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Environment

🌿 12th Mulam Santha – 14-June-2025

Hosted by Grama Bharathi & CSR Memorial Foundation

📅 Date: 14th June 2025 (Second Saturday)
📍 Venue: Marri Krishna Hall, Tarnaka
🕙 Time: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM

🌱 What is Mulam Santha?

Mulam Santha is a unique, monthly rural market celebrating India’s roots — promoting sustainable living, natural farming, and traditional livelihoods.

It is a space where farmers, artisans, handloom weavers, millet entrepreneurs, khadi promoters, and eco-conscious producers directly meet consumers.

🛍️ What to Expect This Time

✨ Highlights of the Santha:

  • Organic Millets: laddus, murukkus, papads, traditional snacks
  • Pure Cold-Pressed Oils (Ganuga)
  • Bio-Enzymes, Panchagavya, Herbal Remedies
  • Cow dung & Neem-based natural products
  • Clay pots & eco-friendly terracotta jewelry
  • Khadi & Handloom Sarees, “Gollabhama” Sarees, Natural Fabrics
  • Desi Seeds, Medicinal Plants & Gardening Tools
  • Handcrafted jute bags & household essentials
  • Literature, folklore, cultural roots & craft communities

🎯 A true village-to-home market experience.

🍛 Special Farm-to-Table Lunch – ₹150 Only!

Enjoy a nutritious and delicious meal made with organic desi rice, rooted in tradition and packed with goodness.

🙌 Gratitude & Acknowledgement

We are proud to celebrate the 1st successful anniversary of Mulam Santha!
A heartfelt thank you to the incredible Badruka Volunteers for your continued support and effort.

🧭 Join the Movement – Go Back to the Roots

Bring your friends and family!
Reconnect with nature, tradition, and healthy living through this one-of-a-kind experience.

Hyderabad Declared Over-Exploited District for Groundwater Use

Hyderabad, June 2025 — In a concerning development for the future of water sustainability, Hyderabad has been officially categorized as an “over-exploited” (OE) district for groundwater use by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, according to its latest groundwater status report for 2023–24.

Of the 16 mandals in Hyderabad district, 11 have been marked as over-exploited, four as ‘critical’, and one mandal as ‘semi-critical’. The findings indicate a growing imbalance between groundwater extraction and recharge—especially in the eastern parts of the city.

Charminar Tops in Over-Exploitation

Among the mandals, Charminar recorded the highest groundwater over-exploitation at 117.1%, while Tirumalagiri in Secunderabad reported the lowest at 75.5%. Here’s a snapshot of the exploitation rates in some key mandals:

  • Golconda – 135%
  • Ameerpet – 126.7%
  • Asifnagar – 127.8%
  • Saidabad – 129.7%
  • Himayatnagar – 116.6%
  • Khairatabad – 106.9%
  • Musheerabad – 100.6%
  • Amberpet – 106.8%
  • Shaikpet – 101%
  • Secunderabad – 101.9%
  • Nampally & Marredpally – 99.7%
  • Bandlaguda – 97.1%
  • Bahadurpura – 96%

What’s Driving the Decline?

The survey, conducted under the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) guidelines, revealed that unregulated drilling by private rigs and non-compliance with the Water, Land and Trees Act (WALTA) are major contributors to groundwater depletion. Additionally, uncontrolled urban construction continues to reduce recharge areas and increase demand.

A senior official from the Ground Water Department (GWD) said, “The situation is alarming. We are now tasked with drafting a special action plan to preserve and augment groundwater sources.”

Low Rainfall Worsens the Crisis

The situation has been exacerbated by a 24.6% rainfall deficit. As of May 2025, Hyderabad received 828.4 mm of rainfall, compared to the normal 1,099.6 mm. The shortfall is further straining the already-stressed groundwater table.

