I spoke to Siddamma recently. We touched upon many aspects of the project. Overall I was quite satisfied with her responses. She seems genuinely commited to the welfare of the Irulas and has a good sense of where the project needs to go. Here's the transcript of the conversation.
 

On her back ailment: She's doing a bit better now, but was in worse shape a few days before I called. Apparently the current treatment led to other complications. She's slowly recovering, and mentioned that her condition has somewhat curtailed the periodic visits to the villages.

Accounts/Finances/Quarterly Reports: She hopes to send us by email the financial statement for the 1'st 6 months in a week. I asked her to elaborate on Venkat's comment in his report (that the estimation for Vessels/Teaching materials were quite low). She agreed that they were not estimated correctly and that the new costs would increase, but that they don't need extra funding from us.

She mentioned that the quarterly report would also be sent out soon.

Project Details:

7 motivational centers are functional and conducting classes: They are Ramapuram, Sejiagaram, Janaganapalli, Mullinagar (includes Kanchvayil and Katavoor), Rajaratnam nagar, Rajapalayam, Kottakullam - New center opened in Rajaratnam nagar (was not in original proposal); she started this because this was found to be one of the most backward areas, where children were grossly neglected. There are 85 of them. Most are girls older than 10. Place also has Illicit liquor problem (she indicated that underage children, including girls drink). Parents are keen on sending children to the center. A Sarpam Committe has also been initiated. No extra budget needed for this center per Siddamma.

Kothur Center not yet opened due to problems between landlords and Irulas. The landlords have so far managed to divide the Irula community. These landlords are apparently relatives of the Gandhigram landlords who initially also opposed creation of similar centers in Gandhigram. (Now of course, Gandhigram is the source of pride for all Irulas). There are 30 families and 15 are for the creation of this center and 15 are against. She wants all 30 to be fully committed before starting the center. Siddamma is hopeful that with time Kothur situation will improve. She also referred to the potentially explosive situation a few months back in Kothur.

MGR Nagar I & II are awaiting approval of land from the Govt.

School attendance: I was pleasantly surprised to hear that in most of the centers the attendance is close to 100% now. She said that she visited these villages along with the teachers to emphasize the importance of these centers to the Adults/families. They seem to be convinced and hence are wholeheartedly sending the children to the centers. Let's hope that this trend continues.

Other topics:

Muriel, the student from Belgium was there. Got a chance to speak to her briefly. She was planning to spend a few days there, and also take the children to nearby attractions. We agreed to keep in touch. I think with her personal experience with the Irulas and also her interaction with Bharathi Trust, she can give valuable suggestions re project.

Email connection works reliably well (thanks to Shanmugha)

She prefers wiring of funds (I did mention that she may get a better Rupee rate if she has a live check to negotiate. Shubda's father indicated this). I think from an overall secure perspective it may be better to wire it.

Summary:

Overall, I felt positive. I think we should send the remaining part of the funds for this year once we get the financial report for the 1'st 6 months. Your thoughts/inputs?