A CRC-level science fair on mathematics, science, and the environment was enthusiastically organized on November 12, 2025, at Ambheta Vidyamandir Primary School in Ambheta village, Gandevi taluka.
Students from 21 schools in Gandevi taluka participated in the fair. Talented students from various schools mesmerized everyone by presenting their ideas through experiments, models, and exhibitions. The teachers and guests present were delighted to see the children's creative thinking and interest in science.
The main objective of the science fair was to develop students' curiosity and inventiveness about science and to provide an understanding of the application of scientific knowledge in daily life. Through this program, the children gained a true understanding of science.
The guests and teachers present at the event praised the children's efforts, saying, "Today's young students are tomorrow's scientists. Their ideas hold new directions for the country's development."
For the past six years, the ECHO Foundation has been continuously contributing to such educational programs to encourage children. This year too, the Foundation honored all the child scientists and their mentoring teachers with trophies, gifts, and certificates.
On this occasion, the CRC official expressed his gratitude to all the participating students, teachers, and the Eco Foundation, saying, "Such activities increase children's interest in science and inspire them to make new discoveries."
Support was provided by Mr. Sandeep Sir, Mr. Mehul Sir, Miss Harshvi, Mrs. Praveena, Mr. Sandeep Kumar, Mr. Hitesh Sir, Mrs. Hemlata, Mrs. Preeti, Mrs. Manisha, Mrs. Shila, and Mr. Mahesh Bhai.
This science fair proved to be a beautiful combination of education, experimentation, and inspiration for the children.
Spreading smiles at Brahmand Old Age Home - A memorable visit by Eco Foundation "Life is short... and while life goes its whole way, one day this old age too will pass. Yet, what matters most is the love, respect and companionship we can give to each other."
On 14th September 2025, Eco Foundation members visited Brahmand Old Age Home, Vajreshwari Road, Wada. This heartfelt visit was made possible by the generous support of our dear friend Mr. Amit Poipkar and most importantly, the clothes donated by Mrs. Pragya Madam Kedia. Her thoughtful contribution through the Eco Foundation team brought joy and comfort to the elderly. We express our heartfelt gratitude to her for this noble deed.
A day of sharing love and togetherness
Many elderly people living in old age homes are in a difficult situation—loneliness, frailty and lack of family companionship often weigh heavy on their hearts. However, this day brought smiles back to their faces. Along with clothes, our team also distributed snacks to them and spent valuable time interacting with them.
We listened to their stories, refreshed their old memories and most importantly, made them realize that they have not been forgotten. The joy on their faces was the biggest reward for us. Their blessings reminded us that giving time and love is as important as giving material help.
Our Support Team
The success of this trip was possible due to the dedication of our team members. Along with Mr. Amit Poipkar, Manuel Gaonde, Sandeep Bhalekar, Ashok Naya, Mohan Thapa, Vilashbhai and Shekharbhai were also with us, who actively participated and supported this initiative with enthusiasm.
The program was conducted under the dedication and leadership of Mr. Arvindbhai Viras, Chairman, Eco Foundation, whose vision guides our mission of serving humanity. Special thanks to Mr. Ashok bhai and Mohan bhai who arranged food for the entire team and made sure our day was complete in every way.
A message for all of us
Visiting an old age home is not just charity—it is about understanding the value of empathy, compassion and human relationships. The elderly we met were once the pillars of families and society, and now they deserve care, love and respect.
As the saying goes, “We cannot add years to their life, but we can add life to their years.” Eco Foundation believes in following the same path—spreading kindness, hope and happiness as much as possible.
Eco Foundation’s Creative Celebration at Undach Dhodiawad School
Keeping in mind the spirit of devotion and celebration, Eco Foundation organized a beautiful and creative program at Undach Dhodiawad Varg School in Undach village near Bilimora.
The program was titled “Shri Ganpati Ji Painting Program”, which blended spirituality, creativity, and culture.
