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{{More citations needed|date=May 2020}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2020}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2020}}
{{More citations needed|date=May 2020}}
{{Use Indian English|date=June 2018}}
{{Use Indian English|date=June 2018}}
{{Infobox settlement
{{Infobox settlement
| name                   = Chengara
| name = Chengara
| settlement_type         = Village
| settlement_type = Village
| image_skyline           = Chengara Junction.jpg
| image_skyline = Chengara Junction.jpg
| image_alt               =  
| image_alt =  
| image_caption           = A view of Chengara Junction
| image_caption = A view of Chengara Junction
| nickname               =  
| nickname =  
| pushpin_map             =  
| pushpin_map =  
| pushpin_label_position = right
| pushpin_label_position = right
| pushpin_map_alt         =  
| pushpin_map_alt =  
| pushpin_map_caption     = Location in Kerala, India
| pushpin_map_caption = Location in Kerala, India
| coordinates             = {{coord|9|15|10|N|76|50|52|E|display=inline,title}}
| coordinates = {{coord|9|15|10|N|76|50|52|E|display=inline,title}}
| subdivision_type       = Country
| subdivision_type = Country
| subdivision_name       = India
| subdivision_name = India
| subdivision_type1       = [[States and territories of India|State]]
| subdivision_type1 = [[States and territories of India|State]]
| subdivision_type2       = [[List of districts of India|District]]
| subdivision_type2 = [[List of districts of India|District]]
| subdivision_name1       = [[Kerala]]
| subdivision_name1 = [[Kerala]]
| subdivision_name2       = [[Pathanamthitta district|Pathanamthitta]]
| subdivision_name2 = [[Pathanamthitta district|Pathanamthitta]]
| established_title       = <!-- Established -->
| established_title = <!-- Established -->
| established_date       =  
| established_date =  
| founder                 =  
| founder =  
| named_for               =  
| named_for =  
| government_type         =  
| government_type =  
| governing_body         =  
| governing_body =  
| leader_title           = Panchayat Member
| leader_title = Panchayat Member
| leader_name             = Joyce Abraham
| leader_name = Joyce Abraham
| unit_pref               = Metric
| unit_pref = Metric
| area_footnotes         =  
| area_footnotes =  
| area_total_km2         =  
| area_total_km2 =  
| area_rank               =  
| area_rank =  
| elevation_footnotes     =  
| elevation_footnotes =  
| elevation_m             =  
| elevation_m =  
| population_total       =  
| population_total =  
| population_as_of       =  
| population_as_of =  
| population_footnotes   =  
| population_footnotes =  
| population_density_km2 = auto
| population_density_km2 = auto
| population_rank         =  
| population_rank =  
| population_demonym     =  
| population_demonym =  
| demographics_type1     = Malayalam  Tamil Hindi  English
| demographics_type1 =
| demographics1_title1   = Official
| demographics1_title1 = Official
| timezone1               = [[Indian Standard Time|IST]]
| timezone1 = [[Indian Standard Time|IST]]
| utc_offset1             = +5:30
| utc_offset1 = +5:30
| postal_code_type       = [[Postal Index Number|PIN]]
| postal_code_type = [[Postal Index Number|PIN]]
| postal_code             = 689664
| postal_code = 689664
| area_code               = 0468
| area_code = 0468
| area_code_type         = Telephone code
| area_code_type = Telephone code
| registration_plate     = KL-83
| registration_plate = KL-83
| footnotes               =  
| footnotes =  
| demographics1_info1     = [[Malayalam language|Malayalam]], [[English language|English]]  
| demographics1_info1 = [[Malayalam language|Malayalam]], [[English language|English]]  
| blank2_name_sec1       = Nearest city
| blank2_name_sec1 = Nearest city
| blank2_info_sec1       = Konni, Pathanamthitta
| blank2_info_sec1 = Konni, Pathanamthitta
| blank3_name_sec1       = Literacy
| blank3_name_sec1 = Literacy
| blank3_info_sec1       = 99%
| blank3_info_sec1 = 99%
| blank4_name_sec1       = [[Lok Sabha]] constituency
| blank4_name_sec1 = [[Lok Sabha]] constituency
| blank4_info_sec1       = Pathanamthitta
| blank4_info_sec1 = Pathanamthitta
}}
}}


'''Chengara''' is a small village situated in the [[Pathanamthitta district]] in [[Kerala]], India. It is known for its natural environment, hills and climate,{{citation needed|date=September 2017}} and was found to have the cleanest air, in terms of concentration of dust particles.{{when|date=June 2020}}{{citation needed|date=September 2017}} Chengara is surrounded on three sides by Harrisons Malayalam Limited, a [[rubber]] plantation company.
'''Chengara''' is a small village located in the [[Pathanamthitta district]] of [[Kerala]], [[India]]. It is known for its natural environment, hills, and climate. Chengara is surrounded on three sides by [[Harrisons Malayalam|Harrisons Malayalam Ltd]], a [[Natural rubber|rubber]] plantation company.


