Newsletter March 2026
From Knowing to Seeing
After many years of supporting Ekal from the United States, I finally had the opportunity to visit India in December 2025 and witness the impact of our work firsthand. This visit became a deeply meaningful journey that strengthened my faith in Ekal’s mission and my connection with the communities we serve.
During my visit to the Head Offices in Delhi, Ranchi, and Calcutta, I met the dedicated teams working tirelessly to ensure that support reaches the last mile. I also had the privilege of meeting Shyam Gupta, whose vision, simplicity, and commitment to service continue to inspire Ekal’s mission.
Traveling across Gramothan Resource Centers, IVDs, Ekal Vidyalayas, health centers, and training facilities, I saw how education, women empowerment, livelihood, agriculture, and health come together to transform rural communities. One inspiring moment was meeting Sonika in Gajraula, a former WEC trainee who now earns over ?1 lakh per month through her tailoring enterprise and provides employment to girls from her village.
Across several regions, I met confident women, digitally skilled youth, dedicated farmers practicing organic methods, and children whose enthusiasm reflected hope and values. These experiences reaffirmed that Ekal is truly a people’s movement creating dignity, opportunity, and brighter futures in rural India.
I return with deep gratitude for the teams, volunteers, and supporters who make this mission possible, and with renewed commitment to share these stories and strengthen the bridge between donors and the communities they support.
- Manisha Jain, Executive Directoe , EVFI.
Winter Medical Internship in Gujarat Strengthens Global Health Exposure
The Ekal Medical Internship (Winter 2025–2026) was conducted from 27 December 2025 to 17 January 2026 in rural Gujarat, with six American pre-medical students participating. The three-week program combined grassroots village immersion with clinical observation at Sumandeep Medical College, Vadodara.
Interns engaged with rural healthcare systems, community health workers, village education initiatives, and public health outreach linked to Ekal Vidyalaya. At the hospital, they observed academic medical practices, gaining cross-cultural exposure to India’s allopathic clinical environment.
Survey feedback highlighted direct interaction with villagers, sevikas, and students as the most impactful aspect. Participants gained deeper insight into rural healthcare delivery, the link between education and public health, and clarity about their medical career goals.
The program reflected strong collaboration between Ekal teams in the U.S. and India, combining academic rigor with authentic field exposure. With continued refinement and coordination, the internship is positioned to grow as a flagship experiential initiative, strengthening global health engagement and long-term commitment to Ekal’s mission.
Sangeet Station Raises $10,000 for Rural Education in Dallas
The Ekal Vidyalaya Dallas Chapter, in collaboration with Swarank, hosted “Sangeet Station” on 13 February 2026 in the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex. The musical evening celebrated youth talent while supporting Ekal’s mission of rural and tribal education in India.
Led by Shubhada Deshpande and Sachin Deshpande, the Swarank youth ensemble presented a vibrant selection of songs from across Bharat, earning repeated “Once More” applause from an enthusiastic audience.
Beyond cultural celebration, the event raised nearly $10,000 toward Ekal Vidyalaya’s educational initiatives. The program’s success was made possible by the dedicated efforts of volunteers, sponsors, parents, and community supporters.
Ekal Vidyalaya expressed heartfelt gratitude to all performers and contributors for making Sangeet Station a memorable blend of music, youth leadership, and community service.
108 Soldiers Honored at Felicitation Program in Jammu
In Prabhag Paschimottar – Sambhag Jammu, Ekal Abhiyan successfully organized a Soldiers’ Felicitation Program in a dignified and emotional atmosphere. The event saw participation from more than 300 people representing various sections of society.
A total of 108 soldiers dedicated to national service were honored with certificates of appreciation. Additionally, five family members of martyred soldiers were felicitated in recognition of their sacrifice.
Committee President Ritu Sharma welcomed the soldiers and expressed deep respect for their unparalleled dedication and sacrifice for the nation’s security.
Chief speaker Raj Singh highlighted the invaluable role of the armed forces in safeguarding the nation’s borders and emphasized that even after retirement, soldiers continue to contribute to internal security and national interests. He also urged society to remain united and vigilant against anti-national activities.
