Marthandam Integrated Development Society (MIDS)
The social apostolate wing of the Diocese of Marthandam has been functioning for more than 27 years with the aim of building a just society based on love inspired by the Catholic Social Teachings, Constitution of India, and United Nations Organization. To ensure sustainable development, numerous programmes have been implemented to eradicate poverty and injustice, and to foster ecological protection.
A Just Society Based
On Love
Empowerment of the
Marginalized
Section
Achieve Holistic Development of the Marginalized & weaker Sections
Children's Education cum Development
- Children’s Sponsorship Programme
- Higher Education Scholarships
- Personality and Leadership Development
- Talent Development
- Parental Training
MIDS believe that providing quality education and fostering the overall development of children is essential for breaking the cycle of poverty and creating opportunities for a brighter future
Self-Help Groups
The purpose of these groups is to meet the basic needs of the people, promote economic growth, and help members overcome debt problems
- Credit Support
- Capacity Building
- Recognition
MIDS continues to empower rural women, improve their socio-economic status, and promote self-employment through these dedicated SHGs.
Women Empowerment
Women empowerment is essential for achieving gender equality and fostering a just and inclusive society
- Widow Support Programs
- Income Generation Program
- Skill Development and Training
- Support for Self-Help Group
MIDS strives to empower women, enabling them to overcome social barriers, achieve financial stability, and contribute positively to their communities
Kolping
Blessed Rev. Father Adolph Kolping, founded the "Traveling Workers Association" with 7 members on May 6, 1849, in Cologne, Germany. After his time, the association evolved into the "Kolping Movement."
- An exemplary Christian
- An exemplary family head
- An exemplary worker
- An exemplary citizen
When the Marthandam Diocese was established in 1997, there were 15 Kolping families. Today, it has grown to 103 families.
Family Development Programme
The Family Development Program is a cornerstone of MIDS’s mission to uplift marginalized communities and foster holistic growth.
- Support and Development
- Periodic House Visits
- Financial Assistance
MIDS is dedicated to uplifting rural families through the Family Enrichment Programme, helping them achieve economic stability and holistic development.
IGP & Skill Training
Income Generation Programs and Skill Training are essential for fostering self-reliance and economic stability among underprivileged communities.
By integrating IGP and Skill Training into our community development efforts, MIDS helps individuals move from dependency to self-sufficiency
Save A Family Plan (SAFP)
The Save A Family Plan - Family Development Programme (FDP) is an initiative aimed at empowering marginalized families in our operational areas
- Orientation and Support
- Economic Activities
- Impact
MIDS remains committed to supporting marginalized families through the Family Development Programme, helping them achieve economic stability and enhanced well-being.
Ezhuvom Iyakkam
MIDS' EzhuvomIyakkam Cancer Care Project aims to raise awareness and promote community actions to prevent cancer.
- Programme Launch
- Volunteer Training
- Cancer Screening Camps
- World Cancer Day
Palliative care services were arranged for bedridden patients with the support of Sree Ram Cancer Centre, Nagercoil.
Vulnerable Group Upliftment
Supporting vulnerable groups such as Dalits and migrants is essential for creating an inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
- Dalit Movement
- CEI Migrants Project
The Vulnerable Group Upliftment program at MIDS focuses on addressing the specific challenges faced by marginalized communities, including Dalits, migrants, and other vulnerable populations. Uplifting these groups is crucial for fostering social equity, economic stability, and overall community well-being.
Ecological Conservation
Ecological conservation is crucial for maintaining a balance between human needs and environmental health, ensuring a sustainable future for both people and the planet.
- Organic Agriculture Promotion
- Sustainable Agriculture Promotion
- Promotion of Papaya Cultivation
- Rain Water Harvesting
- Vermi Composting Promotion
- Farmers Club
Emergency Response to Disasters
MIDS has consistently provided crucial support during natural disasters such as tsunamis, cyclones, floods, and other calamities.
- Rapid Relief Distribution
- Medical Assistance
- Counseling and Emotional Support
- Rehabilitation Efforts
- Community Mobilization
The organization's proactive and compassionate approach ensures that those in need receive the necessary aid and support during challenging times.
Impacted Population
Projects
Year of Service
Our Team
Volunteers
Upcoming Events
SSLC Career Guidance Programme 2026
Chart your future! Explore career paths, discover passions, and build a bright tomorrow at our SSLC Career Guidance Program.
07 Apr/2026 read moreLatest News
World Social Work Day 2026
17/Mar/2026
Marthandam Integrated Development Society (MIDS) observed World Social Work Day on 17 March 2026 with meaningful participation and collective reflection. The program echoed this year’s theme, “Co-Building Hope and Harmony: A Harambee Call to Unite a Divided Society.” Through dialogue and shared experiences, participants emphasized rebuilding relationships, restoring trust, and strengthening community resilience. The celebration reaffirmed MIDS’ commitment to walking alongside people in creating a more inclusive and united society.
