Annual Report 2019-2020

April 1, 2020

Dear All,

We have completed another fulfilling year of good work. This year we had 360 children between the ages of 3 and 5. The nurturing green environment coupled with a nutritious midday meal and milk helps prepare them for what lies ahead. The children go through a medical check-up conducted by our honorary doctors upon admission. It was proposed to have a follow up on completion of the year which could not be conducted owing to the pandemic. Teaching continues following a trilingual formula and it is our endeavour to inculcate in our children the values of good citizenship that our Founder, Begum Zehra Ali Yavar Jung held so close to her heart.

The Art Section continues to flourish and our young artists continue to bring us laurels participating in competitions in India and abroad. The showcase in our Art Room bears witness to the 3700 prizes they have won to date.

Our Computer Centre, recognised by MS CIT continues its excellent work offering both adults and children with a wide range of courses and tools to make them technologically savvy.

Tailoring, Fashion Design, Mehendi, Bridal Mehindi and Beauticians courses are on offer for older girls and women to learn and earn to augment the family income. Spoken English classes are available as are Indian dance and classical music for those who might be interested.

Remedial coaching classes for older children continue to be conducted to help them keep pace with the demanding school curriculum.

Owing to the unprecedented pandemic and consequent government lockdown we had to close the Centre since end March 2020 until further notice. We have, during this time, continued to support our staff and offer them and their families rations, thanks to help from our generous donors for which we are deeply indebted.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank our Trustees, Members of the Executive Committee, General Body, members of staff and teachers for their dedicated service to NSCCI over the years. To our Well-wishers and Donors, our deep gratitude for your unstinting support over the years. Our heartfelt thanks to you all.

Kulsum Dubash

President

NATIONAL SOCIETY FOR CLEAN CITIES-INDIA (NSCCI)

Children’s Complex (Aurobindo Bal Kendra), Bandra East

ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

OUR PROGRAMMES:

PRE-SCHOOL (BALWADI)

This year we had 360 children and 12 classes – 3 Senior K G., 3 Junior K G., 4 Nursery and 2 Play group managed by 13 Teachers and 14 helpers.

The trilingual formula was once again adopted where the children are taught simple Hindi and Marathi in addition to English which is the medium of instruction.

The morning General Assembly was followed by brisk exercise and yoga.

Nutrition Programme: In addition to a wholesome mid-day meal catered to by the Sun N Sand Hotel twice a week and Iskcon Food for Life thrice a week, the children were all given Milk each day thanks to the support of the Bombay Gowrakshak Mandali.

Annual Medical Check Up: All the children were examined upon admission by our two honorary doctors Dr Suman Rao and Dr Lalita Iyer. Of the 360 children, 157 were found to be underweight, 85 had dental caries, 2 had a squint, 5 were found to be overweight and 1 had TB. Parents of children with special needs were given advice and referred for treatment to hospitals.

It was decided to conduct a check-up at the end of the academic year to review the progress of the children.

Vitamin A supplements were given to all the children on December 16th.

Hygiene Kits: Thanks to Mrs. Hasmina Khan, 360 Hygiene kits consisting of a hand towel, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, soap box, comb, coconut oil, nail cutter and soap, donated by the parents of Cathedral and John Connon School, were distributed to the Balwadi children.

Toys: Our grateful thanks to Mrs. Arti Vakil of the Wishing Well Foundation for the wonderful toys, books and games gifted to our children.

Polio Dose Administration: 188 children were administered a polio dose on different days at our Centre in collaboration with the Municipal Health Officers of the Kherwadi Health Centre.

Parents' Meeting: 150 parents attended the meeting held on July 18 for Play Group and Nursery. Mrs. Clara Lobo, Head Teacher, welcomed them and briefed them on our organisation. Each teacher introduced herself to the group. They were given instructions on the importance of children wearing the school uniform, displaying the ID Card, being regular with attendance, paying attention to cleanliness and hygiene, punctuality, nutrition, monthly syllabus and doing their homework. Mrs. Amita Bhosale spoke about the various vocational courses offered by the Society and encouraged the parents to take full advantage of them. The Heads of each Department were introduced to the parents and they shared information about the classes conducted for young women and children.

