Savarkundla Forest, one of the many forests in Gujarat have about 10,000 wells in which every year on an average 6-12 lions die due to falling into those wells every year. We as a grade decided to do something about it and went there. We collaborated with the organization ‘Rural Pleasure’ and decided to cover at least one well.

At first, I had decided that I wouldn’t go on this trip, but after reading the itinerary and the work we were going to do for the lions, I decided that I will go and I did and I don’t regret even a part of it. It was an experience I’ll never forget because not only did I learn a lot, I gained knowledge about something we don’t usually read in our textbooks.

This project included cutting, wielding and even grinding the steel rods to make a creative covering for a well. It covered all the three strands of CAS. Creativity because we designed the covering creatively, Activity because we actually did practical work to make it and Service because we did something for the lions and other animals other there. We used our energy for something that we’ll cherish all our lives.

Going there, I realized my weakness which was to work together in a group and that’s one reason why I chose to work when everyone was given a break. That is one way I was most productive and I actually felt I worked hard for this. Although, if I had worked with everyone else, I could have been more productive and learnt more.

The main challenges that I had to face were that it was very sunny and I had never operated any of these equipment’s before. At first, I was scared of the sparks that came out of the machines, but then I used them more often and then I finally became confident.

Here are some pictures of me over there:

Then, along with this, we even went for a lot of treks. I personally love treks and specially clicking pictures. I love to capture moments and that’s why I collaborated with Hiren Sir and learnt some new features. Below are some pictures I clicked over there:

The learning outcomes that I achieved during the activity were to Identify own strengths and develop areas for grown – Here I got to know that I am good at practical work and capturing moments, but I need to develop in collaboration, Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process – I undertook the challenge of making the covering and developed the skills of cutting, wielding and grinding steel rods, Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences – I demonstrated active engagement in making the covering, Demonstrate the skills and recognize the benefits of working collaboratively – By going on this trip, I understood how much better it is to work together and Demonstrate engagement with issues of global significance –  I considered how wells are a cause of lions death and helped in making this well covering.

Overall the experience was amazing and thrilling as well. Even after all this hard work, I don’t regret a single minute spent to help the lions. Serving the society without expecting anything back actually feels good. I feel lucky to have been a part of this CAS trip. Thank you.