Situations up to and including July 2024

In May 2023, Arie-Jan and Rob visited Karauli, focusing on two projects: the Skill Development Centre for Women and the Dams.

Sewing Workshop
During the visit, in consultation with Krishna, the Maharaja of Karauli, and his son, a first step was taken for the "Skill Development Centre for Women" project by setting up a Sewing Workshop to provide a stable income and promote financial independence for women from disadvantaged backgrounds. The first results are already visible. A former school building has been renovated and put into use as a workshop space and sewing machines have been purchased.
It is remarkable how quickly the women have adapted to working with the machines, and various products such as bags, kaftans, pillowcases, and curtains have already been produced. Starting with ten women, the free training has since attracted more participants. Their main motivation is not only a desire to learn but especially the opportunity to support themselves through sales. New, more advanced machines have arrived, and the quality of the work is improving. Efforts have begun to find sales channels for the products, which has even led to external orders, such as producing 200 uniforms for a high school. In summary, a modest initiative has already become a success, and future prospects are promising.

The Dams
In 2023, several dams were visited. One of the dams, the Harnager dam, is severely damaged and needs repair. Due to a leak, it does not hold enough water.
Another dam, located 20 km from Karauli, has suffered even more severe damage and requires extensive repairs.
Due to the challenging terrain, it has been difficult to visit all the dams. After the monsoon season in July and August 2024, one of the board members will visit again at the end of 2024 to further assess the situation with Krishna. The goal is to develop a plan to restore and strengthen these dams so that they can function optimally again, prevent future damage, and contribute to sustainable development with a positive impact on nature and local communities.

A new website for the Foundation, including photos, will be launched soon to keep you updated on the progress of the projects and their impact on the community.

Financial report 2022/2023

There were no significant expenses in 2022.
In 2023, a total amount of €5,438.63 was spent on the "Skill Development Centre for Women." This amount was used to renovate a former school and repurpose it as a workshop space. Additionally, four sewing machines were purchased, and the first ten women were trained to operate the new machines.
There is still over €6,000.00 in the Karauli Foundation’s account. After the visit to India, it will be decided how this amount will be spent.

Krishna and the residents of Karauli have once again expressed their gratitude to the board, which in turn conveys their thanks to you.