India is known as a country of spirituality and unity. Its festivals spread devotion, brotherhood, and joy among people. Whether it is Republic Day, Makar Sankranti, Holi, Krishna Janmashtami, Ganesh Utsav, Navratri, or Diwali, each festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm across the nation.
Among these, Ganesh Utsav holds a special place. During this festival, Lord Ganapati is established in homes and societies, prayers and hymns are offered, and the collective faith of people shines brightly.
Inspired by this devotional atmosphere, Eco Foundation organized a painting competition where students from classes 1 to 5 participated enthusiastically. The children were given the task of drawing pictures of Shri Ganapati Ji. With their innocent imagination and vibrant colors, they brought Ganpati Bappa to life on paper. Each painting reflected devotion, joy, and creativity.
On this occasion, the teachers — Shri Maheshbhai and Shri Maganbhai — explained the significance of Ganesh Puja and the importance of Lord Ganesha in life. Thus, the event went beyond being a simple painting competition; it became a spiritual learning experience for the children.
At the conclusion of the program, Eco Foundation encouraged every child by distributing gifts, certificates, and snacks. The happiness and excitement on the children’s faces made the event truly memorable.
Such initiatives are not only entertaining but also help in the holistic development of children, instilling in them cultural values and creative thinking. By sowing the seeds of devotion, creativity, and tradition, Eco Foundation is nurturing future citizens who will grow with strong values and cultural pride.
The
Old Man... A reflection on abandonment, compassion, and the power of presence
Recently
we read in the newspapers that a man from Malad, Mumbai, who was carrying a pot
of rum, was abandoned by his grandmother near a dustbin in Goregaon, as his
grandmother was suffering from cancer and was unable to take care of him. The
son was caught and action was taken with the intervention of the police.
Hearing
this story brings tears to my eyes and makes me hate that son.
This
incident shook our hearts. It is not just a story of neglect - it is a
reflection of a broken system, broken families and the painful loneliness that
many of our elderly suffer in their final years. The image of that helpless old
man thrown away like garbage left an impression of sadness and anger in our
minds. How can one abandon those who raised us, loved us and sacrificed their
own comfort for our future? It is easy to feel hatred towards the son in that
story. But beyond that initial feeling, perhaps we should also ask ourselves
what kind of society we are creating, where stories like this are constantly
unfolding. Are we so busy with our lives that we have forgotten the basic
values of gratitude, care and responsibility?
Against
this grim backdrop, something very meaningful happened.
On
Sunday, June 29, the ECHO Foundation team visited an old age home on
Vajreshwari Road, about 40 kilometres from Mumbai. It was our first visit in a
long time, and it could not have come at a more relevant time. The old age home
is a humble but warm place, home to about 35 elderly persons – each with a
world of stories within them.
Some
of the elderly had come there voluntarily. Perhaps they wanted peace in their
old age, or perhaps they wanted to avoid being a burden on their family. But
one truth stood out clearly: no parent ever wishes bad for their children. No
matter how difficult life is, parents’ hearts beat with love, care and silent
blessings for their children.
When
we arrived, their faces lit up – not just because of the food, snacks, and
cakes we brought – but because someone had come to listen to them. Someone had
come to see them, sit with them, laugh with them. In a world where they are
often invisible, we made them feel seen, heard, and respected.
Amit
Poipkar’s madam had arranged for grains (rice, lentils, oil, flour), and our
dedicated volunteers – Amit, Manuel, Sandeep, Ashok and Mohan – joined hands to
spread joy. Together, we spoke for hours with residents, listening to their
stories of youth, struggle, love and loss. Their smiles were priceless; their
eyes filled with joy that no material thing can bring.
These
are the forgotten heroes – people who raised families, built homes, held jobs
and quietly contributed to society. Now they sit quietly in corners, cherishing
memories and hoping someone will remember them.
