Thursday, June 19, 2025

Riffle Club of School4Change

Swami Vivekananda Sevai Maiyam

School4Change

Benefits of Riffle shooting among students

Physical Benefits:

Improved hand-eye coordination: Rifle shooting requires precise hand-eye coordination, which can enhance overall physical dexterity.

Balance and stability: Proper stance and posture while shooting can improve balance and stability.

Fine motor skills: Handling a rifle can develop fine motor skills, including finger dexterity and control.

Mental and Emotional Benefits:

Mental focus and concentration: Rifle shooting requires intense focus, discipline, and mental calmness, which can translate to other areas of life.

Stress relief: The concentration required for shooting can be meditative and help reduce stress.

Confidence and self-esteem: Achieving targets and improving shooting skills can boost confidence and self-esteem.

Patience and perseverance: Rifle shooting teaches students the value of patience, persistence, and hard work.

Life Skills:

Responsibility and safety awareness: Handling firearms safely and responsibly teaches students about accountability and safety protocols.

Attention to detail: Rifle shooting requires attention to detail, including proper technique, safety protocols, and equipment maintenance.

Goal setting and achievement: Setting and achieving targets can help students develop goal-setting skills and a sense of accomplishment.

Teamwork and camaraderie: Participating in shooting sports teams can foster teamwork, communication, and camaraderie.

Character Development:

Discipline and self-control: Rifle shooting requires discipline, self-control, and adherence to rules and safety protocols.

Respect for firearms: Students learn about the importance of respecting firearms and handling them safely.

Sportsmanship: Participating in shooting sports can teach students about good sportsmanship, including respect for competitors and officials.

Career Opportunities:

Military and law enforcement: Rifle shooting skills can be beneficial for students interested in pursuing careers in the military or law enforcement.

Competitive shooting sports: Students can participate in competitive shooting sports, such as the Olympics or national championships.

Outdoor recreation: Rifle shooting can be a lifelong hobby and outdoor recreational activity.

Overall, practicing rifle shooting can be a valuable experience for students, teaching them important life skills, physical and mental benefits, and character development.


Tommy model-23 Junior 


Butt Pad:

The butt of a rifle is the thicker or handle end of a tool or weapon

Stock

 the wooden part by which a shoulder arm is held during firing

Pistol Grip

a grip in a rifle handle shaped like a pistol stock to hold the frontage of the rifle 

Safety

a block or latch that prevents the trigger and/or firing mechanism from moving, and a device that disconnects the trigger from the firing mechanism of the firearm.

Trigger Guard

a loop that surrounds the trigger of a firearm to help prevent an unintended pulling of the trigger.

Trigger

a small curved lever that when pulled activates the firing mechanism of the gun to fire a cartridge.

Scope Mount

Scope mounts are rigid implements used to attach (typically) a telescopic sight or other types of optical sights onto a firearm.

Compression Cylinder 

energy from compressed air or other gases that are mechanically pressurized and then released to propel and accelerate projectiles

Barrel 

The metal tube through which a projectile or shot charge is fired. May be rifled or smooth.

Sight On

A sight on is a device used to line up the muzzle with the shooter's eye so that he or she can hit the target. Sights are more critical on a firearm that fires a single projectile 

Muzzle 

helps to diminish the felt recoil or reactionary force produced by the “action” or firing of the round.

Specifications

Model

Model 23 Junior

Caliber

0.177″ (4.5mm)

Overall Length

920 mm

Mechanism

Break Barrel

Type

Springer

Sight

Open Sight (Metal Front Sight + Rear Metal Windage)

Action

Single Shot

Locking

Ball System

Weight

2.6- kg


Health Benefits

Using An Air Rifle Can Also Have Health Benefits. Shooting An Air Rifle Requires Concentration, Focus, And Physical Exertion, Which Can Help Improve Your Hand-Eye Coordination, Mental Acuity, And Physical Fitness. Additionally, Spending Time Outdoors While Shooting Can Be An Excellent Way To Get Some Fresh Air And Exercise.

Fine-tuning your fitness

 Increased strength, stamina, balance, hand/eye coordination and fine motor skills are just some of the benefits.


