#ngo organisations in india

[planindiango1]

Donate for Girl Child Education | Girl Education Ngo India

We believe that all children, particularly girls from poor and disadvantaged families, access and complete education from pre-primary to secondary levels, thus realising their right to inclusive and quality education. However the realities reflect inequitable access to Early Childhood Education; poor learning outcomes in early grades which leads to learning deficits; discriminative social norms, gender-stereotyped curriculum and lack of an inclusive, protective environment within the schools. To address these barriers and to ensure all children, particularly vulnerable girls from excluded communities realize their right to an inclusive and quality education, Plan India has taken multipronged approach which includes:

[chinmayeesahu]

Enhancing CSR Impact through Collaboration with Marpu Foundation

The importance of corporate social responsibility (CSR) is higher than ever in the quickly changing business environment of today. Working together with like-minded organizations is crucial as companies look to improve society and the environment. The Marpu Foundation is one such collaboration that has a great deal of potential to increase the impact of CSR.

At the forefront of social change and sustainable development, the Marpu Foundation | NGO has established itself as a beacon of hope for communities worldwide. With a diverse portfolio of initiatives spanning education, healthcare, environmental conservation, and more, the foundation embodies a commitment to creating a better future for all.

"Marpu" - a synonym for transformation - was established by the respected National Youth Awardee, Mr. Kadiri Raghu Vamsi. Marpu Foundation | NGO focuses on harnessing the potential of individuals to bring about positive change in the world. With a team committed to effecting change and providing a supportive space for all, the Marpu Foundation earned the title of "The Best NGO in India" in 2020.

Emphasizing employee involvement and volunteering is one of the main features of the Marpu Foundation's CSR approach. It has over 80,261 volunteers and over 10,245,120 beneficiaries operating from 39 locations in 15 states. The themes of their work center on environmental sustainability, economic development, social development, and partnership for the goals.

Partnering with the Marpu Foundation not only enhances corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts but also significantly contributes to advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Marpu Foundation's projects are exemplary models of sustainable development, promoting social, economic, and environmental well-being. Here's how partnering with Marpu can boost CSR efforts and support SDGs, illustrated through some of their impactful projects:

1. Education Initiatives (SDG 4 - Quality Education): Marpu Foundation's education initiatives focus on providing quality education to underserved communities. Partnering with Marpu in these initiatives allows corporations to support SDG 4 by investing in programs that enhance access to education, improve literacy rates, and empower marginalized groups. For example, a partnership could fund the establishment of schools in rural areas, provide scholarships for underprivileged students, or support vocational training programs.

2. Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6 - Clean Water and Sanitation): Marpu Foundation undertakes projects aimed at ensuring access to clean water and sanitation facilities, particularly in areas facing water scarcity and poor sanitation. Collaborating with Marpu in such projects enables companies to address SDG 6 by funding the construction of water infrastructure, implementing water purification systems, or promoting hygiene awareness campaigns in communities lacking access to clean water and sanitation.

3. Women's Empowerment (SDG 5 - Gender Equality): Marpu Foundation is committed to promoting gender equality and women's empowerment through various initiatives such as skill development programs, entrepreneurship training, and advocacy for women's rights. Partnering with Marpu in these endeavors allows corporations to support SDG 5 by investing in projects that foster economic independence and social empowerment among women, thereby contributing to creating more inclusive and equitable societies.

4. Environmental Conservation (SDG 13 - Climate Action): Marpu Foundation actively engages in environmental conservation efforts aimed at mitigating climate change and preserving biodiversity. Corporations can enhance their CSR initiatives by partnering with Marpu in projects such as afforestation campaigns, sustainable agriculture practices, or renewable energy projects. By supporting these initiatives, companies can align with SDG 13 goals and demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship.

5. Healthcare Access (SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being): Marpu Foundation works towards improving healthcare access and promoting health awareness in underserved communities. Collaborating with Marpu in healthcare projects allows corporations to contribute to SDG 3 by funding medical camps, establishing healthcare centers, or supporting vaccination drives. By investing in healthcare initiatives, companies can help reduce healthcare disparities and improve the overall well-being of communities.

In conclusion, partnering with the Marpu Foundation offers corporations a unique opportunity to bolster their CSR efforts while making meaningful contributions towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Through strategic collaborations with Marpu, companies can address pressing social, economic, and environmental challenges, driving positive change and creating a more sustainable future for all.

