Dishaa 6 (Vol 2, Issue 4) Quarterly newsletter of Department of Social Work, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Amritapuri Campus

1. DISHAA
En route to a better world…
Q u a r t e r l y n e w s le t t e r b y A SW AS
Lead Story Headline
Department of Social Work, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Amritapuri campus
OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2012 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 4
“Look at the optimism of Nature. Nothing can stop it. Only the ego makes humans pessimistic, and this causes suffering.”
— AMMA
 Editorial
Chancellor’s Message
 Your kind attention plz!
Children, the very moment we hear the
name ‗Vivekananda‘, a certain awakening Water Scarcity…….…..3
and vitality infill us. A revolutionary in the  Fieldwork News..…….4
true sense of the word, a man of
 Agency news.…….…..5
unimpeachable logic, an exemplar of
self -sacrif ice, an impassioned  Interview with a
orator-diverse were the facets of Swami Vivekananda‘s personality. Professional Social
He was the representative and voice of the greatest culture and the
Worker…………….….6
loftiest thoughts the world has ever seen. Once mistaken for a land
of ignorance, blind faith and darkness, he proved to the world that  Social Work Research
India was, indeed, the land of the soundest philosophy and the most @ Amrita……….….....9
enlightened culture.
His personality combined the loftiness of tradition with the  Introduction to Poli-
expansiveness of progressive thinking most harmoniously. He cies/Acts…….............10
assimilated both occidental and oriental streams of thoughts in
 Upcoming Confer-
equal measure. He exhorted people of all faiths and sects to under-
stand each other and to walk the path of harmony. Although a ences/Workshops…...11
patriotic Indian through and through, he was a true citizen of the  Book review…………12
world as well. In truth, there is no contradiction here because he
 Clean India……………..14
was an emissary of the Indian philosophy, which sees unity in the
entire creation.  Piccaso MSW……......16
Three traits were inextricably woven into Swami Vivekananda‘s  Where did we go
personality. One, an indomitable passion for realizing the truth; two,
wrong??........................17
his soulful love for India, Indian culture and the Indian people; and
three, a burning desire to uplift all the downtrodden and suffering,  My Experience as a
wherever they may exist in the world. budding social
By promulgating service to the world and compassion to humanity
Worker…………...…..18
as being fundamental to Sanyasa (monkhood), he imparted a new
dimension to the tradition of Indian Sanyasa. His personality, in  Activities of Dept. of
which Kshatriya valour and brahminical purity blended, became the Social Work……….…19
source of inspiration for youth all over the world.
 Biennale……………..27
Swami Vivekananda strove hardest to awaken the ethos of dili-
gence in Indians, who were wallowing in the mire of inferiority and  AMC News………….27
indolence. Declaring man-making as his goal he dedicated every
moment of his life for this cause. The victory that Vivekananda
Note: Views expressed by the students and other contributors are not necessarily the official view of the Department of Social Work, Amrita University or MA Math

2. Page 2 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 4
attend in arousing manliness in the oppressed and the weak was truly amazing.
He thus became the architect of the new national awakening.
Whereas Indians were externally enslaved during British rule, today, most are still
enslaved internally and culturally. Forgetting their own lofty tradition, the people
of India are today engrossed in pursuing their own selfish interests. Whereas the
leaders of yesterday were representatives of the ancient Indian Heritage and lofty
values, we see that, today, even leaders have abandoned satya and dharma. In
this situation, more than ever before, we realized the relevance of Swami
Vivekananda.
Not just today, but for as long as people fight with each other in the name of
narrow beliefs, so long as injustice prevail in society, and so long as people are
enticed by the outward glitter of materialism, Swami Vivekananda and his words
will continue to be relevant. The task before us is to spread his teachings to more
and more people, and to initiate activities along the path he advised.
- Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi.
(The Key note address given by Amma on the occasion of 150th Birth
Anniversary of Swami Vivekananda (11th January), at Siri Fort Auditorium, Delhi.)
Editorial
DISHAA team bows before Swami Vivekananda on the occasion of his 150th
Birth Anniversary, the man who showed the world, the proud tradition of our
motherland India, through his words and action. Inspired by the words of Swamji
through AMMA, this time DISHAA team had tried to include varied topics related
to society. Andria talks on water scarcity, Parvathy about prevalence of home
delivery in Wayanad, Arya on protection of children from sexual offences act,
2012 and Jasmin introduces the agency WWF.
Lekshmi shows her concerns over increasing incidents of violence against
women in the article ―where did we go wrong‖. The experiences of Mr. Gladson
are really motivating to the young budding social work students. The compilation
of the poems of Ms. Asramam Rajamma into a book and the releasing ceremony
report is well reported by junior students. The activities at the field level are well
documented.
A major highlight of this issue of DISHAA is the interview with Dr. P.V. Baiju, As-
sistant Professor at Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit, Kalady. The book
review by Jessica J John is up to the mark. Biennale, AMC news and Clean India
reports are good and informative. I take this opportunity to thank all the
contributors of the current issue.
- Chief Editor

3. DISHAA Page 3
Your Attention plz!
Water Scarcity. . .
Another year ripped away (2012) New year has of water is decreasing day by day. It marks our
come, 2013 with new year resolutions, new black hands behind it. Our summer and drought are
dreams of a peaceful earth, and yeah UNESCO is becoming more and more harsh and dry, as years
celebrating this year as International year of water pass by. Its calculated that India will suffer from
cooperation. On behalf of this March 22nd has high water scarcity by the year of 2020. Now urban
been dedicated as world water day. Goal of slum pockets are also victims of this water scarcity
international year and spread of disease. It is also a byproduct of
of water coopera- water scarcity. Nearly 37.7million people are
tion is to make affected by water borne disease. As lot of water
awareness on the resource are drying up people are depending more
potential for on ground water. But nowadays ground water is
increased coop- getting polluted by high bacterial contamination,
eration in water nitrogen content (due to septic tank leakage,
management as sewage, fertilizer) arsenic and fluoride affects peo-
there is an increase in scarcity of water. It also ple health badly.
tries to highlight how to use water effectively and So there are lot of problems related to
identify steaming issues on water scarcity. To help unsustainability of water. Let‘s see how to resolve
formulate new goals that will help in conserving these issues. Self help is the best help, if each and
water resources for the present and future genera- every member of the community take a small step
tion. It is said that, if there is any chance of third to preserve water resources, it could definitely
world war it will be for water. There is an make a change. Best way of preserving water is
increased chance of conflict between neighboring through rain water harvesting. We have a lot of
countries or state which share same water water resources still we suffer because of shortage
resources. In India itself there are lot of examples, of water.
Karnataka – Tamil Nadu, Kerala – Tamil Nadu etc. ―water, water everywhere, but there is no drop of
There can be no sustainable development without drinking water‖ that is the situation what we are
sustainable water management. Water coopera- going through. Urban people will suffer more water
tion can help build understanding and trust among scarcity, as population is increasing in urban areas,
countries and promote peace & sustainable and so in urban slum pockets. Water in urban
growth. These issues related to water resources settings is similar to urine, full of wastes chemicals.
should be cleaned or tackled in grass root level Ground water in urban areas is also increasing
itself. As water is a natural resource everyone In a high rate due to industrialization. Improved
should have right on it. So all sectors like water saving techniques should be implemented
Government, International organizations, civil and developed sewage treatment facilities will also
men, private and research scholars should be helpful. We are in need to establish a national
engage in all activities and help promote the infor- monitoring body and a new ground water law in
mation to everyone. India ranks 120th in a list order to stop exploitation of ground water
which is on the basis of quality of water. Even resources.
though 4 % of world‘s water is in India, availability
- Andria John, I Yr, MSW

