Model Citizen: Retired Navy officer teaches vegetable vendors’ kids

A resident of Madambakkam, he worked with the Navy for 23 years before retiring in 1996.

“The life there was more organised and secure when compared to the outside world. In Navy, we were expected to keep the place clean and be organised. Seniors were setting a good example which we simply followed. But, outside, we scantly gave any regard to being organised and clean,” he said.

In the beginning, he started writing to the civic bodies to highlight the poor sanitation facility and the crowd in front of the level crossing. “I suggested them to split the crossing into two for the convenience of the people. They actually implemented it,” he said. Subsequently, Ravi took up a teaching job in a college. “I am more passionate about teaching. I found it the best way to give back to the society. Currently, I am taking classes for the children of vegetable vendors on Sundays.” “Apart from it, I am trying to get a teaching opportunity in government schools. I visited these institutions personally. I told them that I am willing to teach English, science and mathematics for free,” he said. But, he has been waiting for more than two years to receive a call from them.

“After doing leg work, I am acquainted with the knowledge of whom to call to fix street lights and clear garbage in my locality. But it would be better if government offices have a frontal office to receive public grievances. They can do wonders if they put their heart and soul to it,” he ends.