The 5th rooftop solar on-grid project implemented by HDS and Savitre Solar Limited was commissioned today at Vimalagiri. And 10 more projects are progressing to complete shortly. 

A rooftop solar project with a central government subsidy can be an excellent way to reduce energy costs while contributing to sustainable energy efforts. The Indian government, for example, provides subsidies under various schemes to promote the adoption of rooftop solar systems.

If you're considering a rooftop solar installation with a government subsidy, it's essential to get in touch with the local electricity board or authorized vendors to get detailed information on the latest schemes and the application process. Would you like more specific details? Please contact HDS solar staff : 8848046153

On March 7th, 2025, during the International Women's Day celebration at the NABARD Regional Office in Trivandrum, Mrs. Kunjamma Thomas, SHG Federation President and Board of Director of HDS, was deservedly felicitated and received a token of appreciation from NABARD. This recognition highlighted her remarkable journey from a Micro Enterprise Development Programme (MEDP) participant to a thriving entrepreneur, a transformation enabled by NABARD's support and HDS's implementation.

Having successfully established her own tailoring and embroidery unit, she now employs five individuals and has developed a strong market reach extending to Thrissur, demonstrating the sustainability and scalability of her enterprise. Beyond her personal success, Mrs. Kunjamma's 30-year dedication to coordinating 300 Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and 40 SHG federations under the Highrange Development Society (HDS) underscores her profound commitment to community empowerment. She stands as an exemplary, showcasing the powerful impact of NABARD's initiatives in encouragement of women's entrepreneurship. The felicitation took place in the presence of Mr. Baiju N Kurup, Chief General Manager of NABARD Trivandrum.

Highrange Development Society celebrates International Women's Day on 8th March 2025 at St. Thomas Parish Hall Churuly in collaboration with NABARD and SHG Federation Churuly. 

The Highrange Development Society (HDS), in collaboration with NABARD, is proud to host a momentous International Women's Day celebration on March 8, 2025, at St. Thomas Parish Hall, Churuli. This event underscores HDS’s steadfast commitment to women's empowerment.

With a robust network of 300 active Self-Help Groups (SHGs), HDS continuously champions women's advancement through various initiatives. A testament to this dedication was the recent Climate Conclave in Murickassery, which saw the participation of 1,500 SHG women and received widespread recognition.

Building on this momentum, the upcoming celebration will further amplify efforts to promote women's rights, honor outstanding women, and raise awareness about the needs and development of the women's community. This initiative reaffirms the strong and enduring partnership between HDS and the women it serves, fostering a spirit of collaboration and progress.

The Girijyothi SHG Federation, comprised of 40 federations representing 300 Self Help Groups (SHGs) under the Highrange Development Society (HDS), a leading NGO in Idukki, will host its annual gathering and a crucial "Climate Change and Climate Resilient Farming Campaign" on February 15, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the Pavanatma College Auditorium, Murickassery. This event marks a significant milestone as the first large-scale climate conclave of its kind in Idukki, showcasing the power and commitment of women in addressing climate change. The day will begin with a dynamic rally, featuring 1500 women participants marching from St. Mary’s Church Junction to the auditorium, carrying placards, sporting campaign hats, and waving flags. Awards will be given to recognize the most impactful rally performances.

The conclave itself, themed "Weather Change and Our Need of Change as per Climate," promises a rich program of activities and learning opportunities. Informative stalls will showcase various aspects of climate change, highlighting its impact on local communities and ecosystems. Crucially, the event will focus on promoting climate-resilient farming practices, offering practical solutions and strategies for farmers to adapt to changing weather patterns and ensure food security. Engaging activities will further enhance understanding of climate change issues and encourage active participation in finding sustainable solutions. This initiative by HDS underscores their commitment to empowering women and building community resilience in the face of environmental challenges.
The event will be graced by a distinguished panel of guests, including Mar John Nellikunnel, Bishop of Idukki, who will preside over the meeting, and Mrs. V. Vigneswari, IAS, the Hon. District Collector, who will inaugurate the function. Rev. Fr. Jose Karivelickal will deliver the keynote address, providing further insights into the critical importance of climate action. Other notable delegates include Mr. Arun M S, District Development Manager, NABARD; Mr. Riyas A, KSBCDC Manager; Rev. Dr. Joseph Kochukunnel, Executive Director, HDS; and Mrs. Kunjamma Thomas, SHG Federation President. A seminar on Climate Change and Climate Resilient Farming led by Mr. Joy Antony, Community Leader, Plan Foundation Munnar.

The conclave is dignified to be a powerful platform for raising awareness about climate change, empowering women as agents of change, and promoting climate-resilient farming practices throughout the region.

The Highrange Development Society (HDS), in collaboration with the Social Work Department of Ettumanurappan College, Caritas India, and St. George UP School, Vazhathope, organized a cancer awareness program, "Aashakiranam," on the occasion of World Cancer Day. The initiative aimed to educate and empower communities about cancer prevention and early detection.

The event commenced with a cancer awareness rally at 10:00 AM, where students, teachers, and non-teaching staff actively participated. Holding placards and wearing awareness badges, the participants spread crucial messages on cancer prevention to the public, reinforcing the importance of early detection and lifestyle changes.

Following the rally, an awareness session was inaugurated by Rev. Fr. Jins Karakkatt, Director of the Idukki Diocese Media Commission, and presided over by Fr. Thomas Madikankal, Assistant Vicar of St. George Cathedral Church.

As part of its women empowerment initiatives and income generation programs, the Society distributes high-quality Gramaree and Gramapriya chicks at nominal rates. These chicks are sourced from reputable farms, ensuring their health and productivity. By providing access to these chicks, the Society empowers women to engage in poultry farming and generate income through egg sales. The distribution process involves providing 50-60-day-old chicks to farmers, and an average of 5000 chicks distributed. This program is implemented continuously across different regions within the Society's operational area, contributing significantly to the economic empowerment of farmers.

The Highrange Development Society, in partnership with NABARD, successfully implemented a Value Chain Millet Project across 10 Tribal hamlets in Idukki district. A key component of this initiative was the establishment of a seed bank in Marayoor, providing farmers with easy access to a various range of millet seeds. This seed bank operates on a sustainable model where farmers return a portion of their harvested seeds, ensuring continued seed availability for future cultivation. Recognizing the decline in millet cultivation and its impact on local livelihoods, this project aimed to revitalize millet farming. The project's positive outcomes demonstrate the significance of supporting traditional crops and empowering local communities.                                                                                             

The Kerala State Backward Development Corporation (KSBCDC), in collaboration with HDS, provides micro-loans to Self-Help Groups (SHGs) comprising minority women. These loans, provided at low interest rates, empower women to participate in various income-generating activities. By accessing affordable credit, SHG members can engage in diverse ventures, leading to increased income and improved economic standing. This financial assistance not only enhances their livelihoods but also contributes to their overall social and economic empowerment within their communities.