Winter in this part of India seems to be classified as from November to February. (Not that it is 'winter' as we know it in northern Europe more like the best of summer days, but nevertheless 'winter' for this part of India)

There are so very many hard working people in India who live in the most appalling conditions - with no running water or electricity; with shelters which can barely be called homes; and after having worked a long day in equally appalling conditions there is little warmth or comfort.

Last Otober I joined a group of other resident ladies of Reliance Greens to raise money to try to make at least a small difference to the people who live in the little shanty just outside our boundaries and work on the buildinig sites here. A blanket per household, a jumper or something similar that is warm for as many people as possible as well as some jammy dodgers for the children just to see them smile. I wish we could have done more, but at least it was something.

The plight of these people from first hand experience and from following the newspapers while we have been here means that these types of situations will beimprinted in our minds for life. In fact, should never be forgotten by anyone.