I
love the month of June. The joy of the rainy season – getting wet, jumping in
the mud – is unforgettable. But what makes the month of June even more special
is the start of a new school year. Little children dressed in clean new
uniforms, some excited and some scared, enter their schools – it is a
heartwarming sight.
I still remember the stories my parents told me. When I was 4
years old, I could count to 10 and read the alphabets – ka, kha, ga, dha… When
I was 5 years and 6 months old, I was admitted to school.
But
today, as per the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, children can start
preschool at the age of 3Years, join J.KG and S.KG at the age of 4+ and 5+, and
start formal schooling in standard 1st at the age of 6Year.
Starting
school is exciting, but it also brings financial pressure. In today’s era of
inflation, it can be difficult for many families to afford uniforms, shoes, bags,
and school supplies. When Uddhav’s Dhodiawad Varshang School opened, ECHO
Foundation provided school bags to newly admitted children – an act that spread
smiles and hope.
Now, schools celebrate “Praveshotsav” – a joyous school entrance
festival. Children are welcomed with songs, smiles and sometimes blessings from
village elders. It is a festival of learning and new beginnings.
Friends,
imagine the impact it would have if each of us helped just one child every year
in their education by donating a bag, books, or just moral support. Even
students from remote villages can move forward, dream big and achieve great
things. Let us all make this small effort together and build a strong, educated
India – every child.
World Environment Day Celebration: A Joint Effort for a
Greener Tomorrow
Location: Dhodiawad Varg School
Organized by: ECHO Foundation in collaboration
with Dhodiawad Varg School
On the occasion of World Environment Day, the ECHO
Foundation and Dhodiawad Varg School joined hands to organize a tree plantation
drive around the school premises. The initiative, which adopted the Miyawaki
method, aimed to create a mini-forest, also known as Miyawaki Jungle Paton.
This collective effort brought together students, parents, and teachers,
highlighting the importance of environmental conservation and community
involvement.
The Miyawaki Method: A Key to Sustainable Afforestation
The Miyawaki method is a widely recognized afforestation
technique that involves planting multiple species of trees in close proximity
to each other. This approach promotes rapid growth, enhances carbon
sequestration, and supports local wildlife, resulting in a dense, biodiverse
forest ecosystem.
A Collaborative Effort
The tree plantation drive saw enthusiastic participation
from the school community, with students, parents, and teachers working
together to plant a variety of tree species. This joint effort not only
contributed to the growth of a mini-forest but also instilled a sense of
responsibility and ownership among the participants.
Empowering Young Minds
The event served as a practical learning experience for the
students, who gained valuable insights into the significance of environmental
conservation and sustainable development. By engaging in hands-on activities,
they developed a deeper appreciation for the importance of trees in maintaining
ecological balance and mitigating climate change.
A Step towards a Greener Tomorrow
The ECHO Foundation's initiative aligns with global efforts
to combat environmental degradation and promote sustainability. By involving
the local community in tree plantation activities, the foundation aims to raise
awareness about the importance of preserving natural resources and inspire
collective action.
Conclusion
The success of this program can be attributed to the
collective efforts of all stakeholders, including the students, parents,
teachers, and the ECHO Foundation. As the Miyawaki Jungle Paton grows, it is
expected to become a thriving ecosystem, supporting local biodiversity and
serving as a model for sustainable environmental practices. This initiative
sets a commendable example of community-driven environmental conservation,
demonstrating that even small actions can collectively make a significant difference.
Career Guidance Seminar
organized by ECHO Foundation and Mahalaxmi Vikas Seva Samiti - A Step Towards
Bright Future
An
important and inspiring Career Guidance Seminar was jointly organized by
ECHO Foundation and Mahalaxmi Vikas Seva Samiti in Mumbai on May 31, 2025. The aim
of the event was to guide students of 10th, 12th and college level to choose
the right academic and career path.
The
seminar was addressed by renowned career counsellor Mr. Hiren Pasad who gave
in-depth information about the various academic streams and opportunities
available in today's dynamic world. His presentation was comprehensive,
engaging and designed to meet the practical concerns of both students and their
parents.
ð§ Discussion on Major Streams
ðĻ 1. Kala - Ancient Education System
Shri
Hiren Pasad started with a practical explanation of Kala stream, explaining
that it is one of the oldest education systems in India. He traced this back to
the Gurukul system, where boys were taught 64 types of arts and girls 70 types
of arts, including music, dance, literature, painting, sculpture, debate,
ethics and leadership. He emphasised that today's arts stream also fosters
creativity and offers careers in journalism, law, languages, psychology, public
administration and more.