4. Page 4 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 4
Fieldwork News - Government Old Age Home, Inchavila
As a part of concurrent field work, the S1 Social
work trainees Ms.Winnie Elizabeth Johnson,
Ms.Anusree and Mr.Jibin organized a program at
the Government Old Age Home, Inchavila on 24th
November 2012. The Social work trainees had
been in association with the Institution since
months, covering 25 days of field work from 12th
September 2012. The main aim of the program
was to publish the collected literary works of an
inmate.
The group effort by the trainees to organize the
event overcoming all the challenges was a good Mr Kochu Krishna Kurup gave a brief idea about
experience. Eminent personalities were invited to the book. One of the inmate appreciated the writer
add up healthy interactive sessions. The occasion and encouraged her and other inmates for doing
was a content of new thoughts worthwhile. The such things in future. Mr.Johnson P.J also shared
whole sitting arrangement were designed like a his thoughts briefly on the occasion, that women
circle, for ensuring the equality and to silently were also concerned about life and its
speak against all kind of discrimination. The sustainability. According to him the writer repre-
Social work trainees ensured the participation of sented such a mind.
all present including the inmates, officials, guests Each person planted a sapling promising for a
as the fire was passed through all before lighting better Earth and through this trainees established
the lamp. That meant the sharing mentality, and a life centered culture which could make the world
participation of each person as the indicator of sustainable. The sprinkled water symbolized the
sustainability. The Welcome address was process of making our mind and culture fertile,
addressed by Social wo r k trainee considered as the step for a new life and new
Ms.Winnie Elizabeth Johnson. The overall idea world. The refreshing atmosphere and
and importance of the program was given by her experiences of inmates was later shared.
as she welcomed the guests. The Presidor of the Ms.Anusree, one of the social work trainees
program was Mr.Amaan, President, Thirikadavoor concluded the event with vote of thanks.
Pan ch a yat . T he Lit er ar y p oem s of
Mrs.Ashramam Rajamma (inmate) collected by
the trainees during the course of field work was By Winnie Elizabeth Johnson,
set into a book and released then. Anusree & Jibin.
Mr.Kochu Krishna Kurup (Faculty, Department of I Yr, MSW
Social work) handed over the book to
Mr.Sukumaran, Mr.Chandrasekharan Pillai
(Member, Under Management Committee),
Sabu Joseph (Inmate), Mr.Ganesh Babu
(Superintendant), Mr.Ranjith Kavumkara and
Mr.Johnson delivered the felicitations. The writer
represented all women.

5. DISHAA Page 5
Agency News - WWF
The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) – India, (KKL), Kanchendzonga
serves in the field of wildlife and nature conserva- (KCL), Western Arunachal,
tion since its establishment as a Charitable Trust Himalayan High altitude
from November 27, 1969. It is Wetlands, Bharatpur and
an international non-governmental targeted Species for
organization working on issues regarding the conservation are – Royal
conservation, research and restoration of Bengal t iger, Asian
the environment for the past four decades to elephant,Indian rhino, red
promote harmony between human beings and panda, Nilgiri tahr, black-
nature. The organization is also active in diverse necked crane, snow
activities like sensitizing people, by creating leopard, tiger, elephant, Asiatic lion and snow
awareness and capacity building ranging from leopard in around different states of India
education, enviro-legal activism, policy studies Today, they are been recognized as one of the
and advocacy for nature protection. premier conservation NGO in the country dealing
WWF also addresses issues like the survival of with nature conservation, environmental protection
species and habitats, climate change and and development-related issues. The other area of
environmental education. Their mission and goals work which should be mentioned is the organiza-
is to stop degradation of nature by conserving tion's monitoring of wildlife trade through the
world's biological diversity, ensuring the TRAFFIC division. It has been helping the enforce-
sustainable usage of renewable natural resources, ment agencies over a number of years regarding
promoting pollution free and reduce wasteful field investigations, raids, seizures, enforcement
consumption. It‘s aim is to halt and reverse the training, and field studies. It has made notable
destruction of our environment. contributions in the field of live bird trade, ivory,
The firm follows two approaches of conservation edible swiftlet nests, sandalwood, shahtoosh,
like Biodiversity Conservation, and Footprint pangolin, musk, bear bile, tiger parts, and rhino
Reduction aiming: horn. At recent times the organization targeted
Biodiversity Goal by 2050, ie to conserve the potential customers of illegal wildlife products and
integrity of the most outstanding natural places on also conducted campaigns successfully through
Earth, which could contribute to more secure and mass media highlighting "Don't Buy Trouble".
sustainable future for all.WWF-India identifies the
country‘s most critical regions and priority CONTACT :
species in order to conserve their health and WWF India, Secretariat,
numbers, through field work, policy interventions 172 B Lodhi Estate, New Delhi 110003.India.
and positive campaigns. Footprint Goal by 2050,
+91 11 4150 4815, +91 11 2469 1226
in which humanity‘s global footprint is set to stay
within the Earth‘s capacity enabling sustainable
life and equitable natural resources of our planet. Mr. Renjan Mathew Varghese,
WWF-India works to reduce the country‘s footprint State Director
on the planet by focusing on key development and WWF-India Kerala State Office,
environmental issues which creates impact on the C.O.Madhavan Road, Vanchiyur – P.O.
whole national & global footprint. Thiruvanathapuram- 695 035.
The landscapes and critical regions chosen under Telefax:0471-2302265
conservation agenda are Satpuda Maikal (SML), Email: renjanmv@wwfindia.net;
Terai Arc (TAL), Western Ghats-Nilgiris, Sunder- wwfklso@gmail.com
bans, North Bank (NBL), Kaziranga Karbi Anglong (Jasmin R Pereira, I Yr MSW)

6. Page 6 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 4
A day with a professional Social Worker
Dr. P.V. Baiju, PhD, M.A.(Economics & Sociology), L.L.B., M.S.W.
Assistant Professor, Dept. of Social Work, Sree Sankaracharya University of
Sanskrit.
Life member of NAPSWI, ASSK, ICSW, IASSW and APSWE has also
been involved in several areas of study and research projects funded by
ICSSR, RGNYD & KILA. He has also published about ten articles in academic
journals and have also contributed chapters to three edited books. Serving as
National trainer of JCI India, has facilitated about three hundred training pro-
grams to varied groups for his credit and continues to be the Consultant and
trainer of many other NGOs.Apart from all this attainments he has also pre-
sented papers in six international and ten national conferences, including com-
bined conference of IASSW, ICSW and IFSW at Hong Kong in 2010 and Univer-
sity of Ambo, Ethiopia, in 2011.
1. Your inspiration towards choosing this field
In my pursuit to join for a professional course, I landed up in social work
and it was not an informed choice. I had always loved working with people
and doing good. There were two colleges of social work in Kerala then
and the details of the course were little known to me before I joined. But
being in the course I realized that I am for it and later pursed to bring my
best into it.
P.V. BAIJU
2. Your philosophy of Social Work…
Social Work is a vast umbrella and whatever little, one do for the comfort Ph.D, Assistant Professor,
of another comes under its purview. Being proactive, respect for dignity of Department of Social Work
individual, providing the best and duty consciousness of giver are funda- Sree Sankaracharya University
mental to practice of social work. Professionalism is not the overt features of Sanskrit,
it display, but the best of humanistic actions. Every action of a social Kalady P.O., Ernakulam Dist.,
worker should end up in soothing, liberating, developing and harmonizing Kerala
individuals and groups. The basic tenets of social work philosophy are
classic in sense and application, if understood in its fullest sense. The so-
cial work course is only a foundation and one needs to identify their core
area of involvement in field and enhance it.
3. Your current area of focus…
I work on gender and development, where I facilitated series of trainings
and prepared gender policy for a consortium of NGOs. Another area is in
participatory practices, where I have done my PhD. I am passionate about
training and facilitation, where I believe true facilitation can blossom the
best of every individual and team. As a professional social worker, the
country and our state need strengthening professional bodies and I spent
a portion of my time working with various associations and networks of
social workers.

