian efforts to rural his rehabilitation project for prisoners in India and abroad are internationally acclaimed, He is the source of strength and inspiration for hundreds of volunteers involved in these project. Who has been associated with the project sine its inception, introduced project and shared with the secretary the transformation it has brought about in the rural areas.
We invite the support and participation of all individuals groups and organizations in this endeavor, which is destine to bring a permanent trans formation in the lives of people who are trapped in hopeless economic and social situations.
There is a vital need to expand this project to cover other rural areas. You can fund different RDAS activities, individually or collectively, for a specific area and a certain duration, RDAS will create an opportunity to acknowledge the donor with in the villages, A maximum of four banners will be displayed for any sponsored RDAS activity (i.e Tailoring Training centre, Tree planting, Herbal Garden Develop and Environmental Health Awareness rogramms, organic training centre , health care water and sanitation CAMPS, Eye Camps) excluding, children sponsorship scheme will be announced, community development,
Some special donation modalities are dusted below.
Grass root level measures for conservation and education about the environment are an integral part of this project. Afforestation of the waste lands near the villages and within residential and common areas of the villages is also undertaken.
The village vanashree Eco-centre is an ecological initiative to preserve the rich ecological heritage of the country. The kannamudaiyar Shiva hills conservation campaigni initiated during the international year of the mountain is an ongoing reforest Shiva programme to conserve and protect the kannamudaiyar Shiva temple forest. Near the society mothers rescurce centre” Iruthayangar, permaculture counciling centre,
In the past two years measures have been undertaken to conserve the ecology of these village mountain, Erikarai, School. Temple, Road Both Side Tree planting and at the Same time create facilities for Local visitors. Thus catering both to man and environment, cleaning campaigns focusing on removing plastic wastes and educating the visitors on the hazards of toxic wastes being dumped in the mountains from a part of on going efforts to inculcate nature awareness amongst the masses. As an endeavor to preserve and propagate the areas rich environmental resources, the village vanashree Eco center RDAS PART TWO tree plantation and supports the protection and propagation of native wildlife.
To create awareness amongst children about conserving our rich heritage, The village vanashree Eco-center conducts five day residential Nature Awareness programs involving live demonstrations guest lectures, audio-visual presentations, field trips and a hands -on experience scientific documentation and photography.
In addition, Ten thousands of trees have been planted in various villages of Tamil Nadu Through the project Large Scale 100,000 Hundred Thousands of Trees planting 2004 to 2012. AFFORESTATION endeavors RDAS/RIC CONTINU FOLLOWING NEXT FIVE YEARS.Trekking and outings in the wilderness would be an essential component of this program. Measures against Coaching of wild life illegal felling of trees and trade in wild life products will be initiated at the village Level.
Schemes for water conservation and rain water harvesting at individual house holds and the community as a whole are also implemented. Agriculture Land Bunding, Community, Temple Land Bunding Rain water harvesting Bunding work – 25 Villages implementing 2005-2012project.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT AND EDUCATION
The project supports destitute children and organizes children and youth development work for nearby tribal villages, discourses with girls, youth are held in educational institutions to introduce early character and social development. Educational Scholarships create possibilities for children who have been deprived of educational due to financial social and caste restrictions, scholarships provide books, educational free lectures are given to the general public as well as to hospitals institutions and universities on health and will-being the project is committed to sharing information in support of the donation quest for world peace ,global understanding and international co-operation. The Projects trans potency and presence on the world wide web, as well as the society numerous publications and partnerships with like minded organisation’s serve as a platform to improve personal and social well being.
Championing Women and Breaking Social Barriers:
One of the primary efforts of action for rural women way aim at empowering rural women, an of neglected section of the rural society.
Community education is imparted to tribal women and dhalith women through educational camps for personality development and personal empowerment health care and prevent live education is also offered to create awareness and sustenance of good practices.
On the other hand, through the initiative of RDAS crafts, the employed people are predominantly women from economically disfavored families. It is hoped that this endeavor not only will provide rural people with a means to livelihood, but will also preserve the rich creative tradition of rural life.
Community Health Programme & Water and Sanitation:
Through various health reach programme the neglected section of society and most remote areas are integrated to revitalize those most in need. Free medical and Eye camps as well as free dispensaries mobile camp and special program for the handicapped water Born daises, workers conducted regularly in the month in the rural area tribal communities to provide relief to the needy.
1. Rural Development Afforestation Society
The Rural Development Afforestation Society was established on march 15th, 1995.
The aims of the RDAS are
• To work for the reafforestation and conservation of Rural land 100,000 seedlings planting 25 villages our working areas project future 5 years planning .
• To generate awareness of our natural environment, its problems of loss of genetic diversity, erosion of soil and water and to seek solutions.
• To encourage participation in the regeneration and protection of animal, bird and plant life in the surrounding areas through awareness campaigns, educational activities, employment opportunities and other means.
• To contribute towards harmonious relationships among all living beings.
• To co-operate with other individuals and organisations who share these objectives.
The Rainforest Information Center (RIC), Australia, has recognized Rural erikarai tree planting reafforestation project all the villages.in south India.RDAS is executing the following projects:
Waste Land DevelopmentConverting the waste lands inside the MELKACHIRAPPATTU AND AROUND villages ,Temple corridors,school.road side and community land all the areas plant trees our donors project RDAS WORKING . and other Temple lands into beautiful garden of flowering plants, fruit trees and sacred trees of medicinal and herbal value.
VILLAGE Nursery (within the outermost, ie. fifth corridor, of the big Temple)A plant nursery with enough capacity to supply saplings for our yearly afforestation activity on the rural Hill and, temple lands on the village road. The nursery also supplies saplings to schools, institutions, individuals and NGOs.
Eco – Club Activities in Schools
Enthusing school children to form Eco-clubs, educate them through lectures, demonstrations and, video and puppet shows, towards better understanding about environmental degradation and the urgent need to protect trees, to prevent environmental pollution of all kinds and to grow as responsible citizens of the future.
Sustainable Agriculture Demonstration Farm
demonstration sites for:
Permaculture (permanent agriculture or permanent culture)
is the conscious design of agriculturally productive ecosystems which have the diversity, stability, resilience of natural ecosystems. It is the harmonious integration of landscape and people, providing their food, energy, shelter and other material and non-material needs in a sustainable way. Without permanent agriculture there is no possibility of a stable social order.
• Models for harnessing non-conventional energy resources like biogas plant, solar heater, solar energy for power generation and wind mills. These will result in less dependence on firewood for the growing population.
• Methods of soil conservation, effective water management.
• A well equipped laboratory for biological control of pests, soil testing and meteorological observations.
• A model sericulture and poultry farm.
• An education centre for students and villagers with facilities for periodical meetings, workshops, seminars etc.Revival of Traditional Herbal MedicineCampaign is being launched to educate the poor masses about the local availability of herbs and the need to change over to traditional herbal medicines, highlighting the economy, effectiveness, prophylaxis and absence of side effects.RDAS has also helped in the establishement of a Medicinal Plant Development area on 250 hectares of forest land near the KANNAMUDAIYAR temple land 3km around 10 village’s, adjoining the southern slope of the holy MELKACHIRAPPATTU Hill.VILLAGE Hill Afforestation Thousands of local plants of diverse species are annually planted on the environment education ,non formal education center for street children s benefit ,MELKACHIRAPPATTU hill b Rural Development Afforestation Society target areas 25 villages main project work areas. Construction of cattle guards, clearing of fire lines and dawn-to-dusk watching to drive prevent goats and cattle grazing and woodcutters, are steps that have resulted in enhancing survival of saplings. The severe, dry summers, the menace of goats and woodcutters, and arson by miscreants pose serious problem for the Society. RDAS feels that sustainable solutions can arise through direct involvement of the local people and accountability of authorities.
AIYANAR Land and all temple land tree planting work our project.
In the year 2004 to 2012, 250 acres of barren temple land and lake bund,hill,school land,farmers land and village land , surrounding the villages,about 25 village farmers request planting programme . shrine, were planted with a variety of tree saplings and flowering plants after adequate soil and water management measures. Water management work included canal for hill areas hill streams to the adjacent tank. The plants were looked after by RDAS by timely watering and dawn-to-dusk watching against cattle. A lush grove developed, and was handed over back to the temple authority in 2004 to 2012 all our dry land and community land tree planting project .
ERIKARAI – 250 .05 Acres ,15 villages and community land tree planting work .
In the year 2004-2012 bio-fencing of the surveyed boundary was done. Contour bunds were constructed to impound the rain water. Planting of saplings was started in 2004 to 2012 . A bore well was sunk and hand-pump installed in 2004 to 2012. So far thousands of diverse plants have been planted and are being well looked after.
Women in Development
RDAS has set up the MOTHER`S RESOURCE CENTER (Regd) with branches in TEN villages. The Society stresses thrift, nursery raising, organic farming, non-formal education, food preservation, vocational training, etc.
RDAS goal is the
• Promotion of a sense of gratitude to Mother Nature.
• Sustainable development which includes conserving nature’s resources such as biological diversity, soil, water etc..
• Replacement of environmentally unsound development activity by a safer strategy.
Directories
Rural Development Afforestation Society is listed in:
• ILEIA LEISA NETWORK IN INDIA- A register of Indian organisations involved in Low External-Input, and Sustainable Agriculture – October 1995 – published by ILEIA.
The Formative Years of RDAS & The Contribution of Rain forest Information Center , Australia, towards “Project village erikarai soil conservation and tree planting project 2004-2012
John button , an Australian settled in Tiruvannamalai, dreamt of a forested villages l. contact with John Seed and ruth of the RIC, Australia /Rural Development Afforestation Society
, was formally registered as a non-profit Society in the year 1995. The first Executive Committee consisted ,RDAS was aided right from its inception by Mr. John Seed (founder of Rain forest Information Center, New South Wales, Australia). The RIC has contributed over the years in two ways:
• Routing funds to support our projects.
The continuous and significant funding from RIC//COTTON WOOD FOUNDATION ,USA between 2004-2012 has helped generate the infrastructure for sustained development of all fronts of concern to RDAS .
A detailed project submission drafted by the RIC was submitted to the Australian the approval of the latter and start of release of the funds, the RIC sounded many individuals and institutions in America and Australia which heralded the first trickle-flow of financial assistance to RDAS and helped it to embark on activities like nursery raising, afforestation of the VILLAGE Hill and Eco-Club activities in school to start with. to assist RDAS .
By 2004-2012, the RIC was replaced by RIC of Australia. A project proposal (for the consolidation of the gains of the earlier 2004 TO 2012 project) was submitted by RDAS to RIC which in turn was recommended by Ms. RUTH Light to the Australian Government. This was approved, and RIC/OTHER DONORS gave a grant of (Rs.3,03000 )and more small grand supporting to me , for five more year for Project..
At present Mr.John Seed & RUTH ,director /RDAS are still continuing efforts to mobilize funds from well wishers, for the Arunachala Reforestation in India project more trees planting work doing donors ,in our areas main donors,following funding donors.
The RIC/Australia has been a relentless campaigner for protection of tropical rain forests in the world, projects all of which are damaging the ecology/causing environmental degradation, as a consequence.
If we are to ensure the safety of future generations, we must act now by contributing to environmental health and protection. We must start by respecting our land and reforesting it. This alone will improve water availability and quality of life. The society desperately needs more involvement, both financial and physical, from the community to enable meaningful spread of its work. We request you to join the campaign by liberal donations (time, material and money). Remittance stating donor’s name and address, may please be made favouring the
RDAS,TIRUVANNAMALAI ,INDIA PROJECT DONORS /RIC RAIN FOREST INFORMATION CENTER,AUSTRALIA /COTTON WOOD FOUNDATION ,USA/EARTH WAY FOUNDATION USA OUR PARTNER PAST 20 YEARS PROJECT WORK MAIN DONORS /TREES FOR THE FUTURE ,USA PAST 6 YEARS OUR DONORS PLANTING TREE PROJECT .