Chengara is approximately {{convert|10|km|abbr=on}} from the district headquarters, {{convert|110|km|abbr=on}} from [[Kochi, India|Kochi]], and just over {{convert|100|km|abbr=on}} from [[Thiruvananthapuram]], the state capital. The nearest towns to Chengara are [[Konni, India|Konni]] and [[Pathanamthitta]], at about {{convert|6|and|10|km|abbr=on}}. Konni medical college<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/cm-to-lay-foundation-stone-for-medical-college-in-konni/article4264994.ece | title=CM to lay foundation stone for Medical College in Konni | date=2 January 2013 | newspaper=The Hindu | accessdate=6 June 2018 }}</ref> is {{convert|3|km|abbr=on}} from the village.
Chengara is located approximately {{convert|10|km|abbr=on}} from the district headquarters, {{convert|110|km|abbr=on}} from [[Kochi]], and just over {{convert|100|km|abbr=on}} from [[Thiruvananthapuram]], the state capital. The nearest towns to Chengara are [[Konni, Kerala|Konni]] and [[Pathanamthitta]], both about {{convert|6|and|10|km|abbr=on}} away. [[Government Medical College, Konni]]<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/cm-to-lay-foundation-stone-for-medical-college-in-konni/article4264994.ece | title=CM to lay foundation stone for Medical College in Konni | date=2 January 2013 | newspaper=The Hindu | accessdate=6 June 2018 }}</ref> is {{convert|3|km|abbr=on}} from the village.


== Climate ==
== Climate ==
The village has a [[tropical climate]] with three distinct seasons: a humid [[summer]], [[monsoon]], and a moderate [[winter]]. The warmest month is April. The village often experiences heavy thundershowers in May, during which humidity remains high. The [[monsoon]] season is from June to August with most of the heavy rainfall in June and July, June being the wettest month of the year.{{Citation needed|date=May 2020}}
The village experiences a [[tropical climate]]<ref>{{Cite web |title=Mindat.org |url=https://www.mindat.org/feature-11452642.html |access-date=2025-04-14 |website=www.mindat.org}}</ref> with three distinct seasons: a humid [[summer]], a [[monsoon]], and a moderate [[winter]]. April is typically the warmest month, around 35&nbsp;°C during the day. Heavy thunderstorms often occur in May, during which humidity remains high. The monsoon season lasts from June to August, with the heaviest rainfall in June and July. June is generally the wettest month of the year, which often exceeding 600&nbsp;mm.<ref>{{Cite web |title=www.teamchengara.net |url=https://teamchengara.weebly.com/ |access-date=2025-04-14 |website=www.teamchengara.net}}</ref>


== Demographics ==
== Demographics ==
{{Expand section|date=May 2020}}
Chengara has a population of just over 1,500. The [[Literacy|literacy rate]] of the village is 99%.{{citation needed|date=May 2025}}
Chengara has a population of just above 1,500.{{Citation needed|date=June 2020}} The [[literacy rate]] of the village is 99%.{{Citation needed|date=May 2020}}


== Education ==
== Education ==
{{Unreferenced section|date=February 2025}}
<!--Names of schools need to be written in full-->
<!--Names of schools need to be written in full-->
G.C.S.L.P. school{{expand acronym|date=June 2020}} is the only school in Chengara. The school is owned by the Chengara Service Co-operative Society Ltd. It covers a standard of I-V. The nearest higher secondary school is St. George Vocational Higher Secondary School in Attachackal. Students from Chengara also go to schools in nearby towns, such as [[Pathanamthitta]] and [[Kozhencherry]]. Those who study technical courses attend the technical institutes around [[Pathanamthitta]].{{citation needed|date=June 2020}}
The Government Co-operative Society Lower Primary (G.C.S.L.P.) school is the only school in Chengara. The school, owned by the Chengara Service Co-operative Society Ltd., covers standards I-V. The nearest higher secondary school is St. George Vocational Higher Secondary School in [[Attachakkal]]. Students from Chengara also attend schools in nearby towns such as [[Pathanamthitta]] and [[Kozhencherry]]. For technical courses, students attend institutes around Pathanamthitta.{{citation needed|date=June 2020}}


