Date: 25th August 2025
Organized by: Keystone Foundation & Swami Vivekananda Youth Movement (SVYM) Venue: Nagarahole Tribal Hamlet Area, H.D. Kote, Mysuru.
On August 25, 2025, the Keystone Foundation, in collaboration with the Swami Vivekananda Youth Movement (SVYM), organized a Learning and Sharing Meeting with the tribal communities living around the Nagarahole landscape. The objective of the meeting was to provide a platform for dialogue between tribal community members, local governance representatives, and civil society organizations. This gathering aimed to share knowledge, highlight available government schemes, discuss local needs, and encourage community members to participate actively in their own development.
Objectives of the Meeting
1. To inform tribal households about government programs and schemes that can improve their living standards.
2. To strengthen community institutions, especially Mahila Sanghas, and highlight their role in empowerment.
3. To preserve and acknowledge the traditional knowledge and cultural practices of the tribal communities.
4. To promote education and awareness among children and parents.
5. To create a space for open dialogue and knowledge sharing between different Hadi (hamlet) members.
Proceedings and Key Discussions
Government Schemes and Panchayath Support
Sri Venkatesh D.B., Kuppe Panchayath Member, addressed the gathering and explained in detail the various benefits provided by the Panchayath. He highlighted essential services such as drinking water facilities, electricity connections, new housing schemes, road development, construction of cow sheds, and provision of individual
household latrines. His talk emphasized how tribal families can directly benefit by approaching the Panchayath and utilizing these opportunities.
Documentation and Procedures
Sri Malaswamy, Panchayath Secretary, explained the step-by-step documentation process required for availing the schemes. He clarified issues related to application forms, proof of identity, and timelines for sanctioning benefits. This session helped clear misconceptions and made the process more transparent for community members. ∙ Women’s Voices and Tribal Welfare
Smt. Puttamma, representing the Sigur Hadi Mahila Sangha, spoke about the importance of women’s participation in decision-making and community development. She shared how Mahila Sanghas can play a crucial role in accessing schemes related to livelihoods, healthcare, nutrition, and self-help initiatives. Her talk also encouraged women to raise their voices and work collectively for their rights.
Traditional Knowledge and Cultural Values
Sri Komal Kumar, Keystone Foundation’s Field Coordinator, emphasized the value of traditional knowledge, practices, and rituals of the tribal community. He stressed that while modern development is important, cultural heritage and ecological wisdom must be preserved for future generations.
∙ Education and Children’s Development
Sri Mahesh, a School Teacher from Golur Hadi, spoke on the importance of children’s education in shaping the future of the community. He encouraged parents to ensure regular school attendance and highlighted government support like midday meals, scholarships, and free textbooks. He also reminded the gathering that education is a tool for empowerment and social progress.
The meeting saw the active participation of around 50 community members from different Hadis,Community members individually shared their experiences, traditional knowledge, and immediate needs. Many highlighted the importance of better access to health facilities, improved roads, skill development for youth, and livelihood opportunities. The interactive discussions allowed both men and women to express their concerns openly. The platform also enabled cross-learning between different hamlets, thereby strengthening solidarity among the tribal settlements.
Key Outcomes
1. Awareness Creation: The meeting increased awareness about Panchayath benefits and he documentation process required to access them.
2. Women’s Empowerment: Mahila Sangha representatives encouraged greater participation of women in local governance and development.
3. Recognition of Traditional Knowledge: Keystone highlighted the importance of safeguarding cultural heritage while embracing new opportunities.
4. Educational Focus: Emphasis was placed on ensuring children’s education and reducing dropout rates.
5. Community Voice: Members collectively identified needs such as healthcare, skill development, and livelihood support.
The Learning and Sharing Meeting held on 25th August 2025 successfully brought together tribal community members, Panchayath representatives, and civil society organizations on a common platform of dialogue and cooperation. By combining government support, community institutions, and NGO facilitation, the gathering reinforced the need for inclusive development, cultural preservation, and social empowerment.
This initiative demonstrated the importance of participatory processes in addressing the needs of marginalized communities and ensuring that they have access to essential services and opportunities for growth. Keystone Foundation and SVYM will continue to support such collaborative engagements to strengthen the voices of tribal communities in the Nagarahole region.
