*The Rice Bowel of Trichy is Empty*

THE RICE BOWL OF TRICHY IS EMPTY*

_A Field Report from Amoor-Gunaseelam by Govin_

Have you ever stood on the banks of a full river and watched the rice fields next to it die of thirst?

That is the cruel irony unfolding right now in Gunaseelam and Amoor, the heartland of Trichy district.

*The Barren Motherland*

Gunaseelam-Amoor is not just any land. This is the land of Muppohogam - where paddy once grew three times a year, feeding not just Trichy but all of Tamil Nadu. Today, if you drive through Gunaseelam, you will see acres and acres of cracked, barren earth. No green. No seedlings. No life.

The fields lie fallow. The farmers stand idle. Not because they are lazy. But because there is no water.

*Mukkombu is Full, But Our Canals Are Empty*

This is what breaks the heart. Just a few kilometers away, Mukkombu - the iconic barrage where the Cauvery splits - is brimming with water. The water flows, gushes, overflows.

But it doesn't reach the Gunaseelam fields.

The channels that should carry this lifeline to the farms are dry. The system has failed, including the Karnataka Government's release policies. And Mother Cauvery, who has nurtured this soil for thousands of years, seems to be looking the other way.

*The Price of a Grain*

When the farmer doesn't cultivate, the entire chain collapses.

Paddy prices have shot up. Rice prices have followed. And in a place you would least expect it - rural Trichy - the small vegetarian hotels have been forced to increase the price of meals.

In the cities, we debate inflation. In Gunaseelam-Amoor, they feel hunger.

> This is more than a crop failure. It is a failure of planning, of distribution, of empathy.

The water is there. The land is there. The hardworking farmer is there.

What is missing is the connection between them.

Until that connection is restored, Amoor-Gunaseelam's soil will continue to weep - silent, barren, and betrayed by the very river that gave it life.-* Govin

*The Road to Kolli Hills+A memory Etched in Stone*

*Shri.K.Velayutham, Former,NYK Key official to Grass roots*

Decades ago, in the rugged terrains of Kolli Hills, a young and dynamic Youth Coordinator, Shri. K. Velayutham, led from the front.

With a spirited team of 100 youth volunteers, he carved a road out of nothing — cutting through rocks and stones with bare hands and sheer willpower. In just 10 days, they opened a pathway where there was none, connecting isolated villages to the world.

It was a time when there was not even a road to reach the camp.

Moved by this extraordinary feat, the District Collector of Salem, Mr. Farooqi, along with his team, trekked to the campsite at night, guided only by the flickering light of Deevatties — the traditional emergency lamps. There, under that night sky, he addressed and honoured the youth for their remarkable service.

It was truly a vibrant, visionary, and vigorous chapter of youth service — an unforgettable saga of Kolli Hills.

Even today, after two decades of retirement, Shri. K. Velayutham continues his tireless service to society with the same vigour and commitment.

*A road was laid then in the hills. A legacy of selfless service continues even now.*Govin

*SEVAI's Green Revolution: Healing the Earth, Empowering the Village Climate*

Vepangudi Myiawalki Forest, 

*Climate Change Adaptation & Biodiversity Restoration - A Grassroots Model from Trichy*

Climate change is no longer a distant threat; it is a daily reality for our farmers. At SEVAI, we believe the answer lies not in high-tech labs alone, but in the wisdom of the village itself. Our Climate Action is not a project, it is a movement to restore the balance between Man, Nature, and Livelihood.

1. The Fruit Forest: Planting Prosperity

We are not just planting trees; we are planting future incomes. Under our *Massive Fruit Tree Plantation Drive*, we are transforming barren lands into productive orchards with Mango, Guava, Jackfruit, Lemon and Pomegranate.

Every tree is a triple gift: It absorbs carbon, restores biodiversity, and gives a poor family a sustainable income for 30 years. A child who plants a sapling today will harvest its fruit for her education tomorrow.

2. The Miyawaki Magic: 100-Year Forest in 10 Years

Land is scarce. Time is scarce. The Japanese *Miyawaki Method* is our answer.

We create dense, native, multi-layered forests that grow 10x faster and are 30x denser. In just 3 years, a barren patch becomes a thriving mini-ecosystem - buzzing with birds, bees, and butterflies. This is our living laboratory for children to learn biodiversity, and for the village to breathe again.

3. Water is God: Catch It Where It Falls

No water, no life. Our *Water & Soil Conservation Mission* is built on one principle: _Save rain where it falls._

We are reviving traditional wisdom through modern science by constructing *Check Dams, Farm Ponds, and Percolation Pits* across Trichy. Each check dam doesn't just store water; it recharges groundwater, stops soil erosion, and brings a dead well back to life. We are teaching villages to become water-self-reliant.

