Integrated Rural Community Development Society - IRCDS

Integrated Rural Community Development Society - IRCDS IRCDS is a development organization to facilitate Community-Based action among the poor and marginalized communities in Tiruvallur district of Tamil Nadu.

Integrated Rural Community Development Society (IRCDS) is a development organization established in 1986 to facilitate Community-Based action among the poor and marginalized communities in Tiruvallur district of Tamil Nadu. It is a value-based organization building capacity of the people to be responsible for their own development. The target communities have been organized into Sself-help-groups

to take active participation in development and other issues centered on community development and well-being of the families. Among others, the organization is maintaining two children's homes, offers family counseling, is working for the empowerment of persons with disabilities and ensuring the education of the children of seasonal migrant brick kiln laborers.

The Tamil Nadu Assembly Election awareness and 100% voting campaign, along with a drug awareness program, was conducted ...
13/04/2026

The Tamil Nadu Assembly Election awareness and 100% voting campaign, along with a drug awareness program, was conducted by IRCDS through street theatre at Tiruvallur Railway station .The program was organized in collaboration with the Tiruvallur District Administration and the District Child Protection Unit.

Government officials, including the Child Protection Officer and team, Child Welfare Committee Chairperson , probationary officer and the IRCDS staff team, actively participated in organizing cultural and street theatre events to create awareness among the public.

Celebration of International Women’s Day 2026IRCDS proudly celebrated International Women’s Day on 31st March 2026 at it...
13/04/2026

Celebration of International Women’s Day 2026

IRCDS proudly celebrated International Women’s Day on 31st March 2026 at its office premises. The event featured a thought-provoking debate on women’s empowerment, moderated by Dr. P. Gilda.
Leaders from the Village Development Committees (VDCs), Self-Help Groups (SHGs), and Youth Clubs actively participated and shared their perspectives. Children and Youth Club members presented a role play highlighting the importance of education, child protection, and gender equality.

The program was graced by Mr. Stephen, Executive Secretary; Mrs. Preethi Titus, Project Director; Mr. Vijayan, Program Manager; Mr. Livingston, President of Vasantham Federation of Differently Abled Persons; along with federation leaders and IRCDS staff members including Mrs. Velankanni (Cluster Coordinator), Mrs. Saranya (Accountant), and Mr. Alban (Project Manager).

The celebration reinforced our collective commitment to empowering women and building an inclusive and equitable society.

Career guidance, counselling and digital literacy sessions were conducted in Government High and Higher Secondary School...
06/04/2026

Career guidance, counselling and digital literacy sessions were conducted in Government High and Higher Secondary Schools at Seethanjeeri and Poondi in Thiruvallur District to support students of Grades 10, 11, and 12 in making informed career decisions. The sessions utilised digital tools such as career portals, online aptitude tests, interactive videos, and e-learning platforms to enhance students’ exposure to various opportunities.

Students were oriented on diverse career pathways, emerging opportunities, government job options and higher education avenues. In addition, the sessions strengthened their ability to use online resources effectively, with a special focus on online safety, responsible usage, and awareness of digital threats. This enabled students to utilise digital platforms for skill development, competitive exam preparation and safe digital practices.

A total of 570 students benefited from these sessions.

Promotion of Kitchen Gardens in Program CommunitiesIn the program communities, IRCDS with the support of Children Believ...
26/03/2026

Promotion of Kitchen Gardens in Program Communities

In the program communities, IRCDS with the support of Children Believe has promoted kitchen gardens in 600 households across 34 working communities. As part of this initiative, seeds and seedlings were distributed, along with fruit saplings such as lemon, custard apple, mango, amla, sapota and two coconut seedlings per household.