Next Steps: Regulation and Sustainability

The Ministry of Jal Shakti has also directed the implementation of Ground Water Extraction Rules across the district. This includes levying a cess and extraction charges on groundwater users to discourage excessive withdrawal and encourage sustainable usage.

Efforts are now underway to enforce better regulation, improve public awareness, and shift toward sustainable water management practices before the crisis deepens further.

The Legacy Weaver: Biography of Ramesh Ramanadham

Ramesh Ramanadham

Crafts Revivalist | Textile Designer | Natural Fibres Expert | Handloom Advocate

Ramesh Ramanadham is a celebrated Indian designer, crafts revivalist, and subject matter expert with over 37 years of pioneering work in handlooms, handicrafts, natural fibres, and natural dyes. Deeply rooted in tradition and driven by innovation, his mission is to revive, restore, and sustain India’s rich artisanal legacy, while creating sustainable livelihoods and socially connected ecosystems for craftsmen.

Core Contributions & Expertise

  • Spearheading the revival of naturally coloured cottons to uplift Khadi, restoring its traditional processes and equipment.
  • Revived the 400-year-old handmade paper industry in Aurangabad with INTACH.
  • Leading the holistic revival of Cheriyal Dolls, an ancient craft of Telangana, focusing on eco-friendly materials, story-based narratives, and sustainable market strategies.
  • Engaged with over 36,900 individuals through seminars and workshops, spreading awareness about India’s cultural heritage in crafts.
  • Empanelled designer with NIMSME, and a regular speaker at national and international platforms.

Pioneering Product Innovations

Ramesh holds the distinction of being the first in India (specifically combined Andhra Pradesh in the 1990s) to commercially develop several unique fabrics and applications, including:

  • Cotton-Jute, Cotton-Flax, Cotton-Linen blends in Single and Double IKKAT
  • Kalamkari prints on Madras checks, brushed fabrics, upholstery, and knitted fabric
  • Introduction of eco-textiles like vegetable-dyed handlooms, Katari Wool, Cotton-Lycra, Cotton-Wool blends, and others.
  • Extensive experimentation with natural fibres like Ramie, Banana, Pineapple, Mesta, Sisal, and wild grasses.

Social Impact

  • Conducts monthly workshops on languishing crafts and natural dye techniques.
  • Supported over 2,800 artisan families across India during the pandemic with ration and safety kits.
  • Worked with student and artisan communities across NIFT, NID, IITs, and craft clusters nationwide.

Early Journey & Legacy

Beginning his journey in 1987 with flavoured potato chips, Ramesh pivoted to handlooms after witnessing weavers’ distress. He co-founded Leela Handlooms, later transitioning to R S Krafts in 2015 — a tribute to his great-grandfather, Ramanadham Ramalingam Sr., who was honoured by King George V at the British Empire Exhibition in 1924 for his weaving prowess and community work (including building the Ramanadham Canal in Kandukur, Prakasam District).

Recognition & Awards

  • Vishisht Seva Puraskar on the Centenary of Dr. Marri Chenna Reddy
  • Honoured by the Telangana Government in 2022 as “Eminent Personality in Handlooms and Handicrafts”
  • Recipient of the IDEA Asia Award (2020)

Global & Collaborative Engagement

Worked with leading international brands such as Guess Jeans, Diesel, Camel, Grape, and Zuzka, bringing traditional Indian crafts to a global audience.

Media & Web Presence

Featured in multiple media outlets:

Bringing Colour Back to Cotton: Ramanadham Ramesh’s Revival Journey

Cotton is the most versatile and widely used fiber in textiles. Bharatavani has introduced cotton to the world. India is the largest exporters of handlooms to the world. We were exporting finest muslins of different shades to the globe till the advent of industrialisation. Most of the fabrics were naturally dyed using our traditional dyeing methods and a specific small portion of it was naturally coloured cotton, where in the cotton fibere attaines colour naturally by birth from the plant only. We had several naturally coloured cottons that ruled the market earlier. Unfortunately we lost ground over the last century. Inspite of that the naturally coloured RED cotton sustained for a very long duration, but now even that is losing ground quickly. Gollaprolu Red cotton and Konda Patti from srikakulam area are well known red cotton varieties struggling to sustain their stand in present world as the versatile definition of KHADI has changed. Center of this shift is Ramanadham Ramesh, a craft revivalist and eco-conscious farmer from Hyderabad, who is bringing indigenous coloured cotton back into the spotlight.