Mrs. Hasmina Khan, Vice President, attended the meeting and shared with the parents the ideals set out by our Founder President and how the Children’s Complex was established. She mentioned that children between 3 and 5 were at an impressionable age and that it was our attempt to incorporate the important values of the 11-Point Programme of Good Citizenship within the teaching curriculum. She said that the parents and teachers had a joint responsibility and need to work together in the interest of the child.

Teachers' Day: was celebrated on 13th September. The short programme started with a prayer by the Teachers. Mrs. Kulsum Dubash, Mrs. Hasmina Khan and DR. Licy Bharucha were present. Mrs. Dubash and Mrs. Khan addressed the teachers on the important role teachers play as mentors to children and their integral part in the organization. A Teacher’s Day cake brought by Mrs. Hasmina Khan was cut by all the teachers to mark the celebrations. Gifts were distributed to every staff member, sponsored by the parents of the Pre-Primary Section of the Cathedral & John Connon School, Mumbai. The programme concluded with lunch.

Christmas Celebration: On 23rd December the children were treated to an exciting puppet show put up by Disha as part of the Christmas celebrations. Santa Claus distributed gifts and goodies to the children. Each child received a snack packet donated by Mr. Bernard Benevides of Bombay YMCA, Bandra Branch, through the kind courtesy of Mr. Allen Kotian. Mrs. Pooja G. Sheth and family sponsored the puppet show and gifted a towel to each child.

Annual Day was celebrated on 25th February starting with a prayer by the Teachers. The senior KG children welcomed the audience with a song. Junior KG and Nursery students presented action songs and dances. All the children were given an opportunity to come on the stage to sing ‘Hum Honge Kaamyaab’.

75 children were felicitated at the Annual Day celebrations for being physically fit and healthy. Dr. Suman Rao gave a short and informative talk to the parents on Nutrition for children. Our President, Mrs. Kulsum Dubash, Vice President Mrs. Hasmina Khan, Hon. Secretary, Mrs. Ketaki Mazumdar and DR. (Mrs.) Licy Bharucha were present on the occasion.

Children's Day:The children enjoyed a Magic Bubbles Show, ice-cream and lunch. Each child received a gift and a balloon.

Picnic: On 14th February the children enjoyed the morning spending time in outdoor games and dancing to music. They were also treated to ice cream, cake, popcorn and balloons. It was like a picnic for them.

Placements for Field Experience

45 Trainee Teachers from Arya Vidya Mandir were placed for field work in our Balwadis. The trainees interacted with the children and taught them new songs and poems. They were full of praise of the manner in which our teachers and helpers dealt with the children. It was a mutually beneficial experience for our teachers and the trainees.

27 Trainees from Mumbai Mobile Creches, Wadala spent a day at our Balwadis to enhance their skills as child care educators. In a meeting with DR. Bharucha and the staff the trainees gave feedback of their visit which they found was a very valuable experience in their training. Several of them particularly mentioned that our teachers and helpers had smiling faces throughout. It was a pleasant surprise that there were two male teacher trainees in the group.

MEDICAL CENTRE

During the year, a total of 1851 patients, including staff members, were treated by our dedicated Honorary Doctors, Dr. (Ms.) Lalita Iyer and Dr. (Mrs.) Suman Rao.

CREATIVE ART CENTRE

Over the years, our students have won over 3600 prizes and trophies in local, national and international competitions.

170 students enrolled for the two month Art Class held during the vacation. A drawing competition was held for the children and prizes were given to the best entries. . A craft workshop was also held for them.

22 students appeared for the Elementary and 6 students for the Intermediate Grade Drawing Examinations conducted by the Government of Maharashtra.

We are happy to report that –

20 paintings of our children were sent to Poland for the XX International Art Competition. We are grateful to Mr. Cyrus Guzder for arranging to send these paintings to Poland free of cost.