4. Green Homes, Green Energy: Power to the Poor

Sustainability cannot be expensive. It must be affordable for the poorest.

SEVAI is pioneering *Cost-Effective Rural Green Housing* - homes built with eco-friendly materials, natural cooling, and rooftop solar. We are promoting *Green Energy* through solar lamps, solar pumps, and biogas units, converting waste into wealth and smoke-filled kitchens into clean, healthy homes.

This is climate justice: The rural poor who contributed least to climate change will lead the solution.

> *At SEVAI, Ecology and Economy go hand in hand.*

> A fruit tree is food security. A check dam is livelihood security. A green home is health security.

We don't just adapt to climate change. We fight it with roots, water, and sun.

Thanks to our Partners, OFI, AEM, Greening India.

*Join us in building a Self-Reliant, Green, and Resilient Village.*

*SEVAI - Serving Humanity, Sustaining Nature.*

K.Govindaraju, SEVAI.

*From Head -,Load to Head of the Enterprise*- Govin

*By SEVAI Team | Trichy*

From carrying vegetables on their heads to carrying an enterprise on their shoulders — this is SEVAI's transformation story of rural women.

In Trichy villages, women were once known as _Thalaichumai Kaikarigal_. Waking at 3 AM, walking 15 km, carrying 40 kgs on their head for a profit of just Rs. 50. No identity, no savings, no voice.

*SEVAI saw entrepreneurs in them.*

*1. Organizing the Unorganized*

Through _Grama Suyaraj_, we organized them into SHGs. Started with 15 women. Today *50,000+ women in 3000+ SHGs*. First lesson was self-belief — Rs.20 savings, weekly meetings, own bank account for the first time.

*2. Vendor to Entrepreneur*

We converted survival into business.

- *Skill Training:* Grading, packing, value addition, price negotiation.

- *Collective Business:* From individual vendors to owners of Uzhavar Sandhai, Aggregation Centers. Direct from farmers, no middlemen.

- *Bank Linkage:* Loans of Rs.50,000 to Rs.5 Lakhs. They started shops, millet units, pickle units. Profit now *Rs.500 - Rs.700 per day.*

She is no more a vendor. She is a *Business Owner and Employer.*

*3. Beyond Economics*

True empowerment is participation.

- From kitchen to Gram Sabha, PTA and Village Committees.

- Decision makers at home — education, health, investment.

- Many elected as Panchayat Ward Members and Presidents.

- Now managing SEVAI's Nutrition Centers for Seniors & Children and working as PDS salespersons.

- Their daughters are first-generation college graduates.

> *Economic Empowerment + Social Empowerment = Sustainable Transformation*

We didn't give charity. We gave a platform.

*She is no longer a beneficiary. She is the creator of a self-reliant village.*

*SEVAI - Empowering Women, Building Self-Reliant Villages.*

*Our Gratitude:* SEVAI sincerely thanks *OFI, especially Mrs. Benjamine Oberoi* and her team for their periodic guidance and invaluable support, and thanks Government and Banks for financial linkages.* K.Govindaraju, SEVAI

"If Villages Grow, India Grows*

India lives in its villages and more than 65% of us still do, so rural development is national development. Villages are the backbone of our economy feeding the nation, and developing them directly reduces poverty and unemployment where it is highest, stops overcrowding in cities like Chennai and Coimbatore by checking youth migration, ensures balanced growth, and protects our folk culture and environment. To boost the rural economy we need five things: modern farming with quality seeds, drip irrigation, cold storage, MSP and FPOs for fair prices; non-farm jobs like Khadi, handloom, food processing and rural tourism as shown by Tamil Nadu's Mahalir Thittam SHGs; strong infrastructure of roads, power, internet and schools so a farmer in Velur can sell on e-NAM worldwide; finance and skills through Kisan Credit Card, Mudra Loan and PM Kaushal Vikas Yojana; and honest implementation of schemes like VB-G RAM G with 125 days employment, PM Awas Yojana and CSCs. The formula is simple - Better Farming + Skill + Finance + Market = Prosperous Village = Strong India.

_K. Govindaraju, SEVAI_

,*If Villages Grow, India Grows*

India lives in its villages and more than 65% of us still do, so rural development is national development. Villages are the backbone of our economy feeding the nation, and developing them directly reduces poverty and unemployment where it is highest, stops overcrowding in cities like Chennai and Coimbatore by checking youth migration, ensures balanced growth, and protects our folk culture and environment. To boost the rural economy we need five things: modern farming with quality seeds, drip irrigation, cold storage, MSP and FPOs for fair prices; non-farm jobs like Khadi, handloom, food processing and rural tourism as shown by Tamil Nadu's Mahalir Thittam SHGs; strong infrastructure of roads, power, internet and schools so a farmer in Velur can sell on e-NAM worldwide; finance and skills through Kisan Credit Card, Mudra Loan and PM Kaushal Vikas Yojana; and honest implementation of schemes like VB-G RAM G with 125 days employment, PM Awas Yojana and CSCs. The formula is simple - Better Farming + Skill + Finance + Market = Prosperous Village = Strong India.