Mental processing

Some say shooting is 90% mental and 10% ability. In order to be successful, you first have to asses and control all variables such as timing, reading the wind etc. All before performing the physical skill of getting into position, pulling the trigger and following-through.


Adrenaline addiction

When taking to the firing line, there is undoubtedly a spike in adrenaline. Increased levels of adrenaline will signal your liver that it’s time to start breaking down glycogen. This is a substance that provides your body with glucose, the main source of energy for the body. This increase in energy levels releases the feel good endorphin, serotonin. Serotonin contributes to that feeling of happiness and can be a powerful, rewarding emotion.


Developing self-discipline

Target shooting is pivotal for developing skills such as self-discipline. Discipline is necessary to fire one shot after another with consistent and proper technique. While many shooters develop a shot plan or routine, it takes self-discipline to execute that routine consistently. This is particularly true in a competition setting when the pressure is high and there are always distractions.


Monday, June 16, 2025

Humanity Project of School4Change

Mr. Lingesh, Car Driver.

    At our night school, we aim to teach students about the importance of human beings and how our society relies on interdependence.


   We use various activities and classes to convey these lessons. This month, our students took part in the Humanity Project.


  During this project, students had the chance to meet different individuals who play a part in making our everyday lives easier, such as fish sellers, vegetable vendors, and cab drivers.


   A group of our students met Mr. Lingesh who is running a AK Travels. He shared many experiences and incidents to our students to understand his role in this society very clearly.


  Through this interaction, we discovered the challenges he faces in his job and the significant contribution he makes to our society by improving and simplifying it.



Fish selling women

In our night school, we strive to teach students the importance of human beings and how our interdependent society functions.


We convey these lessons through various activities and classes. This month, our students participated in the Humanity Project.


During this project, students had the opportunity to meet different individuals who make our daily lives easier, such as fish sellers, vegetable vendors, and cab drivers.


One team of our students met a fish-selling woman near their home and engaged in an interaction with her. They had prepared a set of questions to gain more knowledge about her experiences.


Through this interaction, we learned about the challenges she faces in her day-to-day job and the significant contribution she makes to our society to improve and simplify it.

Saturday, May 31, 2025

Educational Trip to Coimbatore

Purpose Of The Trip


1. Developing essential social skills

2. Learning practical life lessons

3. Fostering a deeper connection with nature

4. Building confidence



Meet Mr. Parthiban


A heartfelt thank you to Mr. Parthipan from Karumathampatti, Coimbatore, for being an incredible host and guide during our educational trip


As a young leader with remarkable influence in his community, he generously supported the School4Change team, ensuring our comfort and safety throughout our 4-day stay


Mr. Parthipan introduced us to inspiring individuals, including organic farmers, handloom weavers, and spiritual yogis, providing valuable Insights.


We're grateful for Mr. Parthipan's kindness and look forward to sharing the impact of this experience.



Meet Mr. Srinivasan, Guava Farmer


We had the privilege of meeting Mr. Srinivasan, a kind-hearted individual with vast knowledge of Indian and world politics. Our visit to his home was an incredible experience, where we met his loving wife, Mrs. Priya and child Kiranmayee.


Mr. Srinivasan is a passionate farmer, cultivating guava on his land, which yields around 25 sacks of fruits. However, he faces challenges from parrots and peacocks that feed on the fruits due to the destruction of their natural habitat. What's remarkable is his response to this issue - he chooses not to harm the birds and instead sells the remaining fruits, prioritizing compassion over profit.





Hand Loom Factory of Mr. Srinivasan


Mr. Srinivasan also has a hand loom factory where he provide jobs to more than 50 people.


Where he demonstrated his commitment to his workers' well-being. Notably, during the COVID-19 pandemic, he spent over ₹10 lakh to support his workers' families.


Mr. Srinivasan's wife, Mrs. Priya is a treasure trove of knowledge, using kitchen ingredients to cure various ailments. She shared valuable tips with our students, showcasing the power of natural remedies.


We're grateful for encounters like these, which remind us of the goodness in humanity. Thank you, Mr. Srinivasan, for inspiring us with your kindness and compassion.







