Report of First Day Program 02-Sept- 2023

There was two days of exposure program was organised in Don Bosco provincial house in Kilpauk. The personnel from different parts of India; Odisha, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bangalore, Pondicherry, and West Bengal participated in this exposure program. Thefirst daycommenced with informative sessions led by the various organizations.

We discussed about the collaboration of other NGOs with Government so that the people may be benefitted. The following organizations are: The Unorganised Workers Federation – The Tamil Nadu Domestic Workers Welfare Association – The SumadiyankiArakatallaiAssociation – The Indian Agricultural Organization – The Indian Labour’s Organization – Asanivas-The Tamil Nadu KadaloraMeenavaPengalSangam.The staff presented the vision and mission of their respective organisation.Then the floor was open for the meaningful intervention.

VISIT TO DMS

Dr. Manivelan, a Nodal officer from the Directorate of Medical and Rural Health Services, arranged the program at DBMS Campus. All national delegates assembled to discuss withDr. Manivelan at 11:30 am. Mr. Deepak introduced Dr. Manivelan, occupational health and safety (OHS). During the session, Dr. Manivelan shared his views on unorganized employees who work in Tamil Nadu.

Indeed, He presented thoughts from his comprehensive study on OHS specifically focused on construction workers in Tamilnadu. The Mobile Ambulance Clinic Services’ strategies and practices for enhancing worker well-being were also discussed. With a focus on benefiting both construction workers and other unorganized labourers, Dr.Manivelan offered an explanation of OHS measures that should be implemented. He looked into various challenges encountered by himself and his colleagues while identifying infections and ensuring proper usage of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Furthermore, he elaborated that the specific case studies that exemplified different OHS concerns faced by construction workers. Finally, during his presentation, he emphasized that his dedication helped him to contribute more and more to his professional growth as well as gain experience and respect fromthe societyand governmental authorities. Dr. Manivelan expressed that due to the unavailability of precise data on migrants, his ability to provide assistance was limited. However, he requestedto meet our delegates and made a commitment to cooperate for the well-being of all.

Dr. Manivelanmentioned that in order to establish a strong network with other departments, he would assist us in locating doctors and obtaining relevant contact information for potential locations. This would enable us to communicate with the appropriate individuals and collaborate on welfare initiatives. Moreover, he informed us about a scheduled for Google Meet meeting where discussions would take place regarding other occupational health and worker welfare-related matters. Finally he made a statement that this exposure will enhance our understanding of the policiesand programs planned bythe TN government. Fr. Simolin extended gratitude towards Dr. Manivelan for his warm welcome and informative session on occupational health and safety (OHS).

VISIT TO TNUHDB

The staff gathered around at the TNUHDB office located in Chennai at 12.45pm. Mr. Nirmal who is thein-charge for community development, provided an explanation about the process of evicting slumdwellers and hut residents. Further, he highlighted that how they are executing their plans as per Tamil Nadu government’s directives. This initiative encompasses two main projects:

1. Theprovisionofhomesforindividualswithoutpropershelterthroughastructuredapplicationprocess.
2. The demolition of existing huts followed by the establishment of a new residential community. An association was formed to offer a monthly stipend of Rs. 2500 to those who have had their houses demolished.
3. Additionally, they are ensuring access to hospitals, employment opportunities, road infrastructure improvement and educational facilities.

• Thereisalsoanongoingcampaigntargetingyouthaddictionissuessuchasalcoholanddrugabuse through awareness programs.
• Arallyhasbeenorganizedspecificallyfocusingonincreasingawarenessamongslumdwellers.
• Preparationisunderwayforhostingajobfair.

The staff members once again assembled at SumaidiyankiArakatallaiMaruvazhlvuSangaminPerumpakkam, Chengalpattu district, Tamil Nadu at 4.15pm. At this gesture multiple associations were explored along with various organizations and welfare support centres which played an instrumental rolein empowering women by offering them skill development opportunities such as tailoring courses and computer training centres while also providing counselling services for children in need. The studycentres catering to students were also part of this inspection tour conducted by Mr.Vinoth -the community developer- together with project coordinator Mr.Darvin representing ISSAP (staff).