Film Training Workshop Empowers Persons with Dwarfism to Discover Their Creative Talents

The Tamil Nadu Dwarfism Welfare Association, with support from the Chennai Willingdon Corporate Foundation, held a Film Training Workshop for Persons with Dwarfism on 24 October 2026. The workshop aimed to inspire these individuals to explore careers in the film industry, enhance their creative skills, and boost their self-confidence. It promoted the message that physical height should not limit talent or creativity. The event began with the National Anthem and a ceremonial lamp lighting by dignitaries. Mr. M. G. Ragul, the State President of the association, welcomed participants and emphasized the workshop's objectives.

Dr. Pushpavanam Kuppusamy, President of the Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Manram, addressed the gathering and delivered an inspiring message on self-belief, dignity and recognising one's individual strengths. He encouraged participants not to allow their physical stature or society's perceptions to define their capabilities. He emphasised the importance of developing self-confidence, becoming self-reliant and contributing meaningfully to society rather than always expecting support from others. His address motivated participants to recognise their abilities, believe in their potential and move forward with determination.

Ms. S. Mathumathi, I.A.S., Secretary in-charge of the Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Department, Government of Tamil Nadu, also addressed the gathering and interacted with the participants, acknowledging the practical challenges faced by persons with dwarfism. She initiated an effort, in coordination with the Government, to facilitate the distribution of small-sized bikes for persons with dwarfism. The initiative aims to address mobility challenges and promote greater independence, helping beneficiaries access opportunities and participate more actively in everyday life. Her contribution highlighted the importance of government support and institutional collaboration in addressing the needs of persons with dwarfism and promoting their dignity and inclusion.

 Mr. A.J.Hariharan, Secretary of the Indian Community Welfare Organisation (ICWO),addressed the participants and emphasised the importance of equal opportunities, empowerment and social inclusion. He encouraged them to recognise their strengths, develop their talents and work together towards achieving their aspirations. He also highlighted the role of voluntary organisations, government institutions and the wider community in creating an environment where persons with dwarfism can demonstrate their abilities, access opportunities and participate meaningfully in society.

Ms. P. Sasikala, State Treasurer of the Tamil Nadu Dwarfism Welfare Association, was among the office-bearers associated with the programme. Ms. Bhavani Thirupoikaivan, representing the Chennai Willingdon Corporate Foundation, was acknowledged for the foundation's support in enabling the workshop.

Other dignitaries named on the event banner included Dr. J. Karkuzhali, whose academic qualifications are listed on the banner; Mr. Sibi Mathan Devaraj, identified as Director; Mr. E. Srinivasan, whose designation is indicated on the banner as Chairman/President; and Adv. Prabhakaran Ramachandran, LL.M., Founder of Pravda Law Associates.

The banner also acknowledged Dr. S. V. Muthuraman, Founder of Friends Welfare Trust; Mr. R. S. Annamalai, Businessman; and Mr. G. Thayalan, whose event-related designation requires confirmation from the organisers. Their inclusion reflects the wider network of individuals and organisations associated with the initiative.

The workshop highlighted the film industry as a platform for creative expression, professional growth and greater representation of persons with dwarfism. Participants were encouraged to recognise their interests, develop their abilities and explore opportunities in filmmaking and other creative fields.

The speakers emphasised that confidence, determination, teamwork and access to appropriate training can help individuals overcome social barriers and pursue their ambitions. The programme also reinforced the need for inclusive platforms where persons with dwarfism can demonstrate their talents and participate in cultural and professional activities.

The workshop highlighted that meaningful empowerment requires more than motivation alone. Access to specialised training, suitable mobility assistance, inclusive work environments and sustained institutional support are important in enabling persons with dwarfism to pursue their aspirations and participate fully in society.

The initiative by the Tamil Nadu Dwarfism Welfare Association, supported by the Chennai Willingdon Corporate Foundation, marked an encouraging step towards promoting talent development, self-confidence and social inclusion. Through collaboration among welfare organisations, government institutions and community stakeholders, such initiatives can help expand opportunities for persons with dwarfism to develop their abilities and achieve greater independence.

The programme concluded with a strong message of self-belief, collective effort and equal opportunity: Talent has no height limit. Every individual deserves the opportunity to learn, create, achieve and shine. The programme was organised byTamil Nadu Dwarfism Welfare Association and supported by Chennai Willingdon Corporate Foundation.