Ramesh cultivates 12 varieties of native Indian cotton. Unlike genetically modified hybrid cotton, desi (indigenous) cotton varieties are resilient, require less water, and do not need heavy chemical fertilizers or pesticides. They are naturally pest-resistant to a greater extent and better suited for organic farming. He has RED – 8 varieties, GREEN – in stabilising process and YELLOW – Preemptive stage. He says there are many other shades available, but he is not holding at present.

His efforts go beyond farming. Ramesh is actively promoting the traditional and sustainable desi cotton wicks for oil lamps to making hand-spun yarn for a healthy living. he demonstrates how every part of the cotton plant can be valuable.

To revive this traditional crop, Ramesh distributes native cotton seeds to interested farmers and provides them with the knowledge to grow these crops organically in a mixed cultivation method. His mission is not just agricultural—it’s cultural and ecological. He believes that reviving desi colourd cotton can give required impetus to the dwindling village-based traditional hand spun, hand woven khadi industries, create employment, and encourage eco-friendly lifestyles.

His work has gained attention for showing how traditional practices can align with modern sustainability goals in the present day requirement of minimalist eco conscious lifestyle. With increased awareness and support, desi cotton could play a major role in reducing environmental impact while uplifting rural economies.

Contact for seeds and guidance:
📞 Ramanadham Ramesh – 94400 55266.
Email: [email protected]

VMYF organised Balala Vivekotsav-2025 on 2nd February, 2025

Vande Mataram! VMYF organised Balala Vivekotsav-2025 on 2nd February, 2025, Sunday, at Marri Krishna Hall, Tarnaka. Around 300 students of 8th & 9th classes from various schools participated in the event.

Elocution Competition on “Swami Vivekananda’s Life”, Skit Competition on ‘Any Social Message” and Quiz Competition on “Balala Ramayanam” were conducted on the occasion.

It was an outstanding display of talent by the Children. Prizes were given away to the Winners in the Prize Distribution Ceremony.

Sri Yagna Narayana, Sri Sita Rama Somayajulu & Sri V.Ramachander Rao acted as the judges for the Program.

The event was co-sponsored by CSR Foundation & Srikara Foundation.

Painting – Theme – Farmers

On 22nd December 2024, from 10 AM to 3 PM at Dr. Marri Chenna Reddy Memorial Rock Garden, Beside Indira Park, Hyderabad, a painting session themed “Farmers” will be held. Led by professionals, this educative and engaging event aims to highlight the significance of farmers and farming through art, showcasing their vital role in our lives.

For more details: Seva Mala – 2024

Hyderabad: 3,000 Secure Jobs on Spot at Swadeshi Mela

Hyderabad: 3,000 Secure Jobs on Spot at Swadeshi Mela

Hello Hyderabad: The Swadeshi Mela, jointly organised by Swadeshi Jagaran Manch and Swavalambi Bharat Abhiyan, was inaugurated on Wednesday at People’s Plaza in Hyderabad. The event also hosted the Swadeshi Job Mela which will run until October 27.

The ceremony began with Governor Jishnu Dev Varma cutting the ribbon to officially open the event. Addressing the gathering, Governor Varma shared his thoughts on Swadeshi, calling it more than an economic policy but a guiding principle for India’s journey towards self-reliance. “Swadeshi has a deep connection with India’s identity, and the nation’s progress, from the freedom movement to the present-day goal of Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India),” the Governor said. He also admired the organizers for their efforts to promote local artisans, producers and businesses through events like Swadeshi Mela.