7. DISHAA Page 7
4. Any unexpected/stressful situation in your life as a professional Social
Worker and your mode of handling the situation…
This is interesting. I feel social workers invariably go through stressful
situations as our target groups are people in pain and struggles. We need
to be alert, handle them soft, without being panic but sober, applying the
skills and knowledge and most importantly, that traditional common sense.
Dealing stressful situation with clients seems to be easier for me, com-
pared to managing stress in working environment. Two years career as
AIDS Counsellor with Kerala Stat AIDS Control Society during 1999 to
2001 took me to some stressful situations. There was a case of an orphan
child, infected with HIV from his parents. His guardian left the boy almost at
my disposal. I arranged with an orphanage to adopt him, knowing his
status. We three, guardian, boy and me, went there, handed over to the
sister and came back. The guardian did not have the bus to go back to his
remote village, and I shared my bachelor accommodation with him. There
are many such in that career, so as in others. I feel that one needs to
stretch off the officialdom and barriers of professionalism to that old fash-
ioned humanism in these situations. There was no mechanism neither in
my work setting nor with agency for any help for such people then, but indi-
vidual drive only made some solutions made some solutions.
5. The factors that motivate you to be in the field of Social Work in spite of the
slow development of Social work profession in India…
Frankly I enjoy my profession and I make a living out of it. It takes me to
the vast vicissitudes of variety human lives, unknown depths of human
mind and opens me to every nook and corner of this world. After all, at the
end of day, the smiles that you could carve on the faces of fellow human
beings give you a smoothened sleep than a flamboyant bedroom. I believe
that there is lot to do in the developing phase of professional social work in
India.
6. The specific goals that you have established for your career and your plans
to make these things happen...
I have a treasure of dreams. Foremost is to start a programme/
organization to take the underprivileged children to travel around and see
the world in reality than in pictures. (‘Sir I would have been a different per-
son had I seen all these historical monuments in my school age‘ comment
by a student on a study tour of MSW). Being in academics I wish to initiate
certain researches to showcase the richness of wisdom and beauty of life
in global South, especially in India. Experience of west has made me to
feel that they hardly believe India could do anything in academics and from
the ordinary life of people there. My wish list continues with doing regular
targeted camps for children and youth, creating a statutory professional

8. Page 8 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 4
body for social workers in the country, facilitating more interaction with
east and west in social work education and to work for indigenization
of social work in the country.
7. The effect of your social work practices in your personal as well as
professional life…
There was drastic change in my approach to addicts after I worked as
de addiction counselor, so as to HIV positives and AIDS patients after I
worked as an AIDS counselor, towards status of men and women after
I worked on gender and development, to children after counseling
many and facilitating sessions for them and to the nature after I
worked in water and environment areas. I just wanted to grow up and
The true sign of
up in my profession, not just for the laurels it brings, but for the oppor-
tunities it brings to do good for a larger group and influence decisions intelligence is not
that have far reaching effects. Whatever I am today in my personal life knowledge but
and professional life is significantly thanks to the social work profes- imagination.
sion I am proud of.
- Albert Einstein
8. Your message for the budding Social Workers…
What would you do when an old man, apparently tired, walks to your
counseling room at noon? Would you ask him if he had lunch? If he
did not have lunch, will you offer him lunch? And how? Will you share
your lunch pack or hand over money and ask him to come back after
eating? Where do you pay from? Your own pocket?.. Startled? I feel
social work starts from meeting the basic needs of individual and com-
munities and making them comfortable and convenient every time. It
needs a proactive attitude and action and ability to think out of box.
These thought may derail the taught definitions of professional service,
but I believe such service is true professionalism. And if you paid from
your pocket for someone‘s meal (how many have you paid so far?!), it
will create a ripple effect giving others in society, which will reach you
back. Social workers in India need professional skills but voluntary will.
It requires lot of wisdom from experience, practice, wide reading and
incessant learning. The new social workers need to move out of com-
fort zones, set goals in life and work hard. Always remember that
‗Being the best in the present puts you in the best in the next‘.

9. DISHAA Page 9
Social Work Research @ Amrita
Incidence of home delivery among tribals of Wayanad
Parvathy V1, Sanjeev Vasudevan2, Ajitha Kumari2, Renjith R. Pillai3, Rajeev MM3
Abstract birth and thus birth and also aimed to
infant care among tribals understand the change
Introduction: need special attention in the trend from ancient
owing to their vulnerable to present times, the
Tribals belong to the in- nature. nature of occurrence of
digenous sections of the home delivery among
community and are vul- Aims/objectives: various tribal groups and
nerable in their own way to attempt to understand
The main objectives of
because of the socio the possible factors that
the study are to produce
cultural traditional norms decide the place of
a data substantiated
and standards of living. delivery.
validation of existence of
The basic health needs
home delivery among
starts obviously from
tribals of Wayanad. It
Method
The study was basically a descriptive study that followed a survey method
wherein data was collected through an interview schedule prepared by the re-
searcher. The universe of study was Amrita Kripa Charitable Trust (AKCH),
Wayanad. A sample size of 645 patients (basically tribal patients consulting
the OP of AKCH) was interviewed. The study extended over a month from 21st
May to 19th June, 2012.
Results / Findings
Among those above 40 yrs, 81.8% went for home delivery, 28.2% for those be-
low 40 yrs of age went for home delivery.19.7% of deliveries among those below
30yrs are taking place at home, showing the existence of the home delivery
even in the current generation. Thus, analysis shows that home delivery is still
prevalent.
—————————————————————————-
1. II Yr MSW Student, Amrita University, Amritapuri (Kollam) Campus, Kerala
2. Medical Officer, Amrita Kripa Charitable Trust, Wayanad, Kerala
3. Faculty Member, Department of Social Work, Amrita University, Amritapuri
Campus, Kerala

10. DISHAA Page 10
Introduction to Policies/Acts
The Protection Of The Children From Sexual Offences Act, 2012
Nowadays offences against children are increasing at an alarming rate. They are not safe anywhere.They are
exploited even at their own houses, schools and other places where ever they go. Children, instead of getting
their deserved love and care are abused most of the time. In order to stop this cruelty our Government has
implemented a new Act; The Protection Of The Children From Sexual Offences Act, 2012.The Act came into
force on 14 November 2012, though it was passed on May 2012 in the Indian Parliament. According to this
act, a child is defined as a person who is below the age-group of 18 and is gender neutral.
The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012 provides precise defi-
nitions for different types of child abuse crimes like sexual harassment, penetra-
tive or non-penetrative sexual abuse and pornography in its declaration. Stringent
punishments that includes life time imprisonment for heinous crimes of sexual as-
saults and abuses following the kind of harshness of the offence is also said in the
Act.
The Act under its limit, has made new standards of International Child Protection
rights and has made it mandatory to report the sexual offences against any child.
Punishment against persons trying to defame any person apparently, even if it is a child via false information
is also mentioned in this Act.
It has also discussed the ways to provide a child friendly process of offence reporting while evidence re-
cording, trial and investigations. Regarding all this matter Section 45 of the Act has also allowed the Union
Government to make the necessary changes in the Act, whenever and wherever applicable.
The Act has also well mentioned the qualifications and experience necessary for the translators, interpreters,
special educators and experts who are arranged for protection and care of children in case of emergencies
and directs about the emergency treatment of a child that must be provided including the compensation
amount that is to be paid to the victim of sexual abuse. It has also been cleared that the provisions of this Act
would be monitored by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights and the State Commission for
Protection of Child Rights, periodically.
All the rules have been structured and framed relying upon the Juvenile Act, 2000 for making arrangements
with regard to the care and protection of the child. The devised rules of the act also would pay attention to the
fact that the child is not re-victimized at the time of investigation as well as in trial. The Act also points out that
―no documentation or magisterial requisition would be demanded before the treatment‖ in case of a child who
is taken to a medical facility on an emergency.
The rules laid down in the Act has also defined the criterion of awarding compensations through special
courts which includes loss of educational and employment opportunities along with disability, disease or preg-
nancy suffered as the consequence of the abuse. This compensation would be awarded at the interim stage
and trial ends.
The legislation is also marked by the introduction of special procedures to prevent the re-victimization of chil-
dren at the hands of an insensitive justice delivery system. Such measures includes protection of his or her
identity and thereby providing children with assistance and expertise from professionals in the fields of psy-
chology, social work and so on.