Meet Mr. Ponmuthu Ayya (Organic Farmer)


We're humbled to have met Mr. Ponmuthu Ayya, a pure soul dedicated to natural farming & living in harmony with nature. His family, including wife Mrs. Komathi & daughters Prithi & Nivitha, join him in his noble endeavors.


What's truly inspiring is his commitment to non-violence, extending even to tiny creatures like ants. We witnessed his gentle actions firsthand, like carefully relocating a leech to safety.


His wisdom & passion for natural farming are contagious, and our students gained invaluable insights from him. Thank you, Mr. Ponmuthu Ayya, for embodying the spirit of compassion & sustainability.


A True Guardian of Nature, Mr. Ponmuthu Ayya


We had the privilege of meeting many farmers who shared their insights on sustainable farming practices. However, Mr. Ponmuthu Ayya's approach stood out - he refrains from using both pesticides and fertilizers. When we asked him to share his reasoning, he explained that every living being, including insects, plays a vital role in the ecosystem. According to him, nature has its own balance; what we perceive as "harmful" insects are often controlled by beneficial ones, creating a natural cycle that humans shouldn't disrupt.


We were deeply inspired by his words and witnessed the thriving diversity on his farm. His fields are home to a wide variety of organic crops, including Indian little tomatoes, sesame seeds, mint, bay leaves, corn, spinach, and numerous types of rice and millets. These crops aren't just a testament to his farming practices but also reflect his deep connection with nature.


Mr. Ponmuthu Ayya's approach is a powerful reminder of the importance of living in harmony with nature. His dedication to preserving the natural balance is truly commendable, and we're grateful for the opportunity to learn from him.




A Leader in Natural Farming, Mr. Ponmuthu Ayya


We're thrilled to have met Mr. Ponmuthu Ayya, a pioneering farmer who's not only cultivating a self-sustaining farm but also leading a like-minded community of natural farmers. He's brought together around 14 farmers who share his vision, and they've established 'Sivan Sandhai', a market dedicated to organic products.


What's remarkable about their approach is their collective planning and distribution strategy. They work together to identify the crops in demand, distribute them among the farmers, and avoid overproduction. This collaborative effort is a shining example of sustainable agriculture and community building. Our team has volunteered to help them in the market.


Mr. Ponmuthu Ayya's leadership and vision are truly inspiring. He's not just a farmer; he's a catalyst for positive change in his community. We're grateful for the opportunity to meet him and look forward to learning from his experiences. His work is a testament to the power of collective action and sustainable living. 



Visit to Arivu Thirukkovil in Azhiyar near Pollachi


We visited the serene Arivu Thirukkovil in Azhiyar near Pollachi, where the revered Vedhanthri Maharishi attained enlightenment. Our students experienced this sacred place for the first time, and they were deeply drawn to its calming aura. We spent over 20 minutes in meditation, immersing ourselves in the spiritual energy of the place.


After meditation, we had the privilege of meeting a knowledgeable professor from the temple. He shared profound insights on the purpose of human existence and the significance of the soul. His explanations on why human birth is considered precious, despite all living beings having a soul, were enlightening and thought-provoking.


The spiritual learning and energy of the place left a lasting impression on us. We're grateful for the opportunity to visit Arivu Thirukkovil and learn from the professor's wisdom.





Visit to Isha Yoga Centre, Coimbature


After visiting Arivu Thirukkovil, we headed to the breathtaking Isha Yoga Centre, which truly felt like a heaven on earth. The serene surroundings and majestic Vellangiri hills created a picturesque backdrop, especially with the stunning view from the foot of the Adiyogi statue.


We had the privilege of meeting a Sadhu who was engaged in Sadhana near Linga Bhairavi. Our conversation with him was truly enlightening, as he shared profound insights on Uyir Nokkam (the science of living). He explained that our presence here is purposeful, aimed at clearing our karmic cycle to attain enlightenment.


The experience was nothing short of magical, and we felt grateful to have had the opportunity to explore this sacred space. The Isha Yoga Centre is indeed a place where one can connect with the divine and experience inner peace.



