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Newsletter — March 2026
Jeya Gell
Greetings.
We are delighted to meet you all through this newsletter and share many works we have done so far.
Tuition centre
An unforgettable educational trip to STEM Park
On February 2nd, students from the tuition center in Azhagumuthu Nagar visited the STEM Park in Thoothukudi, organised by DAIA. The center provided an exciting opportunity for students to explore concepts in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Guided by Mrs. Mahalakshmi, staff member at the park, the children explored various exhibits, including models of artificial satellites and ancient fossilized trees, sparking curiosity about space and Earth’s history.
The highlight of the visit was an engaging cinema show that showcased India’s spacecraft and the efforts of scientists and astronauts behind their missions. Students also enjoyed a 3D film on deep-sea creatures and forest animals, making learning interactive and memorable. The trip was described by the children as unforgettable, helping them understand scientific concepts more effectively through hands-on experiences and visual demonstrations.
Learning Highlights
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Space & Physics
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Earth & History
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Chemistry & Biology
Special Attractions
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Cinema show on India’s space missions
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3D film on deep-sea creatures
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3D visuals of forest animals
Mobile library
In February, as part of Reading Challenge 6, books were distributed to students at the tuition center, continuing last month’s initiative. The children eagerly chose their favorite titles and shared how the mobile library has enriched their learning and imagination. The program continues to inspire a love for reading and strengthen positive reading habits among students.
Positive parenting program(PPP)
Positive Parenting Program meetings were successfully conducted on February 5th at the tuition Centre in Nachiyarpuram and on February 17th at the tuition centre in Saveriyarpuram. During these sessions, parents actively discussed their children’s academic progress, with special focus on the half-yearly examination results. Constructive feedback was shared, and parents were encouraged to motivate and support their children in aiming for improved performance in the upcoming examinations. The meetings strengthened collaboration between parents and the centre, fostering a positive approach toward academic growth and student success.
Tuition teachers meeting
On February 26th, the monthly teachers’ meeting was held at the DAIA office in Kirubai Nagar. During the meeting, Mrs. Hilda John engaged teachers in discussions about their students’ families, the cultural backgrounds of the areas where their centers are located, and the professions and incomes of the local communities. Mrs. Chitra, a teacher at Kurinji Nagar Training Center, proudly shared that she had cleared the Government Teacher Eligibility Test, crediting her experience and work at DAIA for her success. Teachers also reported that all students performed exceptionally well this month. The meeting concluded with the submission of monthly reports and the distribution of Nutritional snacks for the children upcoming month.
Vocational Training and Employment (VOTE Project)
Agricuture workshop
On February 19th, DAIA conducted a farmers workshop at Kulasekaranallur village, bringing together 47 (41 women and 6 men) farmers from five villages under the panchayat. The session focused on government welfare schemes for migrant and small-scale farmers. Mr. Selvakumar from the Government Agriculture Office, Ottapidaram, and Ms. Subhadra from the Agriculture Department, explained subsidies for farmers owning more than two acres, support for drip irrigation systems, and assistance with water pipes, fertilizers, seeds, tarpaulins, sprinklers, and tillage machines. Rainfed landowners were informed about annual subsidies, free soil testing at the Kovilpatti agricultural experiment station, and free farm pond construction, along with crop insurance options.
To make the session interactive, a street procession was organised to raise awareness among local farmers. Participants actively engaged with officials, clarified doubts, and learned about the documentation needed to access benefits. The seminar concluded with a vote of thanks, equipping farmers with valuable knowledge to enhance their agricultural practices and livelihoods.
Women’s health awareness
On February 13th, an awareness program was conducted in Osanoothu village for 13 women on preventing intestinal worm infections. The session explained how worms can spread through contaminated food, open defecation, and poor hygiene practices, and emphasised the importance of wearing footwear and maintaining cleanliness. Participants were advised to take deworming tablets every six months, as untreated infections can lead to anemia and weakness. The program highlighted the need for regular preventive care to maintain good health and overall well-being.
A beacon of women’s progress
Mrs. Subbulakshmi from Osanoothu village is a remarkable example of community leadership and women’s empowerment. A Diploma in Nursing graduate and a dedicated mother to her daughter studying in the 11th standard, she has consistently shown a strong commitment to uplifting women in her community. With a deep interest in women’s advancement, she began leading a women’s self-help group in her village in association with DAIA, creating a platform for women to build confidence, unity, and financial stability.
Through her dedication and effective leadership, Mrs. Subbulakshmi has expanded her influence and now heads all the women’s self-help groups in her panchayat. Her guidance has strengthened collective action among women and encouraged greater participation in development initiatives. She continues to play a vital role in transforming the lives of village women, serving as an inspiration for community-driven progress.
Tailoring centre
The first batch of tailoring training has successfully commenced in Osanoothu village, with 22 young women actively participating. The training program aims to equip women with practical tailoring skills, enabling them to enhance their income opportunities and achieve greater financial independence. Participants are showing keen interest and dedication, marking a positive step toward women’s empowerment and sustainable livelihood development in the community.
PALAM Project
Self help group meeting
On February 3rd, a self-help group meeting was conducted in Osanoothu village to review the group’s financial progress. Members discussed their income, expenditure, savings, and cooperative bank loan details to ensure transparency and proper financial management. The meeting strengthened accountability among members and reinforced their commitment to collective growth and financial stability.
Embracing Elders
On February 11th, 45 elders participated in a camp at Zion Campus in Tuticorin. Mrs. Jeya Gell shared an inspiring message, motivating participants to focus on their well-being. Each elder received groceries and nutritional supplements, and their weights were monitored and recorded to track health progress. The camp concluded with a wholesome meal, promoting both nutrition and community well-being.
Thank you to all our supporters
We were able to do the work just because you stood behind us. Our heartfelt thanks for your consistent support in reaching out to make our vulnerable communities better.
We look forward to working with you. Thank you once again.
Reflection: Kindness
"Always help someone. You might be the only one who does."
Let us be kind and lighten the burden of those who are suffering.
Debasish Mridha - QUOTESTATS.COM
Development Association for Integrated Activity (DAIA)
5E/95, Kirubai Nagar, Tuticorin, Tamilnadu, India. 628 008.
Phone: +91 9488373224 (0461) 2311548, 2391548, Email: admin@daiaindia.org
Founder: Mr. Gell Joseph 1945 - 2015
Bank name | A/c name | A/c No S/B | IFSC code |
|---|---|---|---|
International Needs Australia | 69 579 7035 (Donations from within Australia)
Ref: DAIA India - Donor name | BSB: 083 125 | |
City Union Bank, Tuticorin | Development Association for Integrated Activity | 085001000097607
(Donations Within India) | CIUB 0000085 |
State Bank of India, New Delhi | Development Association for Integrated Activity | 40113007625
(Donations from countries other than India) | SBIN 0000691 |
Mrs. Jeya Gell