11. Page 11 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 4
India has the largest child population in the world. Almost 42% of India‘s total
population is under 18 years of age. Earlier the cases were reported and tried in
open adult courts with adult‘s laws. Such trials were very humiliating for a child-
victim of sexual offences. And so there is hope that this new law stipulates the
setting of special courts within a time-frame which enables the proper develop-
ment of the child protecting his or her right to privacy and confidentiality. The
victims are to be respected by every individual who are involved in the stages of
the judicial process.
By Arya Gopinath (I Yr MSW)
Upcoming Conferences & Workshops
March 2013
4th INTED2013 (7th International Technology, Education and Develop-
ment Conference) Valencia, Spain
4th 5th World Congress on Women's Mental Health, Peru
5th International Research Conference on Environmental Issues and
Waste Management (IRCEIWM) Bangkok, Thailand
International Research Conference on Safety, Hazardous and Disas-
ter Management (IRCSHDM) Bangkok, Thailand
7th Social Learning Boot Camp Washington, United States of America
9th 7th International Conference of Management and Behavioural Sci-
ences - ―An Interdisciplinary Conference‖ Delhi/ Noida , India
6th PSPC - Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection Conference
2013 Bangkok, Thailand National Conference
th
11 Infectious Diseases: Adult Issues in the Outpatient and Inpatient Set- “DISHAA 2013”
tings-2013 Sarasota, United States of America
On Disaster
14th Caring, Working, Living Sydney, Australia
Management in Social
15th 2013 International Symposium on Business and Social Sciences
work Education and
(2013 ISBS) Tokyo, Japan
Practice.
The Creativity Workshop in Istanbul - March 15 - 21,
2013 Istanbul, Turkey on 19th April 2013
17th 2013 2nd International Conference on Social Science and Humanity - At Amrita School of
ICSSH 2013 Macau, China Arts and Science.
2013 2nd International Conference on Language, Medias and Culture
By Dept. of Social Work
- ICLMC 2013 Macau, China
18th International Conference for Academic Disciplines (Las Vegas) Las Amrita University
Vegas, United States of America Amritapuri, Kollam.
21st International Academic Conference in Orlando 2013 Orlando, United
States of America
26th ICVWE'13: International Conference on Virtual Words and Educa-
tion Ottawa, Canada
28th The Third Asian Conference on Psychology and the Behavioral Sci-
ences Osaka, Japan
30th National Conference On Environmental Sustainability And Society:
The Growing Paradigm Shift (Ess - 2013) Guna, India

12. DISHAA Page 12
Book Review - Hand Book of Psychiatric Social Work
The rapid development in the field of mental with the demands and challenges of everyday life.
health and neuro-science has a very large The chapter 4 by Ms Vranda M N. and
influence on the theories and the day to day Dr. M. Chandrashekar Rao on Life Skills
practice of psychiatric social work. Education gives an insight into the ten essential
The f ir st ch a pt er - skills required for promotion of psychosocial
―psychiatric social work in health in children and adolescents. The focus of
child and adolescent life skills programmes are usually on children and
mental health field‖ by adolescent groups since they are in their forma-
Dr.V.Indiramma, Ms tive age. This chapter also comments on the
Kavitha Jangam and impact and the implementation of life skill educa-
Ms Seema P.Uthaman tion as well.
deals with the concept The fifth chapter-‗psychosocial care for marital
and components of men- and family life‘ by – Dr.G.S. Uday Kumar,
tal health. The various Ms. Jane Henry and Mr. Bino Thomas provides
kinds of mental illness an overview on the different stages of family on
found among this age the various kinds of intervention methods
group and the interven- applied ,since family intervention is an essential
tions taken in the affected part of psychiatric social work.
areas, which includes life skills education, health Parenting is one of the highly valued social roles
promotion, sex education ,case work and group in all human localities and cultures. The 6th chap-
work services etc. ter –parenting: A Psychiatric Social Work
The need to create an outreach for children Perspective by Mr.Bino Thomas and
especially for the children in vulnerable sections Dr. G.S. Udayakumar explains to us the concept
including girls, children with disability and mental of parenting, the different dimensions of parenting
illness. Childline is an organization which reaches etc. The chapter also comments that good
out to the need of such children. The second parenting practices can make the children good,
chapter-‗childline services for troubled children in stable and responsible.
the community‘ by Ms Chandramukhi and The next chapter – Group Work In Psychiatric
Dr G.S.Udayakumar gives an overview of the Social Work by Dr.Ameer Hamza, Dr.
functioning , structure and the objectives of the D.Muralidhar and Mr. Imran Khan includes the
childline organization. principles of group work practice, the theoretical
Child abuse is a violation of basic human rights of models for the same and the scope of group work
a child. The chapter-‗child abuse: psychiatric practice as well. The therapeutic factors included
social work interventions‘ by Ms. Kavitha Jangam in group work practice is also explained in the
and Dr D.Muralidhar provides several definitions chapter.
of child abuse, the causes leading to the same The chapter 8 – Strengths based approach in
and the statistics based on the study conducted. social work practice in working with families with
The interventions of psychiatric social workers alcohol problems by Dr.D.Muralidhar and
include multidisciplinary team approach , working Ms. Lakshmi Shankaran deals with the impact of
as resource person providing legal and alcoholism in parents on children resulting in risk
therapeutic interventions. and vulnerability. The affect of alcoholism on
Life skills are abilities for adaptive and positive various dimensions of family. functioning is also
behavior that enable individuals to deal effectively discussed.

13. DISHAA Page 13
Substance abuse is more sitive intervention is extremely rological and psychiatric disor-
likely to be diagnosed among important. ders on various dimensions of
those have just begun taking Counseling services for suicide life.
drugs and is often an early prevention by Dr. A. Thirumoor-
symptom of substance de- The chapter also deals with the
thy and Ms. K. Bhavana is the
pendence. The 9thchapter - role of a psychiatric social worker
12th chapter which includes the
and the kinds of rehabilitation
Working with substance de- factors leading to suicide, the
techniques involved.
pendence : a social work per- various theories dealing with the
spective by Dr. D. Muralidhar same. This chapter also takes us Epilepsy is one of the most com-
and Ms. Bala Shanti Niketha to the kinds of suicides seen mon serious neurological disor-
comments on the causes of around and the warning signs der with unique characteristics.
substance dependence and involved. The last portion of the The next chapter – psychiatric
the role of a social worker in chapter talks about the interven- social work intervention with epi-
helping to overcome this. tion methods and the chapter lepsy by Dr.Prakashi Rajaram
ends on a note that government and Ms. A.U. Shreedevi gives a
The 10th chapter – Commu- should recognize suicide as a detail account of what is epilepsy,
nity care for persons with al- public health problem. its consequences. The last part
cohol dependence by Dr. D. of the chapter deals with the
The 13th chapter – Welfare and
Dhanasekara Pandian and NIMHANS experience on the
legal measures for the mentally ill
Mr. E. Sinu deals with the subject. It also gives an overview
by Dr.Mohd.Ameer Hamza ,
community based intervention on the do‘s and dont‘s during epi-
comments that mental disability
lepsy and the interventions em-
on this subject since alcohol though not visible affects all
ployed for the same.
abuse and dependence is spheres of life. This chapter
seen as a major public health deals with the involvement of Na- The 17th chapter –working with
problem. This chapter also tional Human Rights Commission the neurologically ill- A group
gives a glimpse on the role of in mental health and the initia- work approach by Dr. Prakashi
social worker in community tives in rehabilitation of persons Rajaram, Ms. Priya Treesa Tho-
care. The chapter includes with disabilities. mas and Ms. Chandramukhi
the experience of community Community mental health care comments on the intermediation
care of De-Addiction centre programs at NIMHANS by Dr. effect of combined group proc-
NIMHANS as well. Sekar and Ms. Sini Mathew is the ess, cognitive restructuring and
14th chapter which gives insight modeling on the affected.
The 11th chapter by Dr. D. into the various programs
Muralidhar and Ms. Kavitha launched regarding mental Psychosocial aspects of head
Jangam of HIV/AIDS: issues health. The aim of psychiatric so- injury by Dr.N. Krishna Reddy,
and concerns for psychiatric cial workers is to help mentally ill Mr. A. DuraiPandi and Mr. Atiq
social work is all about how people and their families achieve Ahmed is the 18th chapter which
HIV/AIDS is spread , its con- optimum social functioning. deals with the various classifica-
sequences and the interven- tion, causes ,symptoms and im-
The 15th chapter – Rehabilitation pact on various dimensions of
tions employed . This chapter
also states that; since this of persons with neurological and life. The chapter also gives an
problem is becoming manifold mental disorders by Dr. Prakashi overview on the intervention
day by day, effective planning Rajaram and Ms. K.S. Meena methods employed and the role
and research and culture sen- comments on the impact of neu- of a psychiatric social worker as
well.