Retired Colonel Balwant Singh appreciated Ekal Abhiyan’s initiative, noting that it is the first social service organization to conduct such a program. He expressed gratitude and encouraged the organization of similar events across the country.
Tribal Students Experience Darshan at Jagannath Temple, Puri
Tribal students from Ekal Vidyalayas under the Chitrada center in Mayurbhanj district, Odisha, were blessed with their first darshan at the sacred Jagannath Temple in Puri. The visit was organized with the support of Friends of Tribal Society, Bhubaneswar branch.
For children from remote tribal villages with limited exposure beyond their surroundings, this journey became more than a pilgrimage. At the Singhadwar (Lion’s Gate), amidst devotional music and a spiritually vibrant atmosphere, the expressions of awe and reverence reflected a deeply moving experience.
The visit served as a living classroom, introducing the students to Odisha’s rich heritage, traditions, and cultural values. It reinforced that education extends beyond textbooks—shaping character, awareness, and a strong cultural foundation in young minds.
Acharya Sangamam Successfully Conducted in Tiruvarur District
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The event began at 10:45 AM under the leadership of Anchal President Kannan and continued until 5:00 PM. Key attendees included TV Seshathri (Prabhari, North Tamil Nadu), Shankar Dixit (P10 Prabhag Satsang Prabhari), Karthikeyan (P10 Prabhag Karyalaya Pramukh), J. Poongothai (State Training Center In-charge), Rajendran (Anchal Vice President), Pathur Kannan (Anchal Secretary), Veerakumar (Anchal Joint Secretary), and Mariyappan (Anchal Treasurer). Senior full-timers Vasuki and Parimala were also present.
The program was coordinated by Treasurer Mariyappan. It included a women’s health awareness session and motivational activities to encourage continued service within the organization. The event concluded with a special pooja at the Shiva Temple, organized by Anchal Abhiyan Pramukh Shanthi.
With the support of all full-time karyakartas in Tiruvarur district, the Acharya Sangamam was conducted successfully.
Sanch Conference Strengthens Rural Healthcare in Toranmal
The Ekal Arogya Gram Sangathan (Maharashtra), under the aegis of Arogya Foundation of India, organized the “Sanch Jogmodi – Sanch Conference” on 19 February 2026 at Toranmal, Maharashtra.
The conference reviewed annual rural healthcare activities and outlined future goals. Arogya Sevikas presented reports highlighting the impact of telemedicine services in remote villages. Training sessions were conducted on home remedies and preparation of Ayurvedic medicines, including pain-relief oils and digestive powders.
Three Sevikas were specially honored for their outstanding service, and all participants received appreciation gifts. Divisional leaders praised their dedication and encouraged continued efforts toward building a “Healthy Village.”
The program concluded with a vote of thanks, marking a motivating and successful gathering.
Certificate of Appreciation for Integrated Village Development in Odisha
Ekal Gramothan Foundation has received a Certificate of Appreciation from the Office of the Assistant Director of Horticulture, Pallahara, Angul, Odisha, for its Integrated Village Development initiative in Khamar, Angul.
The recognition highlights the Foundation’s efforts in promoting organic and natural farming, sustainable agricultural practices, and women’s empowerment. Key initiatives include mushroom cultivation and vermicompost production, which have strengthened livelihood opportunities and encouraged eco-friendly farming practices in the region.
This appreciation reflects the positive impact of Ekal Gramothan’s grassroots development model in Odisha.
WEC Tarapur Centre Inaugurated in Munger Anchal
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On 16 January 2026, Ekal Gramothan Foundation inaugurated the WEC Tarapur Centre in the Munger Anchal, Bihar, in the presence of MLA Kumar Pranay and Shambhu Sharan Singh.
The inauguration witnessed participation from nearly 200 students and villagers. The centre has been established to empower rural women through skill-based education, promote self-reliance, and create sustainable livelihood opportunities.
