Eco Restoration of Manamedu Eri_WaterFest’26 Posted on March 14, 2026 by Divya Priya The Eco Restoration of Manamedu Eri initiative was carried out in March 2026 as part of ongoing efforts to revive local water bodies and strengthen ecological resilience in the region. The restoration activity was undertaken in collaboration with the Manamedu Eri Sangam, Svarnim Puducherry, and partners from the Sri Aurobindo Society, with support from Marico and the Government of Puducherry. The initiative focused on restoring the ecological health of Manamedu Eri, a vital local water body that plays an important role in supporting groundwater recharge, biodiversity, and community livelihoods. The project aimed to revive the water system, restore surrounding biodiversity, and strengthen community participation in protecting and maintaining the ecosystem. Through coordinated efforts involving local stakeholders and volunteers, activities were carried out to improve the ecological condition of the lake and its surroundings. The initiative emphasized the importance of community stewardship in sustaining natural resources and highlighted how restoring water bodies can contribute to environmental balance and long-term water security. The project reflects a shared commitment toward reviving water ecosystems, restoring biodiversity, and rebuilding community connections with nature, ensuring that Manamedu Eri continues to serve as a valuable ecological and social resource for the region
The initiative focused on restoring the ecological health of Manamedu Eri, a vital local water body that plays an important role in supporting groundwater recharge, biodiversity, and community livelihoods. The project aimed to revive the water system, restore surrounding biodiversity, and strengthen community participation in protecting and maintaining the ecosystem. Through coordinated efforts involving local stakeholders and volunteers, activities were carried out to improve the ecological condition of the lake and its surroundings. The initiative emphasized the importance of community stewardship in sustaining natural resources and highlighted how restoring water bodies can contribute to environmental balance and long-term water security. The project reflects a shared commitment toward reviving water ecosystems, restoring biodiversity, and rebuilding community connections with nature, ensuring that Manamedu Eri continues to serve as a valuable ecological and social resource for the region
CEPA Workshop Posted on March 14, 2026March 14, 2026 by Divya Priya Screenshot A CEPA (Communication, Education, Participation and Awareness) Workshop was conducted as part of the Water Fest 2026 activities to promote environmental awareness and community participation in water conservation. The workshop brought together community members to discuss the importance of protecting wetlands, water bodies, and local ecosystems. During the session, participants engaged in interactive discussions, group activities, and knowledge-sharing exercisesfocused on sustainable water management and environmental responsibility. The workshop encouraged community members to reflect on local environmental challenges and explore practical ways to conserve water resources. The program created a space for learning, dialogue, and collaboration, motivating participants to actively contribute to environmental protection and sustainable practices within their communities.
Bandhan Bank Project – Ongoing Activities Posted on March 14, 2026 by Divya Priya Under the Bandhan Bank Project, several environmental monitoring and research activities are being carried out to strengthen ecological conservation and scientific understanding in the region. Water quality monitoring is being continued regularly to assess the condition and safety of water bodies. In addition, a wetland plant biodiversity assessment is being conducted in various Eris (lakes) of Puducherry to document and understand the diversity of plant species present in these ecosystems. Preparations are also underway for the next session of the Puducherry Bird Atlas, which is planned to be conducted from 6th to 9th March. This initiative aims to document bird species and contribute to long-term biodiversity monitoring in the region. Furthermore, advanced water quality parameters are being assessed in collaboration with Visva-Bharati University and IIT, supporting detailed scientific analysis and strengthening research efforts related to water quality and environmental health.
Aurovanam Environmental Initiatives Posted on March 14, 2026March 19, 2026 by Divya Priya As part of the Bandhan Bank Project, an Environment Lab is being set up at Aurovanam using a container model. This initiative aims to create a dedicated learning space where students and visitors can explore environmental concepts, biodiversity, and sustainability through interactive and practical learning experiences. In addition, a Bird Survey was conducted at Aurovanam on 21st January, highlighting the rich biodiversity of the area. The survey recorded a total of 61 bird species, reflecting the ecological importance of the habitat. Among these, 41 species were resident birds, 15 species were migratory birds, and 5 species were local migratory birds. The findings of the survey emphasize Aurovanam’s role as an important natural habitat that supports diverse bird populations and contributes to environmental conservation and awareness. Infrastructure improvements such as a pathway and a viewpoint near the lake were also developed to enhance visitor experience and environmental observation.