The project initially established Tree planting 10,00000, 2004-2012 project tree planting part one is Eri karai, Leg areas , Nursery development, organic Training programme and Tailoring Center to hold free courses in contemporary crafts for the rural Dhalith women, girls, it is hoped that this endeavor will not only provide an opportunity for livelihood to rural people, but also preserve their rich creative tradition.
Currently, the project employs about 18 works and Volunteers and animators to produce contemporary craft items in addition to traditional nutritional food products, both for village use and for sale to visitors.
Thanking you
Yours sincerely
p.subramanian
Reply
SUBRAMANIAN says
September 13, 2010 at 7:38 am
dearsir,mr.john seed ,ric,australia.
RDAS WORK IS GOING ON WELL IN OUR AREAS GOOD RAIN OUR PLANTING TREES ALL GOOD ,I DONT HAVE MONEY TO PLANTING MORE TREES SIR.YOUR SUPPORT I NEED SIR.
THANKING YOU
YOURSSINCERELY
P.SUBRAMANIAN
Reply
MR.Hira Bahadur Chhetri says
July 20, 2011 at 11:42 am
we must save the earth from global warming
so that our next generation can live well
our organization name is world wide tree plantation
Reply
Lou Yan Fu says
May 7, 2012 at 11:32 am
Why do people hurt the world which sustain them? I am also a deep ecological thinker and doer. Thank you for the great work you are doing in conserving nature for nature’s sake
Reply
subramanian says
December 11, 2014 at 12:34 pm
Category Archives: Society
An Invitation for Interactive seminar on Forest Development
Posted on November 12, 2014 by Ajit Deshbandhu
HARIYALI
Dear Madam / Sir
Subject: Interactive seminar on forest development
Hariyali, a Thane based NGO working for environmental protection development and awareness is organizing an Interactive seminar on the given subject. Details are as under.
Date : Saturday 22nd November 2014
Time : 9.30am to 1.30pm
Venue : 3rd floor Hall, Saraswati secondary school (Marathi medium) Gokhle Road, Naupada, Opposite Malhar
Cinema
, Thane (W) 400602
You have been participating voluntarily in Hariyali’s activity out of your zeal for nature. Now is the time to expose ourselves to a scientific / systematic approach towards nurturing forests.
Hariyali is pleased to inform all nature lovers that renowned authorities will be taking part in seminar, the topic covered in the seminar shall be mainly related to Forest development and specific subject of “tree”.
Program Schedule
9.30 to 10.00 : Registrations [spot registration Rs. 50/- including Tea & High Tea ]
10.00 to 10.15 : Introductions and felicitation
10.15 to 11.00 : lecturer – Mr. Mahesh Sabne will address to participants on “What is Tree” and “What is Forest”
11.00 to 11.15 : Tea break
11.15 to 12.15 : Lecture – Mr. Rajendra Bhat on “Man made Forest” and “Conservation of natural resources”
12.15 to 12.45 : Dialogue with Mr Rajendra Bhat and Mahesh Sabne
12.45 to 1.15 : Panel discussion and concluding remarks
1.15 : High Tea
You are requested to participate actively in seminar and help Hariyali for future activities.
Secretary Co-ordinator
Suryakant Apte S M Sathe
9869184995 9819098978
Posted in Activities, Events, Hariyali Varta, Society, Trees | Tagged Seminar | Leave a reply
Instructions to Plantation Participants
Featured
Posted on April 6, 2014 by Ajit Deshbandhu
HARIYALI’S PLANTATION SESSIONS AT BHAVALE FORESTLAND Continue reading →
Posted in Activities, Plantations, Society | Leave a reply
HARIYALI ORGANISES AN EXHIBITION OF MEDICINAL PLANTS!!!!!
Posted on November 20, 2013 by Ajit Deshbandhu
english invitation
Posted in Articles, Events, Plantations, Press, Society | Leave a reply
Such Comments lift up moral of Hariyali Volunteers
Posted on August 26, 2013 by Ajit Deshbandhu
Dear All,
Note what Kailas felt after working for few hours with Hariyali
“Kailas Jaysingh Girase on August 25, 2013 at 8:52 pm said:
I really thankful to my company Hexaware Technologies for given an opportunity to visit Hariyali initiative.
When we reach there four-five Hariyali volunteers were there. They had great dedication for this project. They all are of my grandpa’s age but they were really act as power boosters for us.
Hats off to the spirit of hariali members.”
Posted in Activities, Bhawale-Lonad, Hariyali Varta, Press, Society | Leave a reply
HARIYALI VARTA 190813
Posted on August 19, 2013 by Ajit Deshbandhu
Hello,
On the weekend post Independence Day, we had large groups participating in our Tree Plantation Drive at our plantation site at “village Bavale-Lenad” on Mumbai-Nasik road.
On Saturday 17th August, we had a group of 15 ladies from ONGC. They came from various locations like Panvel, Bandra etc. They joined a group of 40 children, both girls and boys from various localities of Ulhas Nagar. This group of children was brought by the organization named “ज्योत – बहुउद्देषीय सामाजिक संस्था / Jyot – Bahu Uddeshiy Samajik Sanstha”.
Both these groups, in spite of heavy
rain
, planted over 70 saplings. The work included carrying the sampling up the hill, digging pits and planting saplings.
Sunday 18th August, saw people from Software Industry joining people from Traditional Industry. Siemens Employees Union on the occasion of completion of 50 years of union formation, came in with 40 nature lovers and joined a group of 20 software and media professionals brought in by Dombivali based NGO “जाणीव – एक सामाजिक चळवळ / Janeev – ek samajik chalval”. This NGO, though comparatively young, does important work in and around Dombivali. Their work includes child education, children library, different cleaning drives, nature conservation activities etc.
Both these groups together, planted over 250 saplings. One group also undertook check dam repair work which will be one of our main activities post monsoon.
Participation in nature conservation activities by people across the cross section of our society is an encouraging signal of growing awareness among people for nature conservation and preservation.
Hope to receive more and more support of such enthusiasts in the future!
Vinay Ketkar
Hariyali
Posted in Activities, Bhawale-Lonad, Hariyali Varta, Plantations, Society, Trees | Leave a reply
FOR A CHANGE!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted on July 9, 2013 by Ajit Deshbandhu
2
“For a change Hariyali receives seeds!”
All these years Hariyali has been distributing seeds amongst people for sowing and making saplings. However, having felt motivated by this simple but very useful activity, many nature-lovers have started collecting, preserving and handing those over to Hariyali for growing saplings and distributing the same amongst potential tree-growers. Volunteers from “Jaanata Raja” an NGO from Mankhurd, Mumbai handed over about five kgs of seeds of Bahava and Tamrin collected by them to Shri Y.B. Bhide, President of Hariyali in the presence of other activists of Hariyali.
Hariyali, for a change, receives seeds
Posted in Activities, Bhawale-Lonad, Events, Society | 2 Replies
TWO JEWELS FROM SHREE PUNAM SINGAVI FOR YOU TO GRAB!
Posted on June 3, 2013 by Ajit Deshbandhu
Hariyali, in partership with Ankur Publications published two book, Gyanbache Paryavaran and Gyanbache Bhatakanti authoured by an acknowledged writer and an eminent personality on Environment and a great crusader for betterment of Environment,Shree Punam Sangavi.
These books were released by Shri Ashok Chitnis and Shri Madhuri Pejavar on 2nd June 2013 in Thane amids very big Hariyali Parivar, noted celebrities of Thane and around, and host of lovers of environment.
A photo and a press coverage is attached here for you to view!
DSC_0826-2BR Sanmitra 020613
Posted in Activities, Articles, Events, Press, Society, Trees | Leave a reply
1,000 Trees To Cost Buffalo Grove $170,000, an interesting news
Posted on June 13, 2012 by Ajit Deshbandhu
2
1,000 Trees To Cost Buffalo Grove $170,000
By SEAN STILLMAKER Journal & Topics Reporter | Posted: Thursday, June 7, 2012 8:15 am
Buffalo Grove is jumping ahead of the curve by buying trees in bulk.
The village and nearly the entire Northwest suburban area will be needing thousands of trees in upcoming years to replace ones infected by the Emerald Ash Borer.
Buffalo Grove has approximately 7,000 ash trees that will all eventually be infected by EAB, if they haven’t been already, according to officials.
In order to avoid skyrocketing prices from increasing demand, the village wants to lock in prices now by buying in bulk.
The village board approved a contract Monday, June 4 with St. Aubin Nursery in Kirkland to begin growing 1,000 trees for $170,000.
The stock is to be planted this month with harvest expected in the fall of 2014.
The village is also working with the nursery on securing a stock price for the approximate remaining 6,000 replacement trees.
“Demand for nursery stock is going to get very interesting for this region in the upcoming years,” said Village Manager Dane Bragg. “We want to get ahead of the curve.”
The nursery will grow a variety of species for the village such as oak, sycamore, elm, hornbeam, ironwood and others.
Buffalo Grove was first infected by EAB in 2009. Officials estimated costs for total tree removal and replacement at $4 million.
By buying in bulk, the village is hoping to reduce that estimate.
Posted in Events, Plantations, Society, Trees | 2 Replies
HARIYALI’S PLANTATION AND WATER CONSERVATION AT BHAVALE-LONAD,CALANDER FOR AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2012 AS UPDATED ON 26th JULY 2012
Posted on May 15, 2012 by Ajit Deshbandhu
4
E August-Sept 2012
Posted in Activities, Events, Plantations, Society, Trees | 4 Replies
Glimpses of Hariyali Rath promoting Adoption of Medicinal plant –Gudhee Padwa, 2012
Posted on March 28, 2012 by Ajit Deshbandhu
DSCN4901
DSCN4896
Posted in Events, Plantations, Society, Trees | Leave a reply
CAN THIS CATASTROPHY EVER STOP???
Posted on March 24, 2012 by Ajit Deshbandhu
1
Posted in Articles, Events, Press, Society | 1 Reply
Adopt a Medicinal Plant– An initiative by Hariyali—– Please clik the link below!
Posted on March 20, 2012 by Ajit Deshbandhu
2
English PN 180312
Posted in Activities, Articles, Events, Plantations, Press, Society, Trees | 2 Replies
Hariyali takes a path-beating step towards Aforestation– Acknowledged by Hindustan Times
Posted on January 22, 2012 by Ajit Deshbandhu
The following press-clipping appeared in Hindustan Times dated 22nd January.
Hariyali thanks Hinustan Times for their support in our mission of growing more trees in the forests.
Posted in Activities, Articles, Events, Plantations, Press, Society, Trees | Leave a reply
THEY DESERVE A BIG BOW AND UNIVERSAL EMULATION!
Posted on December 20, 2011 by Ajit Deshbandhu
4
Most invitation cards for attending social functions like wedding, thread ceremony, anniversaries, etc, in our society these days include a request “No presents or bouquets, please”. However, pressures from friends and relatives makes it difficult for the host, as also, the invitees to adhere to this desire strictly. Continue reading →
Posted in Activities, Articles, Events, Press, Society | 4 Replies
Here are few photos of “Looking Back–Looking Forward” Symposium
Posted on December 6, 2011 by Ajit Deshbandhu
6
Hariyali and B N Bandodkar College of Thane organised a very successful Symposium on 4rth of December at PANINI Auditorium of Thane College.