For further details, contact Dr. M. G. Rakul, State President, Tamil Nadu Dwarfism Welfare Association on +91 99526 22652.

 

 

Road safety awareness by Safe Mile India in Tiruvallur helps 800 people

A road safety awareness program took place on 23 October 2026, under the Safe Mile India initiative, at Amazon Seller Services in Tamil Nadu. Over 800 participants, including truck drivers, cab drivers, and company employees, took part in the program, organized with Safe India, AID, Green Life, Amazon India, and ICWO. The focus was on promoting responsible driving and preventing accidents.

Activities stressed the importance of wearing helmets, following traffic rules, avoiding alcohol when driving, and ensuring safety for all road users. The program was conducted in three phases as recommended by Mr. Vasudeva Rao, Project Director, Safe India, Green Life and AID.

To make the initiative engaging, the Chennai Kalappai Cultural Team showcased performances that communicated vital road safety messages. The program aimed to inform employees and professional drivers in the logistics field about safe driving behaviors.

Additionally, reflective stickers were placed on over 100 vehicles to enhance visibility during nighttime and low-light conditions. The project was guided by Mr. Bennis from Amazon, with coordination by Mr. A. J. Hariharan and Mr. Senthil Kumar, supported by supervisors and the ICWO field team.

The initiative highlighted the need for public awareness, cultural engagement, and practical safety measures for safer roads, emphasizing that road safety is a shared responsibility.

ICWO, JRC, and CTTE College hold awareness program on online abuse, exploitation, and trafficking

The Indian Community Welfare Organisation (ICWO), in partnership with Just Rights for Children (JRC) and Chevalier T. Thomas Elizabeth College for Women (CTTE), hosted an awareness program on “Online Abuse, Sexual Exploitation and Human Trafficking among Youth” at CTTE College for Women in Chennai on September 29, 2026. The event aimed to educate students, faculty, and community members about the dangers of online abuse and trafficking, helping young people to recognize and prevent these risks.

Dr. S. Sridevi, Principal of CTTE, welcomed attendees and emphasized the need for awareness and self-protection among young women. Mementos were given to guest speakers Dr. P.M. Nair and Mr. A.J. Hariharan. Dr. Nair highlighted the importance of educating youth about online dangers, noting that many are deceived by traffickers. He called for more awareness programs across colleges to ensure national safety.

Mr. A.J. Hariharan discussed the role of youth in anti-trafficking efforts and praised CTTE for launching an Anti-Human Trafficking Club, which has now expanded to over 100 colleges. The program included the release of awareness posters, an oath-taking ceremony, and a performance by the Humanities Club. The event concluded with a call for ongoing capacity-building initiatives to empower young people in their digital and real-life interactions.

Ms. Dhrisya, Professor, Department of English, CTTE College for Women, proposed the Vote of Thanks. The programme concluded with a call for continued capacity-building and awareness programmes across educational institutions, empowering young people to become responsible digital citizens and active participants in preventing online abuse, sexual exploitation and human trafficking.

Service Civil International (SCI) is a volunteer organisation dedicated to promoting a culture of peace

Service Civil International (SCI) Invites Volunteers to Join Its Peace and Voluntary Service Programmes. Having its head office in Antwerp in Belgium it has consultative status at the United Nations organisation

Service Civil International (SCI) is a volunteer organisation dedicated to promoting a culture of peace through international voluntary service projects for people of all ages and backgrounds. SCI is open to everyone and has no political or religious affiliation.

What is SCI?

Service Civil International believes that international voluntary service can help build understanding, friendship and cooperation among people from different countries and communities. Through voluntary service, SCI provides opportunities for people to work together, learn from one another and contribute to peaceful communities it has its presence in 9 states in India

SCI conducts various programmes, including:

-            Youth exchange programmes

-            Training programmes

-            National volunteer programmes

-            International volunteer programmes

-            Opportunities for young people and adults to participate in voluntary service activities

SCI Invites Volunteers

SCI invites interested volunteers who are willing to contribute their time, skills and commitment to peace, community service and international cooperation to join its volunteer programmes.

As part of its ongoing activities, the SCI Central Working Committee - CWC Meeting will be organised on 19th and 20th September 2026 at:

AP 216, 18th Main Road, I Block,6th Street,Vallalar Colony, Anna Nagar West, Chennai – 40.

Representatives from Chennai, New Delhi,Karnataka,Maharashtra,Uttarkhand, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and West Bengal, 9 different States are participating in the Central Working Committee Meeting.

