In one classroom a team from Chapparapadavu Panchayat described how their community built a much needed bridge using local expertise and resources. Their talk was illustrated by an intricate model of the bridge. Nearly all the projects included data collection surveys and the survey forms were shared among the participants. Trainees were thus exposed to a variety of possible development activities along with concrete tools to carry them out. At the clinics, women were 6 of 69 presenters.
Planners are aware that certain projects require expertise.
India has a mandatory retirement age of 55 for those in public service. Since Kerala's life expectancy is 70, most Kerala communities have a supply of experts with free time to give to local development. The initial call brought forth 4,000 volunteers. Contacts were also made with professional associations of doctors, engineers, and accountants. One reason is the state's 50 years of progressive achievements.