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On the occasion of International Migrants Day, an awareness programme was jointly organized by Don Bosco for Migrants and PARA at the Brick Kiln Industry in Choppella on 18th December 2025. This programme marked the culmination of nearly eight months of persistent effort by Don Bosco for Migrants to gain access to brick kiln industries and to understand the living conditions of migrant workers, particularly migrants from other states and children who are deprived of nutrition services from ICDS due to various challenges.

Over the past several months, the project coordinator Ameer Pasha made regular visits to brick kiln industries, but initially faced resistance, as industry owners did not permit entry into their premises. Despite these challenges, continuous engagement and dialogue were maintained. Two days prior to the programme, on 16th December 2025 an unofficial meeting was held with Akula Rama Krishna, one of the brick kiln owners actively involved in migrant welfare. He took the initiative to facilitate dialogue and strongly supported the organization of this programme. As a result of his efforts, all the brick kiln owners came together for today’s awareness session, demonstrating a positive shift towards collaboration.

Participants

The programme was attended by:

• Dr. Lakshmi Sneha
• B Vara Lakshmi, ICDS Supervisor
• Thomas Pallithanam, Director of PARA
• Ameer Pasha, Coordinator of Migrant Workers
• Sukumall Ramudu, Union President of Brick Kilns
• Gandam Venkanna and Akula Rama Krishna, Brick Kiln Owners
• Officials from the ICDS Department
• PARA staff and migrant workers

 The programme primarily focused on the following key issues:

1. Toll-Free Helpline for Migrant Workers

Migrant workers were informed about the toll-free helpline number 9642372372, which can be contacted in case of emergencies or danger. Immediate assistance would be provided through this number. Stickers displaying the helpline number were distributed and pasted on the back of workers’ mobile phones for easy access.

1. Nutrition and Educational Support for Children

Awareness was provided on the importance of nutritious food, access to ICDS services, and educational support for children living in brick kiln areas.

1. Special School for Migrant Children

A request was raised for establishing a special school for children from other states, considering language and learning barriers.

1. e-Shram Cards and Benefits

Detailed information was shared on e-Shram cards, their benefits, and eligibility. On-the-spot e-Shram registrations were conducted for eligible workers.

Interactive Discussion and Key Issues Raised

The programme was largely interactive, with active dialogue between ICDS officials and brick kiln owners regarding the challenges faced by migrant workers.

Dr. Lakshmi Sneha emphasized child care, hygiene practices, immunization, and addressing medical needs, especially for children and pregnant women. The ICDS Supervisor elaborated on nutrition services, pre-natal and post-natal care available under ICDS schemes.

During the discussion, a brick kiln owner, Naga Babu, raised a concern regarding two migrant women who had conceived and approached an Anganwadi Centre but were not provided nutrition support. The ICDS Supervisor assured that the matter would be reported to the CDPO for necessary action and resolution. When brick kiln owners sought clarity on grievance redressal in case of recurrence, the Supervisor assured them that such issues would not repeat and confirmed that nutrition support would be provided to all eligible women. She also mentioned the importance of Aadhaar linkage with mobile numbers for availing services.

Way Forward

The Director of PARA, Thomas Pallithanam, highlighted that the focus should not be on past shortcomings but on collective efforts to rectify gaps. He stressed that collaboration between ICDS and brick kiln owners is essential to ensure the welfare of migrant labourers. He proposed conducting a study in the Alamuru region to identify children without Aadhaar cards and assured support in facilitating access to entitlements.

Brick kiln owners collectively requested ICDS authorities to initiate a school for migrant children, preferably with English and Hindi instruction, near the brick kiln premises to address language barriers.

The programme concluded on a positive note with mutual understanding and commitment among stakeholders. The initiative marked a significant step towards improving access to welfare services, nutrition, education, and social security for migrant workers and their families, and laid the foundation for continued collaboration in the future.

Felicitation and Recognition

As part of the International Migrants Day observance, migrant workers were felicitated in recognition of their contribution and resilience. The felicitation served as a gesture of respect and solidarity with migrant labourers who play a crucial role in the brick kiln industry despite facing multiple vulnerabilities.

In appreciation of their support, cooperation, and willingness to ensure safeguarding measures, mementoes were presented to the Brick Kiln owners. This acknowledgment highlighted their positive role in facilitating dialogue, allowing access to the worksite, and showing commitment towards the welfare of migrant workers and their families.

Further, felicitation and mementoes were also presented to the ICDS Department as a mark of appreciation for their readiness and assurance to address the nutritional, health, and welfare needs of migrant labourers, pregnant women, and children. This gesture strengthened mutual trust and encouraged continued collaboration.

