I am Lakshmi, the Treasurer of the Adi Tamizhar Sangam at the Sangalapatti Branch. When our sangam was first introduced in our branch, I did not have much confidence in it. In the past, some people had promised to register workers with the Welfare Board and help them access the welfare schemes available through the Board. But they had deceived us. Therefore, I initially did not trust the Sangam. After learning why the Sangam was established and understanding its activities, I decided to become a member. I participated in the membership training programme held at Nilakottai, where we were given information about the Welfare Board and its benefits. Later, the Sangam representatives helped me register with the Welfare Board. However, the Village Administrative Officer (VAO) initially refused to sign my application. When I approached him, he questioned whether I was genuinely working in the occupation. I informed the Sangam staff about the issue. They contacted the VAO over the phone and explained the matter to him, requesting that he sign the application. Following this intervention, the VAO signed my application. Within 20 days, the Sangam helped me obtain my Welfare Board card, and I helped enrol five new members in the Sangam. I visited my native village and met people at the Alagampatti branch to explain the Sangam’s work and encourage them to join. I spoke to around ten people, who expressed interest in becoming members, and I helped connect them with the Sangam staff. As a result, ten people joined the Sangam. I regularly participate in the Sangam’s meetings, programmes and training sessions, where I continue to gain new knowledge. These experiences have brought a positive change in my life. I thank the Adi Thamizhar Sangam.

– Lakshmi, Dindigul