6 students attended a workshop conducted by Camlin with Axis Bank on Pebble Art. They were honoured with a cash gift of Rs.1000/- each. 8 paintings of our children were sent for the Art Exhibition at St. Anthony’s High School Art Gallery, Vakola.

6 students won Gold Medals at a national level art competition organized by Maruti Art Academy, Gujarat. Our Centre received two Certificates for being active in art.

13 of our pre-primary children won prizes in an On-the-spot painting competition at the school level organized by All India Camel Colour Contest.

7 paintings done by the children were sent as entries for the Stamp Design Competition organized by Indian Post.

153 students from nearby schools participated in the interschool Drawing Competition held on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti on 4th October. The topics were :-

Stds. I to IV Gandhiji’s charka / Sabarmati Ashram

Stds. V to VII Dandi March / Train incident in South Africa

Stds. VIII to X Portrait / Jallianwala Baug Massacre

The judges, Mr. Sanjay Sawant and Mr. Bapu Sarvagod, ex-students of our Centre were impressed with the paintings done by the children. Prizes in each category included a first, second, third and four consolation prizes.

Vikrant Sahni won a Silver Medal at the prestigious Shankar’s International Children’s Competition.

Rajesh Kore, Kirti Prajapati and Sandeep Kori won cash prizes at the Parle Mahotsav Art Competition

Thirteen students won prizes at various levels at the All India Camel Art Contest.

The paintings of Sandeep Kori and Jitu Solanki won mention at the XX International Children’s and Young People’s Art Competition titled “Always Green Always Blue”. organized by Galeria I Osrodek Plastycnej Tworczosci Dziecka, Torun, Poland.

8 of our students secured A Grade and 16 secured B Grade at the Maharashtra State Elementary and Intermediate Drawing Examinations.

Our Ex-students – Shubham Mali, Sandeep Kori, Vikrant and Rohan – passed their 12th Standard examinations. All of them have shown potential and eagerness to join Art Courses.

2500 greeting cards were prepared by the students (in a months’ time).

Mrs. Yashoda Nayak donated a computer to the Art Centre which will be of great help now for recording information on the students and also for uploading their art work.

Our thanks and gratitude to Mrs. Arati Saran for supplying us with art materials year after year.

CHILDREN’S LIBRARY

A total of 717 story and other books were added during the year.

15 children from nearby schools received remedial tuitions from Mrs. Kalpana Parmar, our Librarian. They were also given milk and a mid-day meal. Most of these children have done exceedingly well in their examinations thanks to the personal attention given by her.

Friday afternoons are looked forward to by children of the surrounding communities. They enjoyed a children’s film, indoor games and other activities organised for them including specially prepared snacks. Many students enjoyed the facilities at our Library during the vacation.

COMPUTER EDUCATION

Our Computer Centre is recognized for the MS-CIT examination by the Maharashtra Knowledge Corporation Ltd. (MKCL). They conducted the examinations and conferences at our Centre.

During the year, 132 students enrolled for the MS-CIT Examination, 25 for Tally ERP 9, 12 for Advanced Excel, 6 for Presentation Designing, 2 for Web Designing, 1 for DTP with Corel, 2 for Video Editing, 6 for Graphic Design, 1 for Auto Cad, 1 for C-Programming, 1 for C++, 1 for Internet of Things, 1 for Klic English, 2 for IT Security, 14 for Diploma, 28 for the MOM Examination, 115 for Basic Computer Course (sponsored by Ammada Trust) and 16 for the Advanced Course in Computers making a total of 366 students taking advantage of the courses conducted at our Centre. Many students also availed of the Spoken English Class.

Our Centre received a canopy for completing more than 100 admissions during the summer vacation. In appreciation of our work MKCL has printed a calendar for 2019 with our Society’s name, without our knowledge. Calendar distribution and other promotional activities were undertaken by the staff and students in nearby schools and other areas. Our Computer Co-ordinator attended MKCL regional and other meetings.