14. Page 14 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 4
Neurosurgery is the surgical discipline experienced by staff working in an
focused on treating nervous system organization by Dr. B. P. Nirmala and
and spinal column diseases. The 19th Mr. Atiq Ahmed defines stress, the
chapter – Psycho social intervention in causes of stress and the various Handbook of
neuro surgical setting by ways of alleviating stress, since one Psychiatric Social
Dr.N. Krishna Reddy, Mr. A.DuraiPandi has to adopt specific skills to combat Work
and Mr. Atiq Ahmed. This chapter stress.
Editors :
discusses common neurosurgical The 25th chapter on psychiatric
complications, the major symptoms K.Sekar
Social work research by
and impact. A glimpse of the major Dr. R. Parthasarathy discusses the R.Parthasarathy
interventions taken are also given. scope of psychiatric social work in D.Muralidhar
th
The 20 chapter on Psychosocial care mental health and research activities. M.Chandrasekhar Rao
in disaster management by This chapter also provides some tips (NIMHANS
Dr. K. Sekar and Mr. Aravind Raj gives on conducting research projects. PUBLICATION)
a detailed account of disasters, the Thus this book serves as a useful
kind of psycho social care given and and informative reference for all,
the role of social workers in providing especially for those who are planning
psychosocial care. to specialize in Mental health and
Disaster preparedness is a set of Psychiatry.
activities that is undertaken to reduce By Jessica J John
the amount of damage that a disaster I Yr MSW
can cause. The 21st chapter on
Community based disaster Clean India
preparedness by Mr. E.Aravind Raj
Clean India is still a utopian dream in
and Dr.K. Sekar deals with various
any Indian‘s mind. Plastic one of the
community based preparedness and
major villains, is not allowing us to
approaches related to the same.
acquire our dreams. Plastic is the
Chapter 22nd on Psychiatric social general term for a wide range of
work services in in-patient care settings synthetic or semi-synthetic
by Dr.D. Muralidhar and Ms. E. Sinu polymerisation products. The
provides a detailed view on the versatility of plastics has led to its
guidelines required for working with use in almost everything we use
individuals , the intervention techniques today. The all-pervasive use of
used by a psychiatric social worker in plastics stem from the benefits it has
various aspects since psychiatric social to offer - lightness, flexibility,
workers are integral part of health care durability and water-resistance - to
system. name a few. Various types of plastic
Social work services for adult psychiat- polymers are widely used throughout
ric out patients is the 23rd chapter by the world for a variety of useful
Dr. M. Chandrasekhar Rao and purposes. The most popular plastic
Mr. K.P. Soundarapandian discusses polymers include polyenthylene,
the various clinical and non clinical polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride
services provided . (PVC), polystyrene, nylon,
The 24th chapter on Stress tetra-phthalate (PET), polyurethenes,

15. DISHAA Page 15
Clean India
etc. However, the biggest current they have to collect a huge quantity of
problem with the conventional plastics wastes to earn a reasonable amount
is the associated environmental con- of money. As a result, rag pickers do
cerns, including non-biodegradability, not collect these bags, which remain
release of toxic pollutants, litter and littered on the streets. In order to solve
impacts on landfill as a result of the this problem more effectively, many
production and disposal of petroleum states of the country have imposed
and petroleum-based plastics. Of late, special restrictions on the use of plas-
indiscriminate disposal of plastic tic carry bags in their respective
waste, mostly containing plastic carry states, including blanket ban in some.
bags is a prime cause for concern. Tips on reducing waste and con-
The disposal of plastic bags is not just serving resources.
an eye-soar, but is clogging the drain-
The three R's - reduce, reuse and re-
age system, disturbing the ecological
cycle - all helps to cut down the
sanctity of water bodies as well as in-
amount of waste we throw away. They
terfering with the recharge of under-
conserve natural resources, landfill
Photo Courtesy : ground water. Accumulated plastics
space and energy. Plus, the three R's
choke municipal sewer lines and storm
Jasmin R Pereira, save land and money resources, en-
water drains,clog the bar-screens of
Arya Gopinath ergy etc that the communities must
sewage treatment plants, often result-
use to dispose off the wastes. Setting
ing in water logging. The recent Mum-
a new landfill has become difficult and
bai flood is a case in point. In addition,
more expensive due to environmental
animals often consume plastic waste
regulations and public opposition. Oth-
causing internal injury, intestinal block-
ers steps include buying items that will
age and starvation, sometimes leading
last, avoiding excess packaging , reus-
to death. Unscientific disposal of plas-
ing as much as possible, using one‘s
tic waste also causes landslides in hilly
own water bottle, avoiding plastic wa-
areas.Plastic bags which accumulate
ter bottles, using one‘s own bag while
at landfill sites where they take around
shopping, buying recycled and reus-
300 years to photo degrade.
able products, avoiding individually
According to studies by the Plastic De- packed and single use products etc.
velopment Council under the depart-
Another important thing that we can
ment of Chemicals and Petrochemi-
cals, India will emerge as the third big-do is to refuse .Along with that, we
gest consumer of plastics in the world should do other things too. Plastic is
by the end of 2012. Plastic will not de- an unavoidable matter in every ones
cay even if it remains in the soil for day to day life. Recently the Govern-
years. If it is burned, it produces car- ment of India has decided to ban plas-
cinogenic substances. So there is no tic. The state of Kerala has issued a
successful way to manage plastic complete ban on thin plastic bags --
wastes, without harming Mother Na- below 30 microns -- that are consid-
ture. ered an environmental hazard besides
The littering of plastic bags remains to being a threat to animals who acciden-
be a significant environmental prob- tally swallow them. The ban that came
lem. While consumers continue to litter into effect on September 1st 2012 also
them, rag pickers do not receive any
covers disposable plastic cups and
incentive in collecting the thin bags as
containers used in the food industry.

16. DISHAA Page 16
However, while those who stock or distribute the bags are liable to be fined and penalized, it is unclear
how the one‘s who use the bags such as for doing it is unclear how, or even if, those who use the bags,
like consumers and ordinary citizens will be dealt with if they use the bags. This begs two questions: how
complete is the ban if only distributors are liable to be penalized? And how effective will the ban be?
Ban on plastic is not still effective in most of the places, why/ when one thing is to be banned which is kind
of essential in day to day life, the authorities should put forth a substitute for it until government is not
ready to do so, it cannot be completely or effectively banned .
People will go behind plastic products, even if they know that it‘s not good for nature and they won‘t stop
loitering it. Actually, it‘s not they, it‘s you and me, we won‘t stop littering. To an extent awareness pro-
grammes are helpful for atleast stop littering in very sensitive places like Athirapally.
I Yr MSW students of Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, conducted a plastic free campaign near Athirapally
water falls in chalakkudy along with the help of VSS(VANA SAMRAKSHANA SAMITHY) as a part of
vongal tribal camp. Whole team of social work trainees was divided into 4 groups. Posters and pluck cards
were made, stickers were affixed on vehicles with permission of owners, regarding littering ,forest protec-
tion. The campaign was successful and response of visitors were good .members of VSS amass plastic
wastes from Athirapally waterfalls and forest area, and from the waste bins, that are placed close by wa-
terfalls. After that they clean these plastic wastes, compress it & then pack it, and tender is called.
Similar campaigning countrywide would be helpful, to make India a litter free country especially in sensi-
tive areas, and in turn a clean green India. To an extent campaigning was successful in community in
spreading all these information regarding these issues to both national international tourists.
By Andria John, I Yr MSW
PICCASO MSW
Winnie Elizabeth Johnson, I Yr MSW

