Thrissur: Nestled deep within the dense forests, Thavalakkuzhippaadam is a remote tribal village accessible only by a narrow, eight-kilometre block-paved road from the Athirappilly-Malakkappara main road. This single-lane path leads to a community of 49 Malayar families, who have created a self-sufficient life in this isolated area.
Life in Thavalakkuzhippaadam, a self-sufficient community
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Agriculture is the primary source of income for the villagers, who thrive in a region abundant with forest resources. They cultivate a variety of crops, including rice, cocoa, coffee, coconuts, pepper, and rubber. The land is fertile, with no areas left barren, allowing them to generate income by selling agro-forestry products. This village serves as a shining example of how to break the cycle of dependency often seen in remote areas.
Thavalakkuzhippaadam is also notable for its contribution to online markets, particularly under the Athirappilly brand, where many forest products are sold. Due to the villagers’ limited travel outside their forest home, a group of farmers known as Tribal Valley frequently visits to collect these resources from them.
Education and youth engagement in the village
Education is a priority in the village, and there are no uneducated children. Currently, 35 students from this community are residing in hostels to further their studies. Three villagers have completed their postgraduate degrees: Ajith, Chithra, and Mithumol. Chithra holds an MA in Sociology and works at the ICDS office.
The youth in Thavalakkuzhippaadam are active and engaged in community activities. They have formed a club and even established a football team, training in a small clearing since there is no formal playing field. They participate in football competitions. The youth here know how to drive, and most own vehicles, which facilitates their mobility within the forest.
Challenges and aspirations
However, life in this remote village is not without challenges. There have been four reported incidents of wild animal attacks in the area. One villager, 24-year-old Nandakumar, who has completed plus two, works diligently in the fields, cultivating Triveni rice that ripens in just three months.
Access to the village is restricted, with outsiders not permitted to enter. Saneesh Kumar Joseph, the local MLA, has mentioned that the preparation of a playground at Thavalakkuzhippaadam is being considered, although existing forest laws present obstacles to development.
Published: 01 Nov 2024, 03:02 pm IST
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