SKILL ORIENTED COURSES

Tailoring Class:45 students completed the 6-month Certificate Course in Tailoring and Fashion Designing.

Mehendi:16 students completed the 2-month Mehendi course.

Beauty Culture:34 students completed the Beauty Culture course

English Speaking:41 students attended the class.

Thanks to Dr. Rakhee Vakil, the Lions Club of Juhu continues to support our endeavour to train needy and deserving students in computer courses and vocational training by sponsoring the fees and also donating sewing machines. This year 13 students gained from their generosity by way of sponsorship of their fees. The Lion President and Members take time off to come personally to our office to present the cheque to our Trustees and meet the past and present who have been their beneficiaries and to enquire how the course has benefitted them. They also try and place them in suitable jobs.

The Heads of all Departments select students based on their financial condition. A detailed note on each one of them is prepared by Mrs. Siena Pereira, Office Administrator after meeting with the students. All documents required for proper authenticity is sent to Dr. (Mrs. Rakhee Vakil. A detailed interview is then conducted by her to validate the assessment. We are most grateful to her and other members of Lions Club of Juhu for their continuing efforts in supporting our students.

CULTURAL ACTIVITIES – TABLA& KATHAK DANCE

Ours is a recognized Centre for Examinations conducted by Akhil Bharatiya Gandharva Mahavidyalaya (Deemed University) in Kathak Dance and Tabla. 22 students appeared for the Theory Examinations in Kathak Dance at our Centre on 11th November. 8 students appeared for the Visharad examinations. 107 students appeared for the practical examinations in December. 6 students secured Distinction, 53 got First Class while 33 got Second Class. We are grateful to Mrs. Rehane Rane for conducting the classes and helping in the examinations.

OUR CELEBRATIONS

Independence Day: Mrs. Kulsum Dubash, President, hoisted the national flag and Mrs. Hasmina Khan and Dr. (Mrs.) Licy Bharucha were also present. The teachers sang the National Anthem and other patriotic songs.

Gandhi Jayanti: On 2nd October, we organised an Intercollegiate Elocution Competition on the topic, ‘The Relevance of Mahatma Gandhi’s Non Violence in today’s India. Though the notice was very short, more than 20 students participated in English, Hindi and Marathi. The cash prizes were sponsored by Lions Club of Juhu, through the kind courtesy of Dr. Rakhee Vakil. Dr. Khwaja compered the programme. Each student received a Certificate of Participation. Mrs. Kulsum Dubash, Dr. Anand Gokani, Mr. S. Saldanha were also present.

In Remembrance: Our late President, Begum Bilkees I. Latif was remembered on her death anniversary on 27th October.

Founder’s Day was celebrated on 20th February as 19th was a holiday. The Balwadi teachers along with the children sang a few songs that were the favourite of our Founder President. Two saplings were planted in memory of our Founder President.

International Women’s Day was celebrated on 6th March as 8th was a holiday. Mrs. Kulsum Dubash, President, was the Chief Guest and gave a motivational and inspiring message to the gathering of over 170 women from the surrounding slum communities, assuring them of her support. The programme began with a prayer led by the teachers followed by games.

We had 57 entries for the Cooking Competition which was judged by Senior Sous Chefs Ms. Aditi Chatterjee of ITC Grand Central, Mr. Atanu Debnath of Taj LandsEnd and Mr. Shailesh More of Sun n Sand Hotel. They were most impressed by the display of culinary skills and the quality of presentation. At the end of the function, they were full of praise and appreciation for the effort and creativity behind the dishes prepared.

37 participants of the Personality and Regional Dress competition came decked in stylish outfits and accessories and sashayed down the ramp to the beat of the music and introduced themselves. Dr. (Mrs.) Rakhee Vakil, Mrs. Renu Basu and Mrs. Hasmina Khan had a wonderful time judging each contestant for their overall personality.

The Balwadi Teachers and staff put up a spectacular performance on ‘Unity in Diveristy’ in regional dress, song and dance. Our Ex-student – Diksha Shirke’s poem and song on the complexities of women held the audience in rapt attention.