Those who are interested in becoming volunteers and learning more about SCI and its programmes are invited to contact the organisers. They are

Dr CNN Raju – President, SCI - India Chennai,  Lavaraju – Treasurer, SCI – India Karnataka, Bhupender Yadav – Vice president, SCI India New Delhi, A. Suryanarayana – Vice president, SCI India, Karnataka  ,Rajendra Kasbe – Secretary, SCI , Y.Shanmugam – IC Delegate, SCI India Andhra Pradesh , Shobha Bajpayee – Group Secretary, SCI India Maharashtra, Dr Shobha Sudarshan – IEC, SCI India, O.P Yadav – Ex President, SCI India New Delhi, Janak Gor – Alternate IC, SCI India Maharashtra, KP Sumangala – CWC, SCI India, Kishore Dichwalkar – NC, SCI India,  Tapas Kumar Sur – Group Secretary, SCI India West Bengal,  Jayaprakash – NC, SCI India , Prashanth – Secretary, SCI India , Subhash Daima – Group Secretary, SCI India, Karnataka , Dr Ravichandran – Secretary, SCI India  ,  Parthasarathy Biswas – Secretary, SCI

  For more information about SCI and its programmes:

Please visit the official SCI website. https://sci.ngo/

Interested in becoming our member ? Contact: Mr.Ravikumar in Tamilnadu 80722 79363

Mr.Abinash Ganesh. All India 99860 3332

 

Historic global moment against child marriage at Kambar Colony Park in Anna Nagar, Chennai

The live streaming of the United Nations General Assembly proceedings on the designation of 27 November as the International Day for the Elimination of Child, Early and Forced Marriage was held on 4th September 2026 at  Kambar Colony Park, Anna Nagar, Chennai.

A historic moment in the global fight against child marriage was witnessed at Kambar Colony Park, Anna Nagar West, Chennai, where around 150 residents gathered to watch the live proceedings of the United Nations General Assembly on the designation of 27 November as the International Day for the Elimination of Child  Early and Forced Marriage.

 The designation marks a significant global commitment to strengthen awareness, prevention and action against child, early and forced marriage.

The journey from grassroots prevention efforts to a global movement has been strengthened through the sustained advocacy of Just Rights for Children (JRC), led by Mr. Bhuwan Ribhu, along with NGO partners across India. This global designation marks an important milestone in that collective struggle.

The UN proceedings were streamed live directly to Kambar Colony, Chennai, enabling residents to witness and celebrate the historic development. The programme was organised by the ICWO Tamil Nadu and Kambar Colony Welfare Association.

Many young residents actively participated in the programme. Awareness banners and charts were displayed, and the gathering concluded with an oath-taking ceremony to strengthen the community’s commitment to ending child marriage.

ICWO, as a JRC partner agency in Chennai, called upon parents, young people, community leaders and all stakeholders to join hands in building a Child Marriage-Free India and a Child Marriage-Free World.

 

 

Chennai dentist V. Gopikrishna is New President of IFEA

Chennai-based endodontist V. Gopikrishna has made history by becoming the first Indian president of the International Federation of Endodontic Associations (IFEA). He took office on Saturday at the 15th World Endodontic Congress in Sydney, Australia, marking a significant achievement for Indian dentistry and reflecting its growing role in international endodontic education and practice.

Endodontics focuses on diseases and injuries of the dental pulp and surrounding tissues, with specialists often performing root canal treatments to preserve teeth. As president, Gopikrishna will promote collaboration among various countries' endodontic associations, support education, boost scientific research, and strengthen global standards.

His appointment signifies the rising global presence of Indian dental professionals and is a proud moment for Chennai and the Indian dental community. The congress served as a platform for international scientific exchange and networking.

ICWO–Just Rights for Children Tamil Nadu Project training in Chennai

 Indian Community Welfare Organisation (ICWO) conducted the ICWO–Just Rights for Children (JRC) Tamil Nadu Project Induction Training Programme on 21st August 2026 at the ICWO Head Office, Anna Nagar West, Chennai.

The Induction Training programme brought together the District teams from seven districts of Tamil Nadu Chennai, Chengalpattu, Namakkal, Ranipet, Salem, Tiruvallur and Villupuram — to build a common understanding of the project objectives, child protection mechanisms, roles and responsibilities, performance expectations, financial procedures, documentation and reporting requirements.

