By Faseela V., Additional Programme Coordinator, Community Wellbeing
February 20 and 21, 2025
Under the auspices of the Thoduve Community Foundation and with financial assistance from Keystone Foundation, we conducted a two-day training program on the Right to Information Act, 2005, titled “Nanka Arivu”. The training took place at the Nilambur K.F.R.I Auditorium on February 20 and 21, 2025. It was designed for members of various forest rights groups from Pothkallu and Karulai Panchayats, along with the promoters from these panchayats.
The program was inaugurated by Nilambur Block Panchayat President Smt. Pushpavalli Teacher, with Thoduve Community Foundation Secretary Mr. Aneesh Neerpuzha Mukkam presiding over the event. Joint Secretary Smt. Sisira V. extended a warm welcome to all participants.
The session featured Keystone Foundation Programme Coordinator Advocate K.G. Ramachandran as the special guest. He emphasized the importance of transparency and access to information in empowering marginalized communities. Keystone Additional Program Coordinator Mrs. Faseela V. delivered an insightful presentation, while Keystone Field Coordinator Mr. Sunil Kumar N. spoke about the significance of leadership and the need for communities to foster collective growth.
Several esteemed speakers and activists shared their perspectives. This included Mahila Samakhya Society District Program Coordinator Mrs. M. Regina, KILA Faculty Dr. A.B. George, Mr. Unni (Thampuratti Podi Vanavakasha Urukoottam Moopan), and Mr. Mani Varnan (Malappuram District Vanavakasha Urukoottam Coordination Committee Secretary). National Right to Information Coalition Coordinator Mr. Mujeeb, and Mahila Samakhya Society activists Mrs. Ajithamani and Saritha also spoke. Each of them highlighted the importance of the RTI Act in ensuring accountability and strengthening grassroots governance.
Following this, a dedicated session on the RTI Act was led by KILA Faculty Dr. Aby George. His session provided participants with an in depth understanding of the act and its practical applications.
Finally, the event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Community Foundation Vice President Mrs. Mini Thandangall. With 30 enthusiastic participants, the training program successfully equipped community members with valuable knowledge and tools to advocate for their rights effectively.
By fostering awareness of the Right to Information Act, Thoduve Community Foundation and Keystone Foundation continue to play a pivotal role in empowering forest rights groups and strengthening community led initiatives for sustainable development.
