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Our Story
Year 2010 - Our First Campaign
Our story began on dusty, rugged, puddled roads splattered in cow dung, leading to a humble rural school in Chhattisgarh. It was there that our Founder launched the first educational campaign. The moment she arrived carrying books and hope, the children cheered with joy, solidifying her purpose. Their excitement, just for the gift of books, lit a spark that still guides us today.
In 2010, we also awarded our very first scholarship, a powerful step toward unlocking the potential of rural women through education. It marked the beginning of our long-standing commitment to bridging opportunities for those who need it most.
2012
As we held educational sessions and community gatherings, the connection deepened. Villagers began to see our purpose - A shared dream of empowerment through education. One moment stays etched in memory: a woman, her cattle by her side, paused to listen to our Founder's speech. With a warm, knowing smile, she said, "Vidya ka daan karti hai bitiya" (The daughter offers the gift of education). Her words were a powerful reminder that our work was reaching hearts.
2014
Our early efforts gained momentum with over 20 educational campaigns across underserved communities. By the time we formally registered as a non-governmental organization in 2014, our work had already expanded to 15 villages driven by grassroots passion and community trust.
Mentoring program was also rolled-out this year.
2016
We introduced Chess Scientist, a unique program blending strategic thinking with creative learning, fostering confidence, curiosity, and critical thinking through the power of play.
2017
We began including boys in our educational campaigns, a conscious step toward reflecting true equality in education for all. This change not only reinforced the value of shared learning but also helped challenge deeply rooted gender stereotypes. It was important to ensure that boys grew up understanding and respecting the equal right to education, creating allies in the journey toward a more inclusive society.
2018
Swasthya Samwad initiative was launched for an ongoing dialogue and commitment on women's health and hygiene. Our first menstrual hygiene management workshop was also conducted to bring awareness, bust myths, destigmatize misconceptions, and improve access to information on the menstrual cycle, sanitary pads, and safe disposal mechanisms.
2019
We launched Ek Shala, Ek Kitab, to cultivate curiosity and love for reading fiction books among rural children. The same year marked the formation of SAB (Student Advisory Board), a platform for young voices to actively contribute to shaping our grassroots initiatives.
2020
In response to the pandemic, we rolled out 13 COVID-19 vaccine advocacy campaigns and relief efforts across rural areas. Two villages proudly achieved a 100% vaccination rate, while 43 others surpassed 50%, a significant milestone in rural health awareness. We also distributed over 10,000 COVID-19 relief items, supporting families with essential supplies during critical times.
With the launch of Silai Sakhi, we turned the needle toward women’s economic empowerment. Born out of necessity during the pandemic when rural women stitched masks for the masses, this initiative quickly evolved into a long-term vision. It became a platform for training women in tailoring and stitching.
2021
We stepped onto social media platforms to share our journey with a wider audience. Through storytelling, campaign highlights, and community voices, we began publishing and displaying our work on Facebook and Instagram, celebrating grassroots impact and inviting global engagement.
Started physical and mental wellness drives to reaffirm them as quintessential elements in recovering from the global pandemic. Sports gear and equipment were donated to rural schools for the healthy and holistic growth of children.
With a vision to promote rural micro-entrepreneurship and provide a seedbed for handicraft production as a cottage industry, Astitva Grameen Hastshilp was founded. Our first training in Madhubani painting empowered local women artisans, bridging heritage with livelihood.
2022
2022 marked the successful rollout of Equality on the Plate, an initiative addressing the challenge of inadequate eating utensils during the mid-day meal program. That same year, our Jute Art Training was launched empowering local artisans with sustainable craft skills.
2023
Launched sickle cell disease campaign in rural areas to raise awareness, provide education, and promote prevention and management strategies. A compelling ‘Nukkad Natak’ was also performed to bring the crucial message of sickle cell awareness to the heart of the rural community.
The year also marked Astitva Grameen Hastshilp thriving on a global stage by exporting handicraft items from Chhattisgarh to America.
2024
In 2024, we proudly celebrated 10 years of grassroots transformation. With 22,780 direct beneficiaries across 118 villages in Chhattisgarh, our journey is a testament to the power of community, compassion, and consistent action.
Kaushal Kendra’ operated by Astitva Grameen Hastshilp was also inaugurated this year. The center aims to equip women artisans with various vocational skills, enhancing their employability and entrepreneurial capabilities.
2025
What started as a single step has grown into a movement, transforming lives through education, empowerment, and lasting change. Yet, our core mission remains the same to empower rural women, foster equality, nurture identity, and drive sustainable development.
The journey continues.