About Us

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:

Salesian Rural Ministry – Areas of Focus

• 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.

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 – Vembu, Vilathikulam): A networking event with 26 participants focused on collaboration. Chief Guest Dr. K. Jothimony shared insights on partnership strategies.
• Exposure Visit & Training (July 20–21, 2024 – Krishnagiri & Bangalore): Visit to IVDP for 20 participants to study SHGs, entrepreneurship, and production centers. Facilitated by Mr. Kulanthai Francis.
• Children’s Parliament Leaders Training (August 2024 – Vembu & Kovilpatti): Training for 85 young leaders on democratic leadership. Trainers included Mr. Devaraj, Mrs. Supathra, and Mr. Muneeswaran.
• Children’s Parliament Leaders Meet (September 28, 2024 – Dindigul): Follow-up meeting to assess youth leadership progress and promote active citizenship.
• SHG Leaders Training:
  • Keeranur (October 19, 2024): 150 women trained under Fr. Barnabas SDB with NABARD support on rural funding opportunities.
  • Kalavasal (September 1 & November 18, 2024): Entrepreneurship workshops for 85 women. Sessions led by Fr. Ashok Lawrence SDB and Fr. Amalorpavaraj SDB.

Key Outcomes & Impact

• 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.

Implementation Report

Rural Ministry – Implementation Report (2024–2025)

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.
• Youth Ministry Dimension: Social and Vocational Experience

2. Exposure Visit for Salesians and Staff Working in Rural Areas

• Venue: Integrated Village Development Project (IVDP), Krishnagiri
• Level: Province
• Date: 20.07.2024
• Participants: 20

This visit provided a comprehensive understanding of Self-Help Groups (SHGs), entrepreneurial ventures, and production centers. Participants learned about successful rural development models that could be replicated in their respective areas.

Impact Created:

• Provided practical exposure to SHGs and rural entrepreneurship.
• Encouraged adoption of successful rural business models.
• Youth Ministry Dimension: Social and Vocational Experience

3. Children’s Parliament Leaders Training

• Venues:
  • Vembu, Vilathikulam – 11.08.2024
  • Kovilpatti – 17.08.2024
  • Sayalgudi – 14.11.2024
• Level: Zonal
• Participants: 85 (Vembu), 280 (Kovilpatti & Sayalgudi)

This program aimed to empower young leaders to run and sustain Children’s Parliaments in rural areas. It focused on the motto, election processes, and leadership development.

Impact Created:

• Strengthened leadership skills among children.
• Encouraged democratic values and community participation.
• Youth Ministry Dimension: Social and Vocational Experience

4. Training for Self-Help Group (SHG) Leaders

• Venues & Dates:
  • Keeranur – 25.10.2024
  • Kalavasal – 01.09.2024, 18.11.2024
• Level: Zonal
• Participants: 150 (Keeranur), 50 (Kalavasal – Sept), 35 (Kalavasal – Nov)

These trainings focused on financial literacy, access to NABARD loans, and entrepreneurial skill development. Women were trained on starting and sustaining livelihood projects.

Impact Created:

• Enhanced financial literacy and access to funding.
• Promoted entrepreneurship and economic self-sufficiency among rural women.
• Youth Ministry Dimension: Social and Vocational Experience

5. Women’s Day Celebration

• Venue: Local Level
• Date: 08.03.2025
• Participants: TBD

This upcoming event is designed to recognize and empower women in rural communities, highlighting their roles in entrepreneurship, leadership, and social development.

Impact Expected:

• Encouragement for rural women to take leadership roles.
• Recognition of women’s contributions to community growth.
• Youth Ministry Dimension: Social and Vocational Experience

Conclusion

The Rural Ministry’s initiatives in 2024–2025 have made significant strides in strengthening rural communities through leadership training, financial empowerment, and networking. The Rural Sector Meeting, Exposure Visits, and SHG Training programs have successfully built capacity and fostered self-reliance among rural populations. With continued commitment, the ministry aims to expand these programs, reaching more individuals and making a lasting impact on rural development.

Annual Plan Report

Rural Ministry – Year Plan (2025–2026)

The Rural Ministry has outlined a strategic Year Plan for 2025–2026, focusing on capacity building, leadership training, and rural development initiatives. The planned programs aim to strengthen networking, empowerment, and vocational training across various regions. Below is the detailed schedule for the upcoming year’s activities.

1. Sector Meeting

• Date: 17.06.2025
• Venue: Dindigul
• Level: Province
• Expected Participants: 25

This meeting will bring together key stakeholders involved in rural development to discuss strategies and initiatives for the upcoming year. It will focus on networking with NGOs, government agencies, and financial institutions to maximize the impact of rural programs. Discussions will include planning and reviewing past initiatives to enhance overall effectiveness.

2. Staff and Salesians Training

• Date: 20.08.2025
• Venue: Bangalore
• Level: Province
• Expected Participants: 30

This training program for Salesians and staff working in rural areas will focus on community engagement, financial literacy, and project implementation. It will include leadership development, networking strategies, and innovative approaches to rural empowerment. The goal is to equip participants with practical tools to improve their effectiveness in rural mission work.

3. Children’s Parliament Leaders Training

• Date: 28.09.2025
• Venue: Yercaud
• Level: Province
• Expected Participants: 120

This training aims to nurture young leaders with skills in democratic governance, leadership, and social responsibility. The program will focus on the election process, ongoing training methods, and active participation in community service. Empowering children through leadership ensures youth involvement in decision-making and rural transformation.

4. SHG Leaders Training

• Date: 19.10.2025
• Venues: Vilathikulam & Keeranur
• Level: Zonal
• Expected Participants: 150

The SHG Leaders Training will focus on financial literacy, NABARD schemes, and entrepreneurial development. Women will be trained to access funding for livelihood projects and to develop sustainable small businesses. The aim is to foster economic independence and leadership among rural women.

Conclusion

The 2025–2026 Year Plan for the Rural Ministry is designed to enhance rural leadership, financial empowerment, and community engagement. By strengthening networks, training rural staff, empowering youth, and supporting SHG leaders, the ministry aims to foster sustainable and inclusive rural development.

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