_K. Govindaraju, SEVAI_

*World Habitat Day- A roof is not a luxury, it is a Right*

Permanent shelters constructed by SEVAI for 1270 families for Tsunami Victims by SEVAI, Trichy.

Not every wall has a story, but every human deserves a wall.

World Habitat Day, observed on the *First Monday of October* - which is today, *October 5th, 2026* - is not just a day on the UN calendar. It is a mirror.

A mirror that shows us the glittering skylines and the forgotten slums and remote villages in the same frame.

Established by the United Nations in 1985 and first celebrated in 1986 in Nairobi with the powerful theme _"Shelter is My Right"_, this day reminds the world of one simple truth:

*A safe shelter is not charity. It is dignity. It is security. It is the foundation of every dream.*

In a world where over 150 million people still sleep without a roof, and millions more live in fragile, unsafe homes - Habitat Day asks us to pause.

Our cities are growing faster than our conscience. Concrete is rising, but compassion must rise higher.

This day is a call to architects, governments, citizens, and dreamers - to build not just houses, but humane habitats. To plan cities where no child is homeless, no family is displaced, and no future is left on the street.

Because development is not measured by how high our buildings touch the sky, but by how many lives feel safe under a roof.

*Let us build cities and villages that shelter hope.** K.Govindaraju, SEVAI.

A Day of Truth in Pudukkottai -The Gandhian Festival

Pudukkottai breathed Gandhi on that 2nd October morning.

The All India Mahatma Gandhi Social Welfare Association marked its _23rd Annual Gandhian Festival_ — not as a ritual, but as a reminder.

At 9 a.m., the town gathered at Gandhi Park. A garland was offered to the Mahatma, and from his silence, a march began. It was not just a procession of people; it was a procession of ideals.

The gathering at the Municipal Hall was led by the Founder-President, _Vaira. Na. Dinakaran_ — a man who still believes that service is the only prayer.

The Association's _Malar_ was unveiled by Dr. M. Palaniappan_, Principal, Government Arts College, Thirumayam, whose words echoed the spirit of Nai Talim.

The soul of the day was the Gandhian Seminar.

_Dr. A. Palanisamy_ of Bharathidasan University spoke on _'Our Association in National Welfare'_ — how a nation lives only when its villages live.

_Chinnaya Natesan_ spoke on _'Our Association in Natural Welfare'_ — reminding us that to exploit nature is to exploit ourselves, a truth Gandhi foresaw.

Then came the moment of honouring the true Satyagrahis of our times.

The _Gandhian Award for Selfless Service_ was conferred upon:

_Shri A. Vedarethinam_, Vedaranyam Kasturba Gurukulam, and

_Shri Sevai K. Govindarajan_, Trichy.

In recognition of their dedicated service to society through art and social work, Shri M. Valli Narayanan_ and renowned stage drama actor Shri Kaviraj were also honoured on the occasion.

The awards and prizes to the young winners were presented by former Vice-Chancellor of Alagappa University, _Dr. S. Subbiah_, who reminded the students that education without character is no education at all.

The cultural programme by school students, woven around Gandhian values, was deeply appreciated — innocence interpreting truth with song and dance.

What followed was a simple yet delicious lunch, enjoyed by all, served with the same discipline and grace that marked the entire proceedings.

All the participants, including _Padma Shri Subburaman_, lauded the organizers for conducting the festival in such an elaborate manner, with mass discipline and clockwork punctuality.

The day ended as Gandhi would have loved it to end — with the songs and smiles of students, and a quiet confluence of Gandhians and social workers, sharing not just tea, but dreams of a better India.

It was not a festival. It was a vow, renewed.* Govin

*ஜவஹர் ஆறுமுகம் - திருச்சியின் இலக்கிய கலங்கரை விளக்கம்*

*


ஜவஹர் ஆறுமுகம் - திருச்சியின் இலக்கிய கலங்கரை விளக்கம்*

அவர் வெறும் மனிதர் அல்ல, ஒரு இயக்கம்.

*திரு. ஜவஹர் ஆறுமுகம்* - எழுத்தாளர், பத்திரிகையாளர், சமூக செயற்பாட்டாளர், சொற்பொழிவாளர், எல்லாவற்றுக்கும் மேலாக திருச்சியின் மனசாட்சி.