AuroJoy – A birthday celebration with a difference Posted on March 14, 2026March 19, 2026 by Divya Priya The Robotics/STEM team participated in the Aurojoy event organized to celebrate the birthday of Mr. Madhivanan. The celebration was a joyful gathering that encouraged unity, reflection, and togetherness among the participants. The event included a series of meaningful and engaging activities. It began with meditation accompanied by the music of the Mother, creating a calm and reflective atmosphere. This was followed by the Game of Unity, which encouraged teamwork and collective participation. The celebration continued with a cake-cutting ceremony, after which participants placed floating boats filled with wishes in the pond, symbolizing hope and positive intentions. The event concluded with the flying of sky lantern hot air balloons, creating a beautiful and memorable moment for everyone present. Overall, the Aurojoy celebration was a heartwarming and uplifting experience, bringing together participants in a spirit of joy, unity, and shared celebration.
AuroStar Awards Initiative Posted on March 14, 2026 by Divya Priya The AuroStar Awards initiative was introduced to recognize and encourage students’ achievements and positive values in sports. The awards aim to celebrate not only outstanding performance but also qualities such as dedication, improvement, and sportsmanship among school children. The awards are presented under four categories: Performance-Based Excellence, which recognizes outstanding achievements in sports performance; Sportsmanship Spirit, which appreciates exemplary behaviour and fair play; Most Effort, awarded to students who demonstrate dedication and significant improvement; and Most Progressive, which recognizes students who have shown remarkable growth in their skills and abilities. During February, five schools were identified and briefed about the AuroStar Awards. The initiative was introduced to teachers and students, highlighting the purpose of the awards and encouraging active participation in sports activities. The program aims to motivate students to develop discipline, teamwork, and a positive sporting attitude while striving for personal growth and excellence.
National Green Skill Development Programme (GSDP) based on Water hyacinth products Posted on March 14, 2026March 19, 2026 by Divya Priya Previous Next The National Green Skill Development Program (GSDP) for Water Hyacinth Value-Added Products Entrepreneurs (NSQF Level 4 – Certificate Course) is currently being conducted at Kalanjiyam, Sri Aurobindo Society, Bahour, as part of a national initiative to promote green skills, sustainable livelihoods, and environmental conservation. The program is organized by the Puducherry EIACP Hub under the Puducherry Pollution Control Committee, in collaboration with Svarnim Puducherry and Sri Aurobindo Society, with technical support from the Birbhum Institute of Rural Development Foundation.The training program, which runs from 19 January to 11 March 2026, aims to build practical skills among participants by demonstrating how water hyacinth, an invasive aquatic plant that often disrupts freshwater ecosystems, can be transformed into useful and marketable products. By focusing on value addition and sustainable resource utilization, the program encourages participants to view environmental challenges as opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, and community development.The course has brought together women from Self-Help Groups (SHGs), youth, and aspiring green entrepreneurs, providing them with hands-on exposure to a range of sustainable practices and livelihood-oriented skills. Through interactive sessions, demonstrations, and practical training, participants are learning how to convert locally available natural resources into eco-friendly products while also understanding the broader environmental impact of such initiatives.Several modules are currently being conducted as part of the training program. These include water hyacinth collection, processing, and drying, which introduces participants to the safe and effective methods of harvesting and preparing the plant for further use. Another key component is handicrafts and weaving, where trainees learn how to create baskets, mats, and other handcrafted items from dried water hyacinth fibers. The program also includes pulp and paper making, demonstrating how the plant can be processed into pulp and used to produce handmade paper and paper-based products.In addition to craft-based skills, the training also explores innovative livelihood opportunities such as mushroom cultivation using water hyacinth-based substrates, biochar and briquette production, and demonstrations of biogas systems. These modules help participants understand how agricultural and organic waste can be converted into valuable resources, contributing to sustainable energy solutions and waste reduction.Beyond production skills, the program also emphasizes tools handling, finishing techniques, and basic entrepreneurship training. Participants are introduced to the fundamentals of starting and managing small enterprises, including product development, quality finishing, and market readiness. Sessions on market exposure help trainees understand potential markets for eco-friendly products and how sustainable goods can be positioned within growing green economies.The program aligns with the