The programme commenced with a welcome address by Mr. A. J. Hariharan , Founder and Secretary, ICWO, who welcomed all the participants and highlighted the organisation's long-standing commitment towards the protection and welfare of vulnerable children and communities. Ms. Shekinah Sidkeenu, Programme Director , ICWO–JRC Project , also addressed the participants and provided an overview of the organisation and the importance of the new initiative.

Mr. H. Natharsha Malim , State Coordinator – Tamil Nadu, Association for Voluntary Action (AVA) , provided an introduction to the ICWO–JRC Tamil Nadu Project and subsequently led sessions on Overview of JRC, Child Protection and Law, as well as Project Targets, Performance and Expectations . He explained the key responsibilities of the project team and interacted with the participants, responding to their questions and clarifying their doubts during the interactive sessions.

The programme also included a valuable sharing of field experience from the Salem Project, presented by Mr. V. Murugan from the Salem team. Their experience provided practical insights into field-level implementation and child protection interventions.

An important session on the Role of the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) in Child Protection was facilitated by Mr. A. Bakthavatchalam, Executive Director, ARM and Former CWC Member, Chennai . The session helped participants understand the role of the CWC and the importance of appropriate coordination and referrals within the child protection system.

The orientation programme provided an opportunity for the district teams to interact with the resource persons, clarify their responsibilities and develop a common understanding of the implementation approach of the ICWO–JRC Tamil Nadu Project.

The active participation of the teams from all seven districts marked an important beginning towards strengthening coordinated child protection efforts across Tamil Nadu.

 The ICWO–JRC Project aims to strengthen child protection systems, promote prevention and early identification of risks, facilitate appropriate interventions and referrals, and ensure stronger coordination among stakeholders for the protection and rights of children.

 

ICWO–JRC 2026–2027: Rapid Child Rescue and Cross-State Coordination

On 20 August 2026, a group of labourers, including two children, was rescued in Chennai thanks to the quick action of the JRC network. The AVA team in Bihar gathered information and shared it with the JRC Partner ICWO in Chennai, which led to the immediate rescue of a child labourer from Bihar.

After the rescue, the child received counselling and was placed in a Government Boys Home in Chennai while age verification and legal processes were completed. This intervention highlights the effectiveness of the JRC network and state coordination in child protection. The ICWO expressed gratitude to the state coordinators for their roles.

The ICWO Founder Secretary expressed appreciation to Mr.Natharsha Malim, State Coordinator - AVA, Tamil Nadu, for his coordination and guidance, and to Mr. Santhosh, State Coordinator - AVA, Bihar , for facilitating the information-sharing and coordination through the Bihar JRC team. ICWO-JRC plans to continue rescue and rehabilitation efforts for children in need across states.

 

Government and Civil Society collaborate to end child marriage by 2030

Reaffirming the Government of India's commitment to end child marriage, Union Minister of State for Women and Child Development Savitri Thakur said the Centre, in partnership with civil society organisations, is working towards achieving a Child Marriage-Free India by 2030.

Speaking at the inaugural session of the four-day national consultation, "Ensuring Child Rights, Potential and Prosperity," organised by Just Rights for Children at the Constitution Club in New Delhi, the Minister underscored the critical role of grassroots organisations in protecting children from exploitation, trafficking, child marriage and abuse.

The consultation has brought together representatives of more than 250 partner organisations from across the country, collectively working in all 782 districts of India to strengthen child protection systems and advance children's rights.

Addressing the delegates, Thakur described child protection as one of the country's most demanding responsibilities and praised frontline workers for rescuing children from exploitation.

"Saving even one child's life is among the noblest acts. Many young girls become victims of trafficking and never find their way back home. These children wait for someone to rescue them, and the volunteers of NGOs who rescue them from sexual exploitation are nothing short of angels," she said.

The Minister said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made the elimination of child marriage by 2030 a national priority and that multiple initiatives are being implemented under the Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat campaign to achieve this goal.

Commending the work of Just Rights for Children, she said, "The contribution of Just Rights for Children towards realising the dream of a Child Marriage-Free India will remain unforgettable."

Speaking at the event, Lavu Krishna Devarayalu, Convener of MPs for Children and Parliamentary Party Leader of the Telugu Desam Party in the Lok Sabha, said India's campaign against child marriage has emerged as a model for the world.

"This is an extraordinary movement. India has demonstrated that ending child marriage is possible, and the campaign initiated by Just Rights for Children is now inspiring action beyond our borders," he said.

