Microcredit Marvels: Empowering Women

1. Background

On 21st October 2025, continuous torrential rains caused severe flooding in various parts of Puducherry and surrounding villages. The floods disrupted normal life, submerging homes, damaging roads, destroying livelihoods, and leaving hundreds of families stranded without access to food, clean water, and essential supplies.

Low-income communities, daily wage earners, and marginalized families were the worst affected. Many lost their homes, possessions, and means of livelihood overnight. Immediate intervention was needed to ensure food security, health protection, and rehabilitation support.

 2. Objectives of the Project

• To provide emergency food, water, and medical aid to flood-affected families.
• To ensure temporary shelter and clothing for displaced individuals.
• To assist in clean-up operations and disease prevention in flood-hit areas.
• To support rehabilitation efforts and help families rebuild their lives.

 3. Target Beneficiaries

• Location: Puducherry and adjoining rural areas (e.g., Ariyankuppam, Manavely, Nonankuppam, and Ozhukarai).
• Beneficiaries: 500+ families, including children, elderly people, and women-headed households.
• Priority Groups: Low-income communities, daily wage workers, and residents of low-lying regions.

 4. Activities Undertaken

Phase I: Emergency Response (Days 1–7)

• Distribution of relief kits containing rice, dhal, oil, salt, sugar, tea, biscuits, and drinking water.
• Medical camps organized with the help of local volunteers and health professionals.
• Provision of blankets, mats, and basic clothing for affected families.

o   Phase II: Recovery Support (Weeks 2–4)

• Supply of cleaning materials, disinfectants, and mosquito repellents to prevent disease outbreaks.
• Distribution of school materials and essentials for children.
• Emotional and social support provided by Prime Trust volunteers and community workers.

o   Phase III: Rehabilitation and Livelihood Restoration (Ongoing)

• Identifying families needing home repairs or livelihood restoration.
• Mobilizing donors and volunteers to provide building materials and small grants.
• Facilitating counselling and awareness sessions on disaster preparedness.

 5. Results and Impact

• 500+ families received immediate relief supplies within the first week.
• 200 children supported with educational kits to resume schooling.
• Medical aid provided to over 300 individuals, preventing water-borne diseases.
• Restoration of community hygiene in multiple low-lying areas through coordinated clean-up drives.
• Enhanced community resilience through awareness on disaster response and preparedness.

 6. Challenges Faced

• Difficulty accessing remote flooded areas due to damaged roads.
• Limited availability of transportation for distribution during heavy rains.
• Urgent need for long-term rehabilitation funds for housing and livelihood restoration.

 7. Future Plan

• Continue to support rebuilding of damaged houses in partnership with local authorities.
• Provide livelihood recovery support (tools, small grants, and training).
• Establish a disaster response fund and volunteer task force for future emergencies.
• Promote community awareness programs on climate resilience and disaster preparedness.

 8. Acknowledgement

Prime Educational and Social Trust expresses heartfelt gratitude to individual donors, volunteers, local authorities, and partner organizations who supported our flood relief efforts. Your compassion and solidarity brought hope to hundreds of families in their time of need.

 9. Conclusion

The Flood Relief Project in Puducherry stands as a testament to community spirit, timely action, and the power of collective compassion. Prime Educational and Social Trust remains committed to standing with vulnerable families — not only in times of crisis but also through their journey toward rebuilding and resilience.