It was organised on 4rth of December and all who participated were very happy to learn about the achievements of the past 15 years and were very enthusiastic to participate for the Hariyali’s mission ahead. Continue reading →
Reply
subramanian says
December 11, 2014 at 12:45 pm
dear sir, madam,
greetings from subramanian,rdas,tiruvannamalai ,in tiruvannamalai,s-india tamilnadu
we are doing reforestation programme in and around tiruvannamalai block level 24 village lake bund and hill areas treeplanting and maintain and producting and watering work and fencing all the trees ,we need your donor help our project donating to our donors
mr.john seed ,director
rainforest information center ,australia
thanks. will do that.
Loved it! Thank you as always…for sharing such great things…
DEAR SIR,
MR.JOHN SEED,DIRECTOR,
LIS MORE,NSW,AUSTRALIA.
Greetings from subramanian,RDAS project work is going moon soon in our areas good rain starting our project work starting in tiruvannamlai district creating reforestation programme in our target areas 6 villages our past year starting programme and new areas also planting work doing 15,000 seedlings planting lake bund and hill in thanimalai areas and schools and communituy land planting work starting 2010 -2011 programme sir.
kindly request to you your assistance RDAS need our project work areas all workers now pit work doing and next rain planting work doing sir.
kindly request to you your assistance letter i am waiting sir.
thanking you
yourssincerely
p.subramanian
rdas
tiruvannamalai
india
DEAR SIR,
GREETINGS FROM SUBRAMANIANrdas/ric/tiruvannamalai project work in tree planting activities around villages and tiruvannamalai areas ,our donor mr.john seed ,directer of RIC/AUSTRALIA,SUPPORT TO ME SIR,IF YOUR HELP OUR PROJECT TO MY DONOR MR.JOHNSEED ,YOUR DONATION AND FUNDS SENDING TO AUSTRALIA .
THANKING YOU
YOURSSINCERELY
P.SUBRAMANIAN
RURAL DEVELOPMENT AFFORESTATION SOCIETY
MELKACHIRAPPATTU,VILLAGE,MEYYUR,POST
TIRUVANNAMALAI.TK.DT,TAMILNADU,INDIA
=============================================================
GREETINGS FROM RDAS /Rain Forest Information centRURAL DEVELOPMENT AFFORESTATION SOCIETY
MELKACHIRAPPATTU,VILLAGE,MEYYUR,POST
TIRUVANNAMALAI.TK.DT,TAMILNADU,INDIA
=============================================================
GREETINGS FROM RDAS /rain forest information center,Australia/TIRUVANNAMALAI ,INDIA project work is going on well our donors supporting program me.
RDAS ANNUAL REPORT 2004-2012
RDAS Through this initiative, two hundred twenty two medicinal Local herbs have been identified up-to-date of which thirty five plants have been standardized for cultivation in the villages, Each village is provided with one standard set, free of cost, planted to serve as a model herbal garden. Villagers can buy additional saplings from collaborating nurseries at highly discounted rates eg nadir herbals provide saplings at 5 Rs a piece.
The project offers trainings camps to teach villages the benefits of these thirty five plants, and how to identify grow and use them as medicines as well as dietary/nutritional supplements.
Trained RDAS volunteers, women self-help group members who are part of the Eco-club team, conduct personal follow-ups during village visits regarding cultivation and utilization of herbal gardens and serve as reference points for additional guidance.
To widen public exposure, RDAS holds seminars and exhibitions, and displays these gardens during local festivals. The project has also secured partnership with the Indian Herbs Research and Rural Development Afforestation society.
A delegate to the Rain forest information centre, and a member of the alliance for Earth ways, cotton wood foundation, Rainforest concern and the Ecologos institute charitable Registration. With preeminent leaders of the world to forest peace and harmony his humanitarian efforts to rural his rehabilitation project for prisoners in India and abroad are internationally acclaimed, He is the source of strength and inspiration for hundreds of volunteers involved in these project. Who has been associated with the project sine its inception, introduced project and shared with the secretary the transformation it has brought about in the rural areas.
We invite the support and participation of all individuals groups and organizations in this endeavor, which is destine to bring a permanent trans formation in the lives of people who are trapped in hopeless economic and social situations.
There is a vital need to expand this project to cover other rural areas. You can fund different RDAS activities, individually or collectively, for a specific area and a certain duration, RDAS will create an opportunity to acknowledge the donor with in the villages, A maximum of four banners will be displayed for any sponsored RDAS activity (i.e Tailoring Training centre, Tree planting, Herbal Garden Develop and Environmental Health Awareness rogramms, organic training centre , health care water and sanitation CAMPS, Eye Camps) excluding, children sponsorship scheme will be announced, community development,
Some special donation modalities are dusted below.
Grass root level measures for conservation and education about the environment are an integral part of this project. Afforestation of the waste lands near the villages and within residential and common areas of the villages is also undertaken.
The village vanashree Eco-centre is an ecological initiative to preserve the rich ecological heritage of the country. The kannamudaiyar Shiva hills conservation campaigni initiated during the international year of the mountain is an ongoing reforest Shiva programme to conserve and protect the kannamudaiyar Shiva temple forest. Near the society mothers rescurce centre” Iruthayangar, permaculture counciling centre,
In the past two years measures have been undertaken to conserve the ecology of these village mountain, Erikarai, School. Temple, Road Both Side Tree planting and at the Same time create facilities for Local visitors. Thus catering both to man and environment, cleaning campaigns focusing on removing plastic wastes and educating the visitors on the hazards of toxic wastes being dumped in the mountains from a part of on going efforts to inculcate nature awareness amongst the masses. As an endeavor to preserve and propagate the areas rich environmental resources, the village vanashree Eco center RDAS PART TWO tree plantation and supports the protection and propagation of native wildlife.
To create awareness amongst children about conserving our rich heritage, The village vanashree Eco-center conducts five day residential Nature Awareness programs involving live demonstrations guest lectures, audio-visual presentations, field trips and a hands -on experience scientific documentation and photography.
In addition, Ten thousands of trees have been planted in various villages of Tamil Nadu Through the project Large Scale 100,000 Hundred Thousands of Trees planting 2004 to 2012. AFFORESTATION endeavors RDAS/RIC CONTINU FOLLOWING NEXT FIVE YEARS.Trekking and outings in the wilderness would be an essential component of this program. Measures against Coaching of wild life illegal felling of trees and trade in wild life products will be initiated at the village Level.
Schemes for water conservation and rain water harvesting at individual house holds and the community as a whole are also implemented. Agriculture Land Bunding, Community, Temple Land Bunding Rain water harvesting Bunding work – 25 Villages implementing 2005-2012project.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT AND EDUCATION
The project supports destitute children and organizes children and youth development work for nearby tribal villages, discourses with girls, youth are held in educational institutions to introduce early character and social development. Educational Scholarships create possibilities for children who have been deprived of educational due to financial social and caste restrictions, scholarships provide books, educational free lectures are given to the general public as well as to hospitals institutions and universities on health and will-being the project is committed to sharing information in support of the donation quest for world peace ,global understanding and international co-operation. The Projects trans potency and presence on the world wide web, as well as the society numerous publications and partnerships with like minded organisation’s serve as a platform to improve personal and social well being.
Championing Women and Breaking Social Barriers:
One of the primary efforts of action for rural women way aim at empowering rural women, an of neglected section of the rural society.
Community education is imparted to tribal women and dhalith women through educational camps for personality development and personal empowerment health care and prevent live education is also offered to create awareness and sustenance of good practices.
On the other hand, through the initiative of RDAS crafts, the employed people are predominantly women from economically disfavored families. It is hoped that this endeavor not only will provide rural people with a means to livelihood, but will also preserve the rich creative tradition of rural life.
Community Health Programme & Water and Sanitation:
Through various health reach programme the neglected section of society and most remote areas are integrated to revitalize those most in need. Free medical and Eye camps as well as free dispensaries mobile camp and special program for the handicapped water Born daises, workers conducted regularly in the month in the rural area tribal communities to provide relief to the needy.
1. Rural Development Afforestation Society
The Rural Development Afforestation Society was established on march 15th, 1995.
The aims of the RDAS are
• To work for the reafforestation and conservation of Rural land 100,000 seedlings planting 25 villages our working areas project future 5 years planning .
• To generate awareness of our natural environment, its problems of loss of genetic diversity, erosion of soil and water and to seek solutions.
• To encourage participation in the regeneration and protection of animal, bird and plant life in the surrounding areas through awareness campaigns, educational activities, employment opportunities and other means.
• To contribute towards harmonious relationships among all living beings.
• To co-operate with other individuals and organisations who share these objectives.
The Rainforest Information Center (RIC), Australia, has recognized Rural erikarai tree planting reafforestation project all the villages.in south India.RDAS is executing the following projects:
Waste Land DevelopmentConverting the waste lands inside the MELKACHIRAPPATTU AND AROUND villages ,Temple corridors,school.road side and community land all the areas plant trees our donors project RDAS WORKING . and other Temple lands into beautiful garden of flowering plants, fruit trees and sacred trees of medicinal and herbal value.
VILLAGE Nursery (within the outermost, ie. fifth corridor, of the big Temple)A plant nursery with enough capacity to supply saplings for our yearly afforestation activity on the rural Hill and, temple lands on the village road. The nursery also supplies saplings to schools, institutions, individuals and NGOs.
Eco – Club Activities in Schools
Enthusing school children to form Eco-clubs, educate them through lectures, demonstrations and, video and puppet shows, towards better understanding about environmental degradation and the urgent need to protect trees, to prevent environmental pollution of all kinds and to grow as responsible citizens of the future.
Sustainable Agriculture Demonstration Farm
demonstration sites for:
Permaculture (permanent agriculture or permanent culture)
is the conscious design of agriculturally productive ecosystems which have the diversity, stability, resilience of natural ecosystems. It is the harmonious integration of landscape and people, providing their food, energy, shelter and other material and non-material needs in a sustainable way. Without permanent agriculture there is no possibility of a stable social order.
• Models for harnessing non-conventional energy resources like biogas plant, solar heater, solar energy for power generation and wind mills. These will result in less dependence on firewood for the growing population.
• Methods of soil conservation, effective water management.
• A well equipped laboratory for biological control of pests, soil testing and meteorological observations.
• A model sericulture and poultry farm.
• An education centre for students and villagers with facilities for periodical meetings, workshops, seminars etc.Revival of Traditional Herbal MedicineCampaign is being launched to educate the poor masses about the local availability of herbs and the need to change over to traditional herbal medicines, highlighting the economy, effectiveness, prophylaxis and absence of side effects.RDAS has also helped in the establishement of a Medicinal Plant Development area on 250 hectares of forest land near the KANNAMUDAIYAR temple land 3km around 10 village’s, adjoining the southern slope of the holy MELKACHIRAPPATTU Hill.VILLAGE Hill Afforestation Thousands of local plants of diverse species are annually planted on the environment education ,non formal education center for street children s benefit ,MELKACHIRAPPATTU hill b Rural Development Afforestation Society target areas 25 villages main project work areas. Construction of cattle guards, clearing of fire lines and dawn-to-dusk watching to drive prevent goats and cattle grazing and woodcutters, are steps that have resulted in enhancing survival of saplings. The severe, dry summers, the menace of goats and woodcutters, and arson by miscreants pose serious problem for the Society. RDAS feels that sustainable solutions can arise through direct involvement of the local people and accountability of authorities.
