Newsletter August 2025
AAPI-TN Donates $31,000 to Support Ekal’s Rural Education Mission
The American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin – Tennessee (AAPI-TN) has extended its support to rural education by donating $31,000 to Ekal. This generous contribution strengthens Ekal’s mission of empowering underserved communities through education.
Ekal appreciates this impactful partnership and encourages other AAPI chapters nationwide to join the movement toward transforming rural Bharat through learning and opportunity.
Ekal USA Volunteers Join Central Texas Flood Relief Efforts
In response to the devastating floods in Central Texas on July 4, 2025, Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation of USA joined hands with Sewa International for a major relief initiative on July 19–20. Represented by Chetan Raval from Ekal and 21 volunteers, Ekal contributed to recovery efforts across the hardest-hit areas.
Volunteers from Dallas, San Antonio, Houston, and Austin collaborated with HSS, Agasthiyar Kalai Mandram (AKM), and Sewa teams to assist in cleanup and restoration. In Center Point, they helped a business owner recover flood-damaged goods. In Ingram, they supported the fire department’s food pantry, and in Hunt, TX, they cleaned a girls' camp ravaged by over 20 feet of floodwater.
The mission was recognized as a powerful act of unity, resilience, and compassion. Ekal’s contribution underscored its broader commitment to service, education, and empowerment in times of crisis.
— Chetan Raval, Ekal USA
Enthusiastic Response to ‘Story Way Learning’ E-Shiksha
One Acharya shared,
“Using the puranic and epic-based story that matched the government textbook lesson, I was able to complete the entire chapter in just 30 minutes. In contrast, regular schools usually take 2 periods of 45 minutes each.”
She further noted that every student—whether fast or slow learner—was completely engaged during the story, and answered textbook-based questions with ease and excitement once the story-to-concept integration was done. The use of culturally rooted stories not only connected the children to their Bharatiya heritage, but also enhanced their academic grasp.
This innovative method has the potential to transform rural learning by bridging values and curriculum, and will soon be expanded further.
The idea is conceptualized by Madhavan, Prabhag Shiksha Prabhari for Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka. The MSchool section of ManMaking.co.in platform offers free, value-based digital learning resources, specially designed for Ekal and other rural children. By combining curriculum-linked learning with Bharatiya stories, it aims to strengthen foundational education while connecting young minds to their cultural roots.
FTS Holds Annual National Meet in Raipur
The Annual Meeting of Friends of Tribals Society (FTS) was held from 11th to 13th July 2025 at Jainam Bhawan, Raipur. The three-day event included the Governing Body meeting on the first day, the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on the second, and the Annual General Assembly (AGM) on the final day.
Key discussions covered the organization’s progress, activities of the past year, and plans for the future. Major highlights included the announcement of the National Executive Committee, National Women’s Committee, and FTS Youth Executive Committee for 2025–27, approval of the 2024–25 Annual Report, and presentations on OTS Collection and Membership data from all chapters.
The event also featured the release of the FTS Dialogue Magazine, the National Calendar for 2025–26, and the Impact Study Report. Outstanding chapters and senior FTS members were honored with awards and certificates. A cultural program on the life of Ahilya Bai added a meaningful touch to the gathering. Officers from all 37 FTS chapters participated, marking a successful completion of the annual meet.
"Pragati Path" Boosts Team Spirit and Business Synergy in Surat
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The Surat FTS Yuva branch organized a vibrant business networking event titled "Pragati Path", aimed at fostering team building, mutual cooperation, and spreading the Ekal ideology. With the theme “hearts must connect before the mission begins,” the event brought together 64 participants from sectors like Chartered Accountancy, Marketing, Technology, Transport, and Services.
The event stood out by generating 70 business leads—significantly more than traditional networking events. Attendees were given platforms to present their businesses through timed segments, encouraging wide interaction. Strategic networking ensured every participant met at least 10 new professionals.
Ongoing informal gatherings like FTS Social have enhanced team bonding, already resulting in over 100 membership renewals this year. The team now targets 200 renewals by July 31.