== Economy ==
== Economy ==
The economy of Chengara is primarily based in [[agriculture]]. Rubber plantations are a major source of income for the local population. Chengara is among the largest [[rubber]]-producing places in Kerala, due to its hilly terrain, high humidity and rainfall. Other major crops are [[cocoa bean|cocoa]], [[coconut]], [[tapioca]] and [[black pepper|pepper]]. Chengara has a large number of [[Non-resident Indian and person of Indian origin|non-residents]].{{citation needed|date=June 2020}}
{{Unreferenced section|date=February 2025}}
The economy of Chengara is primarily based on [[agriculture]]. Rubber plantations are a major source of income for the local population. Chengara is a significant [[Natural rubber|rubber]]-producing area in Kerala, benefiting from its hilly terrain, high humidity, and rainfall. Other major crops cultivated include [[cocoa bean|cocoa]], [[coconut]], [[tapioca]], and [[black pepper|pepper]]. A large number of villagers are [[Non-resident Indian and person of Indian origin|non-residents]].{{citation needed|date=June 2020}}


== Politics ==
== Politics ==
Major political parties in Chengara are [[Indian National Congress]] (INC) and [[Communist Party of India (Marxist)]] (CPI [M]). [[K.&nbsp;U. Jenish Kumar]] (CPI [M]) is the present{{when|date=June 2020}} {{abbr|M.L.A.|member of the legislative assembly}} of [[Konni, India|Konni]] which includes Chengara and Anto Antony is the present MP of Pathanamthitta constituency which includes Chengara.{{citation needed|date=June 2020}}.Chengara belongs to Konni ''[[gram panchayat]]'' (village council). The present ''panchayat'' member of Chengara is N.&nbsp;N. Rajappan of INC.{{citation needed|date=June 2020}} [[Chengara Surendran]] MP ([[Communist Party of India]]){{expand acronym|date=June 2020}} is also a native of Chengara.<ref>http://loksabhaph.nic.in/Members/memberbioprofile.aspx?mpsno=3849&lastls=14</ref> Chengara Surendran (born 31 January 1968) was a member of the [[14th Lok Sabha]] of India. He represented the [[Adoor]] constituency of Kerala and is a member of the [[Communist Party of India]] (CPI).<ref>http://loksabhaph.nic.in/Members/memberbioprofile.aspx?mpsno=3849&lastls=14</ref>
The major political parties in Chengara are the [[Indian National Congress]] (INC) and the [[Communist Party of India (Marxist)]] (CPI[M]). [[K. U. Jenish Kumar|K.U. Jenish Kumar]] (CPI[M]) was the Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for the {{abbr|M.L.A.|member of the legislative assembly}} of [[Konni, Kerala|Konni]], which includes Chengara, as of 2019. [[Anto Antony]] is the Member of Parliament (MP) for the [[Pathanamthitta]] constituency, which includes the Chengara area.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Chengara, Konni Panchayat, Pathanamthitta District, Kerala, India |url=https://www.keralatourism.org/routes-locations/chengara/id/2377 |access-date=2025-06-05 |website=Kerala Tourism |language=en}}</ref> Chengara belongs to the Konni ''[[gram panchayat]]'' (village council). The current ''panchayat'' member for Chengara is N. N. Rajappan of INC.{{citation needed|date=June 2020}} [[Chengara Surendran]], MP ([[Communist Party of India]]), is also a native of Chengara.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://loksabhaph.nic.in/Members/memberbioprofile.aspx?mpsno=3849&lastls=14|title=Members : Lok Sabha}}</ref> Chengara Surendran (born 31 January 1968) was a member of the [[14th Lok Sabha]] of India, representing the [[Adoor]] constituency of Kerala. He is a member of the Communist Party of India (CPI).<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://loksabhaph.nic.in/Members/memberbioprofile.aspx?mpsno=3849&lastls=14|title=Members : Lok Sabha}}</ref>


Traditionally Chengara is a stronghold of INC.{{citation needed|date=June 2020}} Kerala congress also has presence in the village. Abraham Vazhayil (District Secretary Kerala Congress (M), Chairman, UDF Konni Constituency) is also a native of Chengara. Though Chengara has a long tradition of politics, there has been no conflict among the different political parties.{{Citation needed|date=June 2020}}
Traditionally, Chengara has been an INC stronghold.{{citation needed|date=June 2020}} Kerala Congress also has a presence in the village. Abraham Vazhayil (District Secretary, Kerala Congress (M); Chairman, UDF Konni Constituency) is another native of Chengara. Despite a long political tradition, there has been no significant conflict among the different political parties in the village.{{Citation needed|date=June 2020}}


