Reviving Hope: Women’s Empowerment Programme Restarts in Jharkhand

For over a decade, community development efforts have been making a difference in the tribal regions of Gumla Nagar and its neighbouring villages—Pupunki, Satanpur, and Kasmar. Since 2009, these initiatives have focused on strengthening access to education and empowering local communities.

A key milestone in this journey came in 2013 with the construction of a safe and durable community centre. Replacing a fragile bamboo structure, the new building has since served as a vital hub for learning, gatherings, and community-led activities.

Working in partnership with Sarwangin Vikas Samiti (SVS), the programme has consistently supported educational opportunities for children while also promoting women’s empowerment through various initiatives.

After a temporary pause, the project has now been successfully re-started with renewed energy and commitment. Children are once again benefiting from structured educational support, helping them build a stronger foundation for the future. At the same time, women in the community are actively participating in skill-based training programmes designed to enhance livelihoods and foster financial independence.

Currently reaching several children and women across these villages, the revived programme is bringing a renewed sense of hope and opportunity to these underserved tribal communities. As activities regain momentum, the initiative continues its mission of creating sustainable change and empowering individuals to shape a better future.

New treasurer on epic cycle ride to raise funds for CRS

In early May, to raise funds for CRS, Paul Doran is taking on an incredible cycling journey from Málaga to Bilbao covering approximately 1,200 km!

Paul, along with a friend, will begin by cycling along the coast towards Granada, before turning inland to Albacete. From there, they’ll tackle the stunning (and challenging!) Sierra Nevada mountains, ride through the famous Rioja vineyards, continue on to Zaragoza, and finally complete their journey in Bilbao.

And here’s the real challenge — they’re doing it all on standard bikes with no assisted power.

This is an amazing effort for a great cause. If you’d like to support Paul and learn more about his journey, please visit his Just Giving page

Paul and Michelle Doran

Paul recently Treasurer for the Friends of the Cathedral Relief Service in April 2026. He has recently retired after a long career in the aluminium industry, where he held senior positions in multinational companies. Hobbies including hockey, squash, tennis, cycling and now pickle ball.He writes about his appointment:

I became involved after my friend Crispin returned from visiting the charity in Kolkata. The pictures and videos he shared were truly inspiring and motivated me to take on this challenge in support of their work.