Kottayam: The Syro-Malabar Youth Movement (SMYM) of Pala Diocese has rolled out a new initiative aimed at equipping young people with essential emergency response skills. The project, titled ‘Karuthal’ (Care Plan), is being carried out in partnership with Pala Mar Sliwa Medicity and focuses on Basic Life Support (BLS) training for parish-based youth groups.
The first phase of training was inaugurated at Loreth Mata Church Hall, Chakkampuzha, under the leadership of the SMYM Ramapuram Forona and its Chakkampuzha unit. The session sought to impart practical knowledge to participants on how to act swiftly and effectively during life-threatening emergencies, highlighting the movement’s commitment to both social responsibility and community care.
The inaugural session was chaired by Gefin Roy, President of SMYM Ramapuram Forona, while Anwin Soni Odachuvattil, President of SMYM Pala Diocese, formally launched the initiative. In his address, he underscored the importance of preparing youth to respond not just to spiritual and social challenges, but also to medical emergencies within their families and communities.
Diocesan leaders including Treasurer Edwin Jais and Secretary Benison Sunny participated in the event, alongside Chakkampuzha Unit President Jibin Thomas, who welcomed the gathering. Neetu George and Christy also addressed the participants, emphasizing the role of trained youth in saving lives during accidents, health crises, and other emergencies.
With this project, the Pala Diocese’s youth movement envisions spreading life-saving skills across parish communities, ensuring that young volunteers are prepared to act as first responders until professional medical help arrives. Organizers confirmed that similar training sessions will soon be extended to other foronas and units of SMYM in the diocese.
The ‘Karuthal’ initiative thus combines the youthful energy of SMYM with the medical expertise of Pala Mar Sliwa Medicity, creating a powerful platform where faith, service, and practical skills converge for the well-being of society.