==Culture==
==Culture==
=== Religion ===
=== Religion ===
[[File:Bethel Marthoma Church, Chengara1.jpg|thumb|[[Bethel Marthoma Church]], Chengara]]The people of Chengara belong to various religions, the major ones being Christianity and Hinduism. Churches in the village includes [[Bethel Marthoma Church]], St George Orthodox Church Chengara ({{a.k.a.}} Chengara Pally, {{abbr|est.|established}}&nbsp;1979),<ref>{{cite web|title=Chengara Pally|url=http://chengarapally.com/}}</ref> St Patrick's Malankara Catholic Church, and Bethel Brethren Assembly and Pentecost Church (IPC). The Hindu temple in the village is Chengara Siva Parvathi Temple.
[[File:Bethel Marthoma Church, Chengara1.jpg|thumb|[[Bethel Marthoma Church]], Chengara]]The people of Chengara follow various religions, with [[Christianity]] and [[Hinduism]] being the most prominent. Churches in the village include [[Bethel Marthoma Church, Chengara|Bethel Marthoma Church]], St. George Orthodox Church Chengara (also known as Chengara Pally, established in 1979),<ref>{{cite web|title=Chengara Pally|url=http://chengarapally.com/}}</ref> St. Patrick's Malankara Catholic Church, Bethel Brethren Assembly, and Pentecost Church (IPC). The Hindu temple in the village is Chengara [[Parvati|Shiva Parvati]] Temple.


[[Bethel Marthoma Church]] organizes an annual Chengara Convention in January every year. [[Bethel Marthoma Church]],Chengara belongs to the Ranni-Nilackal Diocese of [[Syrian church in India|Malankara Marthoma Syrian Church]].
Bethel Marthoma Church organizes an annual Chengara Convention in January. Bethel Marthoma Church, Chengara, belongs to the Ranni-Nilackal Diocese of the [[Saint Thomas Christians|Malankara Marthoma Syrian Church]].


'''St. George Orthodox Church, Chengara'''<ref>{{Cite web|title=Chengara Pally {{!}} St George Orthodox church chengara {{!}} Chengara church, Pathanamthitta.|url=http://chengarapally.com/|access-date=2020-06-12|website=chengarapally.com}}</ref> '''(Chengara '''<ref>{{Cite web|title=Chengara Pally {{!}} St George Orthodox church chengara {{!}} Chengara church, Pathanamthitta.|url=http://chengarapally.com/|access-date=2020-06-12|website=chengarapally.com}}</ref>'''Pally or ചെങ്ങറ പള്ളി ''' ) is an ancient church located in Chengara , [[Pathanamthitta]], [[Kerala]] , [[India]]. '''The Church Is Also Known as “ Chengara Pally'''. It is the headquarters of the Thumpamon Diocese of the [[Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church]].
'''St. George Orthodox Church, Chengara'''<ref>{{Cite web|title=Chengara Pally {{!}} St George Orthodox church chengara {{!}} Chengara church, Pathanamthitta.|url=http://chengarapally.com/|access-date=2020-06-12|website=chengarapally.com}}</ref> ('''Chengara''' '''Pally'''<ref>{{Cite web|title=Chengara Pally {{!}} St George Orthodox church chengara {{!}} Chengara church, Pathanamthitta.|url=http://chengarapally.com/|access-date=2020-06-12|website=chengarapally.com}}</ref> '''or ചെങ്ങറ പള്ളി''') is an ancient church in Chengara, also known as Chengara Pally. It serves as the headquarters of the Thumpamon Diocese of the [[Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church]].


=== Feast of St George===
=== Feast of St. George===
The Feast of St. George, whom the church is named after and the patron saint of the church, is celebrated by St George Orthodox Church every year from May 1–5.
The Feast of St. George, the patron saint of St. George Orthodox Church, is celebrated annually from May 1 to 5.


== Sports ==
== Sports ==
[[Cricket]] is the most popular sport in the village. A cricket tournament is held annually during the mid-summer vacation. Other popular sports are [[association football|football]], [[volleyball]] and [[badminton]].{{Citation needed|date=May 2020}}
{{Unreferenced section|date=February 2025}}
[[Cricket]] is the most popular sport in the village. An annual cricket tournament is held during the midsummer vacation. Other popular sports include [[association football|football]], [[volleyball]], and [[badminton]].{{Citation needed|date=May 2020}}


== Notable locations ==
== Notable locations ==
Orakuzhi is a small [[waterfall]] located at the Kizhakkupuram border of the village. This place is a common hangout for youths.
Orakuzhi is a small [[waterfall]] located near the Kizhakkupuram border of the village.


Meemooti Thodu is another waterfall in Chengara, which is dangerous due to its high fall over rock. The possibility of damming the stream was explored but deemed unfeasible.
Meemooti Thodu is another waterfall in Chengara, considered dangerous due to its high drop over rock. The possibility of damming the stream was explored but deemed unfeasible.