National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF) Level 4, and participants who successfully complete the course will receive a National GSDP certification, recognizing their technical and entrepreneurial competencies in the field of green enterprise development.At its core, the initiative focuses on transforming an invasive aquatic weed into a source of sustainable livelihoods and environmental solutions. By converting water hyacinth into useful products and livelihood opportunities, the program promotes the principles of the circular economy, where waste materials are reused and repurposed rather than discarded.Through this ongoing training program, participants are not only gaining valuable technical skills but also developing a deeper understanding of environmental stewardship, resource conservation, and community-based sustainability. The initiative represents an important step toward creating green jobs, empowering local communities, and promoting environmentally responsible entrepreneurship in the region. Water Hyacinth handicraft trainers (02 women) from Bahour village will be participating in this ECM (Endangered Craft Mughaam) being planned for school children in auroville and the bioregions. The camp was conducted from 23rd of February till 28th of February and Craft Fair took place on 1st of March.
The National Green Skill Development Program (GSDP) for Water Hyacinth Value-Added Products Entrepreneurs (NSQF Level 4 – Certificate Course) is currently being conducted at Kalanjiyam, Sri Aurobindo Society, Bahour, as part of a national initiative to promote green skills, sustainable livelihoods, and environmental conservation. The program is organized by the Puducherry EIACP Hub under the Puducherry Pollution Control Committee, in collaboration with Svarnim Puducherry and Sri Aurobindo Society, with technical support from the Birbhum Institute of Rural Development Foundation.The training program, which runs from 19 January to 11 March 2026, aims to build practical skills among participants by demonstrating how water hyacinth, an invasive aquatic plant that often disrupts freshwater ecosystems, can be transformed into useful and marketable products. By focusing on value addition and sustainable resource utilization, the program encourages participants to view environmental challenges as opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, and community development.The course has brought together women from Self-Help Groups (SHGs), youth, and aspiring green entrepreneurs, providing them with hands-on exposure to a range of sustainable practices and livelihood-oriented skills. Through interactive sessions, demonstrations, and practical training, participants are learning how to convert locally available natural resources into eco-friendly products while also understanding the broader environmental impact of such initiatives.Several modules are currently being conducted as part of the training program. These include water hyacinth collection, processing, and drying, which introduces participants to the safe and effective methods of harvesting and preparing the plant for further use. Another key component is handicrafts and weaving, where trainees learn how to create baskets, mats, and other handcrafted items from dried water hyacinth fibers. The program also includes pulp and paper making, demonstrating how the plant can be processed into pulp and used to produce handmade paper and paper-based products.In addition to craft-based skills, the training also explores innovative livelihood opportunities such as mushroom cultivation using water hyacinth-based substrates, biochar and briquette production, and demonstrations of biogas systems. These modules help participants understand how agricultural and organic waste can be converted into valuable resources, contributing to sustainable energy solutions and waste reduction.Beyond production skills, the program also emphasizes tools handling, finishing techniques, and basic entrepreneurship training. Participants are introduced to the fundamentals of starting and managing small enterprises, including product development, quality finishing, and market readiness. Sessions on market exposure help trainees understand potential markets for eco-friendly products and how sustainable goods can be positioned within growing green economies.The program aligns with the National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF) Level 4, and participants who successfully complete the course will receive a National GSDP certification, recognizing their technical and entrepreneurial competencies in the field of green enterprise development.At its core, the initiative focuses on transforming an invasive aquatic weed into a source of sustainable livelihoods and environmental solutions. By converting water hyacinth into useful products and livelihood opportunities, the program promotes the principles of the circular economy, where waste materials are reused and repurposed rather than discarded.Through this ongoing training program, participants are not only gaining valuable technical skills but also developing a deeper understanding of environmental stewardship, resource conservation, and community-based sustainability. The initiative represents an important step toward creating green jobs, empowering local communities, and promoting environmentally responsible entrepreneurship in the region.
