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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.

The official Annual Provincial Visitation of Rev. Fr. Santiagu Thomas Raj Kumar SDB, Provincial of the Salesian Province of Hyderabad, to People’s Action for Rural Awakening (PARA) took place on Friday, 31st October and Saturday, 1st November 2025. The visit was marked by spiritual renewal, fraternal dialogue, and meaningful interactions with confreres, staff, and collaborators of PARA and its associated institutions.

Day 1: Friday, 31st October 2025

The Provincial arrived on the evening of 30th October to a quiet welcome by the Salesian Community. Friday, the 31st began with Morning Prayer and Holy Eucharistic celebration, invoking God’s blessings upon the visitation. After breakfast, Fr. Provincial conducted the Inaugural Conference for the Salesians, setting a reflective and inspiring tone for the two-day program.

A warm welcome by the PARA staff followed, expressing gratitude for the Provincial’s presence and guidance. This was accompanied by a brief coffee interaction, fostering a cordial and informal exchange between the Provincial and the staff.

Throughout the day, Fr. Santiagu Thomas Raj Kumar met individually with confreres, providing space for personal sharing and encouragement. Later, he met with the MACS Staff, followed by tea and an interaction session that allowed for discussion on ongoing projects and future directions. A visit to Oota-Wellsprings, the Province Center for Psycho-Social Services, was also part of the schedule.

In the evening, the Annual General Body Meeting (AGM) of PARA was presided over by the Provincial, who is also the organization's president.  This session provided an overview of PARA’s activities, achievements, and plans. The day concluded with Evening Prayer, Spiritual Reading, a Conference, dinner, and the Rosary and Goodnight talk, rounding off the day in prayerful reflection.

Day 2: Saturday, 1st November 2025

The second day began with Morning Prayer, Meditation, and the Holy Eucharist, followed by breakfast. The Provincial continued his individual meetings with confreres and later interacted with the PARA Staff, offering words of appreciation and encouragement for their commitment to social transformation.

This was followed by a meeting with EPC and Committee Members, and PARA Collaborators, strengthening the spirit of shared mission and collaboration. All members joined the Provincial for lunch, marking a joyful moment of fraternity and togetherness.

In the afternoon, Fr. Provincial proceeded to Ekalavya Children’s Home (ECH), Rajahmahendravaram, where he met with the ECH staff, children, and collaborators among whom were 3 members of the Child Welfare Committee of East Godavari District. His presence brought warmth and inspiration to the young beneficiaries and the team working with them. After tea, he returned to Ravulapalem, concluding the visitation with Evening Prayer and a Concluding Conference, wrapping up the two-day program in a spirit of gratitude and renewal.

The Provincial’s visit was a moment of grace and encouragement for the PARA community and its collaborators. His presence, insights, and fraternal interaction strengthened the commitment of everyone involved toward the shared Salesian mission of empowering the marginalized and promoting integral human development.