Harrisons Malayalam Rubber Plantation covers a significant part of Chengara, stretching over{{convert|3000|acre}}. It is crossed with many unpaved service roads suitable for bullock or trucks.
Harrison's Malayalam Rubber Plantation covers a significant area in Chengara, stretching over {{convert|3000|acre}}. It is crisscrossed with unpaved service roads suitable for bullocks or trucks.


Chemmani Rubber Plantation covers {{convert|300|acre}} in Chengara.
Chemmani Rubber Plantation covers {{convert|300|acre}} in Chengara.


== Infrastructure ==
== Infrastructure ==
{{Unreferenced section|date=February 2025}}
=== Communication ===
=== Communication ===
Mobile services from many providers are available in the village. The major service providers are [[BSNL]], [[Bharti Airtel|Airtel]], [[Idea]], [[Vodafone]] and [[Jio]].{{citation needed|date=June 2020}} The village has a cable network which provides Malayalam channels and major channels in other languages.{{citation needed|date=June 2020}}
Several mobile service providers operate in the village, including [[BSNL]], [[Bharti Airtel|Airtel]], [[Vodafone Idea]], and [[Jio]].{{citation needed|date=June 2020}} The village has a cable network providing [[Malayalam]] channels and major channels in other languages.{{citation needed|date=June 2020}}


=== Transportation ===
=== Transportation ===
Both [[Kerala State Road Transport Corporation]] (KSRTC) and private buses connect the Chengara with the nearby towns.
Both [[Kerala State Road Transport Corporation]] (KSRTC) and private buses connect Chengara with nearby towns.


The Attachakal–Malayalapuzha road and Attachakal–Kumblampoika road pass through Chengara. From [[Konni, India|Konni]] this is the easiest route to places such as [[Vadaserikara]] and [[Ranni]]. The route can be used as [[Sabarimala]] route.
The Attachakkal–Malayalapuzha road and Attachakkal–Kumplampoika road pass through Chengara. This route offers the easiest access from [[Konni, Kerala|Konni]] to places such as [[Vadasserikara]] and [[Ranni, Kerala|Ranni]]. It can also be used as a [[Sabarimala]] route.


Chengara Junction is on the Attachakal–Chengara–Kumblampoika road, which connects the villages of Attachakkal, Chengara, Puthukulam and Kumplampoika. It originates at Attachakal junction and ends at Kumplampoika, and covers a total distance of {{convert|13.4|km|abbr=on}}
Chengara Junction is situated on the Attachakkal–Chengara–Kumplampoika road, which connects the villages of Attachakkal, Chengara, Puthukulam, and Kumplampoika. The road originates at Attachakal junction and ends at Kumplampoika, covering a total distance of {{convert|13.4|km|abbr=on}}.


The nearest [[railway station]] is [[Chengannur]], {{convert|34|km|abbr=on}} away, and [[Thiruvalla]] which is around {{convert|41|km|abbr=on}} away.
The nearest [[Train station|railway station]]s are [[Chengannur]], {{convert|34|km|abbr=on}} away, and [[Thiruvalla]], which is around {{convert|41|km|abbr=on}} away. The nearest airport is [[Thiruvananthapuram International Airport]], about {{convert|100|km|abbr=on}} from Chengara. The [[Cochin International Airport]] is around {{convert|124|km|abbr=on}} from Chengara.
The nearest airport is [[Thiruvananthapuram]] International Airport, about {{convert|100|km|abbr=on}} from Chengara. The [[Cochin International Airport]] is around {{convert|124|km|abbr=on}} from Chengara.


=== Institutions ===
=== Institutions ===
Various institutions in Chengara are:
Various institutions located in Chengara include:
*Chengara Service Co-operative Society
*Chengara Service Co-operative Society
*Chengara Pravasi Association
*Chengara Pravasi Association
*Chengara Post Office
*Chengara Post Office
*Olive Mart supermarket
*Olive Mart supermarket
*Ration shop chengara
*Ration shop Chengara


== Tribal agitations ==
== Tribal agitations ==
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[[File:Chengara samaram.jpg|thumb|Tribal on strike]]
[[File:Chengara samaram.jpg|thumb|Tribal on strike]]


