COODU has been instrumental in implementing various developmental projects across Tamil Nadu. Over the years, COODU has received commendations and recognition from both government bodies and corporate entities for its impactful initiatives.
Government Recognition
In 2008, COODU was selected by the Central Government to participate in the Nirmal Gram Puraskar scheme, an award recognizing village that have achieved total sanitation. COODU's role involved verifying 470 village panchayats across the districts of West Godavari, East Godavari, Srikakulam, Krishna, and Vijayanagaram in Andhra Pradesh. A dedicated team of 60 members conducted thorough investigations over two months, culminating in a comprehensive report submitted to the government.
Further acknowledgment came from district authorities. In 2001, I.A.S. officer Vijayakumar, the District Collector of Ramanathapuram, endorsed COODU's activities, highlighting their successful execution of watershed and other developmental projects over five years in Coimbatore and other districts.
Similarly, N. Muruganandam, I.A.S., District Collector of Coimbatore, recognized COODU's involvement in implementing the Drought Prone Areas Programme (DPAP) and the Integrated Wasteland Development Programme (IWDP) within the district.
Corporate Collaborations and Recognition
COODU's expertise has
attracted collaborations with prominent corporate entities. In August 2018,
Marico Limited approached COODU to enhance water resources and implement
interventions aimed at increasing coconut production. COODU conducted surveys
in various hamlets of Kinathukadavu block, identifying willing farmers for the
establishment of farm ponds, thereby contributing to sustainable agricultural
practices.
Additionally, COODU partnered with ITC Limited in October 2015 to launch the Water Stewardship Programme. This initiative aimed to augment agricultural production, increase crop intensity, expand arable land, and improve rural livelihoods. The program emphasized equitable socio-economic development and the elevation of water tables, reflecting COODU's commitment to holistic community advancement.
Training and Capacity Building Initiatives
COODU has also been recognized for its extensive training programs. Notably, in 2007, under the UNDP-TAHA project addressing HIV/AIDS and child trafficking, COODU sensitized over 5,300 adolescent schoolgirls and 430 non-school-going adolescent girls in Coimbatore. These efforts underscore COODU's dedication to health education and the empowerment of young women.
In collaboration with the National Institute of Naturopathy in 2008, COODU provided naturopathy and yoga training to 44 women Self-Help Group (SHG) members, promoting holistic health practices among rural women.
Through these initiatives and
collaborations, COODU has established itself as a reputable organization,
earning accolades from both governmental and corporate sectors for its
unwavering commitment to community development and empowerment.
