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.
Successful organization of "Forest Meal" program at Undach Dhodiawad Class School
A special and entertaining program was organized at **"Undach Dhodiawad Class School"** in Navsari district of Gujarat state on 28 December 2024. On this occasion, a "Forest Meal" program was organized to connect the students of the school with the uniqueness of the river and dedicate them to mutual cooperative practices.
**"Forest Meal"** main meaning is – eating with the entire group, being aware of brotherhood and unity, and developing a sense of coordination and cooperation through mutual cooperation while preparing food.
In this program, all the students of the school sat down for the meal together and worked hard to coordinate the preparation of food and drinking drinks with the help of each other. The main objective of this program was to instill the feelings of "wholeness" and "cooperation" in the children. Such programs are very important for children to connect with their culture and traditions.
With the cooperation and guidance of the school teachers Mr. Maheshbhai, Sandeepbhai and all the staff members, this program was very successful. Under their guidance, the students worshipped the river and purified their souls with its holy water. Joy and satisfaction were clearly visible on the faces of the students.
On this occasion, special emphasis was laid on the importance of brotherhood and unity. The "One Meal" program was a priceless experience for the children. It created a new mantra and inspiration for unity and mutual cooperation in the children, which will be useful in their entire lives.
After this program, a strong foundation has been laid to increase cooperation, unity, brotherhood and mutual understanding in the children. Programs and efforts like "One Meal" provide the best platform for the children for their mental development.
With the special cooperation of teachers Maheshbhai, Sandeep bhai and the school staff, it is hoped to touch a new height in the field of education.
Seminar by Eco Foundation on
Plumbing and Electrical Systems at ITI Valsad:
Empowering Students with Essential
Knowledge
On November 23, 2024, the Eco
Foundation team organized a highly insightful seminar at ITI Valsad, aimed at
enriching the knowledge of students studying Plumbing and Electrical
Engineering. The seminar focused on crucial aspects of both the fields, with a
detailed explanation of their importance and practical applications in the
architectural and engineering fields. With the increasing demand for skilled
professionals in these fields, the event proved to be a valuable learning
experience for students preparing to enter the workforce.
Knowledge on Plumbing and
Electrical was imparted by Mr. Dhanesh Chatnani, a Civil Engineer with 35 years
of experience
Understanding the Role of
Plumbing and Electrical Systems
Plumbing and electrical systems are
integral components of both residential, commercial and industrial buildings.
These systems not only ensure the smooth functioning of day-to-day activities
but also play a crucial role in maintaining safety, comfort and efficiency in
the structure. The seminar, therefore, focuses on providing an in-depth
understanding of these topics, emphasizing on their design, installation and
maintenance.
Plumbing: Key Insights
The Plumbing session was dedicated
to explaining the different types of plumbing systems—residential, commercial
and industrial—and how they differ in terms of design, materials and
functionality. Students were introduced to essential concepts such as:
Designing Plumbing Systems: The
session covered the basic principles of designing plumbing systems for
different types of buildings. From pipe sizing to material selection, students
gained insight into how to create effective and sustainable plumbing layouts
that meet the specific needs of each type of structure.
Residential Plumbing:The focus was on residential plumbing systems, which
are typically simple in design but still require careful consideration for
water supply, drainage, and waste management.
Commercial and Industrial Plumbing:The seminar also highlighted
the complexities involved in designing plumbing systems for commercial and
industrial facilities. These systems require more advanced considerations,
including high-capacity pipes, specialized fixtures, and compliance with safety
regulations to accommodate increased demand.
Importance of Plumbing: The
importance of reliable plumbing was emphasized for ensuring clean water supply,
waste disposal, and sanitation in buildings. Students were encouraged to
understand the broader implications of their work, such as how plumbing can
contribute to sustainability and water conservation.
Electrical: Powering Infrastructure
The electrical session focused on
the importance of electrical systems, specifically wiring and power
distribution from substations to buildings. Some of the key topics discussed
included:
Electrical Wiring:Students learned about the intricacies of electrical
wiring, including cable selection, circuit design, and safety protocols. Proper
electrical design ensures that buildings have a safe and efficient power supply
with minimal risk of electrical hazards.
Substation Connections:A significant portion of the session was
dedicated to explaining the role of substations in the distribution of
electricity in residential, commercial, and industrial structures. Students
were introduced to the process of designing electrical systems that ensure a
stable, uninterrupted power supply while adhering to industry standards.
Safety and Compliance:Electrical safety was highlighted as a priority in
both residential and industrial settings. Students were educated on the
importance of following regulatory standards and conducting regular inspections
to ensure that electrical systems remain safe and functional.
Practical Career Insights
In addition to the technical
aspects, the seminar also provided valuable insights into career opportunities
in the plumbing and electrical fields. Addressing the growing demand for
skilled professionals, the Eco Foundation team encouraged students to excel and
continue learning, ensuring that they are well-prepared for the challenges they
will face in the industry.
The seminar was designed to provide
students with not only theoretical knowledge but also the practical skills they
need to succeed in their careers. The team also discussed how they can use
their expertise to design and maintain systems that contribute to the
sustainability and efficiency of modern infrastructure.
Thanks to the ITI Valsad team
The success of the seminar was
possible with the support of the ITI Valsad administration. Mr. Manoj
Mandaliya, Principal, ITI Valsad, played a key role in organizing the event,
ensuring that the students got such a valuable learning opportunity. Special
thanks are also extended to Mr. Kansara Saheb and Mr. Darshan Solanki for their
cooperation and contribution in the smooth conduct of the seminar.
The Eco Foundation team expressed
their gratitude to the faculty and staff of ITI Valsad for their dedication in
the fields of plumbing and electrical.