The event also sparked enthusiasm for Van Yatras, with 63 members registering within five days, leading to the arrangement of two buses. In a health initiative, Dr. Malay Parekh announced upcoming free blood testing camps in rural areas.
The event's exceptional organization was widely praised and has set the tone for more such impactful programs.
— Gopesh Agrawal, Secretary, FTS Yuva, Surat
Begin with the End in Mind — A New Transformational Training for Tamilnadu Ekal Karyakartas
A special two-day training camp for Sambhag-level karyakartas of Ekal was successfully held on June 19 and 20, 2025, at the Seva Nivas campus in Chennai, under the inspiring theme "Begin with the End in Mind." The primary goal of this camp was to enhance the overall life clarity and work effectiveness of the karyakartas.
Key Highlights of the Training:
At the start of the session, participants were invited to spend half an hour visualizing the final days of their life, surrounded by their loved ones — and asked to imagine what they would want to be remembered for. This was taken as the true life goal, and from there, the session guided them backwards toward their present stage, tracing a path from where they are to where they wish to go. Using Ekal’s mission as a living example, the current status and the journey toward the goal were clearly mapped out.
The sessions deeply explored the importance of subtle awareness and empathy, while also emphasizing how to participate in national service with emotional commitment, yet take decisions with wisdom and clarity. Participants were taught how to navigate differences of opinion, handle team members without alienating them, and make timely decisions — including when to take action, when to postpone, and when to consult the right people.
The camp also discussed how to identify the central challenge at the root of multiple problems, and how to avoid getting emotionally entangled in unnecessary or unproductive matters. Karyakartas were guided on what to take up and what to leave behind in order to stay focused on their goal. The need to allocate time for acquiring the right skills and knowledge, and to cultivate a habit of continuous learning, was clearly emphasized.
Final Resolutions:
At the end of the camp, the following key resolutions were adopted:
- To serve the nation with heartfelt emotion, but make decisions with thoughtful discrimination.
- To take responsibility only for work that falls within one’s role.
- To empower work through active functioning of Samithis.
- To commit to continuous personal and team learning.
Reflections from the Karyakartas:
The participants expressed that the camp brought them great clarity of mind and served as the right guidance to realign their path — both in Ekal service and in personal life. Inspired by its impact, the camp was extended to 20 selected karyakartas in 2 batches of 10 each for 3 days each.
100th Shrihari Rath Temples Mark Milestone in Tribal Upliftment
For 28 years, Ekal Shrihari Vanvasi Vikas Trust has been revitalizing tribal villages through education and cultural revival. With over 70,000 tribal villages benefiting from initiatives like Sanskar Shiksha Kendras, Shrihari Rath Mandir Yojana, and Shabari Basti Yojana, the trust continues to foster Indian cultural values and rural empowerment.
On 13th July 2025, the Ekal Shrihari Surat Chapter inaugurated the 10th and 11th raths for Surat — the 99th and 100th raths under the Shrihari Rath Yojana — at Shyam Kunj, Maharaja Agrasen Palace, City Light, Surat.
The raths, serving as mobile temples for villages without places of worship, were donated by Omprakash Agarwal of Sanika Group and freedom fighter Vinod Mittal. The event included traditional rituals, speeches by leaders like Rameshwar Dayal (West Zone Head, Nagar Sangathan) and Mahesh Mittal (National President), and a presentation on Ekal's five-fold mission to uplift 4 lakh Vanvasi villages.
Key attendees included Vishnu Choudhary, CA Arun Kanodia, Umesh Agarwal, Vishwanath Singhania, donors, and community members. The consecration ended with prasadam distribution, marking a heartfelt celebration of devotion and rural service.
Tailoring Training Sub-Centre Inaugurated in Basapura to Empower Rural Women
On 6th July 2025, Ekal Gramothon Foundation inaugurated a Tailoring Training Sub-Centre in Basapura village, Mysuru, Karnataka under its Integrated Village Development (IVD) scheme. This initiative aims to equip rural women with skills for micro-entrepreneurship and self-reliance.