[earthcareawards1]

For a Greener Tomorrow – Biodiversity Award 2024 | Earth Care Awards

The Biodiversity Award 2024 celebrates initiatives that protect nature and ecosystems. Organized by the Earth Care Awards, it recognizes exceptional efforts in sustainability and biodiversity conservation. This prestigious honor highlights India's dedication to environmental preservation and progress.

Visit:https://www.earthcareawards.com/Website:https://www.earthcareawards.com/Email:earthcareawards@timesgroup.com , earthcareawards@c2cm.comContact: 9717211060

[indiafund]

How do vegan and vegetarian diets impact long-term health differently?

As more people become aware of the ethical, environmental, and health benefits of plant-based diets, veganism and vegetarianism have become increasingly popular lifestyle choices. Both diets focus on excluding meat, but they differ significantly in the inclusion of other animal products such as dairy and eggs. This distinction can lead to different long-term health outcomes depending on how these diets are followed.

What Is the Difference Between Vegan and Vegetarian Diets?

A vegan diet excludes all animal products, meaning that it avoids meat, dairy, eggs, and even honey. Veganism is often driven by ethical concerns about animal welfare, with individuals seeking to avoid contributing to the exploitation or suffering of animals. Ethical concerns such as the treatment of animals in factory farms or the research conducted on Animals used for Research can motivate people to choose a plant-based lifestyle. Many also align their vegan lifestyle with the goals of animal protection organization that focus on promoting humane treatment for all creatures.

In contrast, a vegetarian diet includes plant-based foods but allows the consumption of dairy and eggs. Vegetarians avoid meat but continue to consume other animal-derived products. This diet can be an easier transition for people looking to reduce their environmental footprint, as animal agriculture is a significant contributor to climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. However, unlike veganism, a vegetarian diet still relies on animal by-products, which may not align with the ethical stance of those concerned about animal welfare.

Health Benefits of Vegan and Vegetarian Diets

Both vegan and vegetarian diets have been shown to offer a variety of health benefits, but the long-term impact on health can vary based on the specific foods consumed and how well these diets are balanced.

Vegan Diet Health Impact:

A vegan diet has several potential health benefits, particularly when it is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Because this diet eliminates all animal products, it tends to be lower in saturated fats and cholesterol, which are found in higher quantities in meat and dairy products. The long-term benefits of a vegan diet include:

Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases: Studies have shown that vegans tend to have a lower risk of heart disease, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. The abundance of plant-based foods, rich in antioxidants, fiber, and essential nutrients, helps reduce inflammation and prevent these conditions.

Weight Management: Vegan diets are typically lower in calorie density, which can contribute to better weight management. Many people find it easier to maintain a healthy weight on a vegan diet due to the higher consumption of vegetables, fruits, and legumes.

Better Digestive Health: The high fiber content in plant-based foods improves digestion and supports a healthy gut microbiome. Vegan diets are rich in fiber from whole grains, beans, and vegetables, which aid in regulating bowel movements and reducing the risk of digestive disorders.

However, there are potential nutritional gaps that need to be addressed in a vegan diet. Key nutrients like vitamin B12, iron, calcium, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin D are primarily found in animal products. Therefore, vegans must pay attention to these nutrients and either supplement them or choose fortified plant-based alternatives.

Vegetarian Diet Health Impact:

The vegetarian diet allows for the inclusion of dairy products and eggs, making it easier to meet some of the nutritional requirements that may be more challenging to fulfill on a vegan diet. This diet is associated with:

Improved Nutrient Intake: Vegetarians are likely to have better access to certain nutrients such as vitamin B12, calcium, and vitamin D, which are naturally found in dairy products and eggs. This helps reduce the risk of deficiencies in these essential nutrients.

Heart Health: Like vegan diets, vegetarian diets can lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The absence of meat reduces the intake of saturated fats, which are linked to heart disease. Consuming dairy in moderation can also provide beneficial nutrients like calcium, which is important for bone health.

Lower Risk of Type 2 Diabetes: Studies indicate that vegetarians tend to have a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to meat-eaters. This is partly due to the diet’s focus on plant-based foods that are rich in fiber and low in glycemic index.

However, vegetarians still face challenges when it comes to achieving a balanced, nutrient-dense diet. The health benefits of a vegetarian diet depend on the quality of the food choices. If a vegetarian diet consists primarily of processed foods or refined carbohydrates, it may not offer the same health benefits as one rich in whole, plant-based foods.

Long-Term Health Risks of Vegan and Vegetarian Diets

While both diets offer substantial health benefits, there are also potential risks if these diets are not followed correctly over the long term.