The village is frequently mentioned in the media due to a land struggle, popularly known as "Chengara Samaram", which took place on a rubber plantation {{convert|3|km|abbr=on}} outside the village. Led by Laha Gopalan, the Sadu Jana Vimochana Samara Vedi (SJVSV) agitation began with hundreds of Vedi workers encroaching upon the Kumbazha Estate of Harrison Malayalam Limited on 4&nbsp;August 2007, demanding {{convert|5|acre}} of land for farming and {{currency|50,000|INR|linked=yes}} towards initial farming expenses to each landless family among them. They pitched tents on the occupied land and started tapping the rubber trees at the estate for their livelihood. The Vedi leader claimed that {{convert|200|ha|abbr=on|order=flip}} of land at Chengara were under SJVSV occupation.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20110601022259/http://www.hindu.com/2011/05/27/stories/2011052759391100.htm ]</ref>
The village is frequently mentioned in the media due to a land struggle, popularly known as "Chengara Samaram," which took place on a rubber plantation, {{convert|3|km|abbr=on}} outside the village. Led by Laha Gopalan, the Sadu Jana Vimochana Samara Vedi (SJVSV) agitation began on August 4, 2007, when hundreds of Vedi workers encroached upon the Kumbazha Estate of Harrison Malayalam Limited. They demanded {{convert|5|acre}} of land for farming and {{currency|50,000|INR|linked=yes}} towards initial farming expenses for each landless family among them. They pitched tents on the occupied land and began tapping the rubber trees for their livelihood. Gopalan claimed that {{convert|200|ha|abbr=on|order=flip}} of land at Chengara were under SJVSV occupation.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.hindu.com/2011/05/27/stories/2011052759391100.htm |title=The Hindu : Kerala News : Chengara agitators to meet Chandy in bid to end struggle |website=www.hindu.com |access-date=17 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110601022259/http://www.hindu.com/2011/05/27/stories/2011052759391100.htm |archive-date=1 June 2011 |url-status=dead}}</ref>


During the agitation, notable persons including Medha Patkar, Arundhati Roy, Govindacharaya, and V.&nbsp;M. Sudheeran visited and extended solidarity with local families. However, the struggle created a negative image of Chengara. The previous LDF{{expand acronym|date=June 2020}} government had identified {{convert|831.03|acre}} of land in 10 districts for distribution among the 1,495 eligible landless people as part of the Chengara Package. Of the 1,495 families identified, 38 families belong to the [[Scheduled Tribes]] category and 1,227 to the [[Scheduled Castes]]. However, many people declined to occupy the land allotted to them, finding it unsuitable for habitation and farming. Vedi leader Laha Gopalan had categorically stated that there was no question of vacating the land until all the landless families at Chengara were allotted land suitable for farming and habitation. Some families have constructed permanent dwellings in the encroached land and started cultivation there. The Vedi too have set up a library and school on the occupied land.
During the agitation, notable figures including Medha Patkar, Arundhati Roy, Govindacharya, and V.M. Sudheeran visited and expressed solidarity with the local families. However, the struggle reportedly created a negative image of Chengara. The previous Left Democratic Front (LDF) government identified {{convert|831.03|acre}} of land in 10 districts for distribution among the 1,495 eligible landless people as part of the "Chengara Package." Of the 1,495 identified families, 38 belonged to the [[Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes|Scheduled Tribes]] category and 1,227 to the Scheduled Castes. However, many people declined the allotted land, finding it unsuitable for habitation and farming. Vedi leader Laha Gopalan maintained that there was no question of vacating the land until all landless families at Chengara were allotted land suitable for farming and habitation. Some families have constructed permanent dwellings and started cultivation on the encroached land. The Vedi has also established a library and school on the occupied land.
<ref>{{Cite news|author=Staff Reporter|date=2012-08-05|title=Chengara agitation historic: Metropolitan|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-kerala/chengara-agitation-historic-metropolitan/article3730292.ece|access-date=2021-02-28|issn=0971-751X}}</ref>{{update inline|date=June 2020}}
<ref>{{Cite news|author=Staff Reporter|date=2012-08-05|title=Chengara agitation historic: Metropolitan|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-kerala/chengara-agitation-historic-metropolitan/article3730292.ece|access-date=2021-02-28|issn=0971-751X}}</ref>{{update inline|date=June 2020}}


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*[[Bethel Marthoma Church]]
*[[Bethel Marthoma Church]]
*[[Pathanamthitta]]
*[[Pathanamthitta]]
*[[Konni, India]]
*[[Konni, India|Konni, Kerala]]
*[[Kumbazha]]
*[[Kumbazha]]


Latest revision as of 07:35, 25 February 2026

Chengara
Village
A view of Chengara Junction
A view of Chengara Junction
Coordinates: 9°15′10″N 76°50′52″E / 9.25278°N 76.84778°E / 9.25278; 76.84778
CountryIndia
StateKerala
DistrictPathanamthitta
Government
 • Panchayat MemberJoyce Abraham
Time zoneUTC+5:30 (IST)
PIN
689664
Telephone code0468
Vehicle registrationKL-83
Nearest cityKonni, Pathanamthitta
Literacy99%
Lok Sabha constituencyPathanamthitta

Chengara is a small village located in the Pathanamthitta district of Kerala, India. It is known for its natural environment, hills, and climate. Chengara is surrounded on three sides by Harrisons Malayalam Ltd, a rubber plantation company.