Our Guests of Honour, Dr. Rakhee Vakil, Mrs. Renu Basu, Senior Vice President, The Indian Hotels Company Ltd. and Mrs. Ferzana Khanna spoke to the women and urged them to take advantage of the courses and other activities the Society had to offer. They lauded the staff for their dedication and devotion. Their talks were most inspiring and enriching and uplifted the spirits of the audience.

There were several prizes awarded at the event. Mrs. Falguni Nayar once again very kindly sent us gift hampers of cosmetics from Nykaa for the prize winners. Sun-n-Sand Hotel provided a sumptuous meal for which we are truly grateful.

We were very happy to have our past Police Sub Inspector, Ms. Sunita Bhosale and the present PSI at the function.

The entire event was sponsored by Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation, to whom we are most grateful.

Republic Day: The National Flag was hoisted by our Dr. (Mrs.) Rakhee Vakil from Lions Club of Juhu. Among others our President, Mrs. Kulsum Dubash, Vice President, Mrs. Hasmina Khan, Dr. M.R. Khwaja, Hon. Jt. Secretary and Dr. Licy Bharucha, Hon. Secretary were present. A large number of students and parents attended too. The Pledge of Service to the country was administered by Mrs. Neeta Agale our Balwadi Teacher.

The programme began with a spectacular performance by our staff of “Bharat ki Santaan” -Unity in Diversity showcasing 18 languages and regional dresses in song and dance followed by a patriotic message and song by Ms. Diksha Shirke. Mrs. Amita Bhosale compered the programme.

The children who were successful at various drawing competitions were awarded prizes. Mrs. Dubash gave her blessings and thanked all present. The programme ended with a ‘Jai Hind’ by all present.

The organizers and participants were given snacks and children were given biscuits.

Martyrs' Day: A small programme was held with the teachers, staff and students of our classes Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti on 30th January. The teachers sang bhajans which was followed by a short audio-visual from the full length film ‘Mahatma’.

Staff Picnic:The staff enjoyed the annual picnic to Mini Goa, Vasai on 29th February.

Acknowledgement

Our deep gratitude to all the Trustees, members of the General Body, the staff and all donors who have been helping us year after year.

Dr. (Mrs.) Licy Bharucha

Hon. Secretary

NSCCI-YMCA GHATKOPAR BRANCH

The Branch situated in Pant Nagar continues to cater to the needs of the people in and around Ghatkopar area focusing mainly on the development of Body, Mind and Spirit. It believes and aims in the wholesome development of the person for a better society and tries to achieve its goal through the below mentioned activities conducted through the year.

SUMMER VACATION COACHING CAMPS

Short term camps and courses were conducted during April & May 2019 in activities such as Basketball, Roller skating, Table Tennis, Badminton, Calligraphy, Cursive Writing, Dance, Drawing, Art & Craft classes. We received good response for most of our programs.

BOMBAY YMCA OPEN BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT

The tournament was organised at the Branch from 13th to 25th May 2019. Overall 91 teams participated in the tournament. Mr. Krishnan Muthu Kumar, Hon. General Secretary, Maharashtra State Basketball Associaition was the Chief Guest for the finale and shared few words of wisdom with the crowd. The prize distribution ceremony was graced by Fr. Crispino, Mr. Isaac Prasadam, Associate General Secretary, Bombay YMCA and Basketball officials in various capacity.

TABLE TENNIS

The Annual Interclub League 2019 II, III and IV Division League Matches for the Table Tennis Tournament (Home Away Basis) was conducted from 1st to 11th May, 2019 in the Mens category.

GYM INAUGURATION

The renovated gymnasium rededication function was held on 4th June 2019 at the Branch. The Chief Guest of the program was Rtn. Vijay Kumar Jatia, President of Rotary Club of Bombay along with Past President Mr. Nalin Parikh and his wife who had contributed for the renovation. The occasion was graced by President of Bombay YMCA, General Secretary Bombay YMCA, Chairman Ghatkopar Branch, Senior Board members, Committee Members of Ghatkopar Branch, Bombay YMCA Secretaries and members.

