Newsletter
Read Covering Letter – Rama’s squirrel calling ….. January 2025
Dear Friends,
Namaskaram.

National Bird Day is celebrated on January 5th each year to raise awareness about the importance of birds and their conservation.
The Water Bird Sanctuary in Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu is a popular destination for bird watchers. It’s home to many species of water birds and other wildlife. Thousands of Migratory Australian Flamingos Arrive In Rameswaram every year
This month’s newsletter has the following highlights:
- Dr. A.Abirami, Programme Officer of the C.P.R. Environmental Educational Center, Chennai writes on the herbal plant – Turmeric (Manjal)
- In Landscaping and Beautification – Creation of flori parks at Rameswaram with the help of “National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow
- In Livelihood – Registration for Livelihood project, Eco-tourism and Tailoring classes
- Regular Teertha Poojas and Awareness programme
- In Livelihood – Eco-tourism and Tailoring classes
- In Social capital – Village level competitions, Traditional Games, Students competitions, Green Rameswaram Foundation day celebration, Swami Vivekananda Jayanti, Palsuvai Nigalchi, and finally newsletter by the students and for the students of Rameswaram.
With best wishes,
Editorial Team
Green Rameswaram Project
Railway Feeder Road, Opp. To Hotel Vinayaka
Rameswaram – 623526
Ph: 04573 – 299496(office)
E-mail: greenrameswaram@gmail.com
Web: www.greenrameswaram.org
Read Covering Letter – Rama’s squirrel calling …..
Dear Friends,
Namaskaram.
According to an old Native American legend,
one day there was a big fire in the forest.
All the animals fled in terror in all directions, because it was a very violent fire.
Suddenly,
the jaguar saw a hummingbird pass over his head,
but in the opposite direction.
The hummingbird flew towards the fire!
Whatever happened,
he wouldn’t stop.
Moments later,
the jaguar saw him pass again,
this time in the same direction as the jaguar was walking.
He could observe this coming and going until he decided to ask the bird about it because it
seemed very bizarre behavior.
“What are you doing, hummingbird?”
he asked.
“I am going to the lake,” he answered,
“I drink water with my beak and throw it on the fire to extinguish it.”
The jaguar laughed.
‘Are you crazy?
Do you really think that you can put out that big fire on your own with your very small beak?’
‘No,’ said the hummingbird,
‘I know I can’t.
But the forest is my home.
It feeds me,
it shelters me and my family.
I am very grateful for that.
And I help the forest grow by pollinating its flowers.
I am part of her and the forest is part of me.
I know I can’t put out the fire,
but I must do my part.’
At that moment,
the forest spirits,
who listened to the hummingbird,
were moved by the birdie and its devotion to the forest.
And miraculously they sent a torrential downpour,
which put an end to the great fire.
The Native American grandmothers would occasionally tell this story to their grandchildren,
then conclude with,
“Do you want to attract miracles into your life?
Do your part.”
Listen to the story by clicking the following link:
https://youtu.be/CMrEJ4oT7gc?si=_a7wdrhfLiPMuWvI
We at Green Rameswaram also follow the above principle by reminding ourselves that our role is only of the squirrel and never get disheartened by our slow progress or failures with a hope that a miracle will happen.
This month’s newsletter has the following highlights:
- Usual work carried out by Hand in Hand Inclusive Development Services in “Solid waste management”
- Dr. A.Abirami, Programme Officer of the C.P.R. Environmental Educational Center, Chennai writes on the herbal plant – Betel Vine (Vetrilai)
- In Landscaping and Beautification, “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” – Special Plantation drive Programme
- Regular Teertha Poojas and Awareness programme
- In Livelihood – Eco-tourism and Tailoring classes
- In Social capital – Village level competitions, Students competitions, SHG competitions, Gita Jayanti, Palsuvai Nigalchi, Navy day celebration, Webinars and finally newsletter by the students and for the students of Rameswaram.
With best wishes,
Editorial Team
Green Rameswaram Project
Railway Feeder Road, Opp. To Hotel Vinayaka
Rameswaram – 623526
Ph: 04573 – 299496(office)
E-mail: greenrameswaram@gmail.com
Web: www.greenrameswaram.org
Read Covering Letter – Rama’s squirrel calling …..
November 2024, Vol.9; No.09
Dear Friends,
Namaskaram.
Rameswaram witnessed an unprecedented rainfall of 411 mm (16 inches) in just 10 hours, marking a historic milestone in 125 years. Historic special rains. In three hours alone, Rameswaram recorded 362 mm (14.25 inches), akin to a sheet of water pouring down. A few people termed the event a “Super Cloud Burst” rather than a regular cloudburst.
This is a sign of Global Warming and unusual weather pattern. We have been working on these issues since last decade and have decided to have a digital exhibition – Vasudhaa – The Mother Earth, at Kanyakumari which will address the issues of Sustainable living. The exhibition will be inaugurated on 12th January 2025.
This month’s newsletter has the following highlights:
- Shri.Rangarajan continues to translate a couple of shlokas from the rare book on Ramanathaswami Temple
- Usual work carried out by Hand in Hand Inclusive Development Services in “Solid waste management”
- Dr. A.Abirami, Programme Officer of the C.P.R. Environmental Educational Center, Chennai writes on the herbal plant – Malabar Spinach (Kodi Pasalai)
- In Landscaping and Beautification, we covered the establishment of Micro Forests at Arjuna and Bhima Teertham
- Regular Teertha Poojas
- In Livelihood – Eco-tourism and Tailoring classes
- In Social capital – Sadhana Diwas, Students competitions, Palsuvai Nigalchi Webinars and finally newsletter by the students and for the students of Rameswaram.
With best wishes,
Editorial Team
Green Rameswaram Project
Mahabeer Dharmasala
Rameswaram – 623526
Tamilnadu.
Ph: 04573 – 299496(office)
E-mail: greenrameswaram@gmail.com
Web: www.greenrameswaram.org
Read Covering Letter – Rama’s squirrel calling ….. October 2024
Dear Friends,
Namaskaram.
Salim Ali (12 November 1896 – 20 June 1987) was an Indian ornithologist and naturalist. Sometimes referred to as the “Birdman of India”, Salim Ali was the first Indian to conduct systematic bird surveys across India and wrote several bird books that popularized ornithology in India.
Rameshwaram is best known for its beautiful beaches and temples. But many do not know that Rameshwaram is home to a thriving water bird sanctuary, making it a must-visit place for bird lovers.
The Water Bird Sanctuary is located on Rameshwaram Island and on the way to Dhanushkodi. The sanctuary covers an area of over 2 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of bird species. Some of the most common birds in the sanctuary includes spot-billed pelican, painted stork, and Asian openbill stork. These birds are known to migrate to the area during winter, making it the perfect time to visit the sanctuary.
This month’s newsletter has the following highlights:
- Shri.Rangarajan continues to translate a couple of shlokas from the rare book on Ramanathaswami Temple
- Usual work carried out by Hand in Hand Inclusive Development Services in “Solid waste management”
- Dr. A.Abirami, Programme Officer of the C.P.R. Environmental Educational Center, Chennai writes on the herbal plant – Coriander (Dhanyak)
- In Landscaping and Beautification, we covered the establishment of Nandavanam – Sacred Groves in Sri Ramanathaswamy temple
- In Maintenance of Traditional water bodies covers – Teertha Pooja, Shramadanam and Awareness programme
- In Livelihood – Eco-tourism, AI and Tailoring classes etc.