AIYANAR Land and all temple land tree planting work our project.
In the year 2004 to 2012, 250 acres of barren temple land and lake bund,hill,school land,farmers land and village land , surrounding the villages,about 25 village farmers request planting programme . shrine, were planted with a variety of tree saplings and flowering plants after adequate soil and water management measures. Water management work included canal for hill areas hill streams to the adjacent tank. The plants were looked after by RDAS by timely watering and dawn-to-dusk watching against cattle. A lush grove developed, and was handed over back to the temple authority in 2004 to 2012 all our dry land and community land tree planting project .
ERIKARAI – 250 .05 Acres ,15 villages and community land tree planting work .
In the year 2004-2012 bio-fencing of the surveyed boundary was done. Contour bunds were constructed to impound the rain water. Planting of saplings was started in 2004 to 2012 . A bore well was sunk and hand-pump installed in 2004 to 2012. So far thousands of diverse plants have been planted and are being well looked after.
Women in Development
RDAS has set up the MOTHER`S RESOURCE CENTER (Regd) with branches in TEN villages. The Society stresses thrift, nursery raising, organic farming, non-formal education, food preservation, vocational training, etc.
RDAS goal is the
• Promotion of a sense of gratitude to Mother Nature.
• Sustainable development which includes conserving nature’s resources such as biological diversity, soil, water etc..
• Replacement of environmentally unsound development activity by a safer strategy.
Directories
Rural Development Afforestation Society is listed in:
• ILEIA LEISA NETWORK IN INDIA- A register of Indian organisations involved in Low External-Input, and Sustainable Agriculture – October 1995 – published by ILEIA.
The Formative Years of RDAS & The Contribution of Rain forest Information Center , Australia, towards “Project village erikarai soil conservation and tree planting project 2004-2012
John button , an Australian settled in Tiruvannamalai, dreamt of a forested villages l. contact with John Seed and ruth of the RIC, Australia /Rural Development Afforestation Society
, was formally registered as a non-profit Society in the year 1995. The first Executive Committee consisted ,RDAS was aided right from its inception by Mr. John Seed (founder of Rain forest Information Center, New South Wales, Australia). The RIC has contributed over the years in two ways:
• Routing funds to support our projects.
The continuous and significant funding from RIC//COTTON WOOD FOUNDATION ,USA between 2004-2012 has helped generate the infrastructure for sustained development of all fronts of concern to RDAS .
A detailed project submission drafted by the RIC was submitted to the Australian the approval of the latter and start of release of the funds, the RIC sounded many individuals and institutions in America and Australia which heralded the first trickle-flow of financial assistance to RDAS and helped it to embark on activities like nursery raising, afforestation of the VILLAGE Hill and Eco-Club activities in school to start with. to assist RDAS .
By 2004-2012, the RIC was replaced by RIC of Australia. A project proposal (for the consolidation of the gains of the earlier 2004 TO 2012 project) was submitted by RDAS to RIC which in turn was recommended by Ms. RUTH Light to the Australian Government. This was approved, and RIC/OTHER DONORS gave a grant of (Rs.3,03000 )and more small grand supporting to me , for five more year for Project..
At present Mr.John Seed & RUTH ,director /RDAS are still continuing efforts to mobilize funds from well wishers, for the Arunachala Reforestation in India project more trees planting work doing donors ,in our areas main donors,following funding donors.
The RIC/Australia has been a relentless campaigner for protection of tropical rain forests in the world, projects all of which are damaging the ecology/causing environmental degradation, as a consequence.
If we are to ensure the safety of future generations, we must act now by contributing to environmental health and protection. We must start by respecting our land and reforesting it. This alone will improve water availability and quality of life. The society desperately needs more involvement, both financial and physical, from the community to enable meaningful spread of its work. We request you to join the campaign by liberal donations (time, material and money). Remittance stating donor’s name and address, may please be made favouring the
RDAS,TIRUVANNAMALAI ,INDIA PROJECT DONORS /RIC RAIN FOREST INFORMATION CENTER,AUSTRALIA /COTTON WOOD FOUNDATION ,USA/EARTH WAY FOUNDATION USA OUR PARTNER PAST 20 YEARS PROJECT WORK MAIN DONORS /TREES FOR THE FUTURE ,USA PAST 6 YEARS OUR DONORS PLANTING TREE PROJECT .
The project initially established Tree planting 10,00000, 2004-2012 project tree planting part one is Eri karai, Leg areas , Nursery development, organic Training programme and Tailoring Center to hold free courses in contemporary crafts for the rural Dhalith women, girls, it is hoped that this endeavor will not only provide an opportunity for livelihood to rural people, but also preserve their rich creative tradition.
Currently, the project employs about 18 works and Volunteers and animators to produce contemporary craft items in addition to traditional nutritional food products, both for village use and for sale to visitors.
Thanking you
Yours sincerely
p.subramanianer, Australia/TIRUVANNAMALAI ,INDIA project work is going on well our donors supporting program me.
RDAS ANNUAL REPORT 2004-2012
RDAS Through this initiative, two hundred twenty two medicinal Local herbs have been identified up-to-date of which thirty five plants have been standardized for cultivation in the villages, Each village is provided with one standard set, free of cost, planted to serve as a model herbal garden. Villagers can buy additional saplings from collaborating nurseries at highly discounted rates eg nadir herbals provide saplings at 5 Rs a piece.
The project offers trainings camps to teach villages the benefits of these thirty five plants, and how to identify grow and use them as medicines as well as dietary/nutritional supplements.
Trained RDAS volunteers, women self-help group members who are part of the Eco-club team, conduct personal follow-ups during village visits regarding cultivation and utilization of herbal gardens and serve as reference points for additional guidance.
To widen public exposure, RDAS holds seminars and exhibitions, and displays these gardens during local festivals. The project has also secured partnership with the Indian Herbs Research and Rural Development Afforestation society.
A delegate to the Rain forest information centre, and a member of the alliance for Earth ways, cotton wood foundation, Rainforest concern and the Ecologos institute charitable Registration. With preeminent leaders of the world to forest peace and harmony his humanitarian efforts to rural his rehabilitation project for prisoners in India and abroad are internationally acclaimed, He is the source of strength and inspiration for hundreds of volunteers involved in these project. Who has been associated with the project sine its inception, introduced project and shared with the secretary the transformation it has brought about in the rural areas.
We invite the support and participation of all individuals groups and organizations in this endeavor, which is destine to bring a permanent trans formation in the lives of people who are trapped in hopeless economic and social situations.
There is a vital need to expand this project to cover other rural areas. You can fund different RDAS activities, individually or collectively, for a specific area and a certain duration, RDAS will create an opportunity to acknowledge the donor with in the villages, A maximum of four banners will be displayed for any sponsored RDAS activity (i.e Tailoring Training centre, Tree planting, Herbal Garden Develop and Environmental Health Awareness rogramms, organic training centre , health care water and sanitation CAMPS, Eye Camps) excluding, children sponsorship scheme will be announced, community development,
Some special donation modalities are dusted below.
Grass root level measures for conservation and education about the environment are an integral part of this project. Afforestation of the waste lands near the villages and within residential and common areas of the villages is also undertaken.
The village vanashree Eco-centre is an ecological initiative to preserve the rich ecological heritage of the country. The kannamudaiyar Shiva hills conservation campaigni initiated during the international year of the mountain is an ongoing reforest Shiva programme to conserve and protect the kannamudaiyar Shiva temple forest. Near the society mothers rescurce centre” Iruthayangar, permaculture counciling centre,
In the past two years measures have been undertaken to conserve the ecology of these village mountain, Erikarai, School. Temple, Road Both Side Tree planting and at the Same time create facilities for Local visitors. Thus catering both to man and environment, cleaning campaigns focusing on removing plastic wastes and educating the visitors on the hazards of toxic wastes being dumped in the mountains from a part of on going efforts to inculcate nature awareness amongst the masses. As an endeavor to preserve and propagate the areas rich environmental resources, the village vanashree Eco center RDAS PART TWO tree plantation and supports the protection and propagation of native wildlife.
To create awareness amongst children about conserving our rich heritage, The village vanashree Eco-center conducts five day residential Nature Awareness programs involving live demonstrations guest lectures, audio-visual presentations, field trips and a hands -on experience scientific documentation and photography.
In addition, Ten thousands of trees have been planted in various villages of Tamil Nadu Through the project Large Scale 100,000 Hundred Thousands of Trees planting 2004 to 2012. AFFORESTATION endeavors RDAS/RIC CONTINU FOLLOWING NEXT FIVE YEARS.Trekking and outings in the wilderness would be an essential component of this program. Measures against Coaching of wild life illegal felling of trees and trade in wild life products will be initiated at the village Level.
Schemes for water conservation and rain water harvesting at individual house holds and the community as a whole are also implemented. Agriculture Land Bunding, Community, Temple Land Bunding Rain water harvesting Bunding work – 25 Villages implementing 2005-2012project.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT AND EDUCATION
The project supports destitute children and organizes children and youth development work for nearby tribal villages, discourses with girls, youth are held in educational institutions to introduce early character and social development. Educational Scholarships create possibilities for children who have been deprived of educational due to financial social and caste restrictions, scholarships provide books, educational free lectures are given to the general public as well as to hospitals institutions and universities on health and will-being the project is committed to sharing information in support of the donation quest for world peace ,global understanding and international co-operation. The Projects trans potency and presence on the world wide web, as well as the society numerous publications and partnerships with like minded organisation’s serve as a platform to improve personal and social well being.
Championing Women and Breaking Social Barriers:
One of the primary efforts of action for rural women way aim at empowering rural women, an of neglected section of the rural society.
Community education is imparted to tribal women and dhalith women through educational camps for personality development and personal empowerment health care and prevent live education is also offered to create awareness and sustenance of good practices.
On the other hand, through the initiative of RDAS crafts, the employed people are predominantly women from economically disfavored families. It is hoped that this endeavor not only will provide rural people with a means to livelihood, but will also preserve the rich creative tradition of rural life.
Community Health Programme & Water and Sanitation:
Through various health reach programme the neglected section of society and most remote areas are integrated to revitalize those most in need. Free medical and Eye camps as well as free dispensaries mobile camp and special program for the handicapped water Born daises, workers conducted regularly in the month in the rural area tribal communities to provide relief to the needy.
1. Rural Development Afforestation Society
The Rural Development Afforestation Society was established on march 15th, 1995.
The aims of the RDAS are
• To work for the reafforestation and conservation of Rural land 100,000 seedlings planting 25 villages our working areas project future 5 years planning .
• To generate awareness of our natural environment, its problems of loss of genetic diversity, erosion of soil and water and to seek solutions.
• To encourage participation in the regeneration and protection of animal, bird and plant life in the surrounding areas through awareness campaigns, educational activities, employment opportunities and other means.
• To contribute towards harmonious relationships among all living beings.
• To co-operate with other individuals and organisations who share these objectives.
The Rainforest Information Center (RIC), Australia, has recognized Rural erikarai tree planting reafforestation project all the villages.in south India.RDAS is executing the following projects:
Waste Land DevelopmentConverting the waste lands inside the MELKACHIRAPPATTU AND AROUND villages ,Temple corridors,school.road side and community land all the areas plant trees our donors project RDAS WORKING . and other Temple lands into beautiful garden of flowering plants, fruit trees and sacred trees of medicinal and herbal value.
VILLAGE Nursery (within the outermost, ie. fifth corridor, of the big Temple)A plant nursery with enough capacity to supply saplings for our yearly afforestation activity on the rural Hill and, temple lands on the village road. The nursery also supplies saplings to schools, institutions, individuals and NGOs.
