Since governments for all their good intentions are always slow, DHAN in Madurai, took the initiative to do something directly. First they formed village committees known as Vayalagams ["Field and Hearth"]. DHAN works through them to address farming issues. In the last few years, revival or creation of Ooranis has generated much enthusiasm. Projects are executed by a three way partnership: Villagers, DHAN and donors. The works range in cost between Rs.1 and Rs.5 lakhs. Villagers contribute between 20 and 40% by way of money, materials or labour, DHAN’s planning, supervision and reporting amount to an average of Rs.78,000 and donors fill the balance.

After a series of discussions between DHAN and GoodNewsIndia, a rewarding proposal has emerged. Go visit this page to learn more about Ooranis. Then visit individual pages to read about each Oorani project now under planning. And write to DHAN with your intention to donate. The person at DHAN who is heading this is Ms. Raghini Mohan [mohanraghini-At-gmail.com]. To keep transaction costs and times low, it is suggested you consider donating at least Rs.5,000.

Donor names will appear in the appropriate Oorani page. Additionally, at the Oorani site, a commemorative plaque will list your name. You can go further: What better permanent memorial to a loved one than an exclusive plaque at an Oorani entirely funded by you? You will receive periodic reports on the status of completion. Photos of the completed work will appear in the web page. If you keep goodnewsindia-At-gmail.com informed of your donation, your name will be listed at this site as well.

It takes less than the price of a car to fund an entire Oorani which will sustainably serve a village of 600 to 700 people forever. It’s a powerful statement you can make and inspire others too. Ruling and merchant princes of old whose munificence built many public works were probably no richer than an average 35 year old professional of today. They however enjoyed the advantage of direct connection with people, that has been severed by changing times. DHAN reconnects you with rural India.

2000 years ago Poet Thiruvalluvar summed up what is being proposed here. First roll your tongue over the lovely Tamil sounds in this couplet [No.215 at this link]:
Ooruni Neer-Niraindha-thatray ulagavaam

Payrari-vaalan Thiru
Freely translated it means, “The wise man knows that when his wealth rises just as water does in an Oorani, it is only to benefit the world at large.”

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