வயதில் மூத்தவர், ஆனால் உணர்வில் புரட்சியாளர். இரண்டு தசாப்தங்களுக்கும் மேலாக மக்கள் வாழ்வை மாற்ற அர்ப்பணித்தவர். வீடற்றவர்களுக்கு கூரை கொடுத்தவர், தொலைநோக்கு நீர்வடிப்பகுதி மேலாண்மை மற்றும் குடிநீர் திட்டங்கள் மூலம் திருச்சி கிராமப்புறங்களின் தாகம் தீர்த்தவர்.

அறிவுத் தேடலுக்காக பாக் ஜலசந்தியை கடந்து இலங்கை சென்று, அதன் கலாச்சாரத்திலும், புகழ்பெற்ற நூலகங்களிலும் மூழ்கியவர். ஆனாலும் அவரது பெருமை தன் கிராமத்திலேயே வேரூன்றியுள்ளது - *"எனது ஆக்ஸ்போர்டு நச்சலூர் கிராம நூலகம்தான்"* என்று பெருமையுடன் கூறுகிறார்.

திருச்சி மாவட்ட எழுத்தாளர் சங்கத்தின் செயலாளராக, தற்போது தனது மிகப்பெரிய கனவை வளர்த்து வருகிறார் - திருச்சியில் ஒரு *தமிழ்க் கோட்டம்* அமைக்க வேண்டும் - தமிழ் வாழ்ந்து, சுவாசித்து, என்றும் வழிநடத்தும் புனித ஆலயம்.

*அவர் திருச்சியின் பெருமை. அவர் தமிழின் குரல்.*Govin

Mr.V.Jawahar Arumugam -The Literary Light house of Trichy

*


JAWAHAR ARUMUGAM - The Literary Lighthouse of Trichy*

He is not just a man, he is a movement. Thiru. Jawahar Arumugam - Writer, Journalist, Social Activist, Orator, and above all, the Conscience of Trichy.

A senior citizen by age, but a revolutionary by spirit, he has dedicated over two decades to transform lives. He gave roofs to the roofless, he gave water to the thirsty lands of rural Tiruchirappalli through visionary watershed management and drinking water projects.

His thirst for knowledge took him across the Palk Strait to Sri Lanka, to immerse in its culture and libraries. Yet his pride remains rooted in his village - he fondly says, "My Oxford is Nachalur Village Library."

As Secretary of the Trichy District Writers Association, he now dreams his greatest dream - to build a *TAMIL KOTTAM* in Trichy - a temple where Tamil will live, breathe and lead forever.

He is Trichy’s Pride. He is Tamil’s Voice.* Govin

My Mentor, My Guiding Light: Remembering Prof M.A.Windey,SJ

Prof M.A.Windey,SJ, Founder,VRO,India.

_By K. Govindaraju, Founder – SEVAI, Tiruchirappalli_

Some people build houses. A few rare souls build human beings. Prof. Michael Antony Windey was one such soul.

Born in Belgium in 1930, Prof. M.A. Windey, SJ came to India as a Jesuit priest and philosopher, but he chose to remain as a son of this soil. Deeply moved by the poverty he saw in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Odisha, he founded the *Village Reconstruction Organisation (VRO) in Guntur* with a revolutionary yet simple idea: development cannot be donated, it must be built by the people themselves.

Through his famous *shramadan labour camps*, he brought together village youth, students from across India, and volunteers from Europe. Side by side, they laid bricks, mixed cement, and raised over 10,000 homes, schools, and community halls. For him, a house was not just concrete and roof — it was dignity for a Dalit family, security for a widow, and hope for a landless labourer.

I was fortunate to be mentored by him for a decade in my formative years. He did not teach in classrooms; he taught on construction sites. From him I learned the three mantras that became the foundation of SEVAI in 1984:

*1. Simplicity:* Live simply so that others may simply live.

*2. Self-reliance:* Empower villages to solve their own problems.

*3. Service to the last:* Always start with the poorest of the poor.

Prof. M.A. Windey would often say, _"Go to the villages, live with them, and let them lead."_ That spirit guides SEVAI even today in our work with women's groups, child education, and village infrastructure across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.

He left us in 2009, but he lives on. He lives on in every village he rebuilt, and in every activist he moulded.

To me, he was not just a founder of an organisation. He was my Guru, who taught me that true service is to disappear into the joy of others.

_In eternal gratitude,_

*K. Govindaraju*

Founder, SEVAI, Tiruchirappalli

20, September 2026.

K.Govindaraju, Founder, SEVAI.

Grandparents Day Celebrations in SEVAI Shanthi Matriculation Higher Secondary school Petttavaithalai

*GRANDPARENTS DAY CELEBRATION - 12th September 2026*

*SEVAI SHANTHI MATRICULATION HR. SEC. SCHOOL, PETTAVAITHALAI*

Selfie Cornor of the grand parents Day

Grandparents Day was celebrated with immense joy and love at SEVAI Shanthi Matriculation Higher Secondary School, Pettavaithalai on *12th September 2026*.

