The CARD – Light to Life Project in Vattavada serves students from farming communities across six villages in Idukki District, Kerala. In 2024–25, the project guided 250 students through talent search programs, career mentoring, and special support classes for slow learners, while enhancing the community library and publishing a student magazine to encourage creative and literary expression. Skill development initiatives included tailoring, spoken English, leadership training, craft workshops, and eco-friendly art projects, complemented by health assessments, first aid classes, counseling, and community health check-ups in partnership with the Vattavada Health Department. Sports, cultural events, drawing competitions, and celebrations of national and local festivals further nurtured students’ holistic growth and civic engagement.
The project has achieved notable academic and creative success, including full A+ results for SSLC topper Jayashree R. and Higher Secondary achiever Sangeetha K., alongside awards in arts and cultural competitions, such as Mohanan T.’s first prize in pencil drawing at the Munnar Division by Kerala Forest & Wildlife Department. Community engagement through PTA meetings, agricultural clubs, kitchen farming, student parliaments, street plays, and festival programs strengthened parent–teacher collaboration, leadership, and civic responsibility. Despite challenges including unpredictable climatic conditions, limited transport, poor road and healthcare infrastructure, and connectivity issues, the project continues to empower rural communities in the Western Ghats, fostering resilience, creativity, unity, and hope through education, skills training, health, and holistic child development.