WaterFest’26 – Inaugural Program Posted on March 14, 2026March 14, 2026 by Divya Priya Previous Next The Waterfest26 was inaugurated at the Pondy Yatch Club on 2nd February. The day’s program included a kayaking session to clean the plastic waste ridden mangroves at the Thengaithittu estuary where within a period of just one hour, about 250kg of waste were removed by volunteers. This was followed by a citizens science session using the iNaturalist app attended by about 30 children and the session was handled by Kavita Dutta of Sri Aurobindo Society. Later a session on the importance of water quality monitoring was taken by Sanjivi of Svarnim Puducherry where children did hands on training on water quality monitoring. There was also an exhibition on wetlands’ biodiversity, of handcrafted water hyacinth products, a motor boat ride through the mangroves etc. Ms.Sankaradevi an expert on mangroves explained the ecology of the mangroves to the participants and she also did an awareness session with the children. The inaugural session was attended and felicitated by Mr Joseph Victor Raj of HOPE, Mr D Balasubramaniam of Pondicherry Science Forum, Mr Munisamy of the Confderation of Govt Employees Association and Mr Arul of TADCEM Foundation, Cuddalore. An overview of the Waterfest26 was given by Mr Raghunath of Sri Aurobindo Society and the Inaugural address was given by Er K. Kalamegam of DSTE who spoke on the need for all stakeholders to come together for the common water-secure future of the region. Later a vote of thanks was proposed by Ms. Anjali, the co-founder of Pondy Yatch Club who hosted the programme. Auro Filio from PondyCAN and other volunteers from Udhavikarangal, Deepsthal School and Inspa Robotics extended the support. The Waterfest26 is being organised every year by the collective Alliance for Good Governance comprising of Pondicherry Science Forum, PondyCAN, Sri Aurobindo Society, Hope and the CGEA taking the lead roles and will have several bio-regional events being planned till 22nd March 2026 which is the World Wetlands Day.
Joyful Learning at the Bridge Education Centre – February 2026 Posted on March 14, 2026 by Divya Priya During February, the children at the Evening Study Centre participated in engaging and joyful learning activities that encouraged creativity, curiosity, and teamwork. One of the highlights of the month was a Riddle Competition organized by the children themselves. In this activity, one child would present a riddle while the others attempted to guess the correct answer. Participants were allowed to give hints to help others solve the riddle, and additional clues were provided if the answer was not immediately identified. The activity created a lively and interactive learning environment where all the children enthusiastically participated. Through this activity, the children strengthened their critical thinking, vocabulary, and creativity. They learned to analyze clues, think logically, and connect ideas to arrive at the correct answers. The riddle competition also helped improve their language skills, memory, and problem-solving abilities. The children greatly enjoyed the activity and expressed interest in organizing similar competitions in the future. At the end of the month, the children visited a Aurovanam as part of an educational outing. As their examinations had just concluded, the children were excited about the opportunity to travel outside their village and spend time in nature. During the visit, they learned about organic plants and different types of seeds, gaining a better understanding of nature and environmental care. The outing also included several recreational activities. Before and after lunch, the children enthusiastically played games such as Kho-Kho and Kabaddi, and some even enjoyed climbing trees. These activities allowed them to relax, play freely, and experience a healthy and joyful environment. The nature walk provided them with fresh air and a refreshing break from their regular routine. At the end of the visit, the children were given seeds to plant in their homes, encouraging them to care for nature and learn about growing plants. The trip to the forest was a memorable experience that combined learning, play, and appreciation for the natural environment.