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Newsletter—September 2025
Jeya Gell
Greetings.
We are delighted to meet you all through this newsletter and share many works we have done so far.
PALAM Project (Self Help Group)
Detergent Powder Preparation Training
On August 14th, a washing powder training camp was conducted in the Osanoothu area under the Kulasekaranallur Panchayat for members of the Pannai Self-Help Group. The training aimed to encourage women to start small businesses and improve their economic conditions. A total of 23 women participated. Mrs. Prema, who led the training, emphasised the importance of self-employment and highlighted that with minimal investment, detergent making can yield good profits. She also encouraged couples to work together in this venture. The training included a detailed explanation of the detergent-making process, and participants were given a sample detergent packet to take home. Many attendees expressed interest in starting this business in the near future. We have one attendee start the business straight away.
Sindhu's Journey to Self-Reliance
Mrs. Sindhu, a 26-year-old resident of Kulasekara Nallur village, is a mother of two and the wife of a daily wage earner. To support her family, she has been working under a government scheme that provides breakfast to school children. However, the income was not enough to meet her household needs. Her life took a positive turn when she attended a detergent powder production training conducted by DAIA on March 26, 2025. With the skills she gained and minimal investment, Sindhu has now started her own small-scale detergent powder business. While she currently sells locally, she is enthusiastic about expanding to neighboring villages soon. With a bright smile, she proudly shared that she can now take care of her family’s essential expenses on her own. Sindhu’s journey is a testament to how skill development can empower women and uplift families.
DAIA Guidance Meeting for SHG Members
On August 14th, a meeting of the Farm Women’s Committee was held to guide members on availing loans through the DAIA scheme. During the meeting, the step-by-step loan application procedures were explained in detail. The committee’s decisions and discussions were officially recorded in the meeting minutes.
Empowerment
As part of this month’s Economic Development Program, Mrs. Sermakani from the Osanoothu area applied to expand her existing tea shop.
On August 26th, she received support to successfully expand her small business. This initiative aims to promote self-employment and improve the livelihood of rural women.
Vocational Training and Employment
(VOTE) Project
Tailoring Centre
The third batch of tailoring training is currently underway in Kulasekaranallur village, with 19 enthusiastic women participating. The program aims to equip them with sewing skills to support income generation and self-employment, helping them move toward financial independence.
Health Awareness Session for Women
On August 21st, a health awareness meeting was conducted in Kulasekaranallur village, focusing on the prevention of anemia. Twenty women participated in the session. The program highlighted that women, especially after the age of 40, often experience symptoms such as fatigue, depression, and pain in the arms and legs, symptoms that can be linked to low blood levels. The session emphasized the importance of including iron-rich and nutritious foods in their daily diet. Participants were also advised to take deworming tablets every six months and to maintain a positive and energetic outlook for better overall health.
Tuition centre
We are currently operating six tuition centres across the outskirts of Tuticorin, providing academic support to 148 enrolled children.
Independence Day Celebration
This month, Independence Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm across all DAIA run tuition centres. Our students paid tribute to the spirit of freedom through heartfelt poems, powerful speeches, soulful songs, and vibrant dance performances. A highlight of the celebrations was when students dressed up as iconic freedom fighters, bringing history to life through their portrayals. Their performances not only honoured the sacrifices of our national heroes but also inspired everyone to reflect on the true meaning of independence.
TATA Pro-Engage-Online English classes
We are delighted to share that the TATA Online Classes successfully commenced on August 11th, with eight enthusiastic volunteers coming on board. These sessions aim to support students from Grades 5 to 9 in English, and Grade 9 students in Mathematics. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated volunteers Ms.Anuradha Ravi, Ms.Archana, Ms.Abirami Ganesan, Ms. Aruna Ramani, Ms.Deepthi Kolisetty, Mr.Rajan, Ms.Annie and Ms.Kalavani Narayanan, for joining us in this meaningful initiative.
Tuition teachers meet
On August 28th, the monthly teachers’ meeting was held at the DAIA office. Ms. Helen shared words of encouragement with the teachers. Mrs. Hilda John reviewed the month’s progress and discussed the educational development of the children, with a special focus on the challenges they are facing. She also introduced the TATA Online Classes and announced that prizes will be awarded to students who participate consistently. Additionally, it was shared that starting this month, evening snacks and pulses will be provided to the children. The monthly report was also submitted.
Embracing Elders
On August 13th, 44 elders attended the camp at Zion Campus. Mrs. Eben Jason shared heartfelt words, reminding everyone of the value of freedom as we celebrated Independence Month. Drawing inspiration from the tricolor flag, she encouraged all to embody its virtues: sacrifice, purity, and prosperity, in their daily lives. They were given groceries and nutrition powder, and their weight was monitored and recorded. The camp ended with a good meal.
Fundraiser
We were able to raise Rs. 3,000 this month through the distribution of Aloe vera cordial. If you would like to preorder.
Please contact the office. Thank you for your support!
Contact no: 9487324886
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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