Eco – Club Activities in Schools
Enthusing school children to form Eco-clubs, educate them through lectures, demonstrations and, video and puppet shows, towards better understanding about environmental degradation and the urgent need to protect trees, to prevent environmental pollution of all kinds and to grow as responsible citizens of the future.
Sustainable Agriculture Demonstration Farm
demonstration sites for:
Permaculture (permanent agriculture or permanent culture)
is the conscious design of agriculturally productive ecosystems which have the diversity, stability, resilience of natural ecosystems. It is the harmonious integration of landscape and people, providing their food, energy, shelter and other material and non-material needs in a sustainable way. Without permanent agriculture there is no possibility of a stable social order.
• Models for harnessing non-conventional energy resources like biogas plant, solar heater, solar energy for power generation and wind mills. These will result in less dependence on firewood for the growing population.
• Methods of soil conservation, effective water management.
• A well equipped laboratory for biological control of pests, soil testing and meteorological observations.
• A model sericulture and poultry farm.
• An education centre for students and villagers with facilities for periodical meetings, workshops, seminars etc.Revival of Traditional Herbal MedicineCampaign is being launched to educate the poor masses about the local availability of herbs and the need to change over to traditional herbal medicines, highlighting the economy, effectiveness, prophylaxis and absence of side effects.RDAS has also helped in the establishement of a Medicinal Plant Development area on 250 hectares of forest land near the KANNAMUDAIYAR temple land 3km around 10 village’s, adjoining the southern slope of the holy MELKACHIRAPPATTU Hill.VILLAGE Hill Afforestation Thousands of local plants of diverse species are annually planted on the environment education ,non formal education center for street children s benefit ,MELKACHIRAPPATTU hill b Rural Development Afforestation Society target areas 25 villages main project work areas. Construction of cattle guards, clearing of fire lines and dawn-to-dusk watching to drive prevent goats and cattle grazing and woodcutters, are steps that have resulted in enhancing survival of saplings. The severe, dry summers, the menace of goats and woodcutters, and arson by miscreants pose serious problem for the Society. RDAS feels that sustainable solutions can arise through direct involvement of the local people and accountability of authorities.
AIYANAR Land and all temple land tree planting work our project.
In the year 2004 to 2012, 250 acres of barren temple land and lake bund,hill,school land,farmers land and village land , surrounding the villages,about 25 village farmers request planting programme . shrine, were planted with a variety of tree saplings and flowering plants after adequate soil and water management measures. Water management work included canal for hill areas hill streams to the adjacent tank. The plants were looked after by RDAS by timely watering and dawn-to-dusk watching against cattle. A lush grove developed, and was handed over back to the temple authority in 2004 to 2012 all our dry land and community land tree planting project .
ERIKARAI – 250 .05 Acres ,15 villages and community land tree planting work .
In the year 2004-2012 bio-fencing of the surveyed boundary was done. Contour bunds were constructed to impound the rain water. Planting of saplings was started in 2004 to 2012 . A bore well was sunk and hand-pump installed in 2004 to 2012. So far thousands of diverse plants have been planted and are being well looked after.
Women in Development
RDAS has set up the MOTHER`S RESOURCE CENTER (Regd) with branches in TEN villages. The Society stresses thrift, nursery raising, organic farming, non-formal education, food preservation, vocational training, etc.
RDAS goal is the
• Promotion of a sense of gratitude to Mother Nature.
• Sustainable development which includes conserving nature’s resources such as biological diversity, soil, water etc..
• Replacement of environmentally unsound development activity by a safer strategy.
Directories
Rural Development Afforestation Society is listed in:
• ILEIA LEISA NETWORK IN INDIA- A register of Indian organisations involved in Low External-Input, and Sustainable Agriculture – October 1995 – published by ILEIA.
The Formative Years of RDAS & The Contribution of Rain forest Information Center , Australia, towards “Project village erikarai soil conservation and tree planting project 2004-2012
John button , an Australian settled in Tiruvannamalai, dreamt of a forested villages l. contact with John Seed and ruth of the RIC, Australia /Rural Development Afforestation Society
, was formally registered as a non-profit Society in the year 1995. The first Executive Committee consisted ,RDAS was aided right from its inception by Mr. John Seed (founder of Rain forest Information Center, New South Wales, Australia). The RIC has contributed over the years in two ways:
• Routing funds to support our projects.
The continuous and significant funding from RIC//COTTON WOOD FOUNDATION ,USA between 2004-2012 has helped generate the infrastructure for sustained development of all fronts of concern to RDAS .
A detailed project submission drafted by the RIC was submitted to the Australian the approval of the latter and start of release of the funds, the RIC sounded many individuals and institutions in America and Australia which heralded the first trickle-flow of financial assistance to RDAS and helped it to embark on activities like nursery raising, afforestation of the VILLAGE Hill and Eco-Club activities in school to start with. to assist RDAS .
By 2004-2012, the RIC was replaced by RIC of Australia. A project proposal (for the consolidation of the gains of the earlier 2004 TO 2012 project) was submitted by RDAS to RIC which in turn was recommended by Ms. RUTH Light to the Australian Government. This was approved, and RIC/OTHER DONORS gave a grant of (Rs.3,03000 )and more small grand supporting to me , for five more year for Project..
At present Mr.John Seed & RUTH ,director /RDAS are still continuing efforts to mobilize funds from well wishers, for the Arunachala Reforestation in India project more trees planting work doing donors ,in our areas main donors,following funding donors.
The RIC/Australia has been a relentless campaigner for protection of tropical rain forests in the world, projects all of which are damaging the ecology/causing environmental degradation, as a consequence.
If we are to ensure the safety of future generations, we must act now by contributing to environmental health and protection. We must start by respecting our land and reforesting it. This alone will improve water availability and quality of life. The society desperately needs more involvement, both financial and physical, from the community to enable meaningful spread of its work. We request you to join the campaign by liberal donations (time, material and money). Remittance stating donor’s name and address, may please be made favouring the
RDAS,TIRUVANNAMALAI ,INDIA PROJECT DONORS /RIC RAIN FOREST INFORMATION CENTER,AUSTRALIA /COTTON WOOD FOUNDATION ,USA/EARTH WAY FOUNDATION USA OUR PARTNER PAST 20 YEARS PROJECT WORK MAIN DONORS /TREES FOR THE FUTURE ,USA PAST 6 YEARS OUR DONORS PLANTING TREE PROJECT .
The project initially established Tree planting 10,00000, 2004-2012 project tree planting part one is Eri karai, Leg areas , Nursery development, organic Training programme and Tailoring Center to hold free courses in contemporary crafts for the rural Dhalith women, girls, it is hoped that this endeavor will not only provide an opportunity for livelihood to rural people, but also preserve their rich creative tradition.
Currently, the project employs about 18 works and Volunteers and animators to produce contemporary craft items in addition to traditional nutritional food products, both for village use and for sale to visitors.
Thanking you
Yours sincerely
p.subramanian
dearsir,mr.john seed ,ric,australia.
RDAS WORK IS GOING ON WELL IN OUR AREAS GOOD RAIN OUR PLANTING TREES ALL GOOD ,I DONT HAVE MONEY TO PLANTING MORE TREES SIR.YOUR SUPPORT I NEED SIR.
THANKING YOU
YOURSSINCERELY
P.SUBRAMANIAN
we must save the earth from global warming
so that our next generation can live well
our organization name is world wide tree plantation
Why do people hurt the world which sustain them? I am also a deep ecological thinker and doer. Thank you for the great work you are doing in conserving nature for nature’s sake
Category Archives: Society
An Invitation for Interactive seminar on Forest Development
Posted on November 12, 2014 by Ajit Deshbandhu
HARIYALI
Dear Madam / Sir
Subject: Interactive seminar on forest development
Hariyali, a Thane based NGO working for environmental protection development and awareness is organizing an Interactive seminar on the given subject. Details are as under.
Date : Saturday 22nd November 2014
Time : 9.30am to 1.30pm
Venue : 3rd floor Hall, Saraswati secondary school (Marathi medium) Gokhle Road, Naupada, Opposite Malhar
Cinema
, Thane (W) 400602
You have been participating voluntarily in Hariyali’s activity out of your zeal for nature. Now is the time to expose ourselves to a scientific / systematic approach towards nurturing forests.
Hariyali is pleased to inform all nature lovers that renowned authorities will be taking part in seminar, the topic covered in the seminar shall be mainly related to Forest development and specific subject of “tree”.
Program Schedule
9.30 to 10.00 : Registrations [spot registration Rs. 50/- including Tea & High Tea ]
10.00 to 10.15 : Introductions and felicitation
10.15 to 11.00 : lecturer – Mr. Mahesh Sabne will address to participants on “What is Tree” and “What is Forest”
11.00 to 11.15 : Tea break
11.15 to 12.15 : Lecture – Mr. Rajendra Bhat on “Man made Forest” and “Conservation of natural resources”
12.15 to 12.45 : Dialogue with Mr Rajendra Bhat and Mahesh Sabne
12.45 to 1.15 : Panel discussion and concluding remarks
1.15 : High Tea
You are requested to participate actively in seminar and help Hariyali for future activities.
Secretary Co-ordinator
Suryakant Apte S M Sathe
9869184995 9819098978
Posted in Activities, Events, Hariyali Varta, Society, Trees | Tagged Seminar | Leave a reply
Instructions to Plantation Participants
Featured
Posted on April 6, 2014 by Ajit Deshbandhu
HARIYALI’S PLANTATION SESSIONS AT BHAVALE FORESTLAND Continue reading →
Posted in Activities, Plantations, Society | Leave a reply
HARIYALI ORGANISES AN EXHIBITION OF MEDICINAL PLANTS!!!!!
Posted on November 20, 2013 by Ajit Deshbandhu
english invitation
Posted in Articles, Events, Plantations, Press, Society | Leave a reply
Such Comments lift up moral of Hariyali Volunteers
Posted on August 26, 2013 by Ajit Deshbandhu
Dear All,
Note what Kailas felt after working for few hours with Hariyali
“Kailas Jaysingh Girase on August 25, 2013 at 8:52 pm said:
I really thankful to my company Hexaware Technologies for given an opportunity to visit Hariyali initiative.
When we reach there four-five Hariyali volunteers were there. They had great dedication for this project. They all are of my grandpa’s age but they were really act as power boosters for us.
Hats off to the spirit of hariali members.”
Posted in Activities, Bhawale-Lonad, Hariyali Varta, Press, Society | Leave a reply
HARIYALI VARTA 190813
Posted on August 19, 2013 by Ajit Deshbandhu
Hello,
On the weekend post Independence Day, we had large groups participating in our Tree Plantation Drive at our plantation site at “village Bavale-Lenad” on Mumbai-Nasik road.
On Saturday 17th August, we had a group of 15 ladies from ONGC. They came from various locations like Panvel, Bandra etc. They joined a group of 40 children, both girls and boys from various localities of Ulhas Nagar. This group of children was brought by the organization named “ज्योत – बहुउद्देषीय सामाजिक संस्था / Jyot – Bahu Uddeshiy Samajik Sanstha”.
Both these groups, in spite of heavy
rain
, planted over 70 saplings. The work included carrying the sampling up the hill, digging pits and planting saplings.
Sunday 18th August, saw people from Software Industry joining people from Traditional Industry. Siemens Employees Union on the occasion of completion of 50 years of union formation, came in with 40 nature lovers and joined a group of 20 software and media professionals brought in by Dombivali based NGO “जाणीव – एक सामाजिक चळवळ / Janeev – ek samajik chalval”. This NGO, though comparatively young, does important work in and around Dombivali. Their work includes child education, children library, different cleaning drives, nature conservation activities etc.