Vegan Diet Risks: A poorly planned vegan diet can lead to nutrient deficiencies, particularly in vitamin B12, iron, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin D. These deficiencies can result in fatigue, weakened immune function, and compromised bone health. It is important for vegans to be mindful of these nutrients and to consider supplementation or fortified foods.

Vegetarian Diet Risks: Though slightly more balanced, a vegetarian diet can also lead to nutrient deficiencies, especially if the focus is placed on dairy and eggs rather than a wide variety of plant-based foods. Iron and omega-3 fatty acids can still be a concern, as these are more abundant in meat and fish.

Ethical Considerations and Animal Welfare Impact

Both vegan and vegetarian diets align with ethical concerns related to animal welfare. Veganism in India has gained traction in recent years, as more people adopt plant-based diets to avoid contributing to animal exploitation. The work of animal protection organizations and animal funding organizations plays a significant role in educating the public about the impact of their food choices on animals.

Choosing a vegan or vegetarian diet can be an act of compassion, as it reduces the demand for animal agriculture, which is responsible for pollution and deforestation. Additionally, organizations like the Animal Welfare Board of India work tirelessly to promote ethical treatment of animals, whether through advocacy or support for animal welfare organizations.

Conclusion:

Both vegan and vegetarian diets offer substantial health benefits when properly planned, but they also come with challenges, particularly around meeting certain nutritional needs. While vegan diets are more restrictive and may require careful supplementation, they are often aligned with ethical concerns regarding animal welfare and sustainability. Vegetarian diets may be easier to follow and less prone to nutritional deficiencies, but they still contribute to the ethical debate surrounding animal treatment. As awareness about animal welfare, sustainability, and ethical food choices continues to grow, both diets offer pathways toward a healthier and more compassionate lifestyle.

[transplants-india]

The Impact of Organ Donation on Recipients and Their Families

Imagine being given a second chance at life. For those suffering from organ failure, this isn't just a dream; it's a reality made possible by the generosity of organ donors.

For many organ recipients, a donated organ is the difference between life and death. According to the World Health Organization, one organ donor can save up to eight lives. The patients have had a significant improvement in their health and quality of life.

The Ripple Effect on Families The donation has an impact on not only the recipients but their entire family and friends as well. For the family, it can be the time for the light at the end of the tunnel, which can help them to get back on track again. The following are the effects of some impacts:

Emotional Relief: When a person you love is the recipient of a life-saving transplant, you can heave a sigh of relief. Anxiety and fear regarding the health of a family member will fade away.

Restoration of Normalcy: A family becomes more complete and normal again through the arrival of the organ they need through transplants. The capability of scheduling, enjoying holidays, and taking part in regular routines instead of the fear of a serious illness shadowing them can give them a considerable break.

The Family Bond: The transplant issue is something mostly seen between the family members who go on trips and face transplants together. Even in the face of overcoming a major difficulty, the mutual experience of the compassion ritual can instigate more family kinships and allow emotional connections to get deeper.

Personal Stories: A New Lease on Life Aryan's Journey: A Mother's Gift

Aryan’s story is genuinely moving and stands as proof of organ donation being able to work miracles and a mother’s infallible love for her child. He has the privilege to be the only and the most beloved child of his parents, who themselves are very happy waiting for their son’s birth. Their world soon seemed dull, as the happiness was overshadowed by fear when Aryan was diagnosed with jaundice just days after his birth.

The poignant scene of a mother who could barely support her child due to the weakness that ensnared her watched on in fear as her son was taken away for testing. Time and time again, even after being given a clean bill of health by doctors, Aryan had to do rounds of treatment.

The film went on to explain how he managed to get well, albeit briefly, then he rebounded, and a liver transplant was his only survival treatment option. With her selfless love and deep care, the mother of the boy proved to be an uncommon hero.

The surgery was successful, and Aryan is now a thriving six-month-old, full of life and promise.

Aryan’s journey highlights the life-saving impact of organ donation and the profound bond between a mother and her child. His story is a beacon of hope and resilience, showcasing the transformative power of selfless love.

The emotional rollercoaster experienced by recipients and their families is both intense and transformative. The feeling of relief when a loved one receives an organ is just simply beyond words, like a miracle to families who see loved ones saved and full of life again. Yet, more often than not, this becomes tinged with profound feelings of gratitude and compassion toward the donor's family, who chose to give life at the moment of their own loss.