𧊠2. Science - Path to Technology and
Medicine
The
science stream was explained as the gateway to professional fields like
engineering, medicine, architecture and research. Students were informed about
various entrance exams like:
·JEE
(Joint Entrance Examination) for engineering,
·NEET
(National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) for medical,
·NATA
(National Aptitude Test in Architecture) for architecture.
He
explained that each stream within science – PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Math's) or
PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) – opens different doors and explained the
importance of preparing well in advance.
ðž 3. Commerce – The World of Business and
Finance
Mr.
Hiren Pasad discussed commerce in detail as the foundation of the banking,
finance and business sectors. He gave information about career options such as:
·CA
(Chartered Accountant)
·CS
(Company Secretary)
·ICWA
(Cost & Works Accountancy)
He
also discussed B.Com, BBA, MBA, CFA and other finance-related professional
courses, their admission processes and long-term benefits.
ð General and Vocational Courses
Apart
from the main streams, students were informed about several vocational courses,
such as:
·B.Sc
in Computer Science and IT
·B.Sc
in Interior Design
·B.Sc
in Mass Media (BMM)
·BMS
(Bachelor of Management Studies)
These
are modern, skill-based programmes that cater to the needs of the tech and
media industries.
ð ️ Diploma and Polytechnic Options
For
students looking for practical and job-oriented training, the speaker
highlighted the following:
Diploma courses in engineering and medical fields
10+3+2 pattern and lateral entry options
Double
certificate courses, which allow students to master two skill sets
simultaneously, thereby increasing employability.
ð️ Guidance for Competitive Exams
A
significant portion of the seminar was dedicated to Government Services, where
students were informed about the following:
·UPSC
(Union Public Service Commission) for IAS, IPS, IFS
·MPSC
(Maharashtra Public Service Commission)
Preparation
strategies, syllabus, and career prospects in civil services
This
section was especially inspiring for those who want to serve the nation and
attain the prestigious administrative post.
ð Student Felicitation Ceremony
At
the end of the session, more than 40 students and their parents actively
participated and interacted with the speaker. Students who had successfully
cleared their 10th and 12th exams were felicitated by the organising bodies
with congratulatory messages, encouraging them to pursue higher education with
confidence.
ðŽ Concluding Thoughts
This
seminar was not just an information session but a guiding light for many
students at a crucial juncture of their lives. It helped them and their parents
understand the vast ocean of opportunities, how to prepare for them, and how to
combine them with their skills and interests.
ECHO Foundation and Mahalaxmi Vikas Seva Samiti deserve a
heartfelt appreciation for organizing such a thoughtful and empowering event.
In today's competitive world, such guidance can be life changing, and this
seminar has certainly sown the seeds of ambition and clarity in the minds of
young students of Mumbai.
In honor of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar’s birth date, the ECHO
Foundation team took time out to visit old age homes and care for those in
need, by distributing saris and spending time with elderly residents, they not
only provided physical comfort but more importantly, companionship. Sharing
meals, saying kind words, and listening to the stories of the elders at home,
speak volumes about the power of human relationships.
From childhood to old age, we witness the flow of time in
life – each stage has its own joys and challenges. Childhood is often full of
vitality, energy, and exploration. But as time passes, we all inevitably have
to face the reality of aging. In old age the body weakens, and many abilities
that we previously took for granted – such as walking, speaking, or thinking –
diminish.
*Yet, it is not just physical changes that shape the
experience of aging; it is the emotional and social aspects that really
determine how we age. The support of family and children at this stage of life
can make a huge difference. When loved ones stay with us, when children respect
and care for their aging parents, life in old age can be full of comfort,
dignity, and love. However, reality is not always so kind. As seen in films
such as Vanvas and Rui Ka Boj, when family is absent or fails to provide the
necessary care, old age can become an isolating and miserable experience. We
were very happy to visit the old age home.*
*Present at the event were Nayana Behen, Neeta Behen, Varsha
Behen, Nirmala Behen and Rambha Behen*
Celebrating January 26 with colours and creativity: A painting event at Shiv Veer Society
India’s Republic Day, celebrated on January 26, is a day of pride, unity and celebration. Across the country, flag salutes, cultural performances and community events mark the occasion. At Shiv Veer Society located in Charkop, Kandivali, Mumbai, this year’s celebrations included a unique and enjoyable activity: a painting event for children.