Both these groups together, planted over 250 saplings. One group also undertook check dam repair work which will be one of our main activities post monsoon.
Participation in nature conservation activities by people across the cross section of our society is an encouraging signal of growing awareness among people for nature conservation and preservation.
Hope to receive more and more support of such enthusiasts in the future!
Vinay Ketkar
Hariyali
Posted in Activities, Bhawale-Lonad, Hariyali Varta, Plantations, Society, Trees | Leave a reply
FOR A CHANGE!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted on July 9, 2013 by Ajit Deshbandhu
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“For a change Hariyali receives seeds!”
All these years Hariyali has been distributing seeds amongst people for sowing and making saplings. However, having felt motivated by this simple but very useful activity, many nature-lovers have started collecting, preserving and handing those over to Hariyali for growing saplings and distributing the same amongst potential tree-growers. Volunteers from “Jaanata Raja” an NGO from Mankhurd, Mumbai handed over about five kgs of seeds of Bahava and Tamrin collected by them to Shri Y.B. Bhide, President of Hariyali in the presence of other activists of Hariyali.
Hariyali, for a change, receives seeds
Posted in Activities, Bhawale-Lonad, Events, Society | 2 Replies
TWO JEWELS FROM SHREE PUNAM SINGAVI FOR YOU TO GRAB!
Posted on June 3, 2013 by Ajit Deshbandhu
Hariyali, in partership with Ankur Publications published two book, Gyanbache Paryavaran and Gyanbache Bhatakanti authoured by an acknowledged writer and an eminent personality on Environment and a great crusader for betterment of Environment,Shree Punam Sangavi.
These books were released by Shri Ashok Chitnis and Shri Madhuri Pejavar on 2nd June 2013 in Thane amids very big Hariyali Parivar, noted celebrities of Thane and around, and host of lovers of environment.
A photo and a press coverage is attached here for you to view!
DSC_0826-2BR Sanmitra 020613
Posted in Activities, Articles, Events, Press, Society, Trees | Leave a reply
1,000 Trees To Cost Buffalo Grove $170,000, an interesting news
Posted on June 13, 2012 by Ajit Deshbandhu
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1,000 Trees To Cost Buffalo Grove $170,000
By SEAN STILLMAKER Journal & Topics Reporter | Posted: Thursday, June 7, 2012 8:15 am
Buffalo Grove is jumping ahead of the curve by buying trees in bulk.
The village and nearly the entire Northwest suburban area will be needing thousands of trees in upcoming years to replace ones infected by the Emerald Ash Borer.
Buffalo Grove has approximately 7,000 ash trees that will all eventually be infected by EAB, if they haven’t been already, according to officials.
In order to avoid skyrocketing prices from increasing demand, the village wants to lock in prices now by buying in bulk.
The village board approved a contract Monday, June 4 with St. Aubin Nursery in Kirkland to begin growing 1,000 trees for $170,000.
The stock is to be planted this month with harvest expected in the fall of 2014.
The village is also working with the nursery on securing a stock price for the approximate remaining 6,000 replacement trees.
“Demand for nursery stock is going to get very interesting for this region in the upcoming years,” said Village Manager Dane Bragg. “We want to get ahead of the curve.”
The nursery will grow a variety of species for the village such as oak, sycamore, elm, hornbeam, ironwood and others.
Buffalo Grove was first infected by EAB in 2009. Officials estimated costs for total tree removal and replacement at $4 million.
By buying in bulk, the village is hoping to reduce that estimate.
Posted in Events, Plantations, Society, Trees | 2 Replies
HARIYALI’S PLANTATION AND WATER CONSERVATION AT BHAVALE-LONAD,CALANDER FOR AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2012 AS UPDATED ON 26th JULY 2012
Posted on May 15, 2012 by Ajit Deshbandhu
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E August-Sept 2012
Posted in Activities, Events, Plantations, Society, Trees | 4 Replies
Glimpses of Hariyali Rath promoting Adoption of Medicinal plant –Gudhee Padwa, 2012
Posted on March 28, 2012 by Ajit Deshbandhu
DSCN4901
DSCN4896
Posted in Events, Plantations, Society, Trees | Leave a reply
CAN THIS CATASTROPHY EVER STOP???
Posted on March 24, 2012 by Ajit Deshbandhu
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Posted in Articles, Events, Press, Society | 1 Reply
Adopt a Medicinal Plant– An initiative by Hariyali—– Please clik the link below!
Posted on March 20, 2012 by Ajit Deshbandhu
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English PN 180312
Posted in Activities, Articles, Events, Plantations, Press, Society, Trees | 2 Replies
Hariyali takes a path-beating step towards Aforestation– Acknowledged by Hindustan Times
Posted on January 22, 2012 by Ajit Deshbandhu
The following press-clipping appeared in Hindustan Times dated 22nd January.
Hariyali thanks Hinustan Times for their support in our mission of growing more trees in the forests.
Posted in Activities, Articles, Events, Plantations, Press, Society, Trees | Leave a reply
THEY DESERVE A BIG BOW AND UNIVERSAL EMULATION!
Posted on December 20, 2011 by Ajit Deshbandhu
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Most invitation cards for attending social functions like wedding, thread ceremony, anniversaries, etc, in our society these days include a request “No presents or bouquets, please”. However, pressures from friends and relatives makes it difficult for the host, as also, the invitees to adhere to this desire strictly. Continue reading →
Posted in Activities, Articles, Events, Press, Society | 4 Replies
Here are few photos of “Looking Back–Looking Forward” Symposium
Posted on December 6, 2011 by Ajit Deshbandhu
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Hariyali and B N Bandodkar College of Thane organised a very successful Symposium on 4rth of December at PANINI Auditorium of Thane College.
It was organised on 4rth of December and all who participated were very happy to learn about the achievements of the past 15 years and were very enthusiastic to participate for the Hariyali’s mission ahead. Continue reading →
dear sir, madam,
greetings from subramanian,rdas,tiruvannamalai ,in tiruvannamalai,s-india tamilnadu
we are doing reforestation programme in and around tiruvannamalai block level 24 village lake bund and hill areas treeplanting and maintain and producting and watering work and fencing all the trees ,we need your donor help our project donating to our donors
mr.john seed ,director
rainforest information center ,australia
The Rainforest Information Centre has been funding RDAS for tree planting 100,000 trees in tiruvannamalai projects and women’s tailoring work. Here is info about the group followed by donation information. If you would like to make a donation and receive tax deductibility in the US, UK, Canada or Australia, please visit our donation page.
Rural Development Afforestation Society (RDAS)
RDAS is a legally registered non-governmental organisation (NGO) duly registered with Government of Tami Nadu and also having registered No: 56/1995, womens welfare activities and Reforestation rehabilitation activities, and work for urban and rural have
Environment and Agriculture
In this semi-arid part of India, Tamil Nadu, Tiruvannamalai District, the environment is in a critical state due to decades of abuse, i.e. over planting cutting of trees, and population overload. The drastically diminished annual rainfall has also contributed to its ravaged state.
In many areas the basic requirements for plant growth are no longer viable. Seventy percent of the Indian population must make its livelihood from agriculture in spite of these critical problems in light of this department of environment and sustainable agriculture has been created to deal directly and force fully with these problems and bring about sustainable solutions.
The village community land model Farm and Training Centre:
A productive model farm was created 3years ago, on a 50 acre stretch of barren land, which is centrally located to most of our villages. It has subsequently been transformed into a multi-functional training centre, modern vermin compost pit. The farm is accessible to all, and contains a research development center founded to support the village farmers. It is used also to demonstrate the viability of good agricultural plant nursery, worm culture and other environmental practices. Agricultural experts, permaculture trainers and research specialists are frequently invited to hold discussions, seminars and practical demonstrations for the local farmers staff and land less labor farmers.
Within the training centre, permaculture information centre, there are modern audio-visual facilities and accommodations for the visiting trainers farmers from India and the west take advantage of the farms ongoing training programs, through which they gain practical experience, in order to full fill their requirements.
Sustainable Agriculture
RDAS is involved in a very successful reforestation program that contains and helps reduce the rampant soil erosion brought on by over grazing and over-cultivation. It also encourages the preservation of endangered species of 25,000/- trees and plants in the Melkachirappattu, Iruthayanagar, Kilkachirappattu, Ganthipuram, Meyyur villages community land farm nurseries. Trees are cultivated that provide shade, fruit, firewood, herbal medicine and fodder with special emphasis on drought resistant fruit trees. All these trees are made available to the village people at a very nominal cost and free of cost and assistance is given in their planting and maintenance as well as teaching of propagation methods i.e. grafting, seed collection etc of trees and shrubs.
Sustainable farming techniques such as developing crop diversity, sound crop rotation patterns and crop compatibility strategies are also demonstrated. The village womens group, youth clubs, farmers clubs who learn these techniques, teach and demonstrate this knowledge to their respective villages.
Trainees become convincing trainers. Composting and the rational use of farmyard manure and organic fertilizers, together with biological pest and weed control methods contributes to the health of the environment as a whole.
Cash crops of fruit, vegetable and medicinal herbs, together with drought-resistant species of mango, sapota, guava and pomegranate are continually being experimented with, to ascertain which varieties give the best yield within the prevailing soil and climate conditions. In addition, varieties of vegetables (like green zucchini and broccoli) not native to India are being introduced locally. Experiments with seed propagation are also underway to increase productivity and disease immunity.
Agricultural Cooperatives
To reduce operating costs and to make farming more viable for those who cannot afford any modern equipment, the society has established agricultural cooperatives. Two tractors, a variety of farming implements and ploughs, are hired out by the society to the local small farmers, at rates that cover only our maintenance costs. To increase productivity, the farmers are invited to attend numerous seminars talks and training sessions (in their mother tongue) on a wide variety of modern agricultural techniques; in this way, these small farmers can also develop and prosper.
Throughout the organization, (whether in the administration, the clinic, the many workshops, the school, the gardens in the fields or in village work), hundreds of people from different backgrounds and levels of education live in a deep, unforced and natural reciprocity; this precious mutuality should in due time transmit itself into the villages.
Watershed Program
All life rests on the finding and successful retention of water. Even when the monsoon rains do come the water run-off is substantial due to the ravaged landscape. The society watershed program was implemented to help absorb the water into the underground water table before it dissipates. Soil regeneration efforts like land contouring and the reforestations program, help to conserve rainfall, while mulching, drip irrigation methods and sprinklers, have reduced water consumption by as much as 80%. Water conservation is further promoted through the ‘Share a well’‚ program, a 100 ha watershed land development programme.
Agricultural equipment
Because this region is predominately agricultural, there is a tremendous need for inexpensive but quality agricultural implements. To meet this need, the society recently embarked on a project of designing and building farm equipment which is closely suited to local land conditions, and yet affordable to the farmers. For this reason an agricultural equipment division with rotary ploughs, cultivators, levelers and cage wheels has come into being.
Community Development
These are men selected by the village folk themselves to represent them, and to present their needs to the society. They have all received appropriate training in social work. As they are an integral part of their respective communities they have deeper insights into the real situations and can more easily identify the most destitute and miserable. Through these helpers, food, clothing and other essentials are regularly distributed to the need widows, the handicapped, the elderly, and the abandoned are cared for by these workers. These village helpers are part of the effort to ensure that the individual communities will ultimately be independent of the society in all social and economical affairs, and that they will be able to take over the full responsibility of caring for those in need within their villages. Towards this end, individual gifts such as cows sheep, goats, oxen, ox-carts, bicycle rickshaws, sewing machines etc are donated to certain inhabitants. For other individuals the society has set up small shops, such as bicycle rentals and handicrafts/tailoring, sewing machines etc.
