Feb-Mar 2016, Perumpalam Island,Alappuzha Dt, Kerala
Looking across the waters from Perumpalam Island, one can glimpse the high-rises of Kochi, Kerala’s most prosperous city, 25 kilometers away. Yet, none of the wealth from the city seems to reach this remote island. Here, the 10,000 residents rely on fishing—an industry in decline—limited agriculture, and a few government work programs. The island has more than 10 temples, one doctor, and no petrol station. Despite these challenges, the spirit of the island is uplifted through Amma’s ongoing efforts to improve the lives of the local population.
Amma has had a presence on Perumpalam Island since 1998, when she built her first house here. This year, she is giving 14 houses to poor families on Perumpalam and the neighboring Achanthuruth Islands. These houses are scattered around the island, each adjacent to an existing hut where the families currently live. The terrain and remoteness of the sites present significant challenges—none of the houses are located directly on a road. Materials such as blocks, gravel, cement, and sand must be carried by hand or transported using small two-wheel trolleys. In several cases, the only access is via wooden canoe, further complicating logistics.
Supplying much of the labor and energy for this project are 64 Japanese students from the International Volunteer University Students Association (IVUSA). These students have dedicated their college break to helping with the construction of these homes. Their incredible group energy, ideal for the physical demands of the project, quickly inspired local residents to join in and help. This marks the 15th consecutive year that IVUSA has partnered with Amma on projects in India.
For the past 15 years, IVUSA volunteers have come to India to assist with Amma’s humanitarian projects, {news} particularly in building houses after disasters or in poor, remote villages. This year, the focus is on Perumpalam Island, near Alappuzha. Working in unison, the team of Japanese students, alongside locals, has become a powerful force of transformation.
What makes this year unique is the close proximity to Amritapuri and the involvement of Amrita University’s International Office. MBA students from Amrita University also joined the project on Perumpalam Island, conducting surveys to better understand the needs of this remote community. The collaboration fostered a lively cultural exchange between the Japanese students and students from the Amrita Engineering College, adding an educational and enriching dimension to the volunteer work.
After a week of heavy construction work in the Alappuzha District, the IVUSA volunteers have helped 14 poor families move closer to receiving new “Amma Houses.” Living among the local people, the volunteers have experienced the simple rural life that few outsiders ever get to see. Their efforts, combined with Amma’s compassion and vision, are creating lasting change in this remote corner of Kerala.
They also come to Amritapuri to experience Amma’s Darshan and ashram life on the final days of their two week seva adventure.
-Dass
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