Around 40 enthusiastic child artists gathered to unleash their creativity and celebrate the spirit of the nation through colours. The event not only honored Republic Day but also emphasized the joy and therapeutic benefits of painting.
The Joy of Painting
Painting is one of the most loved forms of expression. For children, it is a great way to communicate their feelings, thoughts and dreams without the barriers of words. With brushes, colours and canvases in hand, the children of Shiv Veer Society painted everything from the Indian flag and iconic landmarks to imaginative scenes that reflect their vibrant minds.
Positive impact on mind and body
Engaging in painting has a profound impact on mental and physical health. It is a meditative activity that helps reduce stress and promote happiness. The concentration required to paint sharpens focus, while the creative process enhances problem-solving skills and emotional expression. In addition, painting has a soothing effect on the eyes and mind, providing a sense of peace and clarity.
A celebration of unity and talent
The painting event at Shiv Veer Society brought together children from different backgrounds, fostering a sense of community and togetherness. Their creations not only celebrated the beauty of India, but also highlighted the unique perspectives and talents of each participant. Parents and society members admired the artworks, appreciating the effort and creativity of the young artists.
The spirit of Republic Day
Through this activity, the children learned the importance of freedom, unity, and expression – values that resonate deeply with the essence of Republic Day. The event served as a reminder that nurturing creativity in children is essential to shaping a brighter and more harmonious future.
Conclusion
The painting event at Shiv Veer Society was a testament to the power of art in bringing people together and spreading joy. When children painted their imaginations, they not only celebrated the national holiday but also discovered the joy and peace that colors bring to life. Such events not only enrich communities but also inspire young minds to dream big and think creatively – a true reflection of the vibrant spirit of India.
January 25 is celebrated as National Girl Child Day, the main objective of which is to create awareness about the rights, importance and empowerment of girls. On this day, the ECHO Foundation team took a special initiative and visited a kindergarten and provided a beautiful example of spending time with young children.
During the visit, the ECHO Foundation team interacted with the children in their language, so that the children felt comfortable and felt special. Along with trying to bring smiles to the faces of the children, the team also served a sweet snack, which made the children feel affection and love along with entertainment.
This activity not only made the children happy but also made the members of ECHO Foundation feel full of joy. By spending time with the innocence and happiness of the children, the team touched upon the positive values of life.
This divine work is an inspiration for the society, which shows that even small efforts can sometimes bring big changes. By celebrating this day, we can focus our attention on the importance of girl children and encourage them to move forward in life. Hearty congratulations to the ECHO Foundation for this work and a salute to their efforts for a positive future for girl children!
Seminar on Civil-Surveyor
and Interior Studies at ITI, Bilimora - 18 January 2025
On 18 January 2025, a seminar was organized for students
pursuing Civil-Surveyor and Interior Studies at ITI, Bilimora. The objective of
the program was to enhance the knowledge and practical understanding of various
essential aspects of the field.
Key Features of the Seminar
The seminar brought together many eminent professionals who
shared their expertise with the students.
Mr. Arvind Viras:
Mr. Viras educated the students on the use of AutoCAD
software, which is an important tool for modern-day architects and engineers.
He also elaborated on the importance of understanding scale, open space,
wasteland and garden design in planning and designing projects.
Engineer Lahu Pednekar:
Engineer Pednekar provided valuable insights into the legal
and administrative aspects of civil projects. He discussed the following
topics:
7/12 Extract (detailed document of ownership of agricultural
land).
Property Card used to record ownership details.
Various government approvals and regulations required for
the implementation of construction projects. Also provided information on
Development Control Rules.
Engineer Dhanraj Magare:
Focusing on technical infrastructure, Engineer Magare shared
his expertise on essential services like electrical systems, fire extinguishing
installations and plumbing networks, emphasizing their important roles in
building safety and efficiency.
Engineer Shashikant Koyande:
Engineer Koyande played a key role in organizing and
presenting the seminar. His comprehensive presentation provided a clear
overview of the program, ensuring that the students remained engaged and
informed throughout the session.
ECHO FOUNDATION Team Varsha Behan:
Varsh Behan helped distribute the necessary stationery to
all the students
Conclusion
The seminar was a resounding success, providing a platform
for the students to broaden their knowledge and learn from experienced
professionals in the field. It served as a bridge between theoretical studies
and practical applications, providing a holistic understanding of
civil-surveying and interior design practices.
Such initiatives not only inspire the students but also
prepare them for real-world challenges, so that they are well equipped for
future endeavours in their respective careers.
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