The celebration was a beautiful tribute to the pillars of our families. Over *200 grandparents of our kindergarten children* participated enthusiastically, bringing blessings and boundless happiness to the campus. The kindergarten premises were beautifully decorated with colourful balloons, flowers and creative artworks made by the children.

The programme commenced with a prayer song. *Our beloved School Principal Mrs. P. Chitra welcomed the gathering* with a warm and heartfelt address, emphasizing the invaluable role of grandparents in shaping a child's values and character.

The little stars of Kindergarten mesmerized everyone with their adorable rhymes, songs, dance performances and sweet speeches dedicated to their grandparents.

The grandparents were filled with joy and emotion. They shared their pleasantries, blessed the children, and enjoyed fun-filled interactive moments with them. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, love and nostalgia.

Finally, *Assistant Head Mistress Mrs. Janathamani proposed the vote of thanks*, expressing sincere gratitude to all the grandparents for their gracious presence and to the teachers and parents for making the event a grand success.

It was truly a day of bonding, love and cherished memories that will remain etched in our hearts.

*A Celebration of Love that Connects Generations!*Kris

OZONE Triple Festival 2026

*தலைப்பு: ஓசோன் முப்பெரும் விழாவில் ஜொலித்த சேவை சாந்தி பள்ளி; தமிழறிஞர் கோவிந்தசாமிக்கு விருது*

அறிவையும் இயற்கையையும் போற்றும் வகையில், *தென் மண்டல தொடர் கல்வி வாரியம் (OZONE), திருச்சி - 620001* சார்பில் *உலக எழுத்தறிவு தினம், ஆசிரியர் தினம் மற்றும் சர்வதேச ஓசோன் தின முப்பெரும் விழா* பெட்டவாய்த்தலை *சேவை சாந்தி மெட்ரிக் மேல்நிலைப் பள்ளியில்* செப்.8, 2026 அன்று கோலாகலமாக கொண்டாடப்பட்டது.

முன்னாள் மாவட்ட நீதிபதி *திரு. கு. கருணாநிதி @ விடியல் குகன்* சிறப்பு விருந்தினராகவும், *பத்மஸ்ரீ விருதாளர் திரு. மராச்சி சுப்புராமன்* தலைமையாளராகவும் பங்கேற்றனர். *ஓசோன் தலைவர் திரு. கே. கோவிந்தராஜு* வரவேற்புரையில் எழுத்தறிவு, ஆசிரியர் மதிப்பு மற்றும் பருவநிலை பாதுகாப்பின் அவசியத்தை விளக்கினார்.

*அன்றைய நட்சத்திர விருதாளர்கள்*

> *அறிவு இணைப்பு விருது* - சேவை சாந்தி மெட்ரிக் பள்ளி, பெட்டவாய்த்தலை

> *அறிவு இணைப்பு விருது* - தமிழறிஞர் திரு. V. கோவிந்தசாமி

> *சிறந்த ஆசிரியர் விருது 2026* - *திருமதி. பிந்து, முதல்வர், நாராயணா இ-டெக்னோ பள்ளி, திருச்சி*

> *மகிளா சக்தி விருது* - திருமதி. ஆர். பிரியதர்ஷினி

*பேச்சாளர்கள் சொன்னது என்ன?*

*திரு. குகன் (முன்னாள் நீதிபதி):* "மதிப்புகள் இல்லாத கல்வி, கல்வியே அல்ல. பாரதியும் பாரதிதாசனும் கற்றுத் தந்தது போல, கல்வி மனித குலத்திற்கும் அனைத்து உயிர்களுக்கும் சேவை செய்ய வேண்டும்."

*திரு. V. கோவிந்தசாமி:* எழுத்தறிவை சூழலியலோடு இணைத்து உருக்கமாக பேசினார். "இரண்டு ஓசோன்கள் உள்ளன - ஒன்று அறிவை காக்கிறது, மற்றொன்று உயிரை காக்கிறது. யானைகளை காப்பாற்றினால் காடுகளை காக்கலாம், காடுகளை காத்தால் ஓசோனை காக்கலாம், ஓசோனை காத்தால் மனித குலத்தை காக்கலாம்."

500-க்கும் மேற்பட்ட மாணவர்கள், ஆசிரியர்கள் பங்கேற்றனர். எழுத்தாளர் *ஜவஹர் ஆறுமுகம், நுகர்வோர் செயற்பாட்டாளர் கதிரவன்,  அறிவொளி கிருஷ்ணமூர்த்தி, பெ. அன்புமணி* ஆகியோர் வாழ்த்துரை வழங்கினர்.

