UBA Chronicles: Highlighting LSDG-Aligned Activities

 As part of the RCI - SEG Solid Waste Management and Sanitation initiative under the Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA) and in collaboration with IIT Madras, we are pleased to announce the launch of a Monthly Digital Magazine. This magazine is dedicated to highlighting the significant contributions of Principal Investigators (PIs) and documenting activities aligned with each Local Sustainable Development Goal (LSDG) theme.

Objective:

• To showcase noteworthy projects, innovations, and best practices led by UBA PIs.

• To promote awareness and knowledge-sharing across institutions engaged in rural development.

Submission Guidelines:

• All PIs are requested to share updates and activities by the 25th of every month.

• A Google Form will soon be circulated to facilitate the submission process.

Next Steps:

• Compilation of submitted content will begin after the 25th each month.

• The magazine will be digitally published and circulated among all stakeholders.

We look forward to your active participation and continued contributions to this collective knowledge platform.

Thank you.

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Let me know if you’d like to add a cover page, branding elements, or turn this into a formal PDF-style report layout.

Training Program on “Empowering Rural Entrepreneurs through Dairy-Based

Training Program on “Empowering Rural Entrepreneurs through Dairy-Based

Product Training”

Organized by

Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA), SRM Institute of Science and Technology

&

IEEE SSIT SRMIST SBC

Date: May 10, 2025

Venue: Nattarasanpattu Panchayat Community Hall – Esavai Maiyam

Under the visionary leadership of our Honorable Chancellor, Dr. T.R. Paarivendhar,

SRMIST has been steadfast in its commitment to rural empowerment through sustainable

development initiatives. As part of this mission, the Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA) Cell of

SRMIST, in association with the SRM Institute of Hotel Management, organized a hands-

on training program titled “Empowering Rural Entrepreneurs through Dairy-Based Product

Training” on May 10, 2025, at the Nattarasanpattu Panchayat Community Hall (Esavai

Maiyam).

This initiative builds upon the foundation laid during the inauguration of a self-sustainable

milk processing unit in Nattarasanpattu on November 2, 2023, during the 2nd

International Conference on Sustainable Development Goals (ICSDD) with a focus on

SDG 1 – No Poverty.

Programme Inauguration:

The event commenced at 10:00 AM with the gracious presence of:

•  Mrs. Vasanthi Sambhasivam, President, Nattarasanpattu Panchayat (Chief Guest)
•  Mr. Sambhasivam, Community Leader

Dr. T. Deepa warmly welcomed all dignitaries and participants. The inaugural session saw
encouraging words from Mr. Sambhasivam, who urged the community to actively leverage
such training programs for sustainable livelihood generation.
Dr. V. Thirumurugan, Nodal Officer – UBA SRMIST, felicitated the dignitaries and
addressed the gathering. He emphasized the importance of grassroots entrepreneurship
and acknowledged the continued support and guidance of SRMIST's leadership in reaching

rural communities.

Dr. Samuel Jacob expressed heartfelt gratitude to the village administration for their

consistent support in enabling impactful rural outreach efforts.

Participation:

•  Total Participants: 20
•  Representing: 3 active Self-Help Groups (SHGs) from the region
•  Engagement Level: High enthusiasm, interactive participation, and hands-on

involvement were observed throughout the training.

Training Modules & Demonstrations:

Expert trainer Ms. Anisha (Anisha Homemade Cakes) led the sessions with live

demonstrations and practical insights on:

 Flavored Milk Production – Rose, Badam, and Pista varieties

 Milk Kova (Palkova) – Traditional sweet with modern preparation enhancements

 Paneer Preparation – Using hygienic, technology-enabled techniques

 Brownie Cake with Dairy Integration – Introducing new dairy-based products for

local markets

Dr. S.T. Aarthy provided critical insights into the feasibility and scalability of dairy-based

entrepreneurship. Her session included interactive Q&A, where she guided participants on

product cost analysis, branding, packaging, and market strategies tailored for rural

enterprises.

Outcome & Impact:

The program concluded with a tasting session where the participants sampled all prepared

items. Products were praised for their taste, presentation, and overall quality.

Participants left the training inspired to initiate small-scale dairy-based ventures in their

villages. The session not only imparted technical skills but also sparked a sense of

entrepreneurial possibility, aligning with UBA's objective of rural economic

transformation.