EFFECTIVE SPOKEN ENGLISH COURSE

This course for pre-school teachers was conducted by Mr. John Anugraha from WOW Training Solutions from 4th to 14th June 2019 at the Branch. 9 pre-school teachers benefitted from this course.

DIWALI PARTY

Diwali Party was organized for the pre-school children and VTC students on 22nd October, 2019. Children enjoyed the day with music and games.

WEEK OF PRAYER

The World Week of Prayer programme was held on 15th November, 2019 at the Branch. The theme of the programme was reflected on ‘Women and peace building’. The message was shared by Mrs. Vanita Narvekar. The topic was taken from the Old Testament to reflect on the subject for Women and Gender Equality. Close to 70 people were present for the programme.

PRE-SCHOOL SPORTS DAY AND COMPETITIONS

Various sports as well as Competitions like best of waste, drawing and story-telling were conducted for Playgroup, Nursery, Junior and Senior Kindergarten students in November and December 2019.

FREE EYE CHECK-UP CAMP

A Free Eye Check-up camp was organized on 6th December, 2019 at the Branch by Furia’s Eye Clinic. Pre-school parents, Teachers, students and staff got their eyes examined.

ANNUAL DAY PROGRAM AND PRE-SCHOOL CHILDREN CHRISTMAS PARTY

The event was organized on 19th December 2019 at the Branch. Approximately 1000 people inclusive of pre-school students, their parents, VTC students and basketball players enjoyed the program. Mr. Chen Yen How from Taiwan YMCA was the Guest of Honour along with Mr. Paul George, General Secretary, Bombay YMCA.

FUN-N-FAIR PROGRAM

A Fun-n-Fair program was organized on the evening of 8th February, 2020 for pre-school children and VTC students. Around 800 people turned-up for the program. Different games stations like Jumping Jacks, Toy Train, and Trampoline were organized for the children and food stalls were put-up by VTC students.

WOMEN’S INTERNATIONAL DAY

On the occasion of Women’s Day a special training was organized for our 9 preschool teachers on 7th March 2020 at the Branch by Resource Person, Ms. Subramanian, on advance study system that is, listening, audio, reading and writing. A power point presentation was presented.

FREE MEDICAL AND DENTAL CHECK-UP CAMP

This was organized on 11th and 12th March, 2020 at the Branch by International Medical Relief. A team of American Doctors and Nurses provided medical assistance to 588 people inclusive of women, men, children and senior citizens. General check-up was also undertaken which was inclusive of examining blood pressure, pulse and general illness. Special rooms were setup to examine eyes and Dental check-up. Medicines were given free of cost to the underprivileged. Awareness was given by the Volunteers on health and hygiene to the public.

Report of Khar Danda Centre for the year 2019 – 20

Through the centre, and its various programmes, it supports the upliftment of the residents of the eleven slums surrounding the Centre. We continue to increase our intake of the Balwadi Children and the study classes for the underprivileged students.In addition, we run courses like Basic Computers, Computer Typing, Tally ERP 9, Garment manufacturing, Beauty Culture and Adult literacy and personality development other vocational classes to improve the employability of young and mid aged women, thereby improving their confidence in being an earning member of the family. The activities and programmes organized during the year are listed below.

The Balwadi catering to the children from 11 slums was run successfully with strength of 257 children in the academic year 2019-20. We also conducted counseling and awareness sessions by qualified counselors for the parents of these children on the art of bring up children positively.

Through the Arogya Kendra we reached out to the community’s need in maintain good health. Dr. Sameen Mansori continued to render their honorary services and gave valuable contribution to the Arogya Kendra. Every month we treated over 35 patients and provided medicines.

During the year we successfully trained about 30 women through our sewing Classesand awarded certificates to the successful candidates after a test was conducted.

Over 90 women were trained in various skills of Beauty culture classes with practical and theory classes. Certificates were awarded to the successful candidates after the exams were conducted.