*வெற்றிக்கு பின்னால்...*

இந்த மாபெரும் நிகழ்ச்சியை *கௌரவ இயக்குநர் திருமதி. சுதா பயாஸ்* அவர்கள், *முதல்வர் திருமதி. ப. சித்ரா, உதவி தலைமை ஆசிரியர்கள் திருமதி. ஜனதாமணி & திரு. ராஜேந்திரன்* மற்றும் ஆசிரியர் குழுவினரின் ஆதரவோடு சிறப்பாக ஒருங்கிணைத்தார்

சுவையான உணவு ஏற்பாடுகளை *திருமதி. ஜி. மாளவிகா வாணி* செய்திருந்தார். *திருமதி. அமலா ஜெயகுமார் குழுவினரின் எழுத்தறிவு விழிப்புணர்வு பாடல்கள்* அனைவரையும் கவர்ந்தது.

தேசிய கீதத்துடன் விழா நிறைவு பெற்றது.* Kris

---

SEVAI Shanthi School Shines in OZONE TRIPLE Festival,Tamil Scholar Kavingar V Govindasamy Honoured

*📍 TRICHY | PETTAVAITHALAI - OZONE TRIPLE CELEBRATION 2026*

*Headline: SEVAI Shanthi School Shines in OZONE Triple Festival 

Tamil Scholar V.Govindasamy Honoured*

Kavingar V.Govindasamy Honoured 

In a unique celebration of knowledge and nature, the *South Zone Board of Continuing Education (OZONE), Trichy - 620001* celebrated *World Literacy Day, Teachers' Day & International OZONE Day* together at *SEVAI Shanthi Matriculation Hr. Sec. School, Pettavaithalai* on 8th September 2026.

Former District Judge *Thiru. K. Karunanidhi @ Vidiyal Kukan* was the Guest of Honour and *Padmashree Awardee Thiru. Marachi Subburaman* presided over the function. *OZONE Chairman Shri. K. Govindaraju* delivered the welcome address on the need for Literacy, Teacher Respect and Climate Action.

*STAR AWARDEES OF THE DAY*

> *Knowledge Connectivity Award* - SEVAI Shanthi Matric School, Pettavaithalai

> *Knowledge Connectivity Award* - Tamil Scholar Thiru. Vee. Govindasamy

> *Outstanding Teacher Award 2026* - *Ms. Bindu, Principal, Narayana e-Techno School, Trichy*

> *Mahila Sakthi Award* - Smt. R. Priya Dharshini

*WHAT THE SPEAKERS SAID*

*Thiru. Kukan (Former Judge):* "Education without values is no education. Bharathiar and Bharathidasan taught us that education must serve humanity and all living beings."

*Thiru. Vee. Govindasamy:* Gave a powerful speech linking Literacy with Ecology. "There are two OZONE's - one protects knowledge, one protects life. Save Elephants to save Forests, Save Forests to save OZONE, Save OZONE to save Mankind."

Over 500 students, teachers and educationists participated. Eminent personalities *Jawahar Arumugam, Kathiravan, Therednathan, Arivoli Krishna Moorthy, P. Anbumani* felicitated.

*Behind The Success*

The mega event was coordinated by *Honorary Director Mrs. Sudha Bhyas* with the strong support of *Principal Smt. P. Chitra, AHMs Mrs. Janathamani & Thiru. Rajeandran* and staff team.

Food by *Mrs. G. Malavika Vani* and soulful *Literacy Awareness Songs by Smt. Amala Jayakumar & Team* were special attractions.

The programme ended with National Anthem.* Kris

*30 year-Old Community Forest Allegedly Razed for Windmill Project in Karur,Farmers Appeal*

Felling of trees for Windmill project.

*DASINAICKANOOR (KARUR DT):* concern prevails in Dasinaickanoor village, Pappakkapatti Panchayat, Karur District, after villagers alleged large-scale deforestation and destruction of water bodies by alledged TATA Power Renewable Energy Private Limited for its windmill project.

According to residents, over 190 acres of village common land was transformed into a lush green belt over the last 30 years through the tireless efforts of a grass-roots voluntary organisation and the local public. The land was enriched with massive tree plantations and water conservation structures like minor check dams and recharge pits, which became a model for Climate Change Adaptation and ensured water for marginal farmers' wells.

Villagers now allege that the company has chopped down the fully-grown trees and demolished the water bodies, blocking the natural water flow in the commons.

Social activist *Mr. Gramium Narayanan*, who is leading the protest with farmers, said, _"This is a cruel paradox. You cannot build green energy by destroying 30 years of green cover and the water security of poor farmers."_

The community has appealed to the Tamil Nadu Government to immediately intervene, stop the deforestation, conduct an impartial inquiry, and protect the common lands and water resources of Dasinaickanoor.,* Kris

From Relief to Root-Redefining Real Service

K.Govindaraju, Director, SEVAI, Trichy 

At a time when charity is often judged by the number of freebies distributed, a vital question arises — what is real service?