Antenatal (ANC) and Postnatal (PNC) mothers, adolescent girls, and youth boys were actively engaged in establishing and maintaining backyard kitchen gardens. Many households have successfully started harvesting vegetables and greens, which are now being regularly consumed by the families, including lentils and locally grown produce.
Through this initiative, community member , especially ANC and PNC mother have gained increased awareness and knowledge about nutrition and the importance of incorporating vegetables and greens into their daily diet.
The seeds and seedlings were provided with support from the Horticulture Department at subsidised rates

IRCDS, in collaboration with Qualcomm India Pvt Limited , successfully organized the "Young Innovators Expo" Science Fai...
26/03/2026

IRCDS, in collaboration with Qualcomm India Pvt Limited , successfully organized the "Young Innovators Expo" Science Fair on 20 March 2026 at the Government Model Higher Secondary School. The event witnessed the participation of 245 students, along with 822 visitors ( students & teachers) from 24 schools across the Thiruvennainallur Block, Villupuram District.

The expo provided a valuable platform for young minds to explore, express, and develop their ideas and creativity. It also encouraged critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and curiosity among the visitors. The event inspired students to think beyond textbooks and motivated them to actively engage in science and innovation in their learning journey.

We are proud that IRCDS participated in this important convening, contributing to discussions on strengthening coordinat...
26/02/2026

We are proud that IRCDS participated in this important convening, contributing to discussions on strengthening coordinated support systems across law, health, livelihoods, and housing. Ending homelessness requires more than shelter — it demands dignity, continuity of care, and shared responsibility.

Through research, dialogue, and recognition of frontline teams, Maatram 2026 reaffirmed a collective commitment to long-term, sustainable solutions for people experiencing homelessness.

Science Fair for Young Innovators ( Jan – Feb 2026) To enhance scientific knowledge and curiosity among students, Scienc...
26/02/2026

Science Fair for Young Innovators ( Jan – Feb 2026)

To enhance scientific knowledge and curiosity among students, Science Fairs were conducted by IRCDS as part of our interventions in the following schools, with the support of Qualcomm India Pvt Ltd.

Govt. Girls Higher Secondary School, Keelmanambedu
Govt. Higher Secondary School, Poonamallee
Govt. Higher Secondary School, Thandurai
Avadi Corporation Higher Secondary School, Thirumullaivoyal

Through these Science Fairs, students got an excellent opportunity to create innovative projects, conduct experiments, understand scientific concepts, and improve their presentation skills. We sincerely thank the Headmasters, teachers, and students for their active involvement in preparing the
students, organizing the fairs, and providing constant encouragement. The feedback received from students, HMs, and teachers has been highly encouraging. German Volunteer Ms. Charlotte, Mrs.
Preethi Titus and Mr. Stephen from IRCDS also participated in the Science Fairs and encouraged the students.

Encouraged by the response, we plan to organise the Science Fairs on a larger scale next year.

Building Strong Bonds Between Generations Under the Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY) Scheme, the District Social Welfar...
20/02/2026

Building Strong Bonds Between Generations

Under the Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY) Scheme, the District Social Welfare Office and the Tiruvallur District Administration organized an awareness program at Thirumurugan Arts College for college students. The session focused on strengthening intergenerational relationships, promoting respect for senior citizens, and creating awareness about welfare schemes for the elderly.

IRCDS was invited as the Resource Organization, and the session was delivered by Mr. Vijayan, Program Manager. The program emphasized dignity, care, and social security for the elderly — encouraging youth to value the wisdom and contributions of senior citizens.

Social Work Students from Liverpool Hope University Visit IRCDSOn 14 February 2026, five students from Liverpool Hope Un...
19/02/2026

Social Work Students from Liverpool Hope University Visit IRCDS

On 14 February 2026, five students from Liverpool Hope University, UK, visited IRCDS as part of their academic learning exposure. They were accompanied by Professors from Stella Maris College. DIZ German Volunteer Ms. Charlotte also participated in the interaction and shared her insights.

During their visit, the students learned about IRCDS’s approaches and various development programmes. They gained insights into how communities are benefiting through IRCDS interventions and understood the impact created among the programme villages, particularly in the areas of education, health, livelihood promotion, and community empowerment.

The interaction provided a valuable platform for knowledge exchange and strengthened cross-cultural learning and collaboration.