Compelling Statistics

Demand vs. Supply: In India, the yearly demand for kidneys is about 200,000; less than 7,000 transplants take place annually.

Heart Transplants: Over 50,000 people await heart transplants, yet only about 250 are conducted annually.

Liver Transplants: With a need for 25,000 to 30,000 liver transplants annually, only about 1,500 are carried out. These numbers starkly illustrate the urgent need for increased organ donation to save lives and improve outcomes for many families.

The existing state of organ donation awareness and involvement in India is still impeded by the low occurrence of cultural beliefs, misconceptions and not enough knowledge, though. An organization, such as Transplant India largely contributed to it because of overwork, and over-spending of the financial resources, thus the situation worsened.

Transplant India NGO is committed to advocating for organ donation and supporting both donors and recipients. The impact of organ donation on recipients and their families is profound, offering a second chance at life and restoring hope and happiness. By spreading awareness and encouraging more people to become donors, we can work towards a future where everyone in need of a transplant receives one.

Join us in our mission to save lives through organ donation. Consider registering as an organ donor and making a difference in someone's life today.

[skvisionorg]

How NGOs Are Changing the World

These organizations, which operate independently of government control, are dedicated to promoting social welfare, human rights, and sustainable development.

Their impact on society is profound, touching the lives of millions of people. This blog explores the multifaceted ways in which NGOs help society and the significant contributions they make towards creating a better world.

1. Providing Essential Services

One of the primary ways NGOs help society is by providing essential services that may not be adequately addressed by governments. These services include healthcare, education, clean water, and sanitation.

For instance, organizations like Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) offer medical care in conflict zones and areas affected by natural disasters.

Similarly, NGOs such as UNICEF work tirelessly to ensure that children have access to quality education and basic necessities.

2. Advocating for Human Rights

NGOs play a critical role in advocating for human rights and social justice. Organizations like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch work to protect individuals and communities from human rights abuses.

They conduct research, raise awareness, and put pressure on governments and other entities to uphold international human rights standards.

By advocating for marginalized and vulnerable groups, NGOs help create a more just and equitable society.

3. Promoting Sustainable Development

Sustainable development is at the heart of many NGO missions. These organizations work to balance economic growth with environmental conservation and social inclusion.

The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and Greenpeace, for example, are dedicated to protecting the environment and promoting sustainable practices.

They engage in activities ranging from conservation projects to lobbying for policy changes that address climate change and biodiversity loss.

4. Empowering Communities

NGOs often focus on empowering local communities by providing them with the tools, resources, and knowledge needed to improve their own lives.

Microfinance initiatives, like those run by Grameen Bank, offer small loans to entrepreneurs in developing countries, enabling them to start or expand their businesses.

This not only helps lift individuals out of poverty but also stimulates local economies.

5. Responding to Emergencies

In times of crisis, NGOs are often on the front lines, providing immediate relief and support.

Whether it’s a natural disaster, armed conflict, or a pandemic, organizations like the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies provide critical assistance such as food, shelter, medical care, and psychosocial support.

Their swift response can mean the difference between life and death for affected populations.

6. Enhancing Education

Education is a powerful tool for societal transformation, and many NGOs are dedicated to improving access to quality education.

Organizations like Room to Read and Teach For All work to reduce educational disparities by building schools, training teachers, and providing scholarships.

By investing in education, these NGOs help create opportunities for individuals to break the cycle of poverty and achieve their full potential.

7. Promoting Health and Well-being

Health is a fundamental human right, and numerous NGOs focus on promoting health and well-being.

They run programs to combat diseases like HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis, and promote maternal and child health.

For example, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation invests heavily in global health initiatives, funding research and programs that aim to eradicate diseases and improve healthcare systems.

8. Fostering Peace and Security

NGOs also contribute to peace-building and conflict resolution efforts.

Organizations like the International Crisis Group and Search for Common Ground work in areas affected by conflict to promote dialogue, reconciliation, and understanding.

They address the root causes of violence and help build the foundations for lasting peace.

We are SKinRange Vision Foundation: Supporting Society Through Education and Healthcare

SKinRange Vision Foundation is a non-governmental organization (NGO) based in India that endeavors to support the underprivileged through child education and innovative health care programs.

One of our flagship projects is to work towards an addiction-free society.

Supported by the Sat Kartar Group, a leading company in the Herbal and Ayurvedic products segment, SKinRange Vision Foundation is committed to making a positive impact on society.