- In Social capital – Green Rameswaram Varga, Webinars and finally newsletter by the students and for the students of Rameswaram.
With best wishes,
Editorial Team
Green Rameswaram Project
Mahabeer Dharmasala
Rameswaram – 623526
Tamilnadu.
Ph: 04573 – 299496(office)
E-mail: greenrameswaram@gmail.com
Web: www.greenrameswaram.org
Read Covering Letter – Rama’s squirrel calling ….. September 2024
Dear Friends,
Namaskaram.
Nature teaches us what is good for our health. There are many Fruits and Vegetables that look like the Body Part. And surprisingly they are useful for the respective organ. This YouTube will enlighten you
https://drive.google.com/file/d/12rtUtZ72R4i10vYLSPYQWO6y2BqvxaG6/view?usp=sharing.
We at Rameswaram are promoting kitchen / terrace garden as a part of Livelihood project which helps the stakeholders in nutritional security and in turn helps in improving their health.
This month’s newsletter has the following highlights:
- Shri.Rangarajan continues to translate a couple of shlokas from the rare book on Ramanathaswami Temple
- Usual work carried out by Hand in Hand Inclusive Development Services in “Solid waste management”
- Dr. A.Abirami, Programme Officer of the C.P.R. Environmental Educational Center, Chennai writes on the herbal plant – Pudina (Marsh Mint)
- In Social capital – Teertha Poojas, Universal Brotherhood day celebrations, Awareness programme on Water Conservation, International Tourism day celebration, Receiving award, Eco-tourism, Webinars and finally newsletter by the students and for the students of Rameswaram.
With best wishes,
Editorial Team
Green Rameswaram Project
Mahabeer Dharmasala
Rameswaram – 623526
Tamilnadu.
Ph: 04573 – 222296(office)
E-mail: greenrameswaram@gmail.com
Web: www.greenrameswaram.org
Read Coverting Letter – Rama’s squirrel calling ….. August 2024
Dear Friends,
Namaskaram.
“The Sudden demise of Indian vultures killed thousands of people”. Writes the famous journal “The Economist” without “nature’s sanitation service” pathogens spread into the water supply. Every species on this earth play an important role in maintaining the ecological balance. When one species is removed, it causes serious disturbances to the ecological balance and it will have a profound negative effect on other organisms including humans. We, in our project – Green Resilient Rameswaram – always emphasise on preserving and maintaining the bio-diversity.
This month’s newsletter has the following highlights:
- Dr.Sanjay Banerji writes on “Sustainable Living-3”
- Shri.Rangarajan continues to translate a couple of shlokas from the rare book on Ramanathaswami Temple
- Usual work carried out by Hand in Hand Inclusive Development Services in “Solid waste management”
- Dr. A.Abirami, Programme Officer of the C.P.R. Environmental Educational Center, Chennai writes on the herbal plant – Peppermint (Paparaminta)
- In Social capital – Teertha Poojas, Independence day celebrations, Krishna Jayanthi celebration, Webinars and finally newsletter by the students and for the students of Rameswaram.
- Shradhanjali to our close friend and well-wisher Shri.K.Shivakumar of Gandhigram Trust, Dindigul.
With best wishes,
Editorial Team
Green Rameswaram Project
Mahabeer Dharmasala
Rameswaram – 623526
Tamilnadu.
Ph: 04573 – 222296(office)
E-mail: greenrameswaram@gmail.com
Web: www.greenrameswaram.org
Read Coverting Letter – Rama’s squirrel calling ….. July 2024
July 2024, Vol.9; No.05
Dear Friends,
Namaskaram.
In this month, we witnessed the worst manmade disaster at Wayanad, Kerala. Kerala forms a part of the Western Ghats that is considered the ‘protector’ of the Indian peninsula. Its rich biodiversity is nourished by moderate tropical temperatures along the coast of Arabian Sea, and a good amount of rainfall.
But in recent years, the Arabian Sea often deviated from its calm nature under the influence of increasing cyclones. Since 2019, the region has experienced four major storms and the frequency of intense tropical cyclones in the Arabian Sea is expected to increase in the coming years. In addition, the unplanned and uncontrolled development took the heavy toll. Hope, the authorities at every level from Panchayat onwards will learn the lessons and will opt for real sustainable development. We on our part are trying to create “Green Resilient Rameswaram” since the year 2013.
This month’s newsletter has the following highlights:
- Dr.Sanjay Banerji writes on “Sustainable Living-2”
- Shri.Rangarajan continues to translate a few shlokas from the rare book on Ramanathaswami Temple
- Usual work carried out by Hand in Hand Inclusive Development Services in “Solid waste management”
- Dr. A.Abirami, Programme Officer of the C.P.R. Environmental Educational Center, Chennai writes on the herbal plant – Bramhadhandi (Swarnakshiri)
- In Social capital – Teertha Poojas, Guru Poornima celebrations, Mangrove Forest plantation, Jagadguru Sri Shankara Vijayendra Saraswathi Swamigal’s visit, Green transport, Webinars and finally newsletter by the students and for the students of Rameswaram.
With best wishes,
Editorial Team
Green Rameswaram Project
Mahabeer Dharmasala
Rameswaram – 623526
Tamilnadu.
Ph: 04573 – 222296(office)
E-mail: greenrameswaram@gmail.com
Web: www.greenrameswaram.org
Read Coverting Letter – Rama’s squirrel calling ….. June 2024
Dear Friends,
Namaskaram.
5th June is celebrated as World Environment Day. This year the focus is on land restoration, halting desertification and building drought resilience under the slogan “Our land. Our future.
According to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification, up to 40 per cent of the planet’s land is degraded, directly affecting half of the world’s population. The number and duration of droughts have increased by 29 per cent since 2000 – without urgent action, droughts may affect over three-quarters of the world’s population by 2050.
We at Green Rameswaram are trying our best to reduce the soil degradation by planting trees every month in some or the other areas of Rameswaram.
This month’s newsletter has the following highlights:
- Dr.Sanjay Banerji started a new blog on “Sustainable Living”
- Shri.Rangarajan continues to translate a few shlokas from the rare book on Ramanathaswami Temple
- Usual work carried out by Hand in Hand Inclusive Development Services in “Solid waste management”
- Dr. A.Abirami, Programme Officer of the C.P.R. Environmental Educational Center, Chennai writes on the herbal plant – Kandankathiri (Kantkari)
- In Social capital – Teertha Poojas, International Yoga day and Environment day celebrations, Cleaning campaigns, Miyawaki Forest plantation, Green transport, Webinars and finally newsletter by the students and for the students of Rameswaram.
With best wishes,
Editorial Team
Green Rameswaram Project
Mahabeer Dharmasala
Rameswaram – 623526
Tamilnadu.
Ph: 04573 – 222296(office)
E-mail: greenrameswaram@gmail.com
Web: www.greenrameswaram.org
Read Coverting Letter – Rama’s squirrel calling ….. May 2024
Dear Friends,
Namaskaram.
5th June is celebrated all over the world as Environment day. Shri.Subramanian, Member of our EPIC group shared a very meaningful audio visual – Baby celebrates 1st year birthday event with grandparents… a celebration which is a thousand times better than cutting a cake and blowing off the candle fire.
If hundred and forty crore Indians start emulating this example of a farmer, we will be able to create a carbon sink to mitigate the global warming. We at Rameswaram are planting trees regularly since last decade.
This month’s newsletter has the following highlights:
- Dr.Sanjay Banerji in his blog updates us about ‘Novel Entities’ with reference to Global Chemicals Outlook
- Shri.Rangarajan continues to translate a few shlokas from the rare book on Ramanathaswami Temple