Organizing Committee:

Hands on Training to Assemble Solar Study Lamp

Need of the Activity:

· Promotion of renewable energy solutions like solar power aligns with sustainable development goals.

· Empowers students and villagers with hands-on technical skills in solar lamp assembly.

· Encourages self-reliance and local innovation in addressing energy challenges.

· Increases awareness about clean energy and energy conservation.

· Solar study lamps serve as a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to conventional lighting.

· Strengthens the connection between educational institutions and rural communities.

 

On May 8, 2025, the SRM Institute of Science and Technology, in association with the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering (EEE), conducted a training session on assembling solar study lamps for students of Perumbakkam Government Higher Secondary School under the Unnat Bharat Abhiyan 2.0 initiative.

The program was presided over by Dr. V. Thirumurugan, UBA Nodal Officer and Associate Director of Campus Life, SRMIST. The Chief Guest was Tmt. S. Sangeetha, District Social Welfare Officer, Chengalpattu. Special addresses and hands-on training were provided by faculty members from the EEE department: Dr. S. Usha, Dr. A. Geetha, Dr. C. Anuradha, and Dr. S. Vijayalakshmi.

The initiative aimed to promote awareness of renewable energy and provide students with practical knowledge in solar technology.

Gram Sabha – May 1, 2025, Keel Athivakkam, Acharapakkam Block, Chengalpattu.

 Gram Sabha – May 1, 2025, Keel Athivakkam, Acharapakkam Block, Chengalpattu.

SRM College of Agricultural Sceinces, SRM Institute of Science and Technology.

Presentee: Village President, Block development officer, Chairman, Police, Ward members and

other representatives

The meeting honored local laborers and discussed improving employment security and working

conditions in honor of International Labour Day.

1. Health Services Review: Community members raised the need for regular health

camps, availability of essential medicines, and functioning of the local Primary Health

Centre (PHC).

2. Education Access and Quality: Emphasis on improving school infrastructure,

reducing dropout rates, ensuring adequate teachers, and promoting enrollment under

Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan.

3. Water Supply Issues: Villagers demanded restoration of non-functional borewells,

desilting of tanks, and equitable access to clean drinking water – Jal Jeevan Mission.

4. Sanitation and Hygiene: Focus on toilet usage, repairing broken sanitation units, and

improving solid waste disposal under the Swachh Bharat Mission.

5. Child Health and Nutrition: Strengthening of Anganwadi centres to ensure nutritional

meals, regular immunization, and health check-ups for children under six.

6. Maternity and Women’s Care: Requests for better antenatal care, transport support for

pregnant women, and awareness on maternity benefit schemes like PMMVY (Pradhan

Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana).

7. Income Generation Support: Promotion of skill development programs, SHG-based

microenterprises, and improved access to credit through government livelihood

schemes.

8. Infrastructure Development: Proposals for road repairs, new streetlights, and

upgrading village meeting spaces were accepted for planning and budget allocation.

9. Grievance Redressal and Transparency: Citizens shared complaints regarding

MGNREGS job delays, pension distribution, and ration card issues; officials assured

timely resolution and follow-up.

10. Creating educational opportunities for marginalized people with good academic records.

Gram Sabha Meeting Minnal Chithamur Village

 

From Dr. R. Mahendran Associate Professor (GPB) UBA – Village coordinator (Minnal Chithamur Village) 

 SRM College of Agricultural Sciences, SRMIST Vendhar Nagar, Baburayanpettai, Chengalpattu – 603 201 To Dr.V.Thirumurugan,M.E.,Ph.D.,FIE., Associate Director (Campus life) Nodal Officer-Unnat Bharat Abhiyan/SBSI-SRMIST Coordinator-Environmental Management System SRM Institute of Science and Technology SRM Nagar, Potheri , Kattankulathur, Chengalpattu,Tamilnadu, India 603203 Sir, Date: 02.05.2025 Sub: Unnat Bharat Abhiyan(UBA) – Gram Sabha meeting – Report - Submitted 

 Reg. Gram Sabha Meeting Report I respectfully submit that the Gram Sabha meeting was held on 01.05.2025 at 10:30 AM in the Community Hall, Minnal Chithamur Village. The meeting was attended by the Panchayat President, Ward Members, villagers, and the UBA Village Coordinator. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 

 Skill Training: Plans to organize skill training for the village youth. Livelihood Activities: Focus on both farm and non-farm livelihood opportunities. 