For many, service has become mere leaf-watering — green for a day, withered the next. True service, social workers assert, lies in fertilizing the root and raising it into a tree.

This philosophy — _“Fertilizing the root to grow a tree is true service; happiness in giving, pride in nurturing”_ — is now redefining genuine charitable work.

Experts see two models: *Relief and Empowerment.* Relief — a notebook, a food packet, a medical camp — is immediate but temporary. Empowerment is permanent — teaching a child to learn, skilling a woman to feed her family for life, building health awareness in a community.

As Shri. K.Govindaraju, Director of SEVAI aptly puts it, _“An organisation should not create beneficiaries, but self-reliant citizens.”_

Real service stands on three pillars: *One,* it goes to the root and addresses the cause, not the symptom. *Two,* it sustains — like a grown tree, it stands on its own and gives shade to others long after the gardener has left. *Three,* it finds joy not in how much is given, but in how much people grow.

In essence, charities must evolve from donors into gardeners — nurturing with patience and celebrating when the garden blooms on its own.

For, real service is never counted in photographs. It is counted in lives transformed.

*- Krish*

"Truthfulness - The inspiring Autobiography of Padma Shri S.Damodaran released in Trichy."

*The Autobiography "Truthfulness" of Padma Shri S. Damodaran, Founder & CEO of Gramalaya, was formally released by Hon'ble Shri Ram Nath Kovind, Former President of India, on 23rd August 2026 at Tiruchirappalli.*

In a graceful and memorable ceremony held in Trichy, the autobiography titled *"Truthfulness"* chronicling the life and mission of sanitation champion *Padma Shri S. Damodaran* was unveiled.

Releasing the book, *Hon'ble Shri Ram Nath Kovind* lauded the yeoman service rendered by Shri Damodaran in the field of sanitation and menstrual hygiene. Speaking in a gentle and affectionate manner, the former President recalled that due to protocol he could not speak at length during the Padma Shri investiture ceremony.

*"Today, I can say it openly - Shri Damodaran truly deserves the Padma Shri in its fullest meaning. His services have reached every corner of the country,"* Shri Kovind said.

He further appreciated the humility of Shri Damodaran, noting that the awardee never claimed the Padma Award as his own, but always dedicated it to the entire team of Gramalaya.

The first copy of the autobiography was released by the Former President and handed over to the dignitaries on the dais.

Earlier, in an emotional address, *Padma Shri S. Damodaran* traced his four-decade-long journey in the sanitation sector, the struggles he encountered, and the milestones achieved. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to his family members, the Gramalaya team, fellow NGOs, friends, guests and all well-wishers who stood by him.

An introductory documentary on the life and work of Shri Damodaran was screened in the presence of Guests of Honour and dignitaries, which deeply moved the audience.

The event marked not just a book release, but a celebration of truth, humility and selfless service.,* Govin

K.Govindaraju, SEVAI, a note

          K.Govindaraju, SEVAI

K. Govindaraju*  

_Founder & Director, SEVAI | Social Worker, Educationist, Farmer | Tiruchirappalli_

K. Govindaraju was born on _25th September 1952_ to Shri Krishna Reddiar and Smt. Polammal in _Melapatty Village, near Kulithalai_, into a farming family. He grew up with a younger brother and sister, both of whom are now settled.  

His early education reflects the simplicity of rural life. He completed his primary schooling in his native village, walked to middle school in _Panikampatty_, and finished high school at _Kulithalai Boys High School_ in the Tamil medium. He pursued his Pre-University at _Bishop Heber College_, graduated from _National College, Tiruchirappalli_, and earned his _B.Ed_ from _Siddhartha College of Education, Tumkur_. With a deep commitment to learning, he later completed _M.Sc., M.A.,  through distance education, and a _Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism_ from _Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan_.

In _1975_, he began his journey in social service with the _Village Reconstruction Organisation_ in Andhra Pradesh as Tamil Nadu Coordinator. During the _1977 floods in Tiruchirappalli_, he led emergency relief work and was instrumental in constructing solid homes in six villages. Over the next nine years, he implemented health, child care, and adult literacy projects.  

Driven by the vision of sustainable rural development, he registered _SEVAI_ in _1984_ as a charitable organization.

Under his leadership, SEVAI has delivered holistic development across _Tiruchirappalli, Karur, Nagapattinam, and Karaikal_. Major initiatives include the construction of over _4,000 permanent homes with sanitation_ for tsunami-affected families, watershed management, professional education for _around 2,000 women_, formation of women’s self-help groups, HIV intervention programs, care for differently-abled children, green energy projects including solar power, organic farming, running _three schools_, and climate change adaptation programs. Details of SEVAI’s ongoing work are available at _www.sevaingo.in_.

