ITI Students Seminar

 

🙏🏻 The ECHO Foundation of Mumbai has once again demonstrated its commitment to student development by organizing an informative and impactful seminar for trainees in the Civil Surveyor and Architectural Draftsman trades at ITI Vaghaladhara, Valsad.Gujarat, This seminar is part of the Foundation's successful efforts over the past five years to bridge the gap between academic education and actual professional requirements.

*Imparting Practical Knowledge to Students*

In today's competitive and rapidly evolving construction and design industries, theoretical knowledge alone is insufficient. Recognizing this need, the Echo Foundation designed this seminar to familiarize students with essential practical concepts and regulatory frameworks that will play a pivotal role in their future careers. The session covered topics such as Municipal Corporation rules, fire safety regulations, AutoCAD applications, and building standard codes.

The Foundation's Chairman, Mr. Arvind Viras, provided students with a deep understanding of how municipal laws impact planning and construction. These regulations are crucial for ensuring that infrastructural development adheres to legal mandates and urban planning standards. By gaining early insight into these regulations, students are better equipped to navigate the challenges of regulatory compliance in their professional lives.

*Focusing on Safety through Fire Safety Regulations*

A primary objective of this seminar was to conduct a detailed discussion on fire safety and fire safety regulations. Safety is paramount in the construction and architecture sectors. The session emphasized the importance of integrating fire safety measures into the design and execution of buildings. Students were educated on evacuation protocols, emergency preparedness, and compliance with safety regulations—measures that are vital for safeguarding both lives and property. Enhancing Technical Skills with AutoCAD Software

Another crucial component of this seminar was the introduction to, and practical application of, AutoCAD. As one of the most widely used software tools in civil engineering and architectural drafting, proficiency in AutoCAD is an essential skill. The seminar demonstrated how students can utilize AutoCAD on real-world projects, thereby helping them understand industry expectations and refine their technical capabilities.

Understanding Building Standards

Discussions regarding building standards helped students grasp the importance of adhering to quality, sustainability, and regulatory norms within construction practices. These standards ensure that buildings are structurally sound, environmentally responsible, and safe for their occupants. By introducing students to these standards, the seminar equips them with the knowledge necessary to uphold professionalism and excellence in their future endeavors.

A Five-Year Commitment to Student Development

What truly makes this initiative praiseworthy is its enduring relevance For the past five years, the Eco Foundation has been organizing seminars that reflect its long-term vision of empowering students. This sustained effort has created a platform where students can interact with industry experts, gain insights into current trends, and build confidence for their future careers.

Preparing Students for Future Careers

The primary objective of this seminar is to provide students with knowledge that extends beyond textbooks. By understanding practical applications, legal frameworks, and modern tools, students become better prepared for both employment and entrepreneurship opportunities. This seminar not only enhances their technical skills but also broadens their perspectives, making them industry-ready professionals.

The Eco Foundation distributed stationery to the students. ITI Principal Mr. Manoj Mandalia, Instructor Mr. Kansara, Mrs. Pooja, and the staff provided excellent support throughout the entire program.

The entire program was moderated by Eco Foundation President Shri Arvind Viras and Shri Nilesh Mistry!

Helping Hand

 

In today’s fast-moving world, many kind-hearted people truly want to help the needy, but due to their busy schedules, they are unable to personally visit villages, slums, or old age homes. However, their intention to serve society remains strong. In such situations, NGOs become a beautiful bridge between generous donors and those who need support.

Recently, Mrs. Smita Kankar showed such thoughtful generosity. Though she could not personally distribute the materials, she contacted ECHO Foundation with a sincere wish to contribute. She handed over a bag filled with essential grocery items — packets of dal, rice, gram, singdana (groundnuts), mamra, and various spices. These are not just food items; they are symbols of care, warmth, and responsibility towards society.

Our team at ECHO Foundation personally collected these items and ensured they reached the right hands. We delivered the groceries to an old age home located in Charkop, Kandivali, in Mumbai. The elderly residents living there often depend on support from society for their daily needs. These essential food supplies will help in preparing nutritious meals for them and bring comfort to their lives.

This act reflects a powerful message:
You don’t always need time to serve — sometimes, your intention and trust in the right organization are enough. When responsible citizens connect with dedicated NGOs, even small contributions can create a big impact.

We sincerely thank Mrs. Smita Kankar for her compassion and trust. Through collective efforts like these, we can ensure that no elderly person feels neglected and no helping hand goes unused. Service to humanity is the greatest service, and together, we can continue spreading love, dignity, and care in society.

**Anganwadi** and **Nand Ghar**

 

Small children are called the embodiment of God. Their innocent smiles, sincere laughter and innocent love explain to us the true meaning of life. Especially for children from poor families and living in slums—whose parents leave home early in the morning to work every day—life is like a struggle. When it is difficult to meet daily needs, it is not possible for everyone to send them to study in a big school.

In such a situation, schemes like **Anganwadi** and **Nand Ghar** started by the government are truly a blessing. Here small children are taken care of, given nutritious food and at the same time primary education is also provided. These centers are not only for education, but also work for the all-round development of children.

Recently, I got the opportunity to visit one such “Anganwadi – Nand Ghar”. I got the opportunity to distribute snacks to small children on the occasion of their birthday. When the snack packets arrived in the little hands, the joy and happiness that appeared on their faces could not be described in words. There was a sparkle of happiness in their innocent eyes, and at that moment it felt that true celebration lies here—where giving gives self-satisfaction.

The time spent with children was one of the most precious moments of life. There was purity in their laughter, there was truth in their joy. This experience made me realize that social service is not just a duty, but a spiritual satisfaction.

If we can add a little happiness to someone's life through such small initiatives, then that is considered a true celebration. Because when a child smiles, the entire society becomes happy.

An Initiative

 

**An Initiative That Inspires Village Children – Learning and Values ​​Through the Film *Lalo***

Friends, in today's world, where children are increasingly engrossed in the world of mobile phones and social media, it has become crucial to guide them towards the right path and instill positive values. The film *Lalo*, which has recently gained immense popularity in Gujarat, powerfully conveys this very message. This film delivers a strong message about achieving success in life through hard work, honesty, and dedication, even with limited education. It's not just an entertaining film, but an inspiring story that teaches valuable life lessons.

The ECHO team always strives to do something new and positive for society. With this thought in mind, we came up with the idea of ​​showing this inspiring film to the children of our village, so they could understand the importance of hard work and honesty in life. With this objective, we took the young children to Anand Cinema in Bilimora to watch the film *Lalo*.

The atmosphere of the theater was completely new and exciting for the children. They were overjoyed to watch the film on the big screen. The characters and the story of the film deeply impacted them. Many children understood for the first time that along with education, hard work, truthfulness, and dedication are also key to success in life. The smiles and enthusiasm on the children's faces after the film ended were the greatest success of our initiative.

Shri Mahesh Bhai and Magan Bhai made a special contribution to this entire event. They made wonderful arrangements for snacks for the children, which further enhanced their happiness. Their cooperation shows that when people in the community come together for the bright future of children, even small efforts can bring about big changes.

This initiative was not just limited to showing a film, but was an attempt to inspire children to dream big, build confidence, and embrace the right values. The ECHO team will continue to strive to bring positive changes in the lives of village children through similar creative and inspiring programs in the future.

Science fair-2025

 

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.

Brahmand Old Age Home

 

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.

Thank you

Shri Ganpati Ji Painting Program”

 

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.