Visit to Ayyan Temple


We had the privilege of visiting the Ayyan Temple in Palladam, where we met the kind-hearted Priest, Mr. Yoganathan. He warmly welcomed our students and shared valuable insights about the current generation, drawing from his experience of running a school near the temple for over 75 years, providing affordable education to many.


What struck us was the fascinating story of Ayyan, the temple's main deity. Over 700 years ago, Ayyan was a devoted doctor who treated fever and snake bites, major illnesses of that time. His unwavering devotion to Lord Shiva led him to chant sacred mantras, and one day, Shiva appeared before him. Ayyan requested a cure for all illnesses, and Shiva granted him the boon that even mud from his meditation place would become medicine.


Ayyan used this divine power to heal people, and eventually, he attained enlightenment. People began to worship him as a god, and to this day, devotees from far and wide come to seek his blessings and take the sacred mud, believed to possess healing properties.


Mr. Yoganathan ayya took us to the Garbhagraham, where we felt the divine energy of Ayyan and offered our prayers. The experience was truly unforgettable, and we're grateful for the opportunity to visit this sacred place.




Meet Mr. Ashok in Mythili Mess near Salem


We had a delightful surprise when we met Mr. Ashok again at Mythili Mess in Salem, a place we hadn't expected to reconnect with him. It was a serendipitous moment, as we had first met him three years ago on our journey back to Chennai from Kodaikanal.


Mr. Ashok has been working at the mess since his childhood, and his dedication to serving customers is truly inspiring. His simplicity and humility shine through in his words, "All I know is how to take care of the customers who visit the mess." And indeed, he takes pride in serving his customers with love and care.


What struck us most was his pride in providing quality education to his children, who are now working in a reputed company like CTS. Despite facing daily struggles, Mr. Ashok's enthusiasm and positivity are contagious. His story is a testament to the power of hard work and determination.


We were overjoyed to meet him again, and his warm hospitality made us feel like family.



Meet Mr. Vel Murugan, Cab Driver


We're grateful to have had Mr. Vel Murugan as our driver for this trip. His warm personality and genuine nature made us feel at ease throughout the journey. We had engaging conversations, and he shared many of his life experiences, which added depth to our interactions.


Mr. Vel Murugan was thoroughly impressed by the trip, remarking that it was unlike any other he'd experienced. He marveled at the opportunities to learn and meet new people that came up during the journey.


What impressed us most was his exceptional driving skills, which ensured our safety and comfort throughout the trip. Our students felt at home with him, and he even took the time to provide basic driving lessons, making the experience even more memorable.


We're thankful for the experience and look forward to having Mr. Vel Murugan behind the wheel again. His professionalism and kindness made a significant difference to our trip.



We're deeply thankful to everyone who supported our trip to Coimbature! Your contributions made this journey truly special. We're grateful to have you all by our side!


Thank you!

Regards

School4Change


Thiruvannamalai Educational Trip

Objective of the Thiruvannamalai Trip:

  • To foster an understanding of the universe and help students recognize their potential.

  • To provide a mindful break for Advanced Learning Program students and teachers.

  • To develop social skills and teamwork among students.

  • To introduce basic exercises and meditation practices, leveraging the serene environment of Thiruvannamalai.



The Journey through our trip:


Meet Mr. Raja Singam, The Homestay Caretaker


From May 15th to 19th, our School4Change core team embarked on a trip to the Tiruvannamalai district to develop our social skills.


Our task was to engage with locals, and we selected two remarkable individuals: Mr. Raja Singam, a homestay caretaker from Tirunelveli, and Mr. Dhandapani, an auto driver.


Mr. Raja Singam shared his inspiring story, including his successes, struggles, and memorable moments, which greatly benefited our team. We learned valuable lessons from his experiences.


We're grateful for this opportunity.



Meet Mr. Dhandapani, Auto Driver


We met Mr. Dhandapani, an auto driver from Tiruvannamalai, after connecting with Mr. Raja Singam. During our 4-day stay in Tiruvannamalai, 


we frequently used Mr. Dhandapani's auto service, and every time we asked him questions, he provided detailed and insightful answers. 