- Usual work carried out by Hand in Hand Inclusive Development Services in “Solid waste management”
- Dr. A.Abirami, Programme Officer of the C.P.R. Environmental Educational Center, Chennai writes on the herbal plant – Eswaramooli (Arkamula)
- In Social capital – Teertha Poojas, Visit of important dignitaries, Island Development Committee meeting, Green transport, Webinars and finally newsletter by the students and for the students of Rameswaram.
With best wishes,
Editorial Team
Green Rameswaram Project
Mahabeer Dharmasala
Rameswaram – 623526
Tamilnadu.
Ph: 04573 – 222296(office)
E-mail: greenrameswaram@gmail.com
Web: www.greenrameswaram.org
Read Coverting Letter – Rama’s squirrel calling …..April 2024
Dear Friends,
Earth Day is an annual event on April 22 to demonstrate support for environmental protection. First held on April 22, 1970, it now includes a wide range of events coordinated globally by Earthday.Org including 1 billion people in more than 193 countries. The official theme for 2024 is “Planet vs. Plastics.” 2025 will be the 55th anniversary of Earth Day. Incidentally, last year, Green Rameswaram team prepared a detailed project report (DPR) on plastic pollution in the “Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve” along with our partner Hand in Hand India.
This month’s newsletter has the following highlights:
- Dr.Sanjay Banerji in his blog updates us about ‘Novel Entities’ with reference to Planetary Boundaries framework
- Shri.Rangarajan continues to translate a few shlokas from the rare book on Ramanathaswami Temple
- Usual work carried out by Hand in Hand Inclusive Development Services in “Solid waste management
- Dr. A.Abirami, Programme Officer of the C.P.R. Environmental Educational Center, Chennai writes on the herbal plant – Musumusukkai (Paripushkara)
- In Social capital – Teertha Poojas, Deepa pooja, Green transport, Webinars, Shrandhanjali Sabha and finally newsletter by the students and for the students of Rameswaram
With best wishes,
Editorial Team
Green Rameswaram Project
Mahabeer Dharmasala
Rameswaram – 623526
Tamilnadu.
Ph: 04573 – 222296(office)
E-mail: greenrameswaram@gmail.com
Web: www.greenrameswaram.org
Read Coverting Letter – Rama’s squirrel calling …..March 2024
Dear Friends,
We are working to create “Green Resilient Rameswaram” since 2014. After working for 10 years, we have brought out a prestigious coffee table book – “Rameswaram – A Congregation of Tides and Blessings”. It covers the multi-dimensional facets of this holy city apart from Ramanathaswami temple. You can see the promo by clicking the link.
This month’s newsletter has the following highlights:
- Dr.Sanjay Banerji in his blog updates us about ‘Novel Entities’ with reference to Planetary Boundaries framework
- Shri.Rangarajan continues to translate a few shlokas from the rare book on Ramanathaswami Temple
- Dr. A.Abirami, Programme Officer of the C.P.R. Environmental Educational Center, Chennai writes on the herbal plant – Stone Breaker (Bhumyamalaki)
- In Social capital – Teertha Poojas, State level Island Development Committee meeting, Webinars, Homage to Shri.Hegdeji and finally newsletter by the students and for the students of Rameswaram
With best wishes,
Editorial Team
Green Rameswaram Project
Mahabeer Dharmasala
Rameswaram – 623526
Tamilnadu.
Ph: 04573 – 222296(office)
E-mail: greenrameswaram@gmail.com
Web: www.greenrameswaram.org
Read Coverting Letter – Rama’s squirrel calling ….. February 2024
Dear Friends,
Recently, we came across a very educative audio visual with a title – “Nature, earth and life on earth are based on principles of alliances, partnership and collaborations”. We at Rameswaram are trying to have such alliances and partnership with the local community as well as with the flora and fauna of Rameswaram Island which in turn will help in creating “Green Resilient Rameswaram”.
This month’s newsletter has the following highlights:
- Dr.Sanjay Banerji in his blog writes the final article on “Financial Accounting”
- Shri.Rangarajan, translates a few shlokas from the rare book on Ramanathaswami Temple
- Dr.A.Abirami, Programme Officer of the C.P.R. Environmental Educational Center, Chennai writes on the herbal plant – Anantamool (Nannari)
- In Social capital – Teertha Poojas, Celebration of Anna pooja, Deepa pooja, Yoga competition, Webinars and finally newsletter by the students and for the students of Rameswaram
With best wishes,
Editorial Team
Green Rameswaram Project
Mahabeer Dharmasala
Rameswaram – 623526
Tamilnadu.
Ph: 04573 – 222296(office)
E-mail: greenrameswaram@gmail.com
Web: www.greenrameswaram.org
Read Coverting Letter – Rama’s squirrel calling ….. January 2024
Dear Friends,
During G20 summit, Govt. of India screened a very heart touching documentary Meet My Mom. https://youtu.be/AE8zjQiwanI Indirectly, India showcased its wild life to the entire world. We at Rameswaram too in a small way like a Rama’s squirrel contribute by showcasing the beauty of migratory birds and marine bio-diversity of the Gulf of Mannar.
This month’s newsletter has the following highlights:
- Dr.Sanjay Banerji in his blog writes on Financial Statement preparation
- Shri.Rangarajan, translates a few shlokas from the rare book on Ramanathaswami Temple
- Dr.A.Abirami, Programme Officer of the C.P.R. Environmental Educational Center, Chennai writes on the herbal plant – Guduchi (Seenthil kodi)
- Revival and Renovation of Teerthams – we are covering awareness programmes
- In Social capital – Teertha Poojas, Celebration of Swami Vivekananda Jayanthi, Celebration 10th Foundation day of Green Rameswaram Trust, Webinars and finally newsletter by the students and for the students of Rameswaram
With best wishes,
Editorial Team
Green Rameswaram Project
Mahabeer Dharmasala
Rameswaram – 623526
Tamilnadu.
Ph: 04573 – 222296(office)
E-mail: greenrameswaram@gmail.com
Web: www.greenrameswaram.org
Read Coverting Letter – Rama’s squirrel calling …..
Dear Friends,
The Hindu reported the following interesting story in its 4th April issue.
With a unique and environment-friendly initiative, Sadiwara a far-flung village panchayat in Hiller Shahabad block of South Kashmir’s Anantnag district has come up with the idea of offering a gold coin for collecting plastic waste for saving the environment. Under the scheme, if someone gives plastic waste of 20 quintals, then the panchayat will give him a gold coin.
A lawyer by profession and Sarpanch of the village Sadiwara, Farooq Ahmad Ganai has become an inspiration for everyone in the Kashmir Valley. After the start of the campaign, the whole village was declared plastic free within 15 days.
It is high time, Rameswaram municipality also takes up such an initiative as the Island is full of plastic which is not only bad for the environment but also spoiling the Marine life. Recently, a Green Rameswaram team carried out a survey for its partner organization Hand in Hand Inclusive Development Services (a project supported by HCL) and shocked to find plastic everywhere in spite of laws to regulate it. In addition, the survey revealed found that a lot of plastic is dumped in the sea through the gutters and canals. We hope to come out with a detailed report in the coming months on plastic menace.
This month’s newsletter has the following highlights:
- Dr.Sanjay Banerji in his blog writes on “Financial Accounting-6” for SHG members
- Shri.Rangarajan, translates a few shlokas from the rare book on Ramanathaswami Temple
- Usual work carried out by Hand in Hand Inclusive Development Services in Solid waste management
- Dr.A.Abirami, Programme Officer of the C.P.R. Environmental Educational Center writes about the herbal plant – Vishnukranthi (Dwarf morning-glory)
- Livelihood Opportunities covers launch of Nursery garden, EDII evaluation team visit etc.