C. A. R. Sundaram, national convener of Swadeshi Jagaran Manch, echoed the Governor’s sentiments, noting that the “Vocal for Local” initiative has turned Swadeshi into a national movement. He noted how such platforms allow people to appreciate the beauty of local goods and foster economic growth across states. Sundaram pointed out that the Manch continues to advise the government on policies that affect Indian entrepreneurs globally.

The fair hosts 334 stalls representing states like Kashmir, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, and with food stalls included, the total count exceeds 400. The offerings range from Khadi India products to tribes India by the ministry of tribal affairs. From cotton blouses from Bengal to traditional wooden Etikoppaka and Kondapalli toys.

Also present were individuals like Yashwitha Reddy who had an impressive collection of sarees featuring hand-painted artworks and woven designs. “I work on these with my mother-in-law who has been doing this for 30 years. I only began helping her last year,” she shared. Her stall also featured children’s clothes, dupattas and kurtas with similar handcrafted artistry. The sarees, adorned with intricate Madhubani-inspired paintings stood out.

The Swadeshi Job Mela attracted over 16,572 candidates, with 3,000 having secured jobs on the spot. Governor Varma personally distributed offer letters to successful candidates while another 4,500 advanced to the next round of interviews. The jobs were offered by 142 companies, including Cognizant, Tech Mahindra and Genpact with salary packages ranging from Rs 2.5 lakh to Rs 5 lakh per annum. Among the dignitaries present were Harish Babu, state convener of Swadeshi Jagaran Manch Telangana, Madhuram Reddy, chairman of Gangothri Developers and G. Ramesh Goud, state convener of Swavalambi Bharat Abhiyan.

Source : DC

Blood Donation Camp

On the occasion of Dr. M. Chenna Reddy’s Death Anniversary,Dr. M. Chenna Reddy Memorial Trust facilitated a blood donation camp organized by Arohi Blood Bank & Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Society, Blood Banks. Thalassemia affected children need blood every 2-3 weeks due to hemoglobin count deficiency and 1000 children need support through blood donation. This camp has been hosting 100’s of blood donors every year for the last few years. Thalassemia children have an even more pressing need for blood given the pandemic situation.

Shri Krishna Reddy is coordinating the blood donation camp for the trust, including Mrs. Vasudha Devi, Mr. Sudarshan Reddy, Mrs. Nirvana, Kumari.Kavya, Kumari. Savitri, Mr. Shasidhar Reddy, Mr. Ravinder Reddy and many others will be present. Other senior leaders, followers and well-wishers of Dr. M. Chenna Reddy were present. Senior officers of blood banks were present along with the teams.

There were many youths from various NGOs. AV College – NCC & NSS, Online Blood Donors (OBD), Rajmata Foundation, ASWA, Janma Foundation, Yuva Seva, YFS, Stas and common people enthusiastically participated and supported. We have _ voters.

Date : Every Year December 2

Blood Donation Camp on 2nd December 2023 @ Dr Marri Chenna Reddy Memorial Rock Garden, Indira Park, Hyderabad

clay ganesha

Clay Ganesha

  1. Environmental concerns: PoP idols take years to dissolve in water and harm aquatic life. Clay idols, on the other hand, are biodegradable and dissolve quickly.
  2. Water pollution: Immersion of PoP idols in water bodies leads to increased acidity and heavy metal content, harming aquatic life.
  3. Promoting sustainability: Clay Ganesha awareness encourages the use of natural, eco-friendly materials, reducing waste and pollution.
  4. Preserving traditional craftsmanship: Clay idol-making supports local artisans and preserves traditional craftsmanship.
  5. Raising awareness: Initiatives and campaigns educate people about the environmental impact of their choices and promote a shift towards eco-friendly practices.

By choosing clay Ganesha idols, we can celebrate the festival in a more sustainable and environmentally conscious way!