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Caritas Asia Regional Safeguarding Webinar on Safe Recruitment
12/Mar/2026
Staff from Marthandam Integrated Development Society (MIDS) participated in the Caritas Asia Regional Safeguarding Webinar on Safe Recruitment held on 12 March 2026 from 1:30 PM to 3:45 PM. The webinar brought together safeguarding representatives and staff from various Caritas organizations across Asia to strengthen understanding of safe recruitment practices and their role in protecting vulnerable communities. The session began with an opening prayer led by Bass Karo, creating a reflective start to the program. Mr. Jubili Anilik, Safeguarding Committee Member from Caritas Malaysia, introduced the session and emphasized the importance of safe recruitment in safeguarding. He highlighted that recruitment processes must ensure that organizations select individuals who respect the dignity and safety of the communities they serve. Mrs. Juliana Foo from Caritas Malaysia explained that safe recruitment is preventive in nature and should not be viewed as an act of mistrust, but rather as a responsible and ethical approach to protecting vulnerable people. She emphasized that safeguarding is a fundamental obligation for all Caritas organizations globally and must be integrated into every aspect of organizational functioning, including recruitment, staff training, programme implementation, and monitoring. The webinar highlighted several important elements of safeguarding systems within organizations: • Safe Recruitment: Vetting of staff and volunteers through background and reference checks. • Ethics and Code of Conduct: Establishing clear standards of expected behavior. • Risk Management: Conducting programme risk assessments and implementing preventive safeguards. • Complaints and Reporting Mechanisms: Creating safe reporting channels and protecting whistleblowers. • Data Protection: Ensuring confidentiality of victims and secure handling of safeguarding cases. The session also discussed the different individuals who may enter Caritas organizations, including employees, volunteers, consultants, partners, and interns, all of whom must comply with safeguarding policies. Mrs. Sunita Ashwin from Caritas India shared practical safeguarding measures adopted during recruitment. She described recruitment as the first safeguarding gate, as individuals recruited into the organization are often entrusted with direct access to children, women, and vulnerable communities. Therefore, safeguarding clauses should be included in job advertisements, behavior-based questions should be used in interviews, and candidates should undergo reference checks that focus on conduct and behavior. Candidates are also required to declare any history of misconduct and sign a Code of Conduct. She further explained the importance of safeguarding-focused reference checks, which help prevent the rehiring of individuals with a history of abuse or misconduct and ensure that organizations maintain accountability and trust. Another important practice highlighted was the affidavit mechanism used by Caritas India, where newly recruited staff submit a signed declaration confirming that they have no criminal convictions, pending criminal cases, involvement in misconduct investigations, or cases under the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act. Staff also provide consent for the organization to verify the information and acknowledge that any misrepresentation may result in termination. Mrs. Dini and Mrs. Ausi Indresh shared experiences from Caritas Indonesia, emphasizing the importance of safe recruitment during disaster response. They explained that although emergency situations require rapid mobilization of personnel, affected communities are highly vulnerable, and recruitment mistakes can create serious safeguarding risks. Therefore, Caritas Indonesia ensures that safeguarding standards are maintained even during emergencies. They noted that diocesan staff and parish volunteers require recommendations from the Bishop and Parish Priest, while professional health volunteers must obtain recommendations from their respective institutions. Background verification, reference checks, and self-declarations remain essential requirements even during emergency recruitment. The webinar concluded with a strong message that safe recruitment is a critical foundation for safeguarding, ensuring that humanitarian organizations uphold accountability, integrity, and protection for the vulnerable communities they serve. Participation in such regional learning platforms strengthens MIDS’ commitment to safeguarding and supports our mission to create safe and respectful environments in all programmes and community engagements.
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Dilexi te
25/Nov/2025
A special consultation programme brought together our Bishop, 40+ priests, and MIDS staff to reflect on our shared social mission. Together, we discussed how parishes and MIDS can better serve the poor with compassion and action. A step forward in strengthening our commitment to justice, care, and community upliftment.
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Goat Rearing Initiative
01/Nov/2025
Goat Rearing for Progress is an income-generation initiative dedicated to strengthening the livelihoods of economically disadvantaged families in the Diocese of Marthandam. Through this humanitarian programme, 27 widows and abandoned women have been identified and supported with training, livestock assistance, and continuous capacity-building guidance. The initiative aims to empower vulnerable women to achieve financial independence, rebuild dignity, and lead a stable and fulfilling life. By promoting sustainable rural livelihoods, the programme contributes to long-term socio-economic resilience and uplifts families toward a future of self-reliance and hope.
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