TThiruvananthapuram: The light of knowledge has been kindled in Anakal, the final tribal settlement in the Agastyamala region. Twenty-nine individuals—comprising children, the elderly, and illiterate youth—stepped forward to begin their journey into the world of literacy. Seven children, nine elderly residents, and 13 young adults took their first steps in learning the alphabet. As part of the initiative, the 'Sarathi Tuition Centre' was also inaugurated; the ceremony was marked by the lighting of a ceremonial lamp by Mr. Vinu Kumar, the coordinator for the southern forest region. Prabhat Chand and Sajitha Ratnakaran led the proceedings.
A drawing and painting workshop was organized to nurture the creative talents of the children and youth. Additionally, a 'Mathru Samithi' (mothers' collective) was formed, and a 'Mathru Puja' (a ceremony honoring mothers) was conducted. An arts collective named 'Agasthya Kalakshetram,' consisting of 30 local artists, was also established. A total of 52 people participated in the event, including 11 learners enrolled in the equivalency education program. This initiative has served as a significant step toward bringing the light of education and the arts to the people living in this forest region.