Three independent events marked the end of 2023 for us in Kameswaram village.
First, our Christmas camp was completed with each child carrying the beautiful tree he or she had made back home – of course after having delicious cakes with steaming tea as a reward for the hard work. Congratulations to Amutha Ma’am and Raveena Ma’am for the great organization! And to Paranjothi sir for his help!
Second, today is 26th December, the 19th anniversary of the tsunami of 2004, that wrecked such damage. Paranjothi sir went as every year to pay his respects and add a garland to the memorial. At the time, in 2004, there were lines of coconut trees that formed a natural ecological barrier and that’s how the village got saved from the worst of the tsunami. Now, this has never been rebuilt though the forest department regularly invests in the growing of casurina trees (good for the lumbar business) and coconut trees (good for the coconut business). So FIN intends to contact the forest department to rebuild an ecological barrier of different kinds of trees and bushes over the coming years.
Third, the Indian Overseas Bank has organized an excellent workshop on jewellery-making for women in Nagapattinam. Our Green Demos in-charge, Meena Ma’am is attending the 15-day workshop, which she finds to be a fascinating learning experience. She said it’s been years since she sat still to do something from 9.30 AM to 5.30 PM (with refreshment breaks). Otherwise, she loves the work and is looking forward to designing some jewelry for the women of Kameswaram. Many thanks to Nagalaxmi ma’am and Ranjita ma’am for taking over Meena ma’am’s work also at Kameswaram, while she goes for this training.
So, on these positive notes, we wish our readers a very happy New Year 2024!!