Small Acts, Big Impact: A Salesian Non-profit in India Inspires Eco Responsibility

Marialaya, a nonprofit, rights-based social service organization operating in the industrial city of Tiruppur, in Tamil Nadu, South India, marked World Environment Day with vibrant celebrations and impactful activities on June 5, 2025.

The Christian nonprofit is run by the Congregation of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, also known as the Salesian Sisters.

The celebration brought together a diverse group of resource persons and stakeholders, including Sisters, local police officers, railway officials, advocates, and industrial representatives, reflecting a shared commitment to environmental stewardship.

Key speakers addressed the urgent need for environmental conservation, encouraging tree planting, reducing plastic use, and adopting eco-friendly habits in daily life.

Speaking at the event, Sr. Arul Mary FMA emphasized the urgent need to protect the environment. “We must avoid polluting our planet and instead work towards creating a greener society,” she urged. “By doing so, we can overcome environmental challenges and live joyful, healthy lives.”

Mr. Lord Igarshal, an advocate working in the State’s high court, spoke on the fundamental rights of children and reflected on his own experiences with environmental issues like plastic pollution and deforestation. “Children must be encouraged to plant more trees and embrace a nature-friendly lifestyle,” he said.

Young girls of Marialaya gave a cultural performance, consisting of dances and mime shows, with the message to protect and care for the environment.

Mr. Saga Deva, also an advocate, commended the mime show of the Marialaya girls, saying: “Their silent act delivered a powerful message—small actions can lead to big changes when it comes to saving the environment.”

Mr. Kannan, HR manager of Jay Jay Mills, a leading manufacturer in Tiruppur, highlighted the role of industries in environmental care. “Trees contribute immensely to human well-being and ecological balance,” he said. He also called on workers “to safeguard the company premises and avoid any form of pollution,” underscoring the importance of shared responsibility.

The program deepened participants’ understanding of environmental challenges and the role individuals and communities play in sustainable action. The collaborative nature of the event fostered unity and a strong sense of shared responsibility, drawing together voices from civil society, government, and industry.

The event concluded with a symbolic tree planting ceremony, reaffirming the collective pledge to nurture a greener, healthier future.

Marialaya is dedicated to supporting children, young girls, and women living in difficult circumstances. Based in Tiruppur, an Indian city known for its thriving textile and export industries, Marialaya addresses the unique challenges posed by high levels of migration.

The Salesian Sisters began this mission in 2000, responding to the request of the District Collector to support migrant families in Tiruppur. After two years of groundwork, the organization formally began operations in 2002 and was officially registered in 2003.

Marialaya’s mission is to liberate children, young girls, and women from all forms of exploitation, provide them with integral formation, and foster a positive environment where they can become empowered agents of social transformation.