 Financial Inclusion: Awareness and enrollment in Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (Rs. 20/annum) and Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (Rs. 436/annum).

 Social Progress: Announcement of Minnal Chithamur as a Child Labor and Bondage Free Village. 

 MGNREGS Works: Approval for several projects including:

  Bund plantation in Minnal Chithamur village premises (250 tree saplings).

  Tree plantation along the Chithamur to Kilminnal road (300 tree saplings over 1.5 km).

  Formation of new supply channels for Keelpattu lake (1860 meters), the road from Minnal Chithamur to Keelpattu (1650 meters), and the road from Minnal Chithamur to Edayalam (1970 meters).

 6. Infrastructure Development: 

  Construction of bus shelters at Keelpattu and Chithamur bus stops.

  Request for a toilet at the Keelpattu ration shop.

 7. Recognition: Implementation of a resolution to appreciate UBA – SRM IST for their various activities in Minnalchithamur village and a report on the same.

Grama Sabha Meeting – Nattarasanpattu Village (01.05.2025) UBA Faculty coordinator: Dr. B. Samuel Jacob, Assistant Professor

 

Summary Report of Grama Sabha Meeting – Nattarasanpattu Village (01.05.2025)

UBA Faculty coordinator: Dr. B. Samuel Jacob, Assistant Professor

The Grama Sabha meeting of Nattarasanpattu Village was held on 1st May 2025, with active

participation from village residents and administrative officers of the panchayat. Key

announcements and discussions during the meeting are summarized below:

Announcements and Information Shared:

1. Digitization of Services:

The Panchayat informed the villagers that all land and building approvals, which

were previously handled offline, will henceforth be processed online. Necessary

assistance and guidance will be provided to those unfamiliar with digital platforms.

2. Online Tax Payment:

Property tax payments can now be made through an online system, making the

process more accessible and efficient for the residents.

3. Declaration of ‘Year of Hygiene’:

The year 2025 has been declared as the ‘Year of Hygiene’ with a strong emphasis on

improving primary health, ensuring access to hygienic water, and enhancing public

health infrastructure in the village.

4. Implementation of Jal Jeevan Scheme:

The Central Government’s Jal Jeevan Scheme is being implemented with 10% public

contribution. A door-to-door house assessment will be conducted by educated

volunteers to plan water connections effectively.

Problems Reported by Villagers:

 Insufficient Water Supply: Some parts of the village are not receiving adequate

water.

 Electricity Fluctuations: Frequent power fluctuations were reported, affecting daily

life and activities.

 Damaged Roads: Certain internal roads are in poor condition and need urgent

repairs.

Requirements Highlighted:

The villagers requested the following amenities to address current challenges and improve

living standards:

 Installation of Syntax (Sintex) water storage tanks

 Provision of hand pumps in water-scarce areas

 Installation of solar lights for improved safety and energy efficiency

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the panchayat administration to escalate

the issues to relevant departments and work towards practical solutions with community

cooperation.

Gram Sabha Meeting Chitambur Panchayat

 Gram Sabha Meeting Report

The Gram Sabha meeting was held in the Chengalpattu district, Chitambur Panchayat

union, Chunambedu village in the eve of May day on 01.05.2025. Chunambedu panchayat

president, Vice-president, Panchayat secretary and ward members have graced the occasion.

Dr. M. R. Naveen kumar, Assistant Professor, SRMCAS, Chunambedu Village Co-Ordinator,

UBA has attended the meeting. The gram sabha meeting was started by reading the

resolutions for the meeting. Three resolutions have been proposed by the panchayat. Those

are:

1. Information on revising the property tax to Rs. 1 per sq.ft.

2. All the bills should be paid through electronic mode only effective from June 1.

3. The labours in the panchayat union should report to the officials regularly otherwise

that particular day’s salary will not be paid.

Hands on Training to Assemble Solar Study Lamp – World Earth Day 2025 (22.04.2025)

 

  

Need of the Activity:

· Promotion of renewable energy solutions like solar power aligns with sustainable development goals.

· Empowers students and villagers with hands-on technical skills in solar lamp assembly.

· Encourages self-reliance and local innovation in addressing energy challenges.

· Increases awareness about clean energy and energy conservation.

· Solar study lamps serve as a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to conventional lighting.

· Strengthens the connection between educational institutions and rural communities.