Rural Community Development
The various programmes for community development grew quite organically out of the field of permacultural information and Reforestation/ Agroforestry promotion and now run hand-in-hand with it. From the beginning it was obvious that many agricultural developments were a a direct result of poverty. People lived in the most appalling conditions! poor nourishment, lack of hygiene and infested drinking end bathing water, made a mockery of health and environment awareness. Such problems are being overcome slowly by the on going efforts to raise general living standards, and especially through permaculture, sustainable agriculture education,
Also for generations, this poverty has prevented any semblance of community life within the villages. Being daily preoccupied with physical self-preservation, there has been no energy or will to care for others. The result is that any communal spirit that might have been, has degenerated, long ago, into the feel of ‘each one for himself only’.
Village Upliftment: (Community Centers)
The RDAS, Society is in the process of Iruthayanagar Village Community Centers for our 23 villages benefit. The aim is to have one building for each cluster of villages through which more and more people can be drawn into group activities.
These centers will focus on the traditional trades, such as wood carving, tailoring, leaf-painting, weaving and other handicrafts. The centers also offer training on tree nurseries and permaculture to the poor farmers every week on two days in different villages.
Working together not only enhances the communal spirit in the villages but also helps to whittle away the entranced prejudices and caste consciousness.
Women Development
In spite of their humble status in the poorer classes, women are in fact the backbone of Indian society. Here the mother plays the major role and bears the heaviest burden of caring for the family and bringing up the children often down trodden, neglected, ill used, or even abused; they nevertheless demonstrate a resilience, perseverance, patience and enduring reliability which gives support to the entire family. In recognition of this tenacity of spirit, and realizing that, without the total involvement of women in our project, no enduring improvements can be made, the Rural Madhar Shangam working women society was formed in 2004.
Rural Madhar Sangam
The Rural Madhar Sangam (working women society) is a vital outreach program in to the villages. Made up of responsible village women, its aim is to raise the living standards in the villages. At their regular meetings, the women discuss specific issues at the village level, voice their needs and are encouraged to share their problems, fears and frustrations. In this way they draw closer to each other regardless of caste or creed.
The problems of providing for a family are common to all. The Rural Madhar Sangam arranges activities such as lectures on hygiene and family harmony. It makes women aware of the difficulties of early marriage, and the dowry system, as well as the necessity of education for girls. Through the Rural Madhar Sangam, the women become eligible for interest free loans from the RDAS Society with which they can initiate small business (Women Tea-shops, Vegetable Shops, Poultry Units, Tailoring shops, Handicrafts)
A large number of women have found work in this way and with the help of Rainforest Information Centre (Australia) and Cottonwood Foundation (USA) this program is continually expanding.
Another aspect of Rural Madhar Sangam work is as a permaculture information centre offering skills training in day-care, non-formal education for drop out childrencombind with the planting of fruit trees, local trees, leaf-painting, block printing, development of kitchen gardens, embroidery and tailoring.
Iruthayanagar Village Day-Care Centers
In 2004, a day-care center was opened for the Iruthayanagar children of the women employed by the RDAS society. It was expanded to include children from other villages: Kilkachirapattu, Melkachirappattu, Gandhipuram enabling their women to go to work and to contribute to the family income. Both Tamil and English are spoken at this centre to better prepare these children for subsequent schooling.
Evening Schools
Although public schooling is free in India, village children are often needed by their families to work in the fields and help in the home. Because of this, their formal education is often ignored. The only time left for their education is the evening. Because of this, RDAS set up 3 evening schools in the villages (Iruthayanagar- 32 children, Melkachirapattu – 42, Kilkachirappattu – 28, children) where basic subjects such as reading and writing (in Tamil) arithmetic and simple English are taught. All class essentials such as notebooks, pencils, chalk slates are provided by the RDAS donors. Many pupils have, after this evening schooling, been able to move onto the RDAS Society, the local state Tamil medium school (or) one of the society vocational training programs.
A Cultural Program
Education should do more than satisfy just head and hands. Indian culture has traditionally aimed at spiritual richness, which finds its outer expression in the arts, music, dancing and acting. The Governmental School now employs teachers for Bharatnatayam, the devotional dance and classical music of South India. The rural children are taught to recapture in music, dance and drama the myths and legends of their ancient heroes and heroines. The disciplines of Hatha Yoga and Pranayama, which aim at the harmonious balance of body, mind and soul are also taught. These activities are aimed at 10 village school implementing and acquainting the children with the rich cultural heritage that their impoverished village lifestyle has denied them until now. Instead of comparing themselves unfavourably with westerners, they are able to acquire their own self-esteem by becoming familiar with the values within their own culture values which they can now proudly share with others.
Tailoring
30 women are presently trained in Melkachirappattu and Iruthayanagar and Annanagar area working in this vocational training. The Tailoring Trainees receive a stipend during their six-month training period and are later employed by the society making clothing for local shop or they are assisted in starting their own businesses locally at the village level.
Leaf Painting
The artistically gifted can develop within the society by being trained in the delicate art of leaf painting. Leaves from the local peepal tree are collected, soaked and brushed, until the outer leaf is separated from the filigree-like skeleton. These transparent, fine, leaf structures are then dried and painted with lovely motifs. After completion, they are pasted on handmade paper and sold as greeting cards.
There are more than 75 designs to date, made by the artists themselves. This division has expanded and currently has 5 painters 15 trainees. The training period is one year although quality control is still implemented after this time. The quiet harmonious atmosphere that pervades the working area is captured in the cards. Most are sold in the locale where they are appreciated for their uniqueness and flair.
Bag Making
20 women widows are currently making large bags with brightly coloured motif and hand-woven out of strips of plastic. These are selling well in the Tiruvannamalai Town and campus carry-alls.
Doll Making
Handmade Indian dolls in traditional dress are the most recent addition to the Handiwork training section. These Collectors dolls are proving popular with school, public and local, tourist alike.
Incense Sticks
Initially in Annanagar area, a small group of women were trained in this art. Several months ago, with loans from the society Rs.5,000/, this has now become a successful income generating project giving work for about 15 widowed women. We have now been able to transfer this unit out of the society, and into the capable hands of an enterprising Iruthayanagar Village women.RDAS/Women Group leader Selvi now runs this unit totally independent from the society.
Incense sticks are used in nearly every Indian household and are readily sold on the local market. In the future, export possibilities are also opening up, enabling even more women to be employed. The beauty of this work is that it is wholly independent of the weather, with its many extreme moods in India.
Formerly, our village women could only earn for their families as heavy field and construction labourers, an exhausting work. The incense making is so much more convenient and suitable to their nature.
Embroidery
This was our first year handicraft section, started in 2005, with only five women. It now employs 15 women training full time. Every year 15 new trainees join the section, Melkachirappattu where they stay for a total of three years programme 2005 to 2008. While in training we need a modest stipend and after six months they are paid per-piece. The bulk of their production has been linen, dresses and children’s clothing and is sold primarily in India Tiruvannamalai. The embroidery produced by these women is now truly up to an excellent standard.
Medicinal Plants Conservation Park
South India has a 3000 year old Medical Heritage, one of the oldest in the world. It also has one of the richest botanical traditions with over 1000 species of plants, medicinal herbs and plants from the core of the Indians’ ancient medical lore. The society in partnership with an international Non-Governmental organization, Rainforest Information Centre and Cottonwood Foundation is helping with the conservation of India’s Medical Plants. We have established a botanical garden of local herbal and medicinal flora which will serve as a living seed bank for the preservation of the rapidly disappearing species.
Plants are collected and brought to the center for propagation. An inventory of available varieties and their uses have been made. Over 200 medicinal species alone have been planted in the villages to provide a simple and inexpensive solution to many common ailments and diseases. Effective treatment can now take place at home. Villagers are asked to report the efficacy of these herbs in treating specific diseases. We then store this information in our data seed bank, for the use of our research partner in Australia, USA, India.
We request that you kindly consider our appeal and extend your kind consideration by funds/donation some amount to our RDAS to carry out the above activities at an earliest date.
We enclose here with some photographs of the field work in Tiruvannamalai facing some problems relates to basic needs for your kind reference.
We request your earliest assistance in this regard, please with a request to convey this message to your friends, donors, like minded well wishers for extending their kind assistance to RDAS, to carryout this above activity in vast level.
We accept Cheques, Demand Drafts, Cash donations etc., all should be sent to the address given below.
P. Subramanian,
Secretary
Rural Development Afforestation Society
Melkachirappattu Village
Meyyur Post
Pin Code – 606 753
Tiruvannamalai Taluk & District
Tamil Nadu ˆ India
Email ˆ
Thanking you and inviting your earliest assistance, please.
Yours in people‚s service
p.subramanian
(RDAS) SECRETARY
The Rainforest Information Centre has been funding RDAS for tree planting 100,000 trees in tiruvannamalai projects and women’s tailoring work. Here is info about the group followed by donation information. If you would like to make a donation and receive tax deductibility in the US, UK, Canada or Australia, please visit our donation page.
Rural Development Afforestation Society (RDAS)
RDAS is a legally registered non-governmental organisation (NGO) duly registered with Government of Tami Nadu and also having registered No: 56/1995, womens welfare activities and Reforestation rehabilitation activities, and work for urban and rural have
Environment and Agriculture
In this semi-arid part of India, Tamil Nadu, Tiruvannamalai District, the environment is in a critical state due to decades of abuse, i.e. over planting cutting of trees, and population overload. The drastically diminished annual rainfall has also contributed to its ravaged state.
In many areas the basic requirements for plant growth are no longer viable. Seventy percent of the Indian population must make its livelihood from agriculture in spite of these critical problems in light of this department of environment and sustainable agriculture has been created to deal directly and force fully with these problems and bring about sustainable solutions.
The village community land model Farm and Training Centre:
A productive model farm was created 3years ago, on a 50 acre stretch of barren land, which is centrally located to most of our villages. It has subsequently been transformed into a multi-functional training centre, modern vermin compost pit. The farm is accessible to all, and contains a research development center founded to support the village farmers. It is used also to demonstrate the viability of good agricultural plant nursery, worm culture and other environmental practices. Agricultural experts, permaculture trainers and research specialists are frequently invited to hold discussions, seminars and practical demonstrations for the local farmers staff and land less labor farmers.
Within the training centre, permaculture information centre, there are modern audio-visual facilities and accommodations for the visiting trainers farmers from India and the west take advantage of the farms ongoing training programs, through which they gain practical experience, in order to full fill their requirements.
Sustainable Agriculture
RDAS is involved in a very successful reforestation program that contains and helps reduce the rampant soil erosion brought on by over grazing and over-cultivation. It also encourages the preservation of endangered species of 25,000/- trees and plants in the Melkachirappattu, Iruthayanagar, Kilkachirappattu, Ganthipuram, Meyyur villages community land farm nurseries. Trees are cultivated that provide shade, fruit, firewood, herbal medicine and fodder with special emphasis on drought resistant fruit trees. All these trees are made available to the village people at a very nominal cost and free of cost and assistance is given in their planting and maintenance as well as teaching of propagation methods i.e. grafting, seed collection etc of trees and shrubs.
Sustainable farming techniques such as developing crop diversity, sound crop rotation patterns and crop compatibility strategies are also demonstrated. The village womens group, youth clubs, farmers clubs who learn these techniques, teach and demonstrate this knowledge to their respective villages.
