The WELEAD EWR Zonal Meeting was organized by the Cauvery Development Office, Don Bosco Tiruchy, on 17–18 July 2026 at Don Bosco Media House, Manikandam.

INT WELEAD- EWR Zonal Meeting
Date: 17th and 18th July 2026
Venue: Don Bosco Media House, Manikandam
No of Participants: 48

The WELEAD EWR Zonal Meeting was organized by the Cauvery Development Office, Don Bosco Tiruchy, on 17–18 July 2026 at Don Bosco Media House, Manikandam. The WELEAD project is implemented across seven districts—Madurai, Salem, Keeranur (Pudukkottai), Dindigul, Cuddalore, Tiruppur, and Thoothukudi—which are grouped into three zones. The meeting brought together potential women representatives from Dindigul, Keeranur, and Cuddalore (Zone 1).
The programme commenced with a prayer song, followed by a welcome address by Fr. Ashok Lawrence, who introduced and felicitated the resource persons with shawls and mementoes.
The first day's sessions were facilitated by Dr. Florence Shalini, Assistant Professor, Department of Social Work, Bishop Heber College. Through interactive games and participatory activities, she strengthened the participants' leadership skills and confidence. She emphasized that women are natural leaders who effectively manage families, make responsible decisions, and shape future generations, encouraging them to extend these leadership qualities into public life by actively participating in politics and contesting Panchayat elections.
The second day's sessions were led by Mr. Christuraj, Advocate and Lead Trainer. He explained the legal aspects of contesting elections, including candidates' rights, responsibilities, and statutory requirements, enabling participants to understand the electoral process with greater clarity and confidence.
An interactive group activity on election campaigning enabled participants to identify key issues in their respective villages, develop practical solutions, and prepare election manifestos. Each group presented its manifesto through a mock election awareness campaign, enhancing participants' understanding of campaign planning and public engagement.
The programme significantly strengthened the participants' confidence and preparedness to contest future Panchayat elections with the support of CSOs and   support groups. During the feedback session, many participants expressed that they now feel empowered and motivated to actively participate in local governance and political leadership. The programme concluded with the vote of thanks delivered by Ms. Elizabeth, Regional Coordinator.