On 22nd April 2025, part of celebrating WORLD EARTH DAY – 2025 a “Hands-on Training session for assembling solar study lamps” was successfully conducted under the initiative of Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA), SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST) in collaboration with the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering and SRM College of Agricultural Sciences. The event aimed to promote sustainable energy practices and enhance technical awareness among students and local community members. The training took place on the SRM College of Agricultural Sciences campus and saw active participation from school students, faculty members, and representatives from Minnal Chithamur, Baburayanpettai and Keezhathivakkam adopted villages. The program commenced with a warm welcome address by Dr. Anbarasan A., the overall coordinator of the event. He greeted all the dignitaries, faculty members, and participants, setting a positive and enthusiastic tone for the session. Dr. Anbarasan emphasized the importance of renewable energy in today’s world and highlighted the role of educational institutions in fostering sustainability and community empowerment. His remarks reflected the commitment of SRMIST and the College of Agricultural Sciences to the ideals of the Unnat Bharat Abhiyan.

         The program was officially inaugurated by Dr. V. Thirumurugan, Nodal Officer of Unnat Bharat Abhiyan – SRMIST. In his inaugural address, he emphasized the importance of renewable energy, especially in the context of rural development. Dr. Thirumurugan highlighted how initiatives like solar energy not only help bridge the energy gap in underserved areas but also empower communities through sustainable and affordable solutions. 

             An insightful speech was delivered by Dr. Thirugnana Kumar S., Professor and Head of the Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding. In his address, he highlighted the critical importance of renewable energy in the current global context. He spoke about how adopting sustainable energy solutions like solar power can significantly mitigate the societal and environmental impacts of conventional energy sources. He emphasized that transitioning to green energy is not just a technological shift, but a responsibility to preserve our planet for future generations. His words inspired participants to consider their role in protecting Mother Earth through conscious and innovative actions. The event was graced by the presence of Mr. Govindhasamy, Panchayat President of Keezhathivakkam, and Mr. C. Balaji, Panchayat President of Minnal Chithamur. Their participation added significant value to the occasion and reinforced the community’s involvement in sustainable development efforts. On this occasion, Mr. C. Balaji delivered an engaging and thoughtful speech emphasizing the urgent need to combat global warming through renewable energy adoption and nature conservation. He commended the efforts of SRMIST and the organizing teams for initiating a program that not only educates but also equips individuals with tools to make a tangible difference in their lives and the environment.

        Participants were provided with individual solar lamp kits and guided step-by-step through the assembly process by Associate Professors and Lab in charge from EEE department Dr. Geetha, Dr. Usha and Mr. Saravanan. The session focused on understanding the components of a solar study lamp, including photovoltaic panels, batteries, LED circuits, and switches, along with safety practices and troubleshooting techniques. Mr. Velmani – AME and his team were part of this great initiative. This initiative not only empowered participants with practical skills but also reinforced the message of energy conservation and self-reliance. To further encourage the application of the skills learned, each participant was allowed to take their assembled lamp home, enabling them to use it in real-life situations and support their educational or household needs. The event concluded with a feedback session and the distribution of participation certificates. It was well-received by attendees and marked another successful step by UBA-SRMIST towards rural upliftment and sustainable development.

        The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Dr. N. Periasami, Village Coordinator – Keezhathivakkam. He expressed his gratitude to all the dignitaries, organizers, faculty members, and participants for making the training program a resounding success. Dr. Periasami specifically acknowledged the efforts of the Unnat Bharat Abhiyan team at SRMIST, Ms.Aishwarya.L, Ms.Anju, Mr.Sridhar.N.S and Dr.sathiah – village coordinator Baburayanpettai. Also thank College of Agricultural Science for organizing such a meaningful initiative that directly contributes to rural empowerment and environmental sustainability.

Cycle Rally and Solar Study Lamp Workshop Commemorate World Earth Day 19.04.2025

 

Need of the Activity:

· Need of the Activity:

· Promoting Environmental Awareness: The event aimed to sensitize students and staff about the importance of environmental conservation and the urgent need to adopt sustainable practices, especially in light of climate change and increasing pollution levels.

· Encouraging Green Lifestyle Choices: Activities like the cycle rally and sapling planting were organized to inspire participants to embrace eco-friendly habits, such as using bicycles over motor vehicles and contributing to green cover through tree planting.