- Repair and Maintenance of Water bodies covers Kapi Teertham
- In Social capital – Teertha Poojas, Anna pooja, Teertham cleaning works, state level Island Development Committee Meeting, Webinars etc. and finally ‘Green Rameswaram newsletter’ by the students and for the students of Rameswaram
With best wishes,
Editorial Team
Green Rameswaram Project
Mahabeer Dharmasala
Rameswaram – 623526
Tamilnadu.
Ph: 04573 – 222296(office)
E-mail: greenrameswaram@gmail.com
Web: www.greenrameswaram.org
Read Coverting Letter – Rama’s squirrel calling …..
Dear Friends,
Uma Shankar Pandey is a social worker from Uttar Pradesh, best known for his contributions towards ground water conservation in Jakhni. Fondly called ‘Pani ke Pehredar’ (guardian of water) in villages of UP, his model of water harvesting has been widely appreciated. For his contributions towards water harvesting and conservation, he has been honoured with the prestigious Padmashri award in 2023. He is a disabled person, aged 60 years. He has worked in 470 gram panchayats of Bundelkhand, and still expanding his work in the region to turn water-scarce villages into water, abundant villages.
We at Rameswaram are also working mainly for Water harvesting by way of “Reviving and Renovating the Traditional Water bodies” which will help in (i) reducing the pollution (ii) curtailing the encroachment and (iii) establishing the ownership.
This month’s newsletter has the following highlights:
- Shri.Sanjay Banerji in his regular column writes on Financial Accounting
- Shri.Rangarajan, translates a few shlokas from the rare book on Ramanathaswami Temple
- Usual work carried out by Hand in Hand Inclusive Development Services in Solid waste management
- Dr.A.Abirami, Programme Officer of the C.P.R. Environmental Educational Center writes about the herbal plant – Turkey berry (Sundakkai)
- Livelihood Opportunities covers – Smt.Vasuki’s success story of the Bee keeping trainee
- Participatory Eco-tourism covers Teertha yatra
- Revival and Renovation of Traditional Water Bodies covers the repair and painting work of Gnanavapi Teertham
- In Social capital – Teertha Poojas, Webinars, Free medicine distribution, Opening of an information center cum shop etc. and finally ‘Green Rameswaram newsletter’ by the students and for the students of Rameswaram
With best wishes,
Editorial Team
Green Rameswaram Project
Mahabeer Dharmasala
Rameswaram – 623526
Tamilnadu.
Ph: 04573 – 222296(office)
E-mail: greenrameswaram@gmail.com
Web: www.greenrameswaram.org
Read Coverting Letter – Rama’s squirrel calling …..
Dear Friends,
Once upon a time, in a world where the human body was still a mystery, a young scientist named Emily was fascinated by the workings of the gut. She was curious about the tiny organisms that lived within it and how they impacted human health.
Emily dedicated her life to studying the gut microbiome, a community of trillions of microorganisms that inhabit the digestive tract. Through her research, she discovered that the gut microbiome played a crucial role in many aspects of human health, including digestion, metabolism, immunity, and even mood.
One day, Emily stumbled upon a shocking discovery. She found that the modern lifestyle, with its processed foods and antibiotics, was severely damaging the gut microbiome. This led to a host of health problems, including obesity, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases.
Determined to help, Emily set out on a mission to educate the public about the importance of maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. She shared her findings with everyone she met, from school children to politicians, and even created a website to spread the word.
Thanks to Emily’s tireless efforts, people began to take notice and adopt healthier habits. They started eating more fiber-rich foods, reducing their sugar intake, and avoiding antibiotics whenever possible. As a result, their gut microbiomes flourished, and their health improved dramatically.
The story of Emily and the gut microbiome spread far and wide, inspiring others to take care of their gut health. And so, the world became a happier, healthier place, all thanks to the tiny organisms that lived within.
We too propagate healthy food in our Green Rameswaram project through our yoga vargas. This month’s newsletter has the following highlights:
- Dr.Sanjay Banerji in his blog writes on “Financial Accounting-4” for SHG members
- Shri.Rangarajan, translates a few shlokas from the rare book on Ramanathaswami Temple
- Usual work carried out by Hand in Hand Inclusive Development Services in Solid waste management
- Dr.A.Abirami, Programme Officer of the C.P.R. Environmental Educational Center writes about the herbal plant – Custard Apple (Seethapalam)
- Livelihood Opportunities covers – Distribution of certificates to the trainees – Bee keeping
- In Social capital – Teertha Poojas, Cleaning programmes, Deepa pooja, Swami Vivekananda’s birth day celebrations etc. and finally ‘Green Rameswaram newsletter’ by the students and for the students of Rameswaram
With best wishes,
Editorial Team
Green Rameswaram Project
Mahabeer Dharmasala
Rameswaram – 623526
Tamilnadu.
Ph: 04573 – 222296(office)
E-mail: greenrameswaram@gmail.com
Web: www.greenrameswaram.org
Read Coverting Letter – Rama’s squirrel calling …..
Dear Friends,
The Indian Swachhata League is India’s first inter-city competition led by youth towards building Garbage Free Cities. More than 1,800 cities from Leh to Kanyakumari participating by setting up a team for their city, and planning activities that will be undertaken on Seva Diwas. ‘India Swachhata League’ started with ‘Swachh Amrit Mahotsav’, a fortnight of activities from September 17 to October 2 to galvanise action around ‘swachhata’.
The activities are being organised by the Union Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry. According to the statement, the day began with whole-hearted participation and presence of highly motivated youth teams rallying for garbage-free cities.
During the month of September, the Municipal Solid Waste Management programme at Rameswaram has been shortlisted under the special mention award category for the Indian Swachhata League (ISL) 2022.
Our partner Hand in Hand Inclusive Development Services, Chennai are handling the waste management of Rameswaram municipality. Thiru.Nazar Khan, Municipal Chairman and Thiru.Kannan, Municipal Commissioner received the certificate at Delhi in a glittering ceremony at Talkatora stadium, on 30th Sep 2022.
This month’s newsletter has the following highlights:
- Dr.Sanjay Banerji in his blog writes about “Model of an Enterprise”
- Hand in Hand inclusive development, Chennai about their regular activities on solid waste management
- Dr.A.Abirami, Programme Officer of the C.P.R. Environmental Educational Center writes about the herbal plant – Castor Bean (Aamanakku)
- Green Health covers introduction of yoga session at Vivekananda Vidyalaya, Rameswaram and workshop on “Recipes of Minor Millets”
- Livelihood Opportunities covers training on ‘Cow waste Value Added products”, CSR Partnership with Dhanalakshmi Bank and use of E-Rickshaws
- In Revival and Renovation of Traditional Water Bodies section ,we have covered the story of “Jatayu Teertham”
- Under Social capital – Teertha Poojas, Deepa pooja, celebration of Universal Brother Day etc. and finally ‘Green Rameswaram newsletter’ by the students and for the students of Rameswaram
With best wishes,
Editorial Team
Green Rameswaram Project
Mahabeer Dharmasala
Rameswaram – 623526
Tamilnadu.
Ph: 04573 – 222296(office)
E-mail: greenrameswaram@gmail.com
Web: www.greenrameswaram.org
Read Coverting Letter – Rama’s squirrel calling …..
Dear Friends,
The Law of Wasted Effort.