Chengara is located approximately 10 km (6.2 mi) from the district headquarters, 110 km (68 mi) from Kochi, and just over 100 km (62 mi) from Thiruvananthapuram, the state capital. The nearest towns to Chengara are Konni and Pathanamthitta, both about 6 and 10 km (3.7 and 6.2 mi) away. Government Medical College, Konni[1] is 3 km (1.9 mi) from the village.

Climate[edit | edit source]

The village experiences a tropical climate[2] with three distinct seasons: a humid summer, a monsoon, and a moderate winter. April is typically the warmest month, around 35 °C during the day. Heavy thunderstorms often occur in May, during which humidity remains high. The monsoon season lasts from June to August, with the heaviest rainfall in June and July. June is generally the wettest month of the year, which often exceeding 600 mm.[3]

Demographics[edit | edit source]

Chengara has a population of just over 1,500. The literacy rate of the village is 99%.[citation needed]

Education[edit | edit source]

The Government Co-operative Society Lower Primary (G.C.S.L.P.) school is the only school in Chengara. The school, owned by the Chengara Service Co-operative Society Ltd., covers standards I-V. The nearest higher secondary school is St. George Vocational Higher Secondary School in Attachakkal. Students from Chengara also attend schools in nearby towns such as Pathanamthitta and Kozhencherry. For technical courses, students attend institutes around Pathanamthitta.[citation needed]

Economy[edit | edit source]

The economy of Chengara is primarily based on agriculture. Rubber plantations are a major source of income for the local population. Chengara is a significant rubber-producing area in Kerala, benefiting from its hilly terrain, high humidity, and rainfall. Other major crops cultivated include cocoa, coconut, tapioca, and pepper. A large number of villagers are non-residents.[citation needed]

Politics[edit | edit source]

The major political parties in Chengara are the Indian National Congress (INC) and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI[M]). K.U. Jenish Kumar (CPI[M]) was the Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for the M.L.A. of Konni, which includes Chengara, as of 2019. Anto Antony is the Member of Parliament (MP) for the Pathanamthitta constituency, which includes the Chengara area.[4] Chengara belongs to the Konni gram panchayat (village council). The current panchayat member for Chengara is N. N. Rajappan of INC.[citation needed] Chengara Surendran, MP (Communist Party of India), is also a native of Chengara.[5] Chengara Surendran (born 31 January 1968) was a member of the 14th Lok Sabha of India, representing the Adoor constituency of Kerala. He is a member of the Communist Party of India (CPI).[6]

Traditionally, Chengara has been an INC stronghold.[citation needed] Kerala Congress also has a presence in the village. Abraham Vazhayil (District Secretary, Kerala Congress (M); Chairman, UDF Konni Constituency) is another native of Chengara. Despite a long political tradition, there has been no significant conflict among the different political parties in the village.[citation needed]

Culture[edit | edit source]

Religion[edit | edit source]

Bethel Marthoma Church, Chengara

The people of Chengara follow various religions, with Christianity and Hinduism being the most prominent. Churches in the village include Bethel Marthoma Church, St. George Orthodox Church Chengara (also known as Chengara Pally, established in 1979),[7] St. Patrick's Malankara Catholic Church, Bethel Brethren Assembly, and Pentecost Church (IPC). The Hindu temple in the village is Chengara Shiva Parvati Temple.

Bethel Marthoma Church organizes an annual Chengara Convention in January. Bethel Marthoma Church, Chengara, belongs to the Ranni-Nilackal Diocese of the Malankara Marthoma Syrian Church.

St. George Orthodox Church, Chengara[8] (Chengara Pally[9] or ചെങ്ങറ പള്ളി) is an ancient church in Chengara, also known as Chengara Pally. It serves as the headquarters of the Thumpamon Diocese of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church.

Feast of St. George[edit | edit source]

The Feast of St. George, the patron saint of St. George Orthodox Church, is celebrated annually from May 1 to 5.

Sports[edit | edit source]

Cricket is the most popular sport in the village. An annual cricket tournament is held during the midsummer vacation. Other popular sports include football, volleyball, and badminton.[citation needed]

Notable locations[edit | edit source]

Orakuzhi is a small waterfall located near the Kizhakkupuram border of the village.

Meemooti Thodu is another waterfall in Chengara, considered dangerous due to its high drop over rock. The possibility of damming the stream was explored but deemed unfeasible.