A training programme on safe migration and bonded labour in brick kilns was conducted for PARA staff (8) with the objective of understanding the working and living conditions of migrant labourers, especially women and children, in the brick kiln industry. The programme aimed to create awareness on migration patterns, hiring practices, and the availability of basic rights and welfare measures for workers and their families.

The programme began with the self-introduction of PARA staff members, which helped in building familiarity and active participation. A brief introduction of the resource person was given by Mr. Ameer Pasha. The resource person, Mr. Akula Rama Krishna, is a brick kiln owner from Choppella village of Alamuru Mandal and has been associated with the brick industry since 1981. He shared his long experience in the sector and highlighted responsible practices that support workers’ health, hygiene, and dignity. He stood as a positive example to other brick kiln owners by ensuring better benefits for workers.

The discussion focused on how workers migrate from other states to work in brick kilns and the criteria under which they are hired. It was explained that most workers are recruited on a contract basis, mainly depending on labour availability and production needs. In general, brick kiln owners provide only shelter, while workers are expected to manage their own livelihood needs such as food and daily expenses.

Special attention was given to the situation of women and children at brick kiln worksites. It was discussed that pregnant and lactating mothers are actively engaged in brick kiln work, raising concerns about their health, nutrition, and access to medical care. The presence of children below six years of age at the worksites was also highlighted.

Several important questions were discussed during the session, including whether children are being provided their entitlements under the Right to Education (RTE) Act, whether children below six years are receiving nutritious food, and whether adequate health facilities are available for them. In addition, the benefits of e-Shram card registration were also discussed, highlighting how registration can help migrant and unorganised workers access social security schemes, government benefits, and support during emergencies. These issues were identified as major areas of concern in the brick kiln sector.

Mr. Akula Rama Krishna shared that in his brick industry, children are provided with nutritious food and access to health facilities. He emphasized the importance of taking responsibility for the well-being of workers’ families and ensuring a safe and humane working environment. His practices demonstrated that brick kiln operations can be run ethically while protecting the rights and welfare of workers and children.

During the discussion, a plan was also made to create wider awareness among the community on the occasion of International Migration Day on 18th December. It was decided that an awareness programme would be organised in Choppella village, focusing on safe migration practices, workers’ rights, and available government welfare schemes. It helped PARA staff understand both the challenges faced by migrant workers and the positive role that responsible brick kiln owners can play. The session reinforced the need for stronger implementation of labour laws, protection of children’s rights, and special care for the health and nutrition of women and children.

An enlightening and thought-provoking Seminar was held on 11th November 2025 at PARA (People’s Action for Rural Awakening), Ravulapalem, focusing on the theme “Upholding Constitutional Values”. The session witnessed the participation of community members, youth, and social activists committed to promoting democratic principles and the spirit of the Indian Constitution.

The chief speaker of the event was Dr. Parakala Prabhakar, noted political economist and public intellectual, who delivered an in-depth and inspiring address. Dr. Prabhakar began by emphasizing the importance of understanding and upholding the Constitutional values that form the moral and legal foundation of India’s democracy. He highlighted that the Preamble of the Indian Constitution serves as the guiding light, reflecting the nation's commitment to justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.

In his address, Dr. Prabhakar drew attention to the growing challenges and threats to constitutional values in contemporary times. He critically examined the erosion of democratic institutions, the decline of constitutional morality, and the emergence of divisive ideologies that undermine the secular and inclusive character of the nation. He urged citizens to remain vigilant and to take an active role in defending the spirit of the Constitution.

The discussion further explored the intersection of elections and religion, particularly in the context of Sanathana Dharma and the secular fabric of India. Dr. Prabhakar firmly reiterated that India is a secular republic, where no religion can claim dominance over the State, and that political discourse must always be guided by constitutional principles rather than religious narratives.

The day-long event was divided into four segments, examining the Constitution from diverse perspectives.

The first session on Constitutional Values was moderated by Fr. Kishore Raju, the Vice President of People’s Action for Rural Awakening. 

The second session, moderated by reputed human rights advocate Penki Chittibabu, who had just returned from the Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha, focused on today's challenges to constitutional values.

In the third session, Dr. Parakala Prabhakar, in conversation with Dr. Jose Maliekal, Adv. Edida Rajesh, and Differently Abled Collective activist Badugu Subbayamma deepened the understanding of what it takes to stand up for constitutional values.

This was followed by a fourth session, in conversation with Kadiyam Prasanna Kumar, Palla Joseph, Pramod Baghsing, and Dr. Parakala Prabhakar, exploring what it takes to get the youth to uphold constitutional values.

The sessions concluded with a dynamic interaction where participants reflected on the importance of constitutional literacy, critical citizenship, and the need to revive constitutional values in everyday life and governance. The program served as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility to protect and preserve the ideals enshrined in the Constitution of India.