Do you know that lions only succeed in a quarter of their hunting attempts — which means they fail in 75% of their attempts and succeed in only 25% of them.
Despite this small percentage shared by most predators, they don’t despair in their pursuit and hunting attempts.
The main reason for this is not because of hunger as some might, think but it is the understanding of the “Law of Wasted Efforts” that has been instinctively built into animals, a law by which nature is governed.
Half of the eggs of fish are eaten… half of the baby bears die before puberty… most of the world’s rain falls in the oceans… and most of the seeds of trees are eaten by birds.
Scientists have found that animals, trees, and other forces of nature are more receptive to the “law of wasted efforts”.
Only humans think that the lack of success in a few attempts is failure… but the truth is that: we only fail when we “stop trying”.
Success is not to have a life free of pitfalls and falls… but success is to walk over your mistakes and go beyond every stage where your efforts were wasted, looking forward to the next stage. If there is a phrase that summarizes this world, it will simply be: Continue all over again.
The ‘Green Rameswaram project’ started in the year 2014 and since last eight years, we have hardly made any significant progress and so the feeling of failure engulfs us many times. But then such stories – “Law of Wasted Efforts” tells us that “We only fail when we stop trying” and so we continue to try…..
This month’s newsletter has the following highlights:
- Dr.Sanjay Banerji in his blog writes on – COP Explained – Part II
- Solid waste management work by – Hand in Hand Inclusive Development Services, Chennai
- Dr.A.Abirami, Programme Officer of the C.P.R. Environmental Educational Center writes about the herbal plant – Henna
- Livelihood Opportunities – covers Pasumai group’s activities
- In Social capital Teertha Poojas, Deepa poojas, Gita Jayanti, regular yoga classes and finally ‘Green Rameswaram newsletter’ by the students and for the students of Rameswaram
With best wishes,
Editorial Team
Green Rameswaram Project
Mahabeer Dharmasala
Rameswaram – 623526
Tamilnadu.
Ph: 04573 – 222296(office)
E-mail: greenrameswaram@gmail.com
Web: www.greenrameswaram.org
Read Coverting Letter – Rama’s squirrel calling …..
Dear Friends,
Very important lesson by Siddharth to all of us.