He shared valuable information about school and college students, spiritual energy, the power of Siddhars, the secrets of the Tiruvannamalai temple, and politics. These insights were incredibly useful to our team.

 

Thanks to universe


After meeting Mr. Dhandapani, we had the opportunity to connect with his wife, Mrs. Venda, a working woman who works at Namma Vedu Restaurant in Tiruvannamalai.

Meet Mrs. Venda, Wife of Mr. Dhandapani

We had the pleasure of meeting Mrs. Venda, wife of Mr. Dhandapani, an auto driver in Tiruvannamalai. As previously mentioned, Mrs. Venda works at Namma Vedu Restaurant, and what's remarkable about her is that she's a working woman who doesn't take days off, even on Sundays, to support her family's needs and her children's education.


Interestingly, the name Venda has South African Bantu origins, meaning "Bantu people of South Africa." It's a unique and meaningful name associated with qualities like independence, ambition, creativity, and natural leadership.


During our conversation, one of our students, Aswini, asked Mrs. Venda what motivates you.


She replied that her husband is her primary source of motivation, but what's truly inspiring is the inner strength and determination she's cultivated since childhood, thanks to her parents.


Mrs. Venda shared a powerful message: women shouldn't seek power because they inherently possess it. She encouraged us to be bold, drive life with fun and bravery, and embody the true essence of womanhood. We're grateful for her inspiring words and thank Mrs. Venda for sharing her story with us.


Meet Mr. Sathish, working at a leg massage center


We stumbled upon Mr. Sathish, a warm-hearted individual working at a leg massage center, while taking a break on our journey. His infectious enthusiasm and genuine nature struck a chord with us. Not just a service provider, Mr. Sathish ensures every visitor leaves as a friend.


Our conversation flowed effortlessly, and he shared his insights on the Thiruvannamalai temple and its spiritual aura. When asked about his personal spiritual beliefs, he beautifully summed it up with "Anbe Sivam" (Love is God). His conviction was truly inspiring!


Mr. Sathish patiently answered our students' questions, motivating them with his wisdom. We're grateful for the universe's gift of such wonderful encounters on our journey.



Trek up to Shkanda Ashram


Our students embarked on a 30-minute trek up the hill to Skanda Ashram, surrounded by lush greenery and serene ambiance. Upon reaching the ashram, they practiced meditation, calming their minds and connecting with nature.


The highlight of the trek was the breathtaking view of the Thiruvannamalai temple from the top, leaving everyone speechless. We spent a few moments soaking in the beauty of the surroundings, feeling grateful for the experience.


This trek not only tested the students' physical stamina but also taught them valuable lessons about perseverance, teamwork, and the importance of taking a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. A truly enriching experience for all!


Girivalam Walk


On our final evening in Thiruvannamalai, we embarked on a sacred Girivalam journey, blessed with gentle drizzles from nature. Our group of students and teachers walked the 14-kilometer path around the Arunachala hill, completing it in 6 hours.


As we strolled through the serene landscape, we shared valuable insights, spiritual lessons, and meaningful conversations. Many of our students experienced Girivalam for the first time, and they did remarkably well, considering the distance and terrain.


The soothing rain and engaging conversations made the journey feel effortless, and we hardly felt the strain on our legs. We are grateful to the universe for granting us this opportunity to experience the spiritual energy of Girivalam and create lifelong memories with our students.


Old Age Home Visit


We had the privilege of visiting an Old Age home in Thiruvannamalai, selflessly run by Mr. Ramanar for over 20 years. This noble soul has been providing shelter, care, and medicines to the elderly without any expectations, embodying the true spirit of compassion.


We spent quality time with the residents, sharing a meal and engaging in meaningful conversations that touched on spirituality. Their wisdom and life experiences were truly inspiring.


Out of respect for the home's rules, we refrained from taking pictures, but the memories of our time with them will stay with us forever. We're grateful for the opportunity to interact with these incredible individuals and Mr. Ramanar's tireless dedication to their well-being.


We're deeply thankful to everyone who supported our trip to Thiruvannamalai! Your contributions made this journey truly special. We're grateful to have you all by our side!


Thank you!

Regards

School4Change