A writer and communicator, he also maintains the blog _newseq.blogspot.in_. He has undertaken social service study visits to _England and Germany_, and participated in international seminars in _France, Belgium, Denmark, Switzerland_, and neighboring countries.  

He served as _Chairman of the State Resource Centre for Continuing Education_ for Tamil Nadu and Puducherry under a Government of India program, and as an _Expert Committee Member_ of the Government of India’s Environment Committee for infrastructure projects across the country. He has been serving as _Treasurer of the Tiruchirappalli District Welfare Fund Committee_ for the past 26 years.

His contributions have been recognized with the _Bharat Sevak Award_ conferred by CNRI and blessed by the then Hon’ble President of India in _2007_, and an _Outstanding Service Award_ from the _Government of Tamil Nadu in 2025_.

In his personal life, his wife _Mrs. Padmini Govindaraju_ retired as Headmistress of Government Adi Dravida Higher Secondary School, Milaguparai, and passed away in _2025_ at the age of 70. He now lives in a joint family with his son, who is in business, his daughter-in-law who is a school teacher, and two grandsons. He continues to farm in _Sirugamani_, staying connected to his roots.

From a village student to a national social leader, _K.

 Govindaraju’s life stands as a testament to service, learning, and dedication to community_. 

16th August 2026.

Service, Sacrifice, Sustainability - The story of Sirpi Velayutham Ayya*

  

Service, Sacrifice, Sustainability 

It is truly remarkable and deeply inspiring to witness the unwavering commitment of *Sirpi Velayutham Ayya* towards the social well-being of Tamil Nadu. 

For several decades, he has been a steadfast voice against alcoholism and drug abuse, relentlessly working to protect our youth from these destructive evils. His vision has always been clear: our young people must be empowered with appropriate employment opportunities aligned with their education, coupled with professional education and robust skill development programs that make them self-reliant and future-ready.

Ayya’s life work is deeply rooted in Gandhian principles. Over the years, he has dedicated himself to building a just and equitable society through a sustainable rural economy. He has championed gender equality at the grassroots, ensuring women have dignity, livelihood, and leadership in community life. Alongside this, his efforts in environmental conservation have been immense — from large-scale tree plantation drives to spreading awareness on climate change adaptation, he has consistently reminded us that protecting nature is protecting our future.

Even as he is approaching his 80s, his passion remains undiminished. His aspiration to motivate and guide the youth still burns brightly in his heart and soul. Though much of his work over the years has been silent and selfless, away from limelight and publicity, its impact on villages and communities across Tamil Nadu is profound and lasting.

It is only fitting that such a life of service be recognized at the national level. *Sirpi Velayutham Ayya truly deserves a prestigious honor like the Padma Award.* Such recognition would not only honor his legacy, but also inspire his followers and the next generation to carry forward the Gandhian values he has lived by and to continue the movement he began.

Tamil Nadu owes a great debt to Ayya for his decades of silent, committed, and transformative social workers.* Govin

*Smt.Shantha Sheela Nair Hosts Felicitation for Former Colleagues*

On 21st July, Smt. Shantha Sheela Nair, Retired IAS Officer, hosted an informal get-together in Trichy to commemorate the post-Sathabishekam of her former colleagues — Shri. Mariappan, Retired Deputy Collector and her former Personal Clerk, and Shri. Kalyana Sundaram, Retired Additional Superintendent of Police. The day also coincided with her birthday.

Though she now resides in Chennai, she traveled to Trichy, the city where she served with distinction as its first woman District Collector in the early 1980s.  

Both Shri. Mariappan and Shri. Kalyana Sundaram were specially felicitated on the occasion.

Speaking about the gathering, Smt. Shantha Sheela Nair said:  

_"I specifically invited old civil servants, their families, and civil society members who were active with us more than four decades ago and who have kept in touch with me all these years."_

Among those who joined were Padmashree Marachi Subburaman from SCOPE, SEVAI Govindarajan, Smt. Kannaki, a representative from Inbaseva Sangam, and other well-wishers.

Smt. Shantha Sheela Nair fondly recalled her years as District Collector. Smt. Rajeswari Subburaman and Shri. Thangavel added warmth to the occasion with melodious songs.

The get-together concluded with a sumptuous lunch. The gathering and the meal were hosted by Smt. Shantha Sheela Nair — an Annam offered in gratitude.  

All those present expressed their heartfelt wishes and blessings to the civil servants who served Trichy District with passion, compassion, and total commitment, upholding the true spirit of public service to the citizens.

- Govin