Along the bottom of River Ganga there lived a village of creatures whose way of life was to cling tightly to the rocks of the river bed and to resist the current of the river. One of them Siddharth the Adventurous got tired of clinging. His monotony wearied him. He decided to trust himself to the current of the river and to allow it to take him where it would. His parents and friends cautioned him against the current… “It will smash you against the rocks and kill you”. But Siddharth heeded them not and let go. Immediately he was stumbled and tossed against the hard rocks, but harder grew Siddharth’s resolve not to cling again. In time the current lifted him free from the bottom, and he got bruised and hurt no more. The downstream creatures saw him and marveled at him and hailed him as “Mahan” – the greatest. Siddharath in the current said “I am not greater than any of you. Dare to let go and the river will lift you free and you will discover your true worth”.
We always remember the above story while working for “Green Rameswaram Project”. We are not worried about the final outcome as the journey itself is a joyous learning.
This month’s newsletter has the following highlights:
- Dr.Sanjay Banerji in his blog writes on – COP Explained – Part I
- Shri.Rangarajan’s regular blog followed by a story of Kalanjiam Muneeswaran Temple
- Solid waste management work by – Hand in Hand Inclusive Development Services, Chennai
- Dr.A.Abirami, Programme Officer of the C.P.R. Environmental Educational Center writes about the herbal plant – Lemon Grass
- In Green health – we covered the regular yoga activities
- Livelihood Opportunities covers – Pasumai group’s activities
- In Landscaping and beautification covered the tree plantation work
- Revival and Renovation of Krishna Teertham – photo gallery
- In Social capital Teertha Poojas, Deepa poojas, meeting with Dist. collector, regular webinars and finally ‘Green Rameswaram newsletter’ by the students and for the students of Rameswaram
With best wishes,
Editorial Team
Green Rameswaram Project
Mahabeer Dharmasala
Rameswaram – 623526
Tamilnadu.
Ph: 04573 – 222296(office)
E-mail: greenrameswaram@gmail.com
Web: www.greenrameswaram.org
Read Coverting Letter – Rama’s squirrel calling …..
Dear Friends,
A 14-year-old Indian girl from Tamil Nadu Vinisha Umashankar spoke at the COP26 meet (Glasgow Climate Change Conference) where she mesmerised everyone with a powerful speech. Vinisha called for an urgent action on the climate front, saying that many of her generation are angry at world leaders. She said that she has no time for anger, as this was the time for action. Please listen her short 3.5 minute powerful speech https://youtu.be/CgKpxBKW-6o to get an inspiration to work for climate change in your own small way like a Rama’s squirrel as we are doing it at Rameswaram.
This month’s newsletter has the following highlights:
- Dr.Sanjay Banerji in his blog writes on – Land Use and Land Use Change and Forestry
- Shri.Rangarajan’s regular blog followed by Teertha yatra by 12 women from Madurai to the renovated Teerthas at Rameswaram.
- Regular Solid waste management work by – Hand in Hand Inclusive Development Services, Chennai
- Dr.A.Abirami, Programme Officer of the C.P.R. Environmental Educational Center writes about the herbal plant – Ivy Gourd
- Livelihood Opportunities – covers Pasumai group’s activities
- Revival and Renovation of Krishna Teertham – photo gallery
- In Social capital Teertha Pooja, Mass cleaning of water bodies, regular webinars and finally ‘Green Rameswaram newsletter’ by the students and for the students of Rameswaram
With best wishes,
Editorial Team
Green Rameswaram Project
Mahabeer Dharmasala
Rameswaram – 623526
Tamilnadu.
Ph: 04573 – 222296(office)
E-mail: greenrameswaram@gmail.com
Web: www.greenrameswaram.org
Read Coverting Letter – Rama’s squirrel calling …..
Dear Friends,

