Centre for Environmental Protection & Cultural Exchange

Geesugandi on Solar Power

Arun Raj — Sat, 07 Aug 2010 14:14:12 +0000

Geesugandi a tribal hamlet in Nallamala forest was light up using a Solar Power grid.

First Steps in Farming

Arun Raj — Thu, 29 Apr 2010 16:39:37 +0000

We had substantial success after introducing farming and its benefits to the tribes in Geesugandi, Nallamala forest. With an aim to establish sustainable and organic farming, we taught them the basics of agriculture, simple techniques, irrigation methods and possible ways to use the available land for cultivation. We also hope to bring awareness amongst the tribesmen on toxic free farming and prevent ecological damage. We are glad to see the initial results, and it can only ‘grow greener‘ from here. Our entire effort was not only an enriching experience but a fulfilling one as well.

A night with Chenchus

Arun Raj — Thu, 01 Apr 2010 03:34:44 +0000

Who are Chenchus?

The Chenchus are an aboriginal tribe of the central hill regions of Andhra Pradesh, India. Their traditional way of life has been based on hunting and gathering. In general, the Chenchu relationship to nontribal people has been largely symbiotic. Some Chenchus have continued to specialize in collecting forest products for sale to non-tribal people.

The Chenchus are referred to as one of the Primitive Tribal Groups that are still dependent on forests and most clans do not cultivate land but hunt for a living. Of the 32 tribes found in Andhra Pradesh Chenchus are the most underprivileged and live their lives in extreme conditions.

Geesugandi is a remote Chenchu tribal hamlet deep in Nallamala forest. It is located in Mahaboonagar district and about 45kms from Anupu village which is 15kms from Nagarjuna Sagar. With no road access, a 3 hour boat journey upstream of river Krishna towards Srisailam takes you to the destiny.

With delightful rock formations whilst the ride to this remote hamlet, Geesugandi makes a perfect spot to banish your stress. An experience to know more about, one of the fading tribes of India.

Please click here to read more

Building – Children of the Forest School

Arun Raj — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 09:11:23 +0000

Finally, the vocational school, in Saarlapalli, for the children of the deprived Chenchu tribes has found its ground. The school is constructed with the locally available material and labor from the village. The members of CEPCE have come together to fund the COF school. For more details of COF and how it functions please visit Children of the Forest.

If you like to contribute to COF by giving funds or volunteering in our operations, please contact us at childrenoftheforest@gmail.com or +91 9866703785 / +91 9885127026 / +91 9000088894

EA Sports for Breathe

Arun Raj — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 07:04:29 +0000

A team of 32 from EA Sports have come together to initiate the first ever movement to save Mallelatheertham. A water fall known for its crystal clear water stream, lush green forest and beautiful mountains, often frequented by many families and trekking enthusiasts from Hyderabad and other surrounding places. In recent years however this scenic spot has become marred through pollution. It has become a dump yard for garbage – plastics, broken alcohol bottles, and left over food.

Breathe has decided to step forward to restore Mallelatheertam to its original beauty and to create awareness amongst the locals. On January 30-31, 2010, the EA Sports team have come forward “Clean Mallelatheertam” by collecting all the garbage. Other Activities as a part of this 2 day program;
1. Cleaning up Saarlapalli Village.
2. Painting the Village School
3. Health Education Program in the villages
4. First aid against Snake bite.

Maiden Strokes at Sarlapalli

Jagan GVS — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 09:54:22 +0000

In an attempt to get the youngsters together we formed teams to play cricket. The outcome has been amazing. As the day passed by we had more joiners. Our task to bring a bonding between the youth was cut out, Cricket did the trick for us.

Kadalivanam Trek

Arun Raj — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 08:02:46 +0000

Kadalivanam is situated in the jungles of Srisailam. Srisailam is a peaceful town about 232 km South of Hyderabad on the banks of river Krishna. Srisailam is a unique forest sanctuary apart from being an important pilgrimage town. It is a wonderful destination for it makes a refreshing weekend break from Hyderabad. The forest of Srisailam is the hub of the largest tiger reserve in India. The reserve of Srisailam spread over 3568 sq km shelters animals and birds of different species.

They are as follows:

Blackbuck

Panthers

Tiger

Chinkara

Spotted deer

Nilgai Pangolins

Leopards

Soft-shelled turtles

Porcupines

Crocodiles

Birds Snakes Indian

Python

Monster Lizards

For further details click here.