· Hands-on Learning for Sustainability: The Solar Study Lamp Assembly Workshop provided practical exposure to renewable energy solutions, empowering participants with knowledge and skills to adopt and advocate for clean, sustainable energy alternatives.

In remembrance of World Earth Day, Unnat Bharat Abhiyan - SRM Institute of Science and Technology organized a Cycle Rally and a Solar Study Lamp Assembly Workshop on April 19, 2025, to promote environmental sustainability and raise awareness about green practices among students and staff. The rally was flagged off from the Clock Tower Circle, following an inspiring address by Dr. N. Venkata Sastry, Director of the Career Center, who highlighted the urgency of banning single-use plastics to safeguard the planet. Dr. S. Ramya, Associate Professor of EFL and Coordinator of the SRM Cycle Club, welcomed the participants and announced the launch of a WhatsApp group to keep members updated on future green initiatives. Dr. V. Thirumurugan, Associate Director (Campus Life) and UBA Nodal Officer, convened and flagged off the rally, encouraging participants to embrace eco-friendly lifestyles. Forty-five students cycled to SRM Care Farm at Gudalur, where they planted saplings after a healthy breakfast, symbolizing their commitment to a greener future. The second session featured a hands-on Solar Study Lamp Assembly Workshop, where participants learned about renewable energy and built solar-powered lamps as sustainable alternatives to traditional lighting. The success of the event was made possible by the dedicated efforts of Ms. Anju (UBA Associate), Mr. Velmani (AME), Mr. Sridhar, and Mr. Rajendran (Maintenance Department), who ensured the smooth coordination of all arrangements. Participants were awarded certificates in recognition of their contributions to environmental awareness. This impactful initiative fostered community engagement, practical learning, and environmental stewardship, instilling the values of sustainability and conservation in all who took part.

                                     

Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA) Project Visit Report - Minnal Chithamur

   

Date of Visit: April 3, 2025

Location: Minnal Chithamur Village

Principal Investigators: Dr. V. Sujatha

Co- Principal Investigators: Dr. A. Vimala Starbino.

Objective of the Visit:

The visit was planned as part of the preliminary work for sanctioned Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA) project PREDICTIVE MODELLING FOR SOIL ANALYSIS AND CROP SELECTION WITH ML AND IOT.

The primary objectives were:

•  To initiate field-level engagement for project implementation.
•  To interact with local authorities and community stakeholders.
•  To assess the soil quality, fertilizer selection and crop selection in the given land
•  To collect preliminary data related to soil testing and analysis and crop selection methods followed by the farmers 

Activities Conducted

•  Discussed with the farmers about the type of crop and soil and its fertility
•  We had a productive discussion with the Village President to explain the objectives of our UBA    project. We received their full cooperation and support for future activities.
•  A focused discussion was held regarding the crop and fertilizer selection methods followed by the farmers currently. The Village President acknowledged the need and welcomed the idea of evaluating its feasibility.
•  Our student teams interacted with several farmers and village residents to understand their daily routines, types of crops grown, and issues in fertilizers selection.
•  Discussion with professor in Soil department of SRM Agricultural college about the collection of soil samples

Observations:

• Farmers mainly try to perform soil analysis before sowing and before fertilization.
• There is a visible lack of understanding in crop selection methods and access to soil testing facilities.
•  Most crops are selected randomly based on their instincts with no scientific methods involved and lands are excessively or under fertilized due to lack of knowledge about them.

    Follow up action:

    A follow-up visit is planned to meet more farmers and collect detailed data on:

•     Collecting soil samples to perform a manual soil analysis for better understanding of the   methodologies involved.
  
•     Creation of dataset for fertilizer recommendation and crop selection.
  
•     Development of a compact soil testing kit with model implementation and IoT features.

   We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. V. Thirumurugan, UBA Coordinator of our campus, and Mrs. Anju and Mrs. Aiswarya for their valuable support in organizing transport, lunch, and refreshments, as well as for their efforts in coordinating the village-level visit. We are also deeply thankful to our Head of Department, Prof. Dr. T. Muthuramalingam, for graciously granting OD permission and encouraging our team's active participation in this rural development initiative. Their collective support played a vital role in making the visit smooth, effective, and truly meaningful for both faculty and students.

The first visit to Minnal Chithamur was successful in establishing initial rapport with the community and identifying critical areas of intervention. The insights gained will guide the subsequent steps of the UBA project implementation.