Hyderabad, July 20, 2025 – The city witnessed an inspiring gathering of changemakers, thought leaders, activists, and community champions at the COVA@30 Commemoration Event, celebrating 30 years of dedicated service through social transformation by COVA (Confederation of Voluntary Associations).
Held at Hyderabad on July 20, 2025, the occasion brought together a diverse group of individuals – from grassroots volunteers to high-ranking officials – who have been part of COVA’s remarkable journey in fostering peace, equity, education, and inclusive development.
A Galaxy of Stalwarts in Attendance
The event was graced by eminent personalities from civil services, academia, and civil society including:
- Mr. Somesh Kumar, IAS
- Mr. Swaranjit Sen, IPS
- Mr. S.A. Huda, IPS
- Prof. Haragopal
- Mr. Omer Jaleel, IAS
- Mr. Jeevan Kumar, Human Rights Forum (HRF)
- Bro. Thomas of Montfort Brothers
- Mr. Venkat Reddy, MVF
- Prof. Ishtiaq Ahmed, Registrar, MANUU
- Prof. Ehtesham Ahmed, MANUU
- Mr. Manzoor Ghori, IMRC, USA
Many academics, professionals, former and present volunteers, and partners of COVA were present to share their reflections and celebrate the organisation’s legacy.
A Journey Documented and Remembered
A special documentary produced by the Department of Mass Communication, Maulana Azad National Urdu University (MANUU) titled COVA@30 was screened. The film chronicled the genesis, evolution, and wide-ranging impact of COVA across local, national, and international spheres.
Additionally, a commemorative book titled “Chronicle of COVA@30: Service Through Social Transformations” was released. The book captures reflections from over 150 partners, volunteers, associates, and community members, offering deep insight into COVA’s grassroots and global engagements.
Expansive Reach and Lasting Impact
The reflections showcased COVA’s extensive work:
- In Hyderabad’s slums, the twin cities, and 9 districts of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
- Across five other Indian states – Jammu & Kashmir, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Manipur.
- At national, South Asian, and multilateral levels, including advocacy at UN platforms.
COVA’s 30 priority causes and issues were highlighted, focusing on:
- Violence prevention
- Education and school reforms
- Financial inclusion
- Multi-faith and intra-faith peace initiatives
Compassionate Citizenship Program: A Beacon of Hope
One of COVA’s most celebrated initiatives is the Compassionate Citizenship Program, designed to transform school education by taking students beyond textbooks into real-world civic engagement and moral development.
The Government of Telangana’s Education Department has now formally included this initiative as part of the co-curriculum in 3000 schools, with a vision to eventually implement it in all 40,000 schools in the state.
Leaders and experts unanimously hailed this program as a critical need of the hour to nurture future generations of empathetic and responsible citizens.
Policy Influence at the National Level
COVA’s influence on national policy was also underlined:
- The Finance Ministry of India adopted 9 out of 12 key recommendations from a COVA study presented during the G20 Summit in Russia (2013), titled “Critical Review of Financial Inclusion in G20 Countries with Focus on India.”
- Five of these were integrated into the MUDRA Scheme, including EMudra, thereby demonstrating COVA’s tangible policy impact.
Faith-Based Interventions for Peace
Recognising the growing trend of religious polarisation, COVA pioneered Multi-Faith and Intra-Faith Initiatives. These efforts, in collaboration with faith leaders across religions, aim to:
- De-escalate religious tensions
- Promote celebration of diverse religious festivals together
- Discourage the weaponisation of religion
Such initiatives have helped build community resilience, especially in communally sensitive areas of Hyderabad, contributing to zero incidents of violence in the city since 2012.
Condolences and Reflections for Global Peace
The event began on a solemn note with a condolence message delivered by Mr. Jeevan Kumar, commemorating the lives lost to violence globally, particularly in Gaza and Ukraine. His powerful words set the tone for the day’s reflections on peace, justice, and humanity.
A Tribute to Contributors
As a mark of gratitude, over 250 volunteers, staff members, academics, activists, and officials were honoured with mementos for their outstanding contributions over the years.
The inaugural presentation of the commemorative book was done through a PowerPoint presentation by Bro. Thomas, Secretary of COVA, and Ms. Aparna Adhikari, Treasurer of COVA.
Looking Ahead: A Legacy in Motion
Every speaker acknowledged that COVA has not just worked on issues, but on transforming lives. Its journey from local neighbourhoods in Hyderabad to international advocacy platforms stands as a testament to the power of community-driven change.
As COVA steps into the next decade, its foundational ethos – of compassion, equity, inclusion, and justice – continues to guide its mission of building a better society.
Contact:
Team COVA Peace Network
📧 Email: cova@covanetwork.org
📱 Mobile: +91 93945 44244
🌐 Website: www.covanetwork.org