17. Page 17 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 4
Where did we go wrong??
It was only recently that I developed the habit of reading newspapers and I was made
to reconsider my decision when I was overwhelmed by all the bloodshed and the vio-
lence. The recent Delhi incident where the girl was brutally gang raped, eventually
leading to her death and the associated protests were all that I could see. It added to
my already existing insecurity of being a woman.
I should have been happy seeing all the youngsters raise their voices, the active use
of social and other media and an overall sensitization about the rights of women. But I
was not. And this worried me. Had I lost all sense of compassion for another human
being? Was I resistant to change? Was I so comfortable in my utopian world that I
had no time or interest in others? Or had I lost all my hope for a better and just world?
Then I realized that my attitude of indifference was not directed towards the poor girl
or the students involved in the protests. It was towards myself and the society that I
represent. The society where sons are considered a blessing and female infanticides
common. The society which considers sex to be something that is not to be dis-
cussed but do not mind having vulgar postures at public places. The society that wor-
ship Goddesses but tolerate all sorts of violence against women. The society where
any mishap is forgotten with time. The society where corruption is a part and parcel of
life. These problems are not confined to India or any other developing country for that
matter. The story is the same around the world.
I feel the answer does not lie in mass protests or death penalties. The issue is more
severe than that. In India, where simple convictions do not happen fast enough, death
sentences and harsh punishments may take still more time and this may further re-
duce the trust the common people have in the judicial system.
Legislation is not what is to be changed. Change should be in the selection of the col-
our of the paint to be applied in the child‘s room. When we select blue for boys and
pink for girls, the stereotyping starts then and there. Changes should be in the selec-
tion of the bed time stories for children. When we tell the girl child stories of princes
coming and ‗rescuing‘ them, we are planting the idea that they need someone to
complete their life thus creating a generation of young ladies who would compromise
their identity in order to be a good wife. It is our assumption that a girl child will like
dolls and boy cars. We are imposing our impression of a perfect child into our chil-
dren rather than letting them choose for themselves who they want to be. This kind of
stereotyping expects the girls to be gentle and soft spoken while the boys should be
aggressive and always in control of their emotions .Any deviation from these expecta-
tions are considered abnormal and not in keeping with the culture of the society. Our
educational set up also does not do anything to avert the scenario.
The issue does not have a direct and magical solution. It has to be nipped in the bud.
The problem is deep rooted than we think and needs more probing into. Though I
welcome the spirit of the citizens in coming forward and addressing the issue, I be-
lieve a permanent solution can be formulated only through changing the mindset of
the individuals belonging to the society including ourselves.
By Lekshmi Vimala (II Yr MSW)

18. DISHAA Page 18
My Experience as a Budding social worker
Professional Social work is a term largely confused with that of Charity and welfare activities. When we
study for a professional degree in social work the common question that we all need to answer is ― do we
need to study for becoming a social worker?‖ this question remains intact thorough out the study. We as
students of social work strive hard to find out the best suiting answer. When I was asked to share my ex-
periences as a budding social worker my memories went right to the initial period when I joined for a
course which I was longing for a bit long. The field work practicum has helped a lot in building a percep-
tion about communities. Even though communities are very unique, a general perception was making its
shape inside my mind. We had continuous interactions with the community; women, men, children, youth,
old aged, local leaders were all our subjects of observation and learning. The kind of experience we
shared among friends was the best learning one could get.
“we work majorly in The transition phase from student to a professional is very drastic. We
might be moving to an entirely different community with entirely different
changing the attitudes of language, custom, life style, climate, beliefs and biases. To get adapted to
this takes a bit tough time of keen observation, patience and courage.
people which is almost Now we have certain responsibilities both professional as well as per-
sonal. We are been given situations where one should handle alone and
equal to impossible” there are expectations which have to be fulfilled. Only some organization
gives some sort of orientation about the responsibilities and the kind of
work we should do. In effect, the period of studies should be very much utilized for practicing as well as
planning the area that best suits you. Documentation is one another important area where which profes-
sional social workers fail and this is very crucial while working.
Community development is something which does not happen overnight. While studying we may try to
create theories which may be ‗one size fits all‗ but as a professional those theories can be only used for a
basic understanding. One should be very patient in understanding the community holistically. One major
challenge we face as professional social workers in a field level organization is the compensation. Even
though there are some exceptions largely the pay is below average. Many of the organizations seek cer-
tain professional experience, as fresher we can build this experience only through collective and continu-
ous actions in class with an open attitude to learn. Unlike other professions the field you have chosen is
very challenging and dynamic; we work majorly in changing the attitudes of people which is almost equal
to impossible. To be both optimistic and energetic with utmost patience and humility will be the key to suc-
cess.
Finally about the organization I work. Azim Premji Foundation is a non-profit seeking organization working
in the field of education; particularly primary schools. The Foundation works in three major domains
Teacher professional development, Education Leadership Management and Stake Holder Engagement.
I work as a Campus Associate where I will be going through field level training in the first year. Currently I
am into schools with an objective to understand the schooling system through classroom observations,
interaction with teachers and other stake holders. I am getting a good exposure through these visits and
the exposure visits to other field institutes of the Foundation. I would like to express my sincere gratitude
and love to all my Teachers who have helped me in building my perspectives namely Dr. Sunil D.S,
Dr. Renjith R. Pillai, Mr. Rajeev M.M, Mr. Kochukrishna Kurup, Mr. P.K Anand and Mrs. Gayathri Vinayak.
By Gladston Mathew Edavilayil (2010-2012 Batch, Amritapuri campus)

19. Page 19 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 4
Activities of Department of Social Work ( Oct - Dec 2012)
10th October 2012, Mental Health day Awareness at Primary Health
Centre.
The S1 MSW students conducted an awareness programme with charts and
poster exhibition at Primary Health Centre observing Mental Health day. The
main objective was to make people aware about the mental disorders like
Autism, Schizohrenia etc
9th to 11th, October 2012, International Day For Disaster Reduction
(IDDR)-2012 Street-Play Road Show
To commemorate the IDDR-2012 (International Day for Disaster Reduction –
13thOctober), the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority(KSDMA) in col-
laboration with five Social Work Institutions in Kerala conducted a state wide
Street play road show at 56 identi-
fied venues in different districts of
the state. It was an initiative by
KSDMA to enroll the Social Work
Students in the activities for raising
public awareness on disaster risk
reduction focusing on the theme –
―Women and Girls-The Invisible
force for resilience‖.
Three districts in the southern re-
gion viz:Thiruvananthapuram,
Kollam and Alappuzha, were
allotted to the Department of Social Work, Amritapuri Campus, Amrita Vishwa
Vidyapeetham, and Mr. VS Kochukrishna Kurup (faculty coordinator-IDDR-
Street-play programme),coordinated and implemented the programme in 12
venues of 3 districts. The Road show attracted lot of people in all the districts
and received a good coverage by press and other media.
1st November 2012
Debate on “Is KKNPP Needed”
The Department of social work organ-
ized debate and discussions on the
highly discussed controversial issue
―Kudamkulam‖. Faculty coordinators
Mr.Ranjith Kavumkara and Mr.VS Ko-
chukrishna Kurup addressed the gath-
ering. Students : Shilpa (Moderator),
Vishnu Raj, Prasanth.P, Vishnu K San-
thosh, Amrutha, Ammu Ashok and Arun
B.R from S3 batch participated and contributed healthy points pointing to the
necessities and negatives of the issue. Later on the moderator concluded the
debate. The programme was a success and the audience were able to think
more about the issue.

