Day 4 : The Kalrayan Hills, The Repco Bank and the Journey to Attur

Firstly, Visit the "Latest Media and Gallery Section" for new articles in The Hindu Newspaper and the Times of India.

The weather gods had been kind to us today, probably taking pitty on us, after the onslaught they dished out yesterday. We started with verve and pannache, against the backdrop of the Kalrayan hills along the Salem Road.

We were in fine form today and made 20km before noticing a particular agriculturual spot where traditional crops were being grown, including Finger millet, locally called "ragi" and tapioca alongside the mainstay crop, sugarcane. A few issues raised by the farmers had to be highlighted, including the changing rain patterns that are threatening the paddies and the increasing deforestation of Tamarind trees to make room for residential housing.

Upon reaching our destination, Aatur, for the night after a cumulative total of 33km, we made a visit to the Repco Bank , where we were given a kind welcome by the bank manager Mr.Siva. He had arranged a meeting with business people and school students.

Plenty of challenging and inquistive questions were asked by the children and by the large cotton business reps that were interested in the fair trade initiative.

It was an amazing day and we ended in high spirits!

Onwards to day 5! MAKE TRADE FAIR AND CLIMATE JUSTICE FOR ALL!