The M. S. Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF) has been implementing various development projects in the Kollihills region for the welfare of the tribal communities for the past 25 years, in collaboration with government and non-governmental organizations. Specifically, the traditional crops of the Kollihills region, such as small millet varieties like Little Millet (Samai), Pearl Millet (Kezhvaragu), Finger Millet (Ragi), and Sorghum (Cholam), are being cultivated through festivals, and their preservation is supported through seed banks. With the assistance of NABARD Bank, the initiatives aim to preserve traditional farming techniques and transform degraded lands into productive agricultural plots. The foundation has also promoted sustainable practices like small millet-based products and value-added crops for the local communities.

The “Every Child a Scientist” (ECAS) programme, a new initiative in the region, is being implemented through a partnership with the Five Star Business Finance Ltd, focusing on school education. The programme was launched on September 26, 2021, at the M. S. Swaminathan Research Foundation’s headquarters, with the Tamil Nadu Minister for School Education, Mr. Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi, presiding over the event. Since then, the project has been extended to Pudukkottai (2023) and Poompuhar (2022) locations.

This initiative primarily targets government school students studying 6^th to 8^th standard, focusing on enhancing their scientific skills. The students will be introduced to modern digital learning tools such as smart boards and computers, and will engage in science and agriculture-related subjects. The curriculum incorporates contemporary scientific models and research findings. The programme aims to benefit 200 students annually, with a focus on improving scientific literacy through hands-on education. Qualified teachers will be trained to deliver science-based lessons through the “Every Child a Scientist” programme at MSSRF’s rural development centers in Kollihills.

The launch event for the programme took place on December 2, 2024. The Chief Guest, Mr. K. Ponnuswamy, Member of Legislative Assembly from Namakkal, inaugurated the event and delivered the keynote address. Dr ED. Israel Oliver King, Director of the Biodiversity Department at MSSRF, gave a special address, followed by a detailed explanation of the project by Dr. G. N. Hariharan, Executive Director of MSSRF. The programme’s aim is to enhance students’ scientific skills through agricultural education and practical science lessons.

Other distinguished guests included Mr. S. Senthil Murugan, Head of the Atma Group, Kollihills, Mr. P. Palaniswamy, Block Education Officer, Sembedu, Kollihills; Dr. N. Parasaraman, Senior Scientist, MSSRF; Mr. Ramaswamy, Village Development Officer, Ms. Vennila Sivakumar, Farmer and Mr. L. Sivaramakrishnan, CSR Manager, Five Star Business Finance Ltd, who all delivered special addresses.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. A. Annadurai from MSSRF, Kollihills. The launch ceremony was followed by a field visit, where special guests planted saplings to mark the start of the project. The event saw the active participation of school students, tribal farmers, and community members. The organization’s staff made excellent arrangements for the event, ensuring its success.