The Social Justice department’s flagship rehabilitation initiative for endosulfan victims, ‘Saha Jeevanam Snehagramam’, is gaining momentum with the second phase currently under way. The project aims to bring all essential services, treatment, therapy, accommodation, employment, and skill training under one roof for the comprehensive development of the victims.
Snehagramam is being developed on 25 acres provided by the Planatation Corporation as compensation in Muliyar grama panchayat. The first phase, launched on February 29 last year by Higher Education and Social Justice Minister R. Bindu, saw the completion of blocks for consulting, hydrotherapy, and clinical psychology.
The second phase, part of the Kasaragod Development Package, will expand services further with the addition of job training and accommodation facilities. C.H. Kunhambu, MLA, has allocated ₹25 lakh from the Asset Development Fund to address transportation issues faced by beneficiaries visiting the centre for treatment.
Despite infrastructure to support 30 individuals, the Centre currently sees a footfall of up to 55 beneficiaries each day. So far, 219 differently abled individuals have undergone treatment, with 195 referred for further care. Of them, 153 received follow-up treatment at the Centre, and 26 were discharged after recovery. At present, 86 victims continue to receive regular services under the project.
The initiative focuses on early identification of disabilities, specialised therapies, appointment of special educators and social workers, and long-term support through education, employment, and rehabilitation.
Published – July 24, 2025 01:13 am IST