Highlighting the need to address emerging threats to children, Devarayalu also referred to his Private Member's Bill introduced in Parliament, which seeks to strengthen safeguards for children against the risks posed by social media.

"What began as a spark on 27 November 2024 with the launch of Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat has today become a nationwide movement. The movement has since evolved into a broader vision of empowering every child through justice, technology, leadership, and collective action. India is demonstrating that when governments, civil society, academia, communities, and young people unite behind a common purpose, change is inevitable. This is no longer just India's story; it is India's message to the world that investing in children is the most important investment any nation can make," said Bhuwan Ribhu, Founder, Just Rights for Children.

He added, "Every time we stop a child marriage in a village, we do more than protect one child. We send a clear message to the entire community that child marriage is a crime that has no place in a modern society. Over the last three years, together, we have prevented more than 5.5 lakh child marriages."

For more information contact Jitendra Parmar on 8595950825

 

TAMILAGA VETTRI KAZHAGAM - TVK CULTURAL WING CM TROPHIES 2026

On the happy event of the 52nd Birthday Celebrations of the People’s Leader and Honorable Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, THIRU C. JOSEPH VIJAY  variety sports and cultural were held on 28th June 2026, Sunday  at Kambar Colony Ground, Anna Nagar, Chennai .

Thiru. POOKADAI S. K. M. KUMAR, Secretary of Chennai Central District presided over the function.The Guest of Honour was Thiru. JCD. PRABHAKAR, Honorable Speaker of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly

Special Guests present on the occasion were Thiru. V. K. RAMKUMAR, M. E. (AUS), MLA for Anna Nagar ,Thiru. PRATISH VEDHAPPUDI, Managing Director of VGN Group, Chairman of the HR Committee for the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association, Mr.AR. HARSHITHA RAVI, M. ARCH (CPM), Founder and Chief Architect of The Hook Studio ,Dr.R. K. FLORENCE, PH. D, Principal of St. Thomas College of Arts & Science in Koyambedu  and Thiru. S. VARATHARAJ, CEO of ASR Sports Academy, President of the Tamil Nadu Badminton Court Owners Association. Prizes were distributed to the winners.

CRICKET SPORTS WINNERS:

Winner: Ayappakam select: Ayappakam

Runner-up: ACC: Agathiyar Nagar

3rd Place: Eternals: Kambar Colony

3rd Place: ANCC: Anna Nagar

BADMINTON SPORTS WINNERS:

1st Place: Murali/Vijaybabu

2nd Place: Bijju/Girish

3rd Place: Mani/Anand & Safi/Raja

Event organized by: BABA RAJAPALLAVI, President of TCA, TVK Cultural Wing. Media Coordination by: A. J. HARIHARAN , ICWO. The master of Ceremony and Coordination was Sriramji - President of YW Anna Nagar, KCWA

.

 

World Day against Child Labour awareness programme at various workplaces

On the occasion of World Day Against Child Labour , the Indian Community Welfare Organisation (ICWO), Salem , Tamil Nadu, in collaboration with Just Rights for Children (JRC), the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), and the District Labour Welfare Department , organized a large-scale child labour awareness programme at the Salem Collectorate and various workplaces in the Salem New Bus Stand area.

During the programme, a pledge against child labour was administered by Thiru. Ilambagavath, I.A.S. , District Collector, Salem, in the presence of Thiru. Ravikumar , District Revenue Officer ; Tmt. Shalini, Personal Assistant (General) to the District Collector ; Thiru. Raghavan, Assistant Commissioner of Labour (Enforcement) ; Thiru. Sankar, Social Security Scheme Officer;Thiru. Sri Murali, District Child Protection Officer ; and Thiru. Anbalagan, Labour Inspector.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. A.J. Hariharan,Secretary, ICWO, emphasized that child labour continues to deprive children of their fundamental rights to education, protection, health, and a dignified childhood. He stated that every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and achieve their full potential in a safe environment free from exploitation. He appreciated Just Rights for Children (JRC) for spearheading child rights initiatives and organizing impactful awareness programmes across India to combat child labour and child exploitation. He also expressed his sincere gratitude to the District Administration, DCPU, Labour Department, government officials, ICWO staff, volunteers , and all stakeholders whose dedicated efforts ensured the success of the programme. He reiterated ICWO's commitment to working collaboratively with government departments and civil society organizations to create a child labour-free society and protect the rights of every child.