Kunte Gaudru, Vice President of Ekal Anchal Samiti, explained the purpose and operations of the training centre. Govit Kiran, State Coordinator, emphasized the benefits of the program in enabling women-led entrepreneurship. Mahila Samiti member Shantamma encouraged women to actively participate for their own growth and the betterment of society.
The event began with a symbolic ribbon-cutting and lamp lighting. Key attendees included Mahadevappa (President, Sanch Samiti), sewing trainer Geetha, Gram Panchayat member Shankar, and several local villagers. This training centre is a significant step in Ekal’s mission to empower rural communities through skill development.
Ekal Empowers Farmers with Organic Farming Revolution
Ekal is transforming rural livelihoods by promoting sustainable organic farming practices across India. Through hands-on training and awareness programs, farmers are adopting eco-friendly methods that protect natural resources—soil, water, and air—while enhancing both productivity and profitability.
This initiative not only supports environmental conservation but also boosts rural income and self-reliance.
Watch the story here: Ekal Organic Farming Story
75 Women Empowered Through Skill Training at WEC Jwala Mukhi
The Women Empowerment Centre (WEC) in Jwala Mukhi, Himachal Pradesh, is currently training 75 students in its ongoing batch—42 in sewing and 33 in beautician courses. The participants are showing great enthusiasm as they build valuable skills toward self-reliance.
This impactful initiative is supported by the generous contribution of Malti and Harbans Singla, whose support is playing a vital role in transforming lives at the grassroots.
New Women Empowerment and Sewing Center Inaugurated in Markapur, Andhra Pradesh
On 6th July 2025, Ekal Gramothan Foundation inaugurated a new Women Empowerment and Sewing Training Center in Markapur, Prakasam district, Andhra Pradesh. The initiative aims to equip rural women with skills in tailoring, embroidery, and handicrafts, fostering self-reliance and confidence.
The inauguration began with floral tributes to Bharat Mata and a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, followed by coconut breaking. Over 50 women from nearby villages attended, along with community leaders, retired servicemen, educators, and volunteers. Donors and project leaders from India and abroad participated virtually.
Key donors Prakash Shah and Rajeev Aluru were acknowledged for their generous support. Hasmukh Shah and Ramesh Shah, long-time supporters of Ekal projects, shared their continued commitment to grassroots empowerment.
This center now stands as a symbol of opportunity and transformation, furthering Ekal’s mission of uplifting rural communities through skill development and dignity.
Delhi Women’s Committee Promotes Ekal's Organic Mission at Citywide Stalls
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The Delhi Women’s Committee, under Ekal Abhiyan, organized stalls for Vanbandhu Parishad on 16th July 2025 at Ashok Hotel and on 18th July 2025 at S.L. House, Malviya Nagar. These events aimed to raise awareness about Ekal’s tribal development initiatives.
Organic products like turmeric, mustard oil, and healthy food items were displayed and received with great appreciation. The stalls highlighted Ekal’s commitment to indigenous and sustainable practices.
Through these events, visitors were inspired to join Ekal’s mission of “Nation Building through Village Development.”
— Madhurika Mundhra, President
— Pooja Mundhra, Secretary
Inspiring Van Yatra in South Tamil Nadu
On 20th July 2025, the P10 (Tamilnad, Karnataka and Kerala) Prabhag Samiti of Ekal Abhiyan – South Bharat conducted a Van Yatra to two Ekal schools in Komal Sanch, Mayiladuthurai Anchal, South Tamil Nadu Sambhag. The visit focused on reviewing teaching methods, student engagement, and value-based education.
Gram Samiti meetings were also held to engage with villagers, evaluate ongoing Ekal work, and plan future initiatives.
Covering a distance of about 350 km from Chennai over 3–4 days, the visit helped strengthen grassroots connections and understanding.
Key participants included:
- M Balasubramaniam – Prabhag President
- Madhavan – Prabhag Primary Education In-charge
- Shankar Dikshit – Prabhag Value Education In-charge
- T V Seshadri – Tamil Nadu Sambhag Samrakshak
- Kartar Dogra – South Bharat Worker & Finance Head
- N Karthikeyan - Prabhag Karyalaya and CSR Pramukh
The visit offered valuable on-ground insights, contributing to the enhancement of local Ekal efforts.