The Sixth Assessment Report of the Inter-governmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Working Group-1, has issued ‘code red’ to humanity as we rush towards a planet hotter by 1.5oC by 2040.
According to the Global Carbon Atlas, India ranks third in total greenhouse gas emissions, with ~2.6 billion tonnes (bt) CO2 equivalent, preceded by China (10 bt) and the US (5.4 bt), and followed by Russia (1.7 bt) and Japan (1.2 bt). Of these top five absolute emitters, the US has the highest per capita emissions (15.24 tonnes), followed by Russia (11.12 tonnes). India’s per capita emissions are just 1.8 tonnes, significantly lower than the world average of 4.4 tonnes. However, 22 of the 30 most-polluted cities in the world are in India, it should be a major cause of concern for India. Thus it is high time for all of us to start thinking of adapting green technologies everywhere to reduce GHG.
We at Rameswaram are advocating such technologies right from the beginning of starting the project in the year 2014.
This month’s newsletter has the following highlights:
- Dr.Sanjay Banerji in his blog writes on – Engineering Carbon Sinks
- Shri.Rangarajan, Chennai covers a rare book – Dhevaiula on Ramanathaswami
- Regular Solid waste management work by – Hand in Hand Inclusive Development Services, Chennai
- Landscaping and Beautification – Tree plantation drive
- Livelihood Opportunities – covers Pasumai group’s activities
- Green transport – E-Rickshaws
- Revival and Renovation of Parameswara Teertham
- In Social capital Teertha pooja, Teertham cleaning, regular webinars and finally ‘Green Rameswaram newsletter’ by the students and for the students of Rameswaram
With best wishes,
Editorial Team
Green Rameswaram Project
Mahabeer Dharmasala
Rameswaram – 623526
Tamilnadu.
Ph: 04573 – 222296(office)
E-mail: greenrameswaram@gmail.com
Web: www.greenrameswaram.org
Read Coverting Letter – Rama’s squirrel calling …..
Dear Friends,
David Attenborough’s latest nature documentary on Netflix may be his greatest yet. Apparently stung by criticism about the false impressions his documentaries have provided on the state of our natural world, Attenborough has produced a witness statement outlining the changes to the environment over his 94-year existence and solutions to the biodiversity crisis he has lived through. At last, Attenborough clearly illustrates the devastating impact humanity has had on our planet. Do not miss this informative trailer https://youtu.be/64R2MYUt394
It is time, we start “Thinking Globally and Act Locally” and as David Attenborough says – We need to learn how to work with nature rather than against it. We at Rameswaram trying to practice it in our own small way while creating Green Resilient Rameswaram.
This month’s newsletter has the following highlights:
- Dr.Sanjay Banerji in his blog wants to “Build Planetary Stewards” to save the planet.
- Shri.Rangarajan, Chennai covers Azhwar Songs on Ram-Sethu
- Regular Solid waste management work by – Hand in Hand Inclusive Development Services, Chennai
- Dr.A.Abirami, Programme Officer of C.P.R. Environmental Educational Center writes about the herbal plant – Kodikalli
- Livelihood Opportunities – covers Pasumai group’s activities and Green transport
- Revival and Renovation of Parameswara Teertham
- In Social capital Teertham cleaning, Independence’s day celebrations, regular webinars and finally ‘Green Rameswaram newsletter’ by the students and for the students of Rameswaram
With best wishes,
Editorial Team
Green Rameswaram Project
Mahabeer Dharmasala
Rameswaram – 623526
Tamilnadu.
Ph: 04573 – 222296(office)
E-mail: greenrameswaram@gmail.com
Web: www.greenrameswaram.org
Read Coverting Letter – Rama’s squirrel calling …..
Dear Friends,
The IPCC report titled ‘Climate Change 2021 released on 9th August said heat waves and humid heat stress will be more intense and frequent during the 21st century over South Asia
Glacial retreat in the Hindu Kush Himalayas; compounding effects of sea-level rise and intense tropical cyclones leading to flooding; an erratic monsoon; and intense heat stress are likely to impact India in recent years. Most of these impacts are irreversible and hence cannot be remediated even if greenhouse gas emissions decline dramatically, the IPCC said.
Many scientists and environmentalists while writing on this report are rightly saying that the past assessments have been disregarded as sensationalist. However, this time warning is against the folly of a business-as-usual development model. Green Rameswaram project right from its inception is suggesting “Green Resilient Rameswaram”, keeping the people and nature at the center of development.
This month’s newsletter has the following highlights:
- Dr.Sanjay Banerji in his blog continues to write on the role of Nature as Stakeholder in the development paradigm
- Shri.Rangarajan, Chennai covers a few extracts from the rare book – ‘Dhevaiula’ on Ramanathaswami
- Regular Solid waste management work by – Hand in Hand Inclusive Development Services, Chennai
- Dr.A.Abirami, Programme Officer of C.P.R. Environmental Educational Center writes about the herbal plant – Karpooravalli
- Landscaping and Beautification – Tree plantation at VAO Office, Mandapam Panchayat by Green Rameswaram team
- “Community Yoga Protocol to Promote Innate Immunity” under Green Health
- “Livelihood Opportunities” covers Pasumai group’s activities
- Green transport covers starting of E-Rickshaws again at Rameswaram
- Bhoomi pooja for Revival and Renovation of Parameswara Teertham
- In Social capital our service to the community during the 2nd wave of the pandemic, Deepa pooja, Guru poornima celebrations and regular webinars. Finally ‘Green Rameswaram newsletter’ by the students and for the students of Rameswaram.
With best wishes,
Editorial Team
Green Rameswaram Project
Mahabeer Dharmasala
Rameswaram – 623526
Tamilnadu.
Ph: 04573 – 222296(office)
E-mail: greenrameswaram@gmail.com
Web: www.greenrameswaram.org
Read Coverting Letter – Rama’s squirrel calling …..
Dear Friends,
Martina Navratilova was once asked, “How do you maintain your focus, physique and sharp game even at the age of 43?”
She gave a humble reply,
“The ball doesn’t know how old I am”. You need to stop yourself from stopping yourself. Every game in life is actually played on a 6-inch ground – the space between your two ears. We don’t live in bungalows, duplexes, or flats. We live in our mind which is an unlimited area. Life is great when things are sorted and uncluttered there. Keeping the mind messy with hatred growing on the table, regrets piling up in the corner, expectations boiling in the kitchen, secrets stuffed under the carpet, and worries littered everywhere ruin this real home.
The key factor to performing well in life and in every arena is the ability to control the quality and quantity of your “internal dialogue”. Performance is potential minus internal interference. Live in peace, not in pieces.”
Similar highly inspiring quotes and deeds were of our former President Dr.A.P.J.Abdul Kalam. He too in his famous autobiography, “Wings of Fire” tells us about the immense potentialities every one of us have. Incidentally, Dr.A.P.J.Abdul Kalam inaugurated ‘Green Resilient Rameswaram’ project in the year 2014. Hope, we will realise his dream in the coming years….
This month’s newsletter has the following highlights:
- Dr. Sanjay Banerji in his blog writes about Sustainable Development Goal– 13 (Climate Action)
- Solid waste management work by – Hand in Hand Inclusive Development Services, Chennai.
- Dr.A.Abirami, Programme Officer of C.P.R. Environmental Educational Center writes about the herbal plant – Ashwagandha (Amukkira)
- In the Green health section, Handing over of the Medical Equipments to Ramanathapuram Medical hospital by Gandhigram Trust – (sponsored by NSEF, Mumbai
- Revival and Renovation of Traditional water bodies – Gaja Teerthams by Vivekananda Kendra – Nardep and Rongli competition by Hand in Hand India Inclusive Development Services
- Regular events for building Social capital and finally
- ‘Green Rameswaram newsletter’ by the students and for the students of Rameswaram.
With best wishes,
Editorial Team
Green Rameswaram Project
Mahabeer Dharmasala
Rameswaram – 623526
Tamilnadu.
Ph: 04573 – 222296(office)
E-mail:greenrameswaram@gmail.com
Web: www.greenrameswaram.org
Archaeological Survey of Ramesvaram Island -1
Ramesvaram the holy of the holiest places of the Indian sub continent is having the vital key to understand the cultural directory of the ancient India. The tiny island holds many feature and customs practiced in all these thousands of years by the entire community irrespective of their caste and creed. For perceptive approach and to assimilate various facets of this culture it is essential to probe into the backdrop of the factors that molded this Island as the great bridge of spirituality in all these millenniums. In fact our journey will unearth not only the archaeological remains but the mannerism out of which our culture was warped.
The Matrix
The atomic theory of Science holds good for the philosophy of the origin of the universe. Indian logic also accepts that the world is made of same substance in different chemical combinations and distinguishes five basic rudimentary elements as base for all substances of different quality. Vedas indicate that life and substances were originated in water which the Geologists name as Glacier period.
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A Rare book – Dhevaiula on Ramanathaswami