This
experience left a deep mark on our hearts. It reminded us that service is not
just charity – it is humanity. It means giving people what they deserve:
respect, love and time.
Caring
for those who once cared for us.
Raising
our voices when we see injustice against the elderly.
Making
time to visit an old age home or call our elders, even if it is just once a
month.
Raising
awareness and creating a culture where the elderly are respected and protected,
not abandoned.
We
should not wait for another news to shake our conscience. Let us act now, with
compassion, courage, and love.
Because
one day we too will grow old. And when that day comes, we would like someone to
remember us – not with pity, but with respect and love.
World Environment Day Celebration: A Joint Effort for a
Greener Tomorrow
Location: Dhodiawad Varg School
Organized by: ECHO Foundation in collaboration
with Dhodiawad Varg School
On the occasion of World Environment Day, the ECHO
Foundation and Dhodiawad Varg School joined hands to organize a tree plantation
drive around the school premises. The initiative, which adopted the Miyawaki
method, aimed to create a mini-forest, also known as Miyawaki Jungle Paton.
This collective effort brought together students, parents, and teachers,
highlighting the importance of environmental conservation and community
involvement.
The Miyawaki Method: A Key to Sustainable Afforestation
The Miyawaki method is a widely recognized afforestation
technique that involves planting multiple species of trees in close proximity
to each other. This approach promotes rapid growth, enhances carbon
sequestration, and supports local wildlife, resulting in a dense, biodiverse
forest ecosystem.
A Collaborative Effort
The tree plantation drive saw enthusiastic participation
from the school community, with students, parents, and teachers working
together to plant a variety of tree species. This joint effort not only
contributed to the growth of a mini-forest but also instilled a sense of
responsibility and ownership among the participants.
Empowering Young Minds
The event served as a practical learning experience for the
students, who gained valuable insights into the significance of environmental
conservation and sustainable development. By engaging in hands-on activities,
they developed a deeper appreciation for the importance of trees in maintaining
ecological balance and mitigating climate change.
A Step towards a Greener Tomorrow
The ECHO Foundation's initiative aligns with global efforts
to combat environmental degradation and promote sustainability. By involving
the local community in tree plantation activities, the foundation aims to raise
awareness about the importance of preserving natural resources and inspire
collective action.
Conclusion
The success of this program can be attributed to the
collective efforts of all stakeholders, including the students, parents,
teachers, and the ECHO Foundation. As the Miyawaki Jungle Paton grows, it is
expected to become a thriving ecosystem, supporting local biodiversity and
serving as a model for sustainable environmental practices. This initiative
sets a commendable example of community-driven environmental conservation,
demonstrating that even small actions can collectively make a significant difference.
Career Guidance Seminar
organised by Eco Foundation and Mahalaxmi Vikas Seva Samiti - A Step Towards
Bright Future
An
important and inspiring Career Guidance Seminar was jointly organised by
ECHO Foundation and Mahalaxmi Vikas Seva Samiti in Mumbai on May 31, 2025. The aim
of the event was to guide students of 10th, 12th and college level to choose
the right academic and career path.
The
seminar was addressed by renowned career counsellor Mr. Hiren Pasad who gave
in-depth information about the various academic streams and opportunities
available in today's dynamic world. His presentation was comprehensive,
engaging and designed to meet the practical concerns of both students and their
parents.
🧠 Discussion on Major Streams
🎨 1. Kala - Ancient Education System
Shri
Hiren Pasad started with a practical explanation of Kala stream, explaining
that it is one of the oldest education systems in India. He traced this back to
the Gurukul system, where boys were taught 64 types of arts and girls 70 types
of arts, including music, dance, literature, painting, sculpture, debate,
ethics and leadership. He emphasised that today's arts stream also fosters
creativity and offers careers in journalism, law, languages, psychology, public
administration and more.