EKAL School Vanyatra Inspires Community Support in Khamaria Village
On 2nd July 2025, a one-day Ekal school visit program (Vanyatra) was held at Khamaria village, Sanch Barela, under the Vanbandhu Parishad Jabalpur Chapter. Families from the Chartered Accountants Association and the Inner Wheel Club actively participated in this enriching experience.
Participants engaged with tribal children by distributing stationery, sports items, food supplies, and sweets while observing their academic progress. The school, serving underprivileged children in remote forest regions, has been a pillar of education in the area.
Charitable activities were conducted jointly by both groups, with speeches from Inner Wheel Club President Madhu Agarwal and CA Association President Kailash Chandra Agarwal. The event was hosted by Manisha Dubey, President of the Vanbandhu Parishad Women’s Committee.
Several prominent members from both associations and Vanbandhu Parishad attended. The visit concluded with heartfelt interactions with the children and villagers, reinforcing the collective commitment to education and community upliftment.
Heartwarming Vanyatra to Annaikatti
On 2nd July, the Ekal Mahila Samiti, Coimbatore chapter, organized a meaningful Vanyatra to Annaikatti, reaching Ekal schools in remote rural areas. A team of six members was warmly welcomed with traditional hospitality by teachers, volunteers, area heads, village leaders, and enthusiastic Ekal students.
The children showcased their talents through Suryanamaskar, prayers, songs, and poems. In a gesture of love and support, the team distributed snacks (samosas, apples, chocolates, Chocopie), school supplies (tiffin boxes, water bottles, pencils, geometry boxes), hygiene items (toothpaste, bathing soaps), sports kits, and Ekal duffle bags to children, volunteers, and local leaders.
Led by President Kavita Maheshwari and Secretary Sapna Chhajed, the visit proved to be a touching and enriching experience, strengthening the bond between the Mahila Samiti and the Ekal schools they support.
FTS, Hyderabad Women’s Committee Spreads Joy in Nadalpuram
On 27th June 2025, six members of the Friends of Tribals Society Women’s Committee, Hyderabad Chapter, undertook a Vanyatra to Nadalpuram Vidyalaya in Zonal Sangareddy. They were warmly welcomed by the Acharya and village committee.
The program began with lamp lighting, followed by vibrant student performances including Saraswati Vandana, Gayatri Mantra, bhajans, patriotic songs, and a display of Chaupai and Single Vijay Mantra. Yoga and asanas were demonstrated by Vandana, while Priya Kriplani conducted an engaging session on environmental cleanliness.
The committee distributed school bags, books, and fruits to the delighted students, and also planted trees in the school premises. The visit concluded with a spiritual stop at Shri Balaji Temple, making the yatra both impactful and fulfilling.
FTS Surat Chapter’s Inspiring Two-Day Vanyatra to Songadh–Saputara
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On 28–29 June 2025, the FTS Surat Chapter organized a memorable two-day Vanyatra to the Ekal Gramothan Resource Center (GRC) in Songadh and nearby Ekal schools. Over 35 members participated, including Shatakveer donors, single-school supporters, and 12 first-time participant couples.
Key attendees included Patron J.P. Agarwal, Manoj Agarwal, Suresh Agarwal, FTS West Zone Chairman Shyam Garg, I.P.P. Vinod Agarwal, President Shrinayaran Pedhiwal, and Vice President Arun Kabra.
Participants observed the impactful work being done by Ekal and shared heartfelt reflections during a post-visit session. Many first-timers pledged lifelong commitment to the cause. The Vanyatra fostered deep bonds among members and strengthened the foundation of the organization.
Special appreciation was extended to Brijmohan Agarwal for his dedicated coordination. This journey served as a bridge between service and hearts, reinforcing unity and purpose within the Ekal mission.
— Gautam Prajapati, Secretary, FTS Surat