Much appreciated for their
continued commitment to empowering students with the skills and knowledge
required to bear fruit.
The seminar organized by Eco
Foundation at ITI Valsad was an excellent opportunity for students to gain
critical insight into the essential plumbing and electrical systems that form
the backbone of modern architecture and engineering. By addressing the
intricacies of designing and maintaining these systems, the seminar equips
students with a deeper understanding of their field and prepares them for their
future careers in a rapidly growing industry.
The collaboration between Eco
Foundation and ITI Valsad is a testament to the importance of such educational
initiatives that bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world
applications. With the demand for skilled professionals in plumbing and
electrical engineering continuing to grow, this seminar served as a significant
step towards shaping the next generation of experts in these vital fields.
Lighting Up Lives this Diwali: ECHO
Foundation’s Heartwarming Visit to an Old Age Home .Swargiya Gopichand Poniya Charitable Trust.
As we prepared to celebrate Diwali,
the festival of lights, the ECHO Foundation team embarked on a journey to
spread the joy of the season in a unique way—by visiting an old age home
nestled on Vajjareshwari Road, about 45 kilometers from the bustling city of
Mumbai. Our goal was simple but meaningful: to bring warmth, light, and a touch
of companionship to the elderly residents of this remote Old age home who are
often forgotten by society, even during festivals.
A
Festival Far From Home
For many of these elderly
individuals, Diwali is a bittersweet time. Traditionally, Diwali is a time for
family gatherings, joy, and sharing, but in this secluded home, residents spend
the festival away from their families, loved ones, and familiar surroundings.
As we interacted with them, the atmosphere was a mix of warmth, nostalgia, and
lingering sadness. The residents’ stories were filled with memories of past
celebrations with loved ones, and their eyes reflected the longing for
companionship.
Our
Visit: A Day of Cleansing, Comfort, and Connection
As we arrived, we were greeted with
wide, welcoming smiles that masked the loneliness that the residents carry in
their hearts. Our team dedicated time to help clean and organize the common
areas and personal spaces, symbolically and literally bringing light and
freshness into their lives. Diwali, after all, is about dispelling darkness,
and through our simple act of cleanliness, we aimed to do just that.
With each interaction, we saw how
something as small as a warm handshake, a heartfelt conversation, or a shared
laugh could bring so much happiness. Our presence filled the home with the
energy of celebration, and we quickly became friends and family to them, if
only for a day.
Thoughtful
Gifts to Ward Off the Chill
Understanding the daily struggles of
these elderly residents, we brought along practical gifts that would provide
them comfort long after the festival. Blankets were our choice of gift,
symbolizing warmth and care, essential during the chilly nights ahead. These
blankets were more than just items; they represented a sense of security, a
reminder that they are loved, and that they are not alone in their journey.
As each blanket was handed out, we
saw joy sparkle in their eyes, a sign that our small gesture had made a difference.
They thanked us with words, blessings, and heartfelt smiles that reinforced the
true essence of Diwali—the festival of sharing and caring.
Stories
That Touch the Heart
Meeting these elderly individuals
allowed us to glimpse into their dreams, pains, and hopes. Many shared dreams
of seeing their grandchildren, reliving old memories, or simply desiring a
visit from loved ones. Despite their circumstances, they displayed a resilience
that moved us all. Each story reminded us of the sacrifices they had made
throughout their lives and the love they still have to give.
Reflecting
on the True Meaning of Diwali
As we left the home that evening,
our hearts were heavy but full. The experience was a powerful reminder that
Diwali is not just about lights, sweets, or festivities—it’s about bringing
light into the lives of others, especially those who need it most. The elderly
residents at this home may be far from their families, but our visit showed
them that they are valued, loved, and remembered.
The visit to the old age home on
Vajjareshwari Road was an eye-opener, inspiring each of us to keep finding ways
to spread light and compassion, not just during festivals but every day.
Through this experience, we truly understood that a compassionate heart and a
few hours of our time can be the brightest gift for someone in need.
In the spirit of Diwali, let us
remember that every act of kindness, no matter how small, holds the power to
illuminate someone’s life.
Seminar for Civil, Architect Draftsman and Surveyor students
On 18th October,2024, ECHO Foundationteam organized an important seminar for Civil, Architect Draftsman and Surveyor students at ITI, Vaghaldhara village, Valsad. In this event Mr. Arvind Viras provided valuable insights into key topics like Computer-Aided Design (AUTO CAD), Development Control Rules, Planning, Google MAP, Infrastructure Systems, which enhances students' understanding of contemporary practices in their fields.
Waghaldhara ITI emerges as a pioneering institute, the only ITI equipped with ð§️ðĶrainwater harvesting system and solar panels for power generation. This initiative serves as a practical model for students to understand not only sustainability but also the importance of environmental protection and renewable energy.
The seminar was attended by all ITI students, who greatly benefited from the expert knowledge shared during the session. Emphasis was placed on practical applications of the topics discussed, enabling students to see the relevance of their studies in real-world scenarios.
The Principal of ITI Mr. Manoj Mandlia, along with Mr. Kansara Sir and the entire staff of the faculty, played an important role in facilitating this seminar. Their support and dedication was crucial in ensuring the success of the event. The collaboration between the ECHO Foundation and ITI demonstrates a commitment to enhancing educational experiences for students and fostering the skills needed in today's job market.
The seminar not only enriched the knowledge of the students but also encouraged them to think critically about their future roles in the fields of civil engineering and architecture. Integrating technology and sustainable practices into their curriculum is a step in preparing them for the challenges ahead. We sincerely thank the principal, staff and everyone involved for making this seminar a success. ECHO Foundation team, Mr. Arvind Veeras, Mr. Surendra Khere and Mr. Rajesh Patel were present.
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