More than 60 people were benefitted through our various Computer Courses like Basic Computer, Tally ERP and computer typing. Certificates were given to students who passed the exams.

The participation in Study Classes grew in number with the help of volunteers and teachers who came every day to teach Maths, Science and English to under privileged students from 4thStd to 12th Std. They trained nearly 90 students every month.

Training in martial art Ketsugo (Combination of Karate, Savate, Aikido& Judo) was given to the children and youth from the slums. The systematic training in these activities was given by our coaches. Over 150 youth took training every Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday. The children also participated in various tournaments and competitions in the city and brought many laurels and medals to the center.

Basketball Classes: We conduct free classes for the underprivileged of the KharDanda area and around 50 children attend these classes.

Health Talk: On the occasion of World Health Day we have organized a Health talk on 8th April 2019 for our VTC students and staff. The resource person was Ms. Sneha Panchal from Yakult India Pvt. Ltd. Yakult health drinks were given to all the participants and staff.

Dental Checkup and awareness programme: With the help of Watch Foundation we have organized Dental Checkup and awareness programme on 11th April 2019. Dr. ShahzeenBaroodawala and her assistant doctors from Angel Dentists Network were the recourse persons for this programme.

Independence Day Celebration: The lady Police officer from Khar Police Station, Ms. Netra Mule hoisted the flag on the occasion of Independence Day. Mr. Asif Zakaria, MLC and Mrs. Karen Demello Ex- Corporator were present for this programme and distributed certificates to the VTC students who completed the training. The Kindergarten children and VTC students presented a cultural dance on patriotic music showcasing the spirit of unity. Refreshments were distributed to all those who were present.

Medical camp was organized at YMCA KharDanda Centre on 29th August 2019 for detection of Breast and Cervical Cancer. The camp was conducted by Indian Cancer Society and Gunvati J Kapoor Foundation for 102 community women. An ENT checkup and PAP Smear test was also done at this camp.

The teacher’s day was conducted on 14th September, 2019. We had games for teachers and lunch was provided. All the teachers were given gifts.

Nutrition and Fitness Session: Mr. Sanket Kulkarni (Nutritionist and Fitness Consultant), focused on the importance of balanced diet and nutrition. Awareness session was held on 21st September 2019 at the KharDanda Centre. The Balwadi parents found this session highly informative.

Teacher Training programmewas held on 21st September 2019 organized for Balwadi Teachers and Helpers with focus on creative way of teaching and development of the child. The resource person was Mrs. Kavita Subramaniam, New Alpha Academy.

Cultural dance Programmewas held on 1st October 2019 for VTC students and 4th October 2019 for kindergarten children, all the Balwadi children and VTC students had enjoyed the cultural dance programmme.

Children’s Day: was celebrated on Thursday, 14th November 2019. All the Kindergarten children had dressed up for the fancy dress competition and prizes were given out to the winners. The magic show was also a part of the programme to entertain the children. Gifts and snacks were distributed to all the children.

HIV/AIDS programme- World HIV/AIDS Day Campaign was held on 3rdDecember 2019. There was very good gathering of 140for the rally and street play included VTC students, Kindergarten students’ parents and staff. The street play conducted in two different places i.e. at KharDanda Junction and Dand Pada by our VTC students with help of TISS students. Women from various communities took part in the rally which went around KharDanda area. Informative and educational materials were distributed to the people who gathered for the Street Play.

Christmas Programme–The Christmas programme was celebrated on 14thDecember, 2019 for the Kinder Garden and VTC students. Nearly 400 students participated in the programme. Various cultural dances were put up by the K.G and VTC students. All were given gifts hampers & snacks.

Community Women’s Get Together (Haldi KumKum) – It was held on 20th January, 2020. Gifts and snacks were distributed to all present. The guests of honor were Mrs. RanjanaSud, President of Soroptomist Trust and Mrs. Mumtaz Shaikh, Programme Manager of CORO NGO. In all 285 women’s participated.

