Volunteers of Common Good
Sreedhanya Suresh IAS
The catastrophic floods of 2018 and overwhelming community involvement to it made the Government to envisage the vast potential of this by institutionalising Samoohika Sannadhasena or Community Volunteer Corps in the State. This well-organized, ever-ready task force comprising 3.5 lakh registered volunteers as of now is an integral part of the State’s functioning today with their commitment to equip communities to face adversities with confidence and compassion, foster a culture of resilience and interdependence with a primary focus on disaster preparedness. Volunteers receive hands-on training in first aid, evacuation protocols, rescue operations, and shelter management guided by professionals in order to prepare common public to respond efficiently during disaster emergencies. Samoohika Sannadhasena plays a pivotal role in Kerala’s anti-drug campaigns. Volunteers conduct outreach programs and awareness drives, especially among the youth, emphasizing the dangers of substance abuse.
Their community presence and trust-building capacities enable effective messaging and behavioural change, promoting healthier, drug-free lifestyles across the state. Another initiative is Azhakerum Keralam, a Clean Kerala Campaign through which volunteers participate in cleaning drives across tourist spots and public areas, instilling civic responsibility and pride to emphasis environmental sustainability and hygiene. Another sphere of service is ‘Vaathilpadi Sevanam’ (Services at the Doorstep) through which, the volunteers deliver essential government services including pension assistance and supply of medications and food to the elderly, differently-abled, and homebound citizens. This human-centric model ensures no one is left behind, particularly those unable to access basic services independently.
In collaboration with the Health and Local Self- Government Departments, these volunteers extend palliative support under Kerala Care project to terminally ill and bedridden patients. Offering both clinical and emotional care, this program underlines the Sannadhasena’s role in humanizing healthcare and providing dignity in end-of-life support. The THRIVE initiative is another involvement of volunteers to support tribal students in Model Residential Schools by providing mentorship and exposure to educational and career opportunities. Simultaneously, it cultivates a new generation of socially committed volunteers, nurturing leadership and purpose among the youth. In collaboration with UNICEF and Kerala Youth Leadership Academy, the Sannadhatheeram program trains youth in coastal districts for climate resilience.
These “coastal champions” work with local bodies to disseminate knowledge and drive community-led climate adaptation efforts, vital in a state vulnerable to climate change. What distinguishes Kerala’s Sannadhasena is its institutional backing, vast volunteer network, and diverse engagement. A dedicated portal and mobile app facilitate seamless coordination, registration, and training, making it both scalable and sustainable. As Kerala continues its path towards equitable development, this empowered volunteer force remains a linchpin—bridging policy and people, responding to crisis, and shaping a more inclusive and humane future while engaging citizens as a living model of what communities can achieve when united.
-The writer is Director at Samoohika Sandhha Sena