20. Page 20 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 4
nd
2 November 2012
Talk on “Public health and Health care services in kerala”
A talk was conducted by the Department of Social work as part of Kerala Model
Development. Mr.Renjith R, Lecturer (faculty) gave an introduction about the
―Kerala Model Development‖ that it is the development experience of Kerala
which has achieved worldwide attention
due to the coexistence of its remarkable
achievements in social and human devel-
opments with low economic growth.
Thereby followed by a talk on ―Public
Health and Public Health Care Services in
Kerala‖ by Miss. Arathy Aravind. The sim-
ple presentation with enough clarity turned
up very informative.
3rd November 2012,
Sabarimala Cleaning Programme
On November 3rd 2012, over 3200 volunteers participated in a massive clean-up
drive at Sabarimala and Pampa in Kerala. Students, faculty and staff members of
Dept of Social work,Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham also joined ashramites and
devotees in cleaning this historic, holy land during November 2-4, 2012. The
initiative was part of the Amala Bharatham Campaign, instituted in response to
the request made by the Kerala State Government. The team removed filth from
the Pampa riverbed and its banks making the cause a big success.request made
by the Kerala State Government. The team removed filth from the Pampa river-
bed and its banks making the cause a big success.
4th – 10th November 2012
National Workshop on Psychosocial Care in Disaster, Life Skills Edu-
cation and Counselling
National Workshop on Psychosocial Care in Disaster, Life Skills Education and
Counseling sessions included interactive
sessions and discussions along with a lot
of games and activities. The one week
long workshop with around 47 participants
from across the country concluded on 10th
November, 2012 with the faculty evalua-
tion session of the programme. The vale-
dictory function was inaugurated by
Dr. G Gopinathan Pillai (Principal, Amrita
School of Arts and Science). Mr. Ranjith. K
(faculty, Department of Social Work)
welcomed the gathering. Dr. Priya K.R (Professor, Amrita Department of Social
Work, Ettimadai campus) presided over the function. Mr. Rajeev M.M (Vice Chair
person, Amrita Department of Social Work), Mr. V.S Kochukrishna Kurup and
Ms. Shobitha Santhakumari (NIMHANS, Bangalore) gave the felicitations. It was

21. Page 21 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 4
followed by the vote of thanks by Dr. Renjith R Pillai (Chairperson, Department of
Social Work). Certificates were distributed to all the participants by
Dr. G Gopinathan Pillai (Principal, Amrita School of Arts and Science).
4th November 2012
Inauguration of the Official Blog : DISHAASPEAKS
Dr. K Sekar (Professor, NIMHANS, Bangalore) inaugurated the official blog of
Department of Social Work, Amritapuri on 4/11/2012 during the inauguration ses-
sion of ―National Workshop on Psychosocial Care in Disaster, Life Skills Educa-
tion and Counselling‖. The main highlights of the blog are : the various academic
programmes, field work activities and outreach programmes conducted by the
student social workers. Br.Shankarachaitanya, (Medical Director, Amrita School
of Ayurveda), Dr. K R Pria (Associate Professor, Department of Social Work, Et-
timadi), Dr.Renjith R Pillai (Chairperson, Dept. of Social Work), Mr.Rajeev MM
(Vice Chair person, Department of Social Work) were also present.
http://dishaaspeaks.wordpress.com
14th November 2012 Childrens Day
Programme at Kuzhithura Govt. Fisheries School , Alappad
As part of Children‘s day , the 3rd semester Community Development students
organized various programs at Government Fisheries School, Kuzhithura. Topics
like Child rights, Mental Health, child abuse of boys , Child abuse of girls and
substance abuse were covered by Mr.Prageesh, Ms Arathy, Ms. Fathima,
Mrs Nisha, Mr. Deepak, Mr.Vishnu.K,
Ms. Arathy, Ms.Sandhya, Ms.Shilpa and
Ms. Rashmi.
The session was creatively done using
role play,games, group discussion and
essay writing. The students were highly
motivated as the session was creative
and informative.The ample support of the
Department and cooperation of the
students with their team spirit made the
program a grant success.
24th November 2012
Skill Development Training at Govt. Childrens Home, Kollam
A skill development training programme was organized by the 1 stSemester MSW
students for the inmates of Govt. Childrens‘ home, Kollam. The eminent skill
development trainer and a social worker Mr. Jerry Camoens inaugurated and
lead the programme.
Mr. Ranjith Kavumkara (Lecturer),Mr. Nisanth M (Field Work Co-ordinator),
Mr Shahir (caretaker , childrens home), The S1 MSW students: Mr. Anas,
Mr. Midhun, Ms. Supriya, and Ms. Athira. were present in the function. Many
motivational videos were also screened followed by the cultural programmes by

22. DISHAA Page 22
the children. Mr.Ranjith K. and Mr. Kochukrishna
Kurup (Lecturer) spoke on the importance of si-
lence and concentration in life. The entire pro-
gramme has been organized by
Ms. Jasmin R Pereira, Ms. Jessica J John and
Ms.Stephy Bosco. (I Yr MSW students)
24th November 2012
Book Release at Govt.Old Age Home, Inchavila
The I Yr MSW students organised a programme in order to publish the Literary
works of an inmate of Government Old Age Home, Inchavila as part of concurrent
field work.
The Inauguration followed by the welcome address of Ms.Winnie Elizabeth John-
son marked the beginning.Mr.Amaan,President,Thirikadavoor Panchayat pre-
sided over the programme. The collected literary poems of the inmate
Mrs.Ashramam Rajamma which was set into a book by the trainees during their
field work was released then.The book was handed over to Mr.Sukumaran by
Mr.Kochukrishna Kurup (Faculty,Dept of Social work).Mr.Chandrasekharan Pillai
(Member, Under Management Committee), Sabu Joseph (Inmate), Mr.Ganesh
Babu (Superintendant), Mr.Renjith Kavumkar and Mr.Johnson delivered the felici-
tations.The closing was marked by the use of seed,water, soil and planting sap-
lings. A musical programme was also conducted by the NGO ―A Pularikkoottam‖.
26th November 2012
International Day for the Elimination Of Violence Against Women
The white ribbon day campaign was organized by ASWAS [Amrita Social Workers
Association] on the ―International day for the
elimination of violence against Women‖ on
26th November 2012.It is a day to raise aware-
ness of violence against women and is observed
on every 25th of November since 2000. The pro-
gramme was inaugurated by Dr.Renjith.R.Pillai
(HOD, Department of Social Work, Amritapuri).
Awareness regarding the Rights and law for
atrocities against women were exhibited includ-
ing posters and chart papers portraying the importance of the day.White ribbons
were also distributed to the students of the campus.
28th November 2012
ID card distribution at Cheriyazheekal Anganwadi NO.19
A Programme was organized by the S1 batch MSW students for the ―Distribution
of ID Cards for the children of Cheriyazheekal Anganwadi NO.19‖.The session
was officially inaugurated by V.S Kochu Krishna Kurup (Lecturer, Dept of social
work) and Chairperson Hamjum (Panchayat member) delivered her presidential
address followed by the video presentation for improving their creativity skills.

23. Page 23 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 4
28th November 2012
Women Empowermen at Mahila Mandiram
Social work trainees Arya, Remya and Shalini organized a programme about
―Women Empowerment‖at Mahila Mandhiram,Anjukalumud as part of concur-
rent fieldwork acitvities. The Chief Guest of the programme was Mrs.Bindhu
(Faculty,Dept of Sociology,Millet B.Ed College,Sooranadu). Mrs.Lathika, the Su-
perintendent of Mahila Mandhiram headed the programme. Ms.Veena, Chair
person also spoke on the occasion and shared her views which was very infor-
mative to the inmates.
28th – 29th November 2012, Awareness Camp with SAHAYI – Centre
for Collective Learning and Action
The S1 MSW Social work trainees Ms.Andria John, Mr.Sreejith, Ms.Gopika or-
ganized an awareness camp at the slums of Muthakkara and Kacherikulam em-
phasizing the importance of urban development and self employment. The Chair
person of the event was Ms.Sheela (Project Coordinator,SAHAYI).
29th November 2012
Ente maram at Manovikas
Awareness class and Ente maram programme was organized by the S1 MSW
students at Manovikas School for differently abled children on 29/11/12.The
function was inaugurated by Mr. Shanavas (Panchayat member and welfare
standing committee chairman). The chairperson of the programme was
Mr.Gopinathan Nair (PTA President). Felicitations were given by Mr. Nishanth
(Lecturer ,Dept of Social Work), Mr. Ramachandran (PTA Secretary),
Ms.Shyma (Teacher, Manovikas), Mr.Bibin (Social Work Trinee).The pro-
gramme was organized by Ms.Supriya and Ms.Athira (Social Work Trainees). In
Ente Maram programme, all students were given saplings to make them aware
about the importance of planting trees. The saplings were distributed by
Mr Shanavas and Mr Gopinathan Nair. After that an awareness class for parents
was conducted by Ms Supriya and Ms Athira about the tips for parents like how
to look after their children in a more caring way.The programme was very
successful.