Republic Day – The Flag Hoisting Ceremony was held on 26th January, 2020. Around 350 peoples attended the ceremony. Balwadi students and VTC student performed on patriotic songs. The flag was hoisted by Mr. Asif Zakaria. Refreshments were distributed to all those who were present.

Community Ketsugo Competition – 30 students participated in the Centre in the annual Ketsugo Competition held on 9th February 2020 in YMCA Borivali.

One Day Annual Picnic: The Balwadi ‘One Day Annual Outing’ was organized on 18th February, 2020 for the Balwadi children. They were taken to Nirvana Park, Powai by buses. The children enjoyed theouting& refreshments organized for them.

Bone Density Camp was held on 22nd February2020 for Balwadi children’s Parents& VTC Students. Around 90 people got checked. This was conducted by Inner Wheel Club of Mumbai- Khar.

An awareness session on reduce plastics in daily life and water conservation was held on 25th February 2020 for Balwadi children’s Parents & VTC Students. Around 70 parents attended this programme. Resource person was Mrs. Vinita Dhupkar.

Balwadi Sports Day: The sports day for the Balwadi Children was held on 28thFebruary, 2020. Various relay races were organized and prizes were given to winner.

IMR Medical Camp: It was conducted by Team of American Doctors for Balwadi parents and VTC Students on 5th& 6thMarch 2020. 150 Spectacles were distributed to the people who have diagnosed with reading problem. An Old lady received a walker. A total of 503 people benefitted from this camp.

International Women’s Day: International Women’s Day was observed on 7th March, 2020. In all 220 women along with teachers participatedin the programme. The chief guest for the programme was Ms. Pallavi (PSI Khar Police Station). The parents of Balwadi children and VTC students participated in various relay races. Prizes were awarded to the winners while gifts and snacks were given to all the participants. The Committee approved the following income and expenditure statement of this programme.

Conclusion:We teach skills like Computer Courses, Tailoring, Beautician and Mehendi as well asEnglish to equip the vulnerable women with skills which can become their tool for self-development, employment or self-employment.

Our deep gratitude to our Donors……

1. Hotel Sun-n-Sand

2. ISKCON

3. Bombay Young Men’s Christian Association

4. Bombay Gow Rakshak Trust

5. H.T. Parekh Foundation

6. Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd.

7. West Wind Association

8. The Hongkong & Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC)

9. Dr. (Mrs.) Fouzia Safiulla

10. Mr. Ardeshir B.K. Dubash

11. Mrs. Kulsum Dubash

12. Mrs. Hasmina Khan

13. Mr. Uzrad Mitchell

14. AFL Pvt. Ltd. – Mr. Cyrus Guzder

15. Monarch Resorts Pvt. Ltd.

16. The Cathedral & John Connon School

17. Dr. Pheroz J. Godrej

18. Mrs. Saroja I. Melville

19. Lions Club of Juhu

20. Indian Development Foundation

21. Step Up Charitable Trust

22. Ms. Arati Saran

23. Ms. Arti Vakil

24. Mr. Bernard Benevides

25. Ms. Namita

26. Mr. Suresh Gaikwad

27. Mrs. Kanchan Gawde

28. Jainam Kreation

29. Ms. Yashoda Nayak

30. Ms. Shobha Petit

31. Mr. Mangesh Pawar

32. Mr. Mahesh Pawar

33. Mr. Nikhil Shivdikar

34. Dr. (Mrs.) Rakhee Vakil

35. Mr. Rohinton K. Khambata

36. Mr. Tukaram Khopkar & family

37. Mrs. Papitha-Sai Krithik

38. Mrs. Usha Devnani

39. Mrs. Rehana Rane

40. Mrs. Jayashree

41. Mr. Ganesh and Mrs. Mansi Yadav

42. Ms. Surabhi S, Parker

43. Mr. Chandrakant, Prithvi Kreation

44. Mr. Anwar Khan

45. Students of Arya Vidya Mandir ECE Batch 2019-20

46. Mr. N.P. Gidwani

47. Mrs. Pooja Sheth & family

48. Well-wishers and friends of the Society