Rural Ministry – Salesian Province of Tiruchy

Salesian Rural Ministry – Empowering Communities

The Salesians of Don Bosco (SDB) are committed to serving rural communities by providing education, faith formation, and social development programs. Their mission focuses on uplifting the underprivileged, fostering self-reliance, and strengthening spiritual life in remote areas.

Major Focus Areas of Salesian Rural Ministry:

Education & Vocational Training – Schools, literacy programs, and skill development for employment.
Pastoral & Faith Formation – Strengthening Christian values through catechism, sacraments, and prayer services.
Sustainable Livelihood Support – Training in agriculture, handicrafts, and self-sufficiency projects.
Healthcare & Social Welfare – Medical assistance, hygiene awareness, and women’s empowerment initiatives.
Youth & Community Development – Organizing leadership programs, sports, and cultural activities.

Salesian rural ministry transforms lives by bringing education, faith, and opportunities to those in the most underserved regions.

Our Team

Fr. Vimalan Santiagu SDB
Bro. Sagayaraj Madalaimuthu SDB
Fr. Vincent Vijayan SDB
Fr. John Barnabas SDB
Fr. Arockia Monsingh SDB
Fr. Albert Yesudoss SDB
Mr. Muneeshwaran

Reports

Rural Ministry Activity Report

Rural Commission – Activity Report (2024-2025)

The Rural Commission of the Salesian Province of Trichy has been actively working towards rural development through networking, training programs, and leadership initiatives. The activities conducted between June 2024 and February 2025 focused on empowering rural communities through education, livelihood development, and collaboration with various stakeholders.

Networking & Collaboration

One of the key focuses of the Rural Commission was to strengthen partnerships with NGOs, government agencies, and financial institutions. Through networking meetings and training sessions, participants gained a better understanding of how to collaborate effectively to maximize the impact of rural development initiatives. This approach has helped in mobilizing resources and forming stronger support systems for rural communities.

Annual Program Planning

The Annual Program for 2024-2025 was carefully planned, focusing on rural empowerment, education, health, and livelihood development. The discussions during planning meetings revolved around setting specific goals, structuring timelines, and ensuring measurable outcomes. By aligning activities with the needs of the rural population, the commission aims to create sustainable solutions for the challenges faced by these communities.

Key Activities & Events

Rural Sector Meeting (June 14, 2024, at Vembu, Vilathikulam)

The Rural Commission organized a Rural Sector Meeting to bring together stakeholders involved in rural development. Dr. K. Jothimony, Director of Vidiyel Trust, was the chief guest, delivering an inspiring talk on networking strategies. The meeting, attended by 26 participants, served as a platform for exchanging ideas, identifying opportunities, and fostering partnerships. The key takeaway was the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing rural challenges effectively.

Exposure Visit & Training (July 20-21, 2024, at Krishnagiri & Bangalore)

An Exposure Visit was organized for Salesians and rural development staff at the Integrated Village Development Project (IVDP) in Krishnagiri. The visit, facilitated by Mr. Kulanthai Francis, Director of IVDP, provided firsthand insights into successful rural development models. A total of 20 participants engaged in learning about Self-Help Groups (SHGs), entrepreneurial ventures, and production centers. The visit was instrumental in equipping them with practical knowledge that could be replicated in their own rural projects.

Children’s Parliament Leaders Training (August 2024)

To encourage youth leadership in rural areas, the commission conducted Children’s Parliament Leaders Training on August 11 at Vembu, Vilathikulam, and August 17 at Kovilpatti. A total of 85 young leaders participated, learning about the motto, election process, and regular training procedures of Children’s Parliaments. Trainers Mr. Devaraj, Mrs. Supathra, and Mr. Muneeswaran made the sessions interactive and impactful. This initiative aimed to empower children with leadership skills and encourage democratic values in rural governance.

Children’s Parliament Leaders Meet (September 28, 2024, at Dindigul)

A follow-up event for Children’s Parliament Leaders was held to evaluate their progress and encourage them to take on leadership roles in their communities. This meet helped young leaders reflect on their roles in promoting active citizenship and democratic governance among children.

Self-Help Group (SHG) Leaders Training

The SHG Leaders Training aimed to empower rural women by enhancing their financial literacy and leadership skills.

Keeranur (October 19, 2024) – Conducted under the guidance of Fr. Barnabas SDB, this training introduced 150 women to NABARD schemes and financial assistance available for rural entrepreneurs. The NABARD Manager from the Trichy Region provided valuable insights into funding opportunities for SHGs.
Kalavasal (September 1 & November 18, 2024) – Two entrepreneurship training programs were held, benefiting 85 women. Fr. Ashok Lawrence SDB and the CAUVERI team led the session on September 1, while Fr. Amalorpavaraj SDB guided the session on November 18. The training emphasized entrepreneurial skill development, equipping SHG leaders with the tools to start and sustain small businesses.

Key Outcomes & Impact

The programs carried out by the Rural Commission had a significant impact on rural communities.

Stronger rural networks were established, ensuring better collaboration among stakeholders.
Young leaders were empowered to participate in governance and social initiatives.
Women in SHGs gained financial independence through access to banking and entrepreneurship training.
Exposure to innovative rural development models inspired participants to adopt successful practices in their own regions.

Conclusion

The Rural Commission’s initiatives have contributed immensely to rural empowerment, leadership development, and financial sustainability. With a focus on networking, training, and community engagement, the commission has laid a strong foundation for sustained rural progress. Moving forward, it remains committed to strengthening these programs and expanding their reach to uplift more rural communities.

Rural Ministry Implementation Report

The Rural Ministry has undertaken several initiatives across different regions to empower rural communities through networking, leadership training, and financial literacy programs. These activities focused on social and vocational development, equipping participants with the necessary skills to improve their livelihoods and contribute to their communities. Below is a detailed report on the implementation of key programs.

1. Rural Sector Meeting

Venue: Vilathikulam
Level: Province
Date: 14.06.2024
Participants: 26

The Rural Sector Meeting was a significant event aimed at enhancing networking and collaboration among various stakeholders. Participants were given an orientation on effective networking with NGOs, government agencies, and banks, with a focus on rural development. Additionally, the Annual Plan for 2024-2025 was discussed, outlining strategic goals for the upcoming year. This meeting provided a platform for sharing ideas, strengthening partnerships, and planning impactful rural initiatives.

Impact Created:

Strengthened partnerships with NGOs, government bodies, and financial institutions.
Planned strategic programs for the year 2024-2025.