Rajahmundry, 20 November 2025 – A ray of hope has brightened the lives of underprivileged children living in Vambay Colony as evening tuition classes have successfully begun at Ekalavya Children’s Home.
 The special tuition program targets children from the colony who attend school regularly during the day. In the evening, they now have access to focused academic support tailored to their individual learning abilities.
Fr. Pallithanam Thomas, Rector of Ekalavya Children’s Home, and Fr. Simha, Director, expressed their delight at the progress being made. “The children from Vambay Colony blocks are remarkably smart and active. They are deeply engaged in their studies and show equal enthusiasm for games and cultural activities,” Fr. Pallithanam Thomas said.
The students have quickly adapted to the structured teaching approach of tuition teacher Vijay, who designs lessons according to each child’s capability and pace. “We are witnessing genuine interest in learning. The children are regular, attentive, and eager to improve,” added Fr. Simha.
This initiative marks a significant extension of service by PARA Society and Ekalavya Children’s Home toward the less-privileged sections of society. The joy and discipline displayed by the children have filled everyone involved with a deep sense of fulfillment.
Speaking on behalf of the team, a representative shared, “We are truly happy. Finally, we are able to do meaningful service that is making a real difference in these young lives.”
The success of the tuition program underscores the transformative power of education and community support. As these bright young minds continue to flourish, Ekalavya Children’s Home and PARA Society remain committed to nurturing their dreams and helping them build a brighter future.

The social audit was conducted from 15–19 November 2025 by a team from the Province of Hyderabad to assess the progress of PARA’s Manos Unidas–supported initiative, “Empowering Human Rights, Fostering Gender Sensitivity, and Enriching Inclusive Cultural Environments for Individuals with Disabilities,” implemented across four blocks of Kothapeta Constituency in Dr. B.R. Ambedkar District. The project aims to promote human rights, strengthen community participation, build inclusive neighbourhood structures, improve gender awareness, ensure access to government welfare schemes, enhance educational inclusion, and extend rehabilitation support to persons with disabilities.

The audit team spent five days visiting eight selected villages across the four blocks and interacted with diverse stakeholders, including Neighbourhood Committee members, persons with disabilities, parents, villagers, Anganwadi teachers, school teachers, Bavitha Centre staff, and government frontline workers. They also examined project documents, meeting registers, committee files, beneficiary records, and financial accounts to verify transparency, accountability, and alignment with the project objectives. The field visits enabled the team to understand the level of awareness created, participation of community members, and the effectiveness of PARA’s interventions at the grassroots.

Activities Undertaken During the Visit

Ø  Interactions were held with ICDS staff and Neighbourhood Committee members in Kothapeta to understand community engagement and support mechanisms.

Ø  Committee members in Devarapalli village shared experiences of organizing meetings, identifying PwDs, and supporting access to schemes.

Ø  In Narkedimilli, villagers discussed their awareness of government welfare programs, existing liabilities, and follow-up mechanisms facilitated by PARA.

Ø  A Bavitha Centre was visited in Ravulapalem, where the team met children with disabilities, parents, and teachers to understand early learning, therapy habits, and institutional support.

Ø  Committee interactions in Mandapalli highlighted growing community responsibility toward PwD inclusion.

Ø  Meetings were conducted separately in Madiki (BC community), Alamuru (ST community), and Mulastanam (SC community) to understand caste-wise inclusion, participation, and accessibility challenges.

Ø  School teachers in Mulastanam reported improved attendance and sensitization toward children with disabilities.

Ø  In Podagatalapalli and Ryali, committee members shared positive developments in rights awareness, gender discussions, and entitlement linkages.

 However, the audit also identified certain challenges. Some government schemes continue to face delays in approval and processing, leading to extended waiting periods for beneficiaries. Physical accessibility remains limited in several schools and public institutions, restricting mobility for children and adults with disabilities. Rehabilitation support is insufficient in a few villages due to limited availability of trained therapists and medical facilities. Additionally, varying levels of responsiveness among government officials across blocks affect the pace of advocacy and service delivery.

To strengthen impact, the audit team recommended intensified advocacy at district and block levels for faster sanctioning of welfare schemes, along with periodic convergence meetings with government departments. Neighbourhood Committees may benefit from refresher trainings on documentation, follow-up mechanisms, and leadership. More efforts are needed to promote inclusive infrastructure such as ramps, accessible toilets, signage, and classroom supports in schools and public buildings. Collaborations with hospitals, physiotherapists, and rehabilitation centers could enhance therapeutic access. Continued awareness campaigns on gender equality, disability inclusion, and education will help sustain behavioral and cultural change.