Harrison's Malayalam Rubber Plantation covers a significant area in Chengara, stretching over 3,000 acres (1,200 ha). It is crisscrossed with unpaved service roads suitable for bullocks or trucks.

Chemmani Rubber Plantation covers 300 acres (120 ha) in Chengara.

Infrastructure[edit | edit source]

Communication[edit | edit source]

Several mobile service providers operate in the village, including BSNL, Airtel, Vodafone Idea, and Jio.[citation needed] The village has a cable network providing Malayalam channels and major channels in other languages.[citation needed]

Transportation[edit | edit source]

Both Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and private buses connect Chengara with nearby towns.

The Attachakkal–Malayalapuzha road and Attachakkal–Kumplampoika road pass through Chengara. This route offers the easiest access from Konni to places such as Vadasserikara and Ranni. It can also be used as a Sabarimala route.

Chengara Junction is situated on the Attachakkal–Chengara–Kumplampoika road, which connects the villages of Attachakkal, Chengara, Puthukulam, and Kumplampoika. The road originates at Attachakal junction and ends at Kumplampoika, covering a total distance of 13.4 km (8.3 mi).

The nearest railway stations are Chengannur, 34 km (21 mi) away, and Thiruvalla, which is around 41 km (25 mi) away. The nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about 100 km (62 mi) from Chengara. The Cochin International Airport is around 124 km (77 mi) from Chengara.

Institutions[edit | edit source]

Various institutions located in Chengara include:

  • Chengara Service Co-operative Society
  • Chengara Pravasi Association
  • Chengara Post Office
  • Olive Mart supermarket
  • Ration shop Chengara

Tribal agitations[edit | edit source]

Main article: Chengara Struggle
Tribal on strike

The village is frequently mentioned in the media due to a land struggle, popularly known as "Chengara Samaram," which took place on a rubber plantation, 3 km (1.9 mi) outside the village. Led by Laha Gopalan, the Sadu Jana Vimochana Samara Vedi (SJVSV) agitation began on August 4, 2007, when hundreds of Vedi workers encroached upon the Kumbazha Estate of Harrison Malayalam Limited. They demanded 5 acres (2.0 ha) of land for farming and ₹50,000 towards initial farming expenses for each landless family among them. They pitched tents on the occupied land and began tapping the rubber trees for their livelihood. Gopalan claimed that 490 acres (200 ha) of land at Chengara were under SJVSV occupation.[10]

During the agitation, notable figures including Medha Patkar, Arundhati Roy, Govindacharya, and V.M. Sudheeran visited and expressed solidarity with the local families. However, the struggle reportedly created a negative image of Chengara. The previous Left Democratic Front (LDF) government identified 831.03 acres (336.31 ha) of land in 10 districts for distribution among the 1,495 eligible landless people as part of the "Chengara Package." Of the 1,495 identified families, 38 belonged to the Scheduled Tribes category and 1,227 to the Scheduled Castes. However, many people declined the allotted land, finding it unsuitable for habitation and farming. Vedi leader Laha Gopalan maintained that there was no question of vacating the land until all landless families at Chengara were allotted land suitable for farming and habitation. Some families have constructed permanent dwellings and started cultivation on the encroached land. The Vedi has also established a library and school on the occupied land. [11][needs update]

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ "CM to lay foundation stone for Medical College in Konni". The Hindu. 2 January 2013. Retrieved 6 June 2018.
  2. ↑ "Mindat.org". www.mindat.org. Retrieved 14 April 2025.
  3. ↑ "www.teamchengara.net". www.teamchengara.net. Retrieved 14 April 2025.
  4. ↑ "Chengara, Konni Panchayat, Pathanamthitta District, Kerala, India". Kerala Tourism. Retrieved 5 June 2025.
  5. ↑ "Members : Lok Sabha".
  6. ↑ "Members : Lok Sabha".
  7. ↑ "Chengara Pally".
  8. ↑ "Chengara Pally | St George Orthodox church chengara | Chengara church, Pathanamthitta". chengarapally.com. Retrieved 12 June 2020.
  9. ↑ "Chengara Pally | St George Orthodox church chengara | Chengara church, Pathanamthitta". chengarapally.com. Retrieved 12 June 2020.
  10. ↑ "The Hindu : Kerala News : Chengara agitators to meet Chandy in bid to end struggle". www.hindu.com. Archived from the original on 1 June 2011. Retrieved 17 January 2022.
  11. ↑ Staff Reporter (5 August 2012). "Chengara agitation historic: Metropolitan". The Hindu. ISSN 0971-751X. Retrieved 28 February 2021.

External links[edit | edit source]


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