Feedback from the Student:

“IRCDS have touched my heart. Their consideration for marginalised groups is invaluable. Their work with the community is outstanding”
– Ms. Millie Connolly, Liverpool Hope University, UK / 14th February 2026



“IRCDS have shown how incredible they are in helping and transforming the lives of disadvantaged individuals. I am entirely grateful to experience and be truly welcomed by a group of wonderful people. Forever and always, will be a special memory. Once again Thank you”
-Ms. Libby Bailey, Liverpool Hope University, UK / 14th February 2026



“IRCDS is amazing, they are truly changing people’s lives for the better. Thank you so much for having us, I’ll always remember today”
-Ms. Jenna, Liverpool Hope University, UK/ / 14th February 2026

“IRCDS really changes individual lives. The community we visited was so happy, welcoming & hospitable. I hope to meet & chat with them again someday. IRCDS is one of the best organisations to exist! They have made such a difference to many communities & the environment”
- Ms. Sophie, Liverpool Hope University, UK/ / 14th February 2026

A Proud Milestone for IRCDS: Collaboration with the Greater Chennai Corporation We are very glad to share that the Great...
11/02/2026

A Proud Milestone for IRCDS: Collaboration with the Greater Chennai Corporation
We are very glad to share that the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has entrusted IRCDS with the responsibility of maintaining the Family Shelter Home for Narikuravars and has signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the same. The shelter home has been established by GCC at Marina Beach (near Anna Square Bus Stand) with its funding support. It was inaugurated by the Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister, Thiru. Udhayanidhi Stalin, on 22nd December 2025.

About the Family Shelter Home
The newly established 2,400 sq. ft. night shelter, with a capacity to accommodate 80 persons, aims to provide a safe and dignified space for homeless families and vulnerable communities, especially during cold and rainy nights.

This initiative is part of a larger effort by the Greater Chennai Corporation to ensure the safety, dignity, and well-being of vulnerable populations in one of Chennai’s most frequented public spaces. IRCDS is honoured to contribute to this important social welfare initiative. Through this initiative, IRCDS is beginning its work in Chennai City, marking a significant milestone as we celebrate our 40th year of service.

We thank the Greater Chennai Corporation for placing its trust in IRCDS as we continue our commitment to inclusive development.
The Family Shelter Home was inaugurated by the Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister, Thiru. Udhayanidhi Stalin, on 22nd December 2025.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/night-shelters-for-homeless-families-to-come-up-near-marina-by-christmas/articleshow/125963996.cms

https://www.livechennai.com/detailnews.asp?catid=12&newsid=77287

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E8O3QkV9fSs ( Puthiya Thalaimurai TV)

# Greater Chennai Corporation

A Drug Use Prevention Awareness and Skills Training Programme was organised by IRCDS, Tiruvallur, with collaborative sup...
04/02/2026

A Drug Use Prevention Awareness and Skills Training Programme was organised by IRCDS, Tiruvallur, with collaborative support from Stella Maris College (Autonomous), Chennai – 600086, Department of Social Work on 19 January 2026 at the Panchayat Union Primary School, Thirupper Panchayat, Monnavedu Middle School and surrounding villages of Poondi Block, Thiruvallur District.

The entrepreneurship skills training aimed to promote self-employment and livelihood opportunities among community members. Hands-on training was provided in soap making, jewellery making and foot mat making, enabling participants to acquire practical small-enterprise skills.

Alongside this, a drug use prevention awareness programme was conducted using creative and participatory media such as puppetry, songs, slogans, street theatre, and drama. These performances effectively communicated the harmful effects of substance abuse and emphasized the importance of prevention. Community members also took an oath committing to drug-free living.

The programme was led by Dr. Priya George, Head, Department of MSW, along with faculty members and 50 MSW students from Stella Maris College. From IRCDS Mr. D. Vijayan, Programme Manager and staff members Ms. V. Thabithal and Ms. Kavitha and staff members facilitated community mobilisation and coordination support.

Community members from Monnavedu Panchayat, children from Monnavedu School and residents of Thiruppair, Bangaram Pettai, Sendrayan Palayam SC Colony, and ST Colony actively participated. Through this initiative a total of 185 participants directly benefited from the awareness and skills training activities.

Address

#13, Abdul Kalam Street, MDM Nagar
Tiruvallur
602001

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