🧪 2. Science - Path to Technology and
Medicine
The
science stream was explained as the gateway to professional fields like
engineering, medicine, architecture and research. Students were informed about
various entrance exams like:
·JEE
(Joint Entrance Examination) for engineering,
·NEET
(National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) for medical,
·NATA
(National Aptitude Test in Architecture) for architecture.
He
explained that each stream within science – PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Maths) or
PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) – opens different doors and explained the
importance of preparing well in advance.
💼 3. Commerce – The World of Business and
Finance
Mr.
Hiren Pasad discussed commerce in detail as the foundation of the banking,
finance and business sectors. He gave information about career options such as:
·CA
(Chartered Accountant)
·CS
(Company Secretary)
·ICWA
(Cost & Works Accountancy)
He
also discussed B.Com, BBA, MBA, CFA and other finance-related professional
courses, their admission processes and long-term benefits.
📘 General and Vocational Courses
Apart
from the main streams, students were informed about several vocational courses,
such as:
·B.Sc
in Computer Science and IT
·B.Sc
in Interior Design
·B.Sc
in Mass Media (BMM)
·BMS
(Bachelor of Management Studies)
These
are modern, skill-based programmes that cater to the needs of the tech and
media industries.
🛠️ Diploma and Polytechnic Options
For
students looking for practical and job-oriented training, the speaker
highlighted the following:
Diploma courses in engineering and medical fields
10+3+2 pattern and lateral entry options
Double
certificate courses, which allow students to master two skill sets
simultaneously, thereby increasing employability.
🏛️ Guidance for Competitive Exams
A
significant portion of the seminar was dedicated to Government Services, where
students were informed about the following:
·UPSC
(Union Public Service Commission) for IAS, IPS, IFS
·MPSC
(Maharashtra Public Service Commission)
Preparation
strategies, syllabus, and career prospects in civil services
This
section was especially inspiring for those who want to serve the nation and
attain the prestigious administrative post.
🎓 Student Felicitation Ceremony
At
the end of the session, more than 40 students and their parents actively
participated and interacted with the speaker. Students who had successfully
cleared their 10th and 12th exams were felicitated by the organising bodies
with congratulatory messages, encouraging them to pursue higher education with
confidence.
💬 Concluding Thoughts
This
seminar was not just an information session but a guiding light for many
students at a crucial juncture of their lives. It helped them and their parents
understand the vast ocean of opportunities, how to prepare for them, and how to
combine them with their skills and interests.
ECHO Foundation and Mahalaxmi Vikas Seva Samiti deserve a
heartfelt appreciation for organising such a thoughtful and empowering event.
In today's competitive world, such guidance can be life changing, and this
seminar has certainly sown the seeds of ambition and clarity in the minds of
young students of Mumbai.
In honor of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar’s birth date, the ECHO
Foundation team took time out to visit old age homes and care for those in
need, by distributing saris and spending time with elderly residents, they not
only provided physical comfort but more importantly, companionship. Sharing
meals, saying kind words, and listening to the stories of the elders at home,
speak volumes about the power of human relationships.
From childhood to old age, we witness the flow of time in
life – each stage has its own joys and challenges. Childhood is often full of
vitality, energy, and exploration. But as time passes, we all inevitably have
to face the reality of aging. In old age the body weakens, and many abilities
that we previously took for granted – such as walking, speaking, or thinking –
diminish.
*Yet, it is not just physical changes that shape the
experience of aging; it is the emotional and social aspects that really
determine how we age. The support of family and children at this stage of life
can make a huge difference. When loved ones stay with us, when children respect
and care for their aging parents, life in old age can be full of comfort,
dignity, and love. However, reality is not always so kind. As seen in films
such as Vanvas and Rui Ka Boj, when family is absent or fails to provide the
necessary care, old age can become an isolating and miserable experience. We
were very happy to visit the old age home.*
*Present at the event were Nayana Behen, Neeta Behen, Varsha
Behen, Nirmala Behen and Rambha Behen*
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