This classical work on Sri Ramanatha Swami of Rameswaram was composed by “Palapattadai Chokkanatha Pillai”. This work was discovered by Sri U.Ve.Saminatha Iyer after comparing multiple versions. He also wrote a commentary on this rare text. He is affectionately called Tamil Thatha (literally, “Tamil grandfather”)


Herbal Garden (Muligai Vanam)

Distribution and Habitat
Curcuma longa (L.) commonly known as Turmeric is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial plant of Zingiberaceae family. Native to India and is widely cultivated in China, Sri Lanka, West and East Africa and other tropical countries. The plant is grown in tropics and sub-tropic regions at around 20 °C and 30 °C with sufficient rainfall.


Landscaping and Beautification

National Botanical Research Institute from Lucknow is creating flori parks in Government Institutions. We have collaborated with them and facilitated the establishment of Nandavanam in Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameswaram. Another two places shortlisted for the park establishment is Kendriya Vidyalaya, Mandapam and Sri Parvathavarthini Amman Girls Higher Secondary School.

Livelihood Opportunities

New Registration for Livelihood project
Enrolment for New Livelihood programme started in this month by having awareness programme at Mangammachatram. 400 stakeholders took the part. As a mark of inauguration couple of beneficiaries were given the Kitchen Garden tools


Maintenance of Renovated Traditional Water Bodies

Teertha Pooja
Our work of involving community in doing Teertha poojas is going on smoothly. Locals are trying to take the ownership of the programme with the help of SHG Coordinators and Yoga students. In this month, we could perform Teertha poojas at 25 Traditional water bodies with 207 volunteers participating in the activity. The details are given below.


Social Capital

Village Level Competitions
Village wise competitions were held for (i) Lucky Corner (ii) Balloon Blowing (iii) Memory Game (iv) Uri Adithal

Green Rameswaram newsletter (Tamil)
For students….
From students ..
53rd issue – January 2025