The initiative was made possible with the generous support of donor Ashok Gupta, whose contribution will help strengthen women’s empowerment efforts in the region.
https://youtu.be/mM2R_2EaCkA?si=laZ7R0AyHjfT_P8Z
Ekal on Wheels Inaugurated in Khargone
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Ekal Gramothan Foundation inaugurated the Ekal on Wheels (EOW) initiative in Khargone, marking a significant step toward expanding digital education in underserved communities.
The mobile initiative aims to provide access to digital learning resources and new opportunities for students in remote and rural areas, strengthening Ekal’s mission of inclusive and technology-driven education.
A glimpse of the inauguration program can be viewed here:
https://youtu.be/fpUoQ5bCiyA
EVF USA Delegation Visits IVD Shamlaji, Gujarat
On 10 February 2026, Kamlesh Shah, Ex Chairman, Board of Directors, EVF USA, and Dina Shah visited the Integrated Village Development (IVD) Center at Shamlaji, Gujarat, along with EVF USA donors Rasik Patel, Pushpaben Patel, Jyoti, and Jayenth Seth. They were accompanied by Kumar Bhaskar Sharma, Executive Director, Ekal Gramothan Foundation, and Dilip Wadiwa, Sah Yojna Pramukh. The delegation received a traditional welcome from the local committee and beneficiaries.
The visit aimed to review ongoing integrated development initiatives across education, livelihood, health, agriculture, and outreach. The team inspected the IVD center operations and interacted with field staff to understand coordination and community engagement practices.
At the Women Empowerment Center (WEC), the guests observed skill-training sessions and interacted with women beneficiaries, who shared how the training improved their confidence and income opportunities. At the Computer Training Lab (CTL), students demonstrated digital literacy skills, highlighting the importance of technology-driven education.
The delegation also reviewed Arogya activities, including health and hygiene awareness programs and an indigenous water filter model. The Ekal on Wheels (EOW) unit was inspected, where its role in delivering last-mile education and awareness in remote villages was appreciated.
In Etawa village, the team visited a Nutrition Garden and organic farming activities, observing vermicompost units and crops such as turmeric and chilli, promoting sustainable agriculture. The visit concluded at Ekal Vidyalaya in Antoli village, where students showcased their learning and value-based education practices.
The visit strengthened engagement with beneficiaries and field teams, reaffirming EVF USA’s continued support and commitment to sustainable and integrated rural development at IVD Shamlaji.
Ekal Vanyatra by Kamlesh Ji & Dina Shah Ji, along with
Yogesh Ji & Darshana Patel Ji
Cochin Committee Conducts Third Vanyatra to Idukki
On January 31, the Cochin Committee undertook its third Vanyatra of the year to the Idukki region, Kerala, to distribute Sankranti gifts. Four members traveled by car and completed the visit in a single day.
Around 30 karyakartas and acharyas from the Upputhara, Munnar, Kanthalloor, and Marayoor centers participated in the gathering. They shared their experiences and challenges from their respective regions.
Sankranti gifts were distributed to all acharyas and karyakartas. The local team warmly hosted the committee and arranged meals for them. After spending meaningful time together, the team returned to Ernakulam.
- Kavita Sharma, FTS Kochi
FTS Women’s Committee Conducts Two-Day Van Yatra in Wayanad
The FTS (Friends of Tribals Society) Mahila Samithi, Kochi, organized a two-day Vanyatra on the 16th and 17th in Wayanad district in collaboration with the Calicut Sub-Committee. A total of 21 members, including six from Calicut and one guest, participated in the visit.
On Day 1, the team traveled from Kochi to Wayanad via Calicut. Sankranti gifts were distributed to karyakartas and acharyas, including sarees, pant-shirt sets, and umbrellas. A prize distribution ceremony was also held for students who had participated in competitions in November, with winners receiving prizes and all participants receiving pencil boxes. The team visited Pilakkave Vidyalaya in Niravilpuzha, Mananthavady, interacted with students, enjoyed cultural performances, and distributed sweets and biscuits.
On Day 2, members were warmly welcomed by acharyas, karyakartas, village leaders, and students. The program included lamp lighting, Sloka chanting, games, and participatory activities for children. Sankranti gifts were distributed, followed by a community meal that strengthened bonds of unity.
- Kavita Sharma, FTS Kochi