24. DISHAA Page 24
Leadership Training Programme for Coconut Producers Society 2012
Leadership Training Programme for Coconut Producer‘s Society (CPSs) was organized
by Department of Social Work and Coconut Development Board (Ministry of Agriculture,
Govt. of India). The main objective of the programme was socio economic upliftment of
the farmers through productivity improvement, cost reduction, efficient collective marketing
and processing and product diversification. Five training programmes were completed.
The dates were 6th – 8th, 13th - 15th of September,17th - 19th, 29th - 31st October and 26th -
28th November 2012. Sessions included topics such as overview of Coconut Development
Board, objectives of CPS, value addition, entrepreneurship, leadership skills, teamwork,
time management, yoga, project planning, documentation and accounting etc.
Mr. Jayakumar (Technical officer, Coconut Development Board), Ms. Anitha Kumari
(CPCRI), Mr. Kalesh (EKSAT), Dr.Renjith R Pillai, Mr.Rajeev M.M, Mr.VS Kochukrishna
Kurup and Mr.Ranjith Kavumkara facilitated the various sessions. Field visits were also
conducted as part of the training. All the trainees were awarded certificates at the end of
the programme.
30th November 2012
Volunteering National Alliance for People’s Movement
- 9th Biennial Convention
The 9th Biennial Convention of the National Alliance for Peoples Movement was success-
fully held at Salsabeel Green School, Thrissur. The community development students had
a great opportunity to be the volunteers of the Convention. Each of the students was
assigned with various tasks. The social work trainees were divided into various
committees and assigned certain duties. The committees were General volunteer
committee, Media & documentation, reception and registration, transportation and
accommodation. Each committee had a coordinator to coordinate the team members and
allot duties. Students attended the different sessions like koodamkulam issue, Media and
Culture .They also conducted several interviews with many eminent personalities and also
interacted with other members who participated in the programme.

25. DISHAA Page 25
Report writing, collage making, film screening, Event management, group dis-
cussions, registration of the delegates and receiving donations was other fields
of engagement.
4th – 8th December 2012, National Study Tour
The II Yr MSW Batch went for an enlightening tour in Mumbai city and the out-
skirts. The team went to MAM Ashram at Nerul and then to ‗Inorbit‘, one of the
largest shopping malls of Mumbai, Rafiq nagar and Baba nagar in Govendi (saw
Asia‘s largest waste dumping ground), Dharavi(the largest slum of Asia) to learn
the over all scenario. The visit was with the help of an agency called Karunya
Trust which has been working among the rag pickers. The students also visited
the waste-mountain and understood the real life situation of people there. Mukti
Sadan Foundation, an NGO working among the drug addicts of the city was also
visited.The team interacted with some of the eminent ruling personalities and
realized the nature of issues in its true sense. The tour could provide really
enlightening experiences to students. They understood the real scope of social
work in our country. Many students were given job offers and internships oppor-
tunities.

26. Page 26 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 4
14th – 21th December 2012, Vongal tribal camp
As part of the curriculum, the Department of Social Work, Amritapuri campus
organized a tribal sensitization camp ―VONGAL‖ for getting the first year social
work trainees acquainted with the traditions, culture and way of life of the tribals
and also to delve deep into the possibilities of positive intervention in the field.
The team visited Athirapally,Vazhachal,Harrison Malayalam,Butterfly Gardens
and many other places and had interactive sessions with many eminent re-
search scholars in order to learn the tribal life and mutual dependencies of peo-
ple and the forest.
Take up one
idea. Make that
one idea your
life - think of it,
dream of it, live
on that idea. Let
the brain,
muscles,
nerves, every
part of your
body, be full of
that idea, and
just leave every
other idea
14th December 2012, Interaction session alone. This is
Interactive session with (Yadunath) Louis George, Cournoyer, Ph.D the way to
Associate Professor, School of Criminology, University of Montreal, success.
Quebec, Canada. Swami
Vivekananda
Topics like Scope of social work and How can social workers make a change
between youth offenders through Therapeutic Alliance was discussed.

27. Page 27 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 4
BIENNALE
The word ―BIENNALE‖ is Italian for ―every other year‖ and can be used to de-
scribe any event that happens every two years. It is most commonly used within
art world to describe an international manifestation of contemporary art. Kochi-
muziris Biennale is India‘s first Biennale, which exhibits Indian and international
artists artworks across a variety of mediums including film, installation, painting,
sculpture, new media and performance art. Along the exhibition, the Biennale
will offer a rich programme of talks, seminars, screenings, music, workshops
and educational activities for school children and students.
The First Kochi-Muziris Biennale began on 12 December 2012(12/12/12). The
biennale will host 80 artists with nearly 50 percent foreign artists, site-specific
works and a sustained education programme in the three months.
Why would the subcontinent‘s first Biennale take place in Kochi,so far away
from the metropolitan art centers of Delhi and Mumbai? This happened mainly
because it was the initiative of two Kerala-born artists: Riyas Komu and Bose
Krishnamachari. These two artists, are the curators of this extremely ambitious
venture that aims to put Kerala and India on the art map once and for all. An in-
ternational art event like the Kochi-Muziris Biennale gains immense relevance
and prominence in present times that is marked by unease and enemity be-
tween countries and communities. cultural festivals like the ongoing biennale
would help people know what others do for them, thus create a bond with them.
In a country without museums and art galleries, kochi has provided a perfect
place to showcase the art. But everything hasn‘t been perfect since several con-
troversies has broken out-the organizers are alleged of having received funds
from terror groups. The critics are of the view that the police are not inquiring
since this event involves lot of high rank people. Several anti-biennale group has
put up posters and according to reports has even burned brochures to protest
against this ―corporate-driven‖ occasion which according to them does not pro-
mote enough local art.
Local artists should have been given a chance to showcase their piece of art as
well. Since such cultural get-togethers boost up the bond between countries and
races more of such ventures should be promoted.
By Jessica J John, I Yr MSW
AMC (ASWAS MOVIE CLUB) News
AMC (ASWAS Movie club) was initiated with an objective of making the stu-
dents acquainted with the role of media by exhibiting classics and other thought
provoking movies in order to bring in positive changes.
ASWAS Movie Club (AMC) conducted a film festival from 17 th October to 19th
October 2012 at Amritapuri campus at 5pm.The film festival was organised as
part of observing the world mental health day. The films ―A Beautiful
Mind‖ (focused on Paranoid Schizophrenia), ―Taare Zameen Par‖(dealing with
Dyslexia) and ―One Flew over Cuckoo‘s Nest‖ (which dealt with Personality

28. Page 28 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 4
disorder) were screened as part of the festival. A brief introduction was given
by the Social Work students about the mental disorders mentioned in the
movie before its premiere. The major aim of the festival was to to generate
awareness among the students about the Mental Health Week and about the
different mental illnesses. Around 100 students from the Amritapuri campus
participated in the film fest.The overall response about the festival was good
and a very good feedback was provided by the audience. AMC also organ-
ized a film show as part of the children‘s day celebration on November 14th 2012 at 5 pm. The screened film
was ―Stanley Ka Dabba‖, directed and produced by Amole Gupte. AMC Coordinator gave an introduction
about the film before the movie started. The film was about a boy named Stanley. Students from other depart-
ments also came to watch the movie and gave valuable feedback about the film show.AMC members used
posters, movie trailers, PPTs, etc in the college campus for promoting the film festival.
By Prageesh (II Yr MSW)
AMC Coordinator
Assistant Professor & Chief Editor
Dr. Renjith R. Pillai
Staff Editors
Mr. Rajeev MM
Mr. V S Kochukrishna Kurup
Mr. Ranjith Kavumkara
Student Editors:
Ms. Parvathy V
Ms. Lekshmi Vimala
Ms. Jasmin R Pereira
Ms. Jessica J John
Mr. Joby T Lal
Design and Layout
Ms. Jasmin R Pereira
Printed and published by: Chair person, Department of Social Work. (For private circulation only)
Feel free to mail your suggestions and ideas to the editor’s desk:
aswasatamrita@gmail.com, dishaaspeaks@gmail.com
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