totem Resource Centre on Ethnic Communities is a non-governmental, non-denominational, not-for-profit organization that came into formal existence in October 2014.The group came together specifically to address the issues of the educationally, economically and socially deprived communities and will come up with a socio-culturally specific and replicable model for intervention in these fields. The organization will exist primarily as a Resource centre on ethnic communities of Kerala. Initiatives through various plans and programmes will be attempted for redeeming these communities from the clutches of bondage and subjugation thereby empowering them to live in a global village with equality and freedom. The voice of the voiceless shall be made heard through this organization and it will cater to their needs, foster care and make them self-reliant. Finally, this would act as a catalyst for their empowerment.The main functions of totem are:• To protect and conserve the traditional art, knowledge, culture, medicine and heritage of the minority and indigenous groups• Local action and economic development through decentralized planning (community centered)• Think globally and act locally.• Foster self-reliance, dignity, community, self-worth, and social security for the empowerment.• Recognize needs of the minority and indigenous groups.• A devoted journey toward the protection, conservation and improvement of the natural environment including forests, lake, rivers, wildlife, biodiversity, etc. through documentation of traditional knowledge by adopting a Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Realize lifestyle.• Conduct educational programs and documentary screening of recent scientific inventions and discoveries.• To utilize digital media and social networking to promote and provide assistance for the research and development of ethnic communities.