Trainees become convincing trainers. Composting and the rational use of farmyard manure and organic fertilizers, together with biological pest and weed control methods contributes to the health of the environment as a whole.
Cash crops of fruit, vegetable and medicinal herbs, together with drought-resistant species of mango, sapota, guava and pomegranate are continually being experimented with, to ascertain which varieties give the best yield within the prevailing soil and climate conditions. In addition, varieties of vegetables (like green zucchini and broccoli) not native to India are being introduced locally. Experiments with seed propagation are also underway to increase productivity and disease immunity.
Agricultural Cooperatives
To reduce operating costs and to make farming more viable for those who cannot afford any modern equipment, the society has established agricultural cooperatives. Two tractors, a variety of farming implements and ploughs, are hired out by the society to the local small farmers, at rates that cover only our maintenance costs. To increase productivity, the farmers are invited to attend numerous seminars talks and training sessions (in their mother tongue) on a wide variety of modern agricultural techniques; in this way, these small farmers can also develop and prosper.
Throughout the organization, (whether in the administration, the clinic, the many workshops, the school, the gardens in the fields or in village work), hundreds of people from different backgrounds and levels of education live in a deep, unforced and natural reciprocity; this precious mutuality should in due time transmit itself into the villages.
Watershed Program
All life rests on the finding and successful retention of water. Even when the monsoon rains do come the water run-off is substantial due to the ravaged landscape. The society watershed program was implemented to help absorb the water into the underground water table before it dissipates. Soil regeneration efforts like land contouring and the reforestations program, help to conserve rainfall, while mulching, drip irrigation methods and sprinklers, have reduced water consumption by as much as 80%. Water conservation is further promoted through the ‘Share a well’‚ program, a 100 ha watershed land development programme.
Agricultural equipment
Because this region is predominately agricultural, there is a tremendous need for inexpensive but quality agricultural implements. To meet this need, the society recently embarked on a project of designing and building farm equipment which is closely suited to local land conditions, and yet affordable to the farmers. For this reason an agricultural equipment division with rotary ploughs, cultivators, levelers and cage wheels has come into being.
Community Development
These are men selected by the village folk themselves to represent them, and to present their needs to the society. They have all received appropriate training in social work. As they are an integral part of their respective communities they have deeper insights into the real situations and can more easily identify the most destitute and miserable. Through these helpers, food, clothing and other essentials are regularly distributed to the need widows, the handicapped, the elderly, and the abandoned are cared for by these workers. These village helpers are part of the effort to ensure that the individual communities will ultimately be independent of the society in all social and economical affairs, and that they will be able to take over the full responsibility of caring for those in need within their villages. Towards this end, individual gifts such as cows sheep, goats, oxen, ox-carts, bicycle rickshaws, sewing machines etc are donated to certain inhabitants. For other individuals the society has set up small shops, such as bicycle rentals and handicrafts/tailoring, sewing machines etc.
Rural Community Development
The various programmes for community development grew quite organically out of the field of permacultural information and Reforestation/ Agroforestry promotion and now run hand-in-hand with it. From the beginning it was obvious that many agricultural developments were a a direct result of poverty. People lived in the most appalling conditions! poor nourishment, lack of hygiene and infested drinking end bathing water, made a mockery of health and environment awareness. Such problems are being overcome slowly by the on going efforts to raise general living standards, and especially through permaculture, sustainable agriculture education,
Also for generations, this poverty has prevented any semblance of community life within the villages. Being daily preoccupied with physical self-preservation, there has been no energy or will to care for others. The result is that any communal spirit that might have been, has degenerated, long ago, into the feel of ‘each one for himself only’.
Village Upliftment: (Community Centers)
The RDAS, Society is in the process of Iruthayanagar Village Community Centers for our 23 villages benefit. The aim is to have one building for each cluster of villages through which more and more people can be drawn into group activities.
These centers will focus on the traditional trades, such as wood carving, tailoring, leaf-painting, weaving and other handicrafts. The centers also offer training on tree nurseries and permaculture to the poor farmers every week on two days in different villages.
Working together not only enhances the communal spirit in the villages but also helps to whittle away the entranced prejudices and caste consciousness.
Women Development
In spite of their humble status in the poorer classes, women are in fact the backbone of Indian society. Here the mother plays the major role and bears the heaviest burden of caring for the family and bringing up the children often down trodden, neglected, ill used, or even abused; they nevertheless demonstrate a resilience, perseverance, patience and enduring reliability which gives support to the entire family. In recognition of this tenacity of spirit, and realizing that, without the total involvement of women in our project, no enduring improvements can be made, the Rural Madhar Shangam working women society was formed in 2004.
Rural Madhar Sangam
The Rural Madhar Sangam (working women society) is a vital outreach program in to the villages. Made up of responsible village women, its aim is to raise the living standards in the villages. At their regular meetings, the women discuss specific issues at the village level, voice their needs and are encouraged to share their problems, fears and frustrations. In this way they draw closer to each other regardless of caste or creed.
The problems of providing for a family are common to all. The Rural Madhar Sangam arranges activities such as lectures on hygiene and family harmony. It makes women aware of the difficulties of early marriage, and the dowry system, as well as the necessity of education for girls. Through the Rural Madhar Sangam, the women become eligible for interest free loans from the RDAS Society with which they can initiate small business (Women Tea-shops, Vegetable Shops, Poultry Units, Tailoring shops, Handicrafts)
A large number of women have found work in this way and with the help of Rainforest Information Centre (Australia) and Cottonwood Foundation (USA) this program is continually expanding.
Another aspect of Rural Madhar Sangam work is as a permaculture information centre offering skills training in day-care, non-formal education for drop out childrencombind with the planting of fruit trees, local trees, leaf-painting, block printing, development of kitchen gardens, embroidery and tailoring.
Iruthayanagar Village Day-Care Centers
In 2004, a day-care center was opened for the Iruthayanagar children of the women employed by the RDAS society. It was expanded to include children from other villages: Kilkachirapattu, Melkachirappattu, Gandhipuram enabling their women to go to work and to contribute to the family income. Both Tamil and English are spoken at this centre to better prepare these children for subsequent schooling.
Evening Schools
Although public schooling is free in India, village children are often needed by their families to work in the fields and help in the home. Because of this, their formal education is often ignored. The only time left for their education is the evening. Because of this, RDAS set up 3 evening schools in the villages (Iruthayanagar- 32 children, Melkachirapattu – 42, Kilkachirappattu – 28, children) where basic subjects such as reading and writing (in Tamil) arithmetic and simple English are taught. All class essentials such as notebooks, pencils, chalk slates are provided by the RDAS donors. Many pupils have, after this evening schooling, been able to move onto the RDAS Society, the local state Tamil medium school (or) one of the society vocational training programs.
A Cultural Program
Education should do more than satisfy just head and hands. Indian culture has traditionally aimed at spiritual richness, which finds its outer expression in the arts, music, dancing and acting. The Governmental School now employs teachers for Bharatnatayam, the devotional dance and classical music of South India. The rural children are taught to recapture in music, dance and drama the myths and legends of their ancient heroes and heroines. The disciplines of Hatha Yoga and Pranayama, which aim at the harmonious balance of body, mind and soul are also taught. These activities are aimed at 10 village school implementing and acquainting the children with the rich cultural heritage that their impoverished village lifestyle has denied them until now. Instead of comparing themselves unfavourably with westerners, they are able to acquire their own self-esteem by becoming familiar with the values within their own culture values which they can now proudly share with others.
Tailoring
30 women are presently trained in Melkachirappattu and Iruthayanagar and Annanagar area working in this vocational training. The Tailoring Trainees receive a stipend during their six-month training period and are later employed by the society making clothing for local shop or they are assisted in starting their own businesses locally at the village level.
Leaf Painting
The artistically gifted can develop within the society by being trained in the delicate art of leaf painting. Leaves from the local peepal tree are collected, soaked and brushed, until the outer leaf is separated from the filigree-like skeleton. These transparent, fine, leaf structures are then dried and painted with lovely motifs. After completion, they are pasted on handmade paper and sold as greeting cards.
There are more than 75 designs to date, made by the artists themselves. This division has expanded and currently has 5 painters 15 trainees. The training period is one year although quality control is still implemented after this time. The quiet harmonious atmosphere that pervades the working area is captured in the cards. Most are sold in the locale where they are appreciated for their uniqueness and flair.
Bag Making
20 women widows are currently making large bags with brightly coloured motif and hand-woven out of strips of plastic. These are selling well in the Tiruvannamalai Town and campus carry-alls.
Doll Making
Handmade Indian dolls in traditional dress are the most recent addition to the Handiwork training section. These Collectors dolls are proving popular with school, public and local, tourist alike.
Incense Sticks
Initially in Annanagar area, a small group of women were trained in this art. Several months ago, with loans from the society Rs.5,000/, this has now become a successful income generating project giving work for about 15 widowed women. We have now been able to transfer this unit out of the society, and into the capable hands of an enterprising Iruthayanagar Village women.RDAS/Women Group leader Selvi now runs this unit totally independent from the society.
Incense sticks are used in nearly every Indian household and are readily sold on the local market. In the future, export possibilities are also opening up, enabling even more women to be employed. The beauty of this work is that it is wholly independent of the weather, with its many extreme moods in India.
Formerly, our village women could only earn for their families as heavy field and construction labourers, an exhausting work. The incense making is so much more convenient and suitable to their nature.
Embroidery
This was our first year handicraft section, started in 2005, with only five women. It now employs 15 women training full time. Every year 15 new trainees join the section, Melkachirappattu where they stay for a total of three years programme 2005 to 2008. While in training we need a modest stipend and after six months they are paid per-piece. The bulk of their production has been linen, dresses and children’s clothing and is sold primarily in India Tiruvannamalai. The embroidery produced by these women is now truly up to an excellent standard.
Medicinal Plants Conservation Park
South India has a 3000 year old Medical Heritage, one of the oldest in the world. It also has one of the richest botanical traditions with over 1000 species of plants, medicinal herbs and plants from the core of the Indians’ ancient medical lore. The society in partnership with an international Non-Governmental organization, Rainforest Information Centre and Cottonwood Foundation is helping with the conservation of India’s Medical Plants. We have established a botanical garden of local herbal and medicinal flora which will serve as a living seed bank for the preservation of the rapidly disappearing species.
Plants are collected and brought to the center for propagation. An inventory of available varieties and their uses have been made. Over 200 medicinal species alone have been planted in the villages to provide a simple and inexpensive solution to many common ailments and diseases. Effective treatment can now take place at home. Villagers are asked to report the efficacy of these herbs in treating specific diseases. We then store this information in our data seed bank, for the use of our research partner in Australia, USA, India.
We request that you kindly consider our appeal and extend your kind consideration by funds/donation some amount to our RDAS to carry out the above activities at an earliest date.
We enclose here with some photographs of the field work in Tiruvannamalai facing some problems relates to basic needs for your kind reference.
We request your earliest assistance in this regard, please with a request to convey this message to your friends, donors, like minded well wishers for extending their kind assistance to RDAS, to carryout this above activity in vast level.
We accept Cheques, Demand Drafts, Cash donations etc., all should be sent to the address given below.
P. Subramanian,
Secretary
Rural Development Afforestation Society
Melkachirappattu Village
Meyyur Post
Pin Code – 606 753
Tiruvannamalai Taluk & District
Tamil Nadu ˆ India
Email ˆ
Thanking you and inviting your earliest assistance, please.
Yours in people‚s service
p.subramanian
(RDAS) SECRETARY