Idukki: The festive spirit of Onam was beautifully intertwined with a milestone celebration as the Green Valley Development Society, the social service wing of the Kottayam Archdiocese in Idukki district, hosted a grand Self-Help Group Jubilee and Onam festivities across various villages. The event honored groups completing twenty-five years of dedicated self-help activities, celebrating their long-standing contributions to community development.
The Mariapuram Panchayat celebrations took center stage at St. Joseph Parish Hall, Narakakkanam, with Green Valley Development Society President Fr. Thomas Animoottil inaugurating the event. The program was presided over by Secretary Fr. Sujith Kanjirathumoottil, setting the tone for a day of recognition, culture, and communal joy.
Among the dignitaries, Mariapuram Grama Panchayat Vice President Bincy Robi delivered the jubilee message, highlighting the transformative impact of self-help groups in empowering local communities. Speeches by Green Valley Development Society Program Officer Cyriac Paramundayil, Program Coordinator Sister Jiji Velinchayil, and other key members including Merin Abraham, Justin Nandikunnel, Biju Augustine, Animator Mini Johnny, and Bindu Rony reflected on the journey of the self-help groups and their vital role in fostering social cohesion.
The celebration featured a colorful array of competitions, cultural performances, and a traditional Onam feast, blending festivity with recognition. Attendees enjoyed performances that showcased local talent while paying tribute to the enduring spirit of cooperation and service embodied by the self-help groups. The event concluded on a joyful note, leaving a lasting impression of community solidarity and cultural pride.