Dussehra, a festival that signifies the victory of good over evil, is the perfect time to extend a helping hand to those in need. India is home to numerous NGOs and organisations dedicated to a wide range of causes, from education and healthcare to environmental conservation and women's empowerment. Here, we highlight India-based NGOs and organisations that are doing commendable work and welcome your support.
Let’s contribute to these remarkable organizations that are working tirelessly to make our society a better place. Your support can bring positive change to the lives of countless individuals and help uphold the spirit of goodness and compassion that Dussehra symbolises. Don't forget to check their websites for more information on how you can support their noble causes.
1. Akshaya Patra Foundation
The Akshaya Patra Foundation, known for its massive impact, provides nutritious mid-day meals to over 2 million children in government schools across India. Their primary mission is to implement the Government of India's PM POSHAN Initiative, formerly known as the Mid-Day Meal Scheme, on a large scale. Their relentless efforts ensure that children receive regular meals, which not only alleviate hunger but also encourage school attendance, leading to improved education and brighter futures.
By establishing a vast network of kitchens and collaborating with the Government of India, state governments, UT administrations, corporate entities, and philanthropic individuals, they've created a robust system to address a pressing social issue on an immense scale.
Website: www.akshayapatra.org
2. Teach for India
Founded in 2009, Teach for India (TFI) is a part of the global Teach for All network and is committed to bridging the educational gap in India. Teach for India, a remarkable non-profit organisation, has taken on the formidable task of addressing this educational inequity and ensuring that every child in India has the opportunity to receive an excellent education.
TFI recruits young, dynamic individuals with a passion for teaching and places them in underprivileged schools to serve as full-time teachers. These individuals are referred to as "Fellows" and are on a mission to transform the lives of their students and inspire a lifelong commitment to educational equity.
Donating to Teach for India supports its vision of educational equity, empowering India's youth through quality education.
Website: www.teachforindia.org
3. Goonj
Goonj is a multifaceted humanitarian organisation that focuses on disaster relief, community development, and women's hygiene. Their unique ‘Cloth for Work’ initiative incentivises community development through the exchange of clothing for labour. Goonj's key achievement is reaching millions of people in need with essential resources while promoting self-sustainability and dignity.
The Goonj Fellowship offers a deep immersive experience for recent graduates and professionals, providing them with a practical understanding of addressing real-world issues and a chance to directly encounter the complexities of India. This initiative was conceived to actively involve the nation's youth in taking action instead of mere contemplation. Its primary purpose is to acquaint them with the challenges, actual situations, concerns, and predicaments that communities grapple with daily.
Website: www.goonj.org
4. CRY (Child Rights and You)
CRY is a renowned organisation committed to advocating for and protecting the rights of underprivileged children in India. Their efforts encompass healthcare, education, and protection. CRY's key achievement is its unwavering commitment to improving the lives of countless children by ensuring they have access to basic necessities and are protected from harm. Donating to CRY is an investment in the future of India's children.
Founded in 1979, it was established by Rippan Kapur and six friends with just Rs 50 capital. Now, CRY collaborates with 102 grassroots NGOs across 19 states in India and has impacted the lives of more than three million children.
Website: www.cry.org
5. Pratham
Pratham is committed to improving the quality of education in India and has impacted the lives of millions of children through various innovative programs. Their innovative programs, such as Read India, have positively impacted the lives of millions of children by improving their literacy and numeracy skills. Pratham's key achievement is its contribution to creating a generation of educated and empowered youth.
Its inception in 1995 aimed to bring education to children residing in the impoverished neighbourhoods of Mumbai. As one of the largest non-governmental entities in the country, Pratham places its focus on implementing cost-effective, high-quality interventions that can be easily replicated to bridge the gaps prevalent in the education system.
Website: www.pratham.org
6. SOS Children's Villages of India
SOS Children's Villages provide loving homes for orphaned and abandoned children, where they are nurtured in a family-like environment. The organisation's key achievement is offering these vulnerable children a stable and secure upbringing, ensuring they grow up with care and support.
It extends its assistance to families facing challenging circumstances through its Family Strengthening Programme. The primary objective of this initiative is to provide support to biological parents during difficult times, empowering them to enhance their capabilities as caregivers for their children.
Today, four generations of children who were once without parents and abandoned are leading fulfilling lives. They now have a sense of identity, a loving family to call their own, and most importantly, opportunities to serve as inspiring role models for others, encouraging them to grow into active, contributing members of society.
Website: www.soschildrensvillages.in
7. Wildlife Trust of India
Wildlife Trust of India: The Wildlife Trust of India is a prominent player in the field of wildlife conservation. They work tirelessly to safeguard India's diverse biodiversity and its natural habitats. The organization's key achievement lies in its effective conservation efforts, which have helped protect endangered species and preserve the country's invaluable natural heritage. Donating to WTI supports the vital work of preserving India's wildlife and ecosystems.
Website: www.wti.org.in
8. Prayas
Prayas is committed to the welfare of vulnerable children, particularly those in challenging circumstances. Their programs encompass education, healthcare, and advocacy, ensuring that these children receive the support they need to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives. Their initiatives extend to children entangled in legal conflicts as well as those requiring care and protection. With a network of over 200 centers and 38 specialised shelters and homes, they are committed to nurturing the physical well-being and holistic development of children.
Their comprehensive protection system serves the best interests of children both in theory and in practice. In the field, our efforts encompass both pre- and post-childcare rehabilitative measures, guaranteeing that children, regardless of their location, receive the care and safeguarding they rightfully deserve.
Website: www.prayaschildren.org
9. Make-A-Wish Foundation India
The Make-A-Wish Foundation India specialises in fulfilling the dreams of children battling life-threatening illnesses, infusing hope and happiness into their lives. The organization's significant accomplishment lies in the life-altering impact it has on these courageous children by granting their heartfelt wishes. Since its inception in 1995, Make-A-Wish Foundation India has successfully realized more than 82,544 wishes (as of March 31, 2023) spanning 11 divisions throughout the country. The Foundation is unwavering in its dedication to granting the dearest wishes of children aged 3 to 18, regardless of their socio-economic status, caste, race, or religion.
Website: www.makeawishindia.org
10. SNEHA (Society for Nutrition, Education, and Health Action)
SNEHA is a non-profit organisation dedicated to serving women, children, and families within communities, as well as collaborating with public health and safety systems. Our innovative initiatives in marginalized neighbourhoods are designed to mitigate maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity, child malnutrition, adolescent anaemia, and gender-based violence. These issues are pivotal in determining health equity for both families and the wider community.
Website: www.snehamumbai.org
in 1999, SNEHA was established with a dual focus on enhancing health-seeking behaviours among underserved communities and elevating the quality of public health services. Today, SNEHA comprises over 500 dedicated individuals with extensive hands-on experience in improving the well-being of urban women and children.