We are registered under the Companies Act, 2013, which underscores our dedication to transparency and accountability in all our activities.

We would greatly appreciate your support through donations (monetary or volunteering time) to help us in our endeavors. Your contribution can make a significant difference in the lives of many, helping us create a brighter, healthier future for all.

Conclusion

The impact of NGOs on society is vast and varied. They fill crucial gaps left by governments, advocate for human rights, promote sustainable development, and empower communities.

By responding to emergencies, enhancing education, promoting health, and fostering peace, NGOs make significant contributions to creating a better, more equitable world.

Their work reminds us of the power of collective action and the importance of supporting organizations that strive to make a positive difference in the lives of individuals and communities around the globe.

[smsehgalfoundation]

Understanding Soil Test Report - S M Sehgal Foundation

[surekhakapoor]

Kinship Care Programme by Leading Kinship Organisation in India | SOS Children's Villages

Experience the transformative Kinship Care Programme by SOS Children's Villages, a leading kinship organisation in India. We provide a nurturing and supportive environment for children who cannot live with their biological families. Our dedicated team ensures their well-being, education, and overall development. Learn more about our Kinship Care Programme and how you can contribute to shaping a better future for these children. Join hands with SOS Children's Villages, the trusted kinship organisation in India, and make a meaningful difference today.

[womenaremypriority]

This is so horrific.

———————

I have been following Siro’s story for 30 years, ever since I went to interview her and four other rural midwives in India’s Bihar state in 1996.

They had been identified by a non-governmental organisation as being behind the murder of baby girls in the district of Katihar where, under pressure from the newborns’ parents, they were killing them by feeding them chemicals or simply wringing their necks.

Hakiya Devi, the eldest of the midwives I interviewed, told me at the time she had killed 12 or 13 babies. Another midwife, Dharmi Devi, admitted to killing more - at least 15-20.

It is impossible to ascertain the exact number of babies they may have killed, given the way the data was gathered.

But they featured in a report published in 1995 by an NGO, based on interviews with them and 30 other midwives. If the report’s estimates are accurate, more than 1,000 baby girls were being murdered every year in one district, by just 35 midwives. According to the report, Bihar at the time had more than half a million midwives. And infanticide was not limited to Bihar.

Refusing orders, Hakiya said, was almost never an option for a midwife.

“The family would lock the room and stand behind us with sticks,” says Hakiya Devi. “They’d say: ‘We already have four-five daughters. This will wipe out our wealth. Once we give dowry for our girls, we will starve to death. Now, another girl has been born. Kill her.’

“Who could we complain to? We were scared. If we went to the police, we’d get into trouble. If we spoke up, people would threaten us."

The role of a midwife in rural India is rooted in tradition, and burdened by the harsh realities of poverty and caste. The midwives I interviewed belonged to the lower castes in India’s caste hierarchy. Midwifery was a profession passed on to them by mothers and grandmothers. They lived in a world where refusing orders of powerful, upper-caste families was unthinkable.

The midwife could be promised a sari, a sack of grain or a small amount of money for killing a baby. Sometimes even that was not paid. The birth of a boy earned them about 1,000 rupees. The birth of a girl earned them half.

The reason for this imbalance was steeped in India’s custom of giving a dowry, they explained. Though the custom was outlawed in 1961, it still held strong in the 90s - and indeed continues into the present day.

A dowry can be anything - cash, jewellery, utensils. But for many families, rich or poor, it is the condition of a wedding. And this is what, for many, still makes the birth of a son a celebration and the birth of a daughter a financial burden.

Siro Devi, the only midwife of those I interviewed who is still alive, used a vivid physical image to explain this disparity in status.

“A boy is above the ground - higher. A daughter is below - lower. Whether a son feeds or takes care of his parents or not, they all want a boy.”

The preference for sons can be seen in India’s national-level data. Its most recent census, in 2011, recorded a ratio of 943 women to every 1,000 men. This is nevertheless an improvement on the 1990s - in the 1991 census, the ratio was 927/1,000.

By the time I finished filming the midwives’ testimonies in 1996, a small, silent change had begun. The midwives who once carried out these orders had started to resist. 

This change was instigated by Anila Kumari, a social worker who supported women in the villages around Katihar, and was dedicated to addressing the root causes of these killings.

Anila’s approach was simple. She asked the midwives, “Would you do this to your own daughter?”

Her question apparently pierced years of rationalisation and denial. The midwives got some financial help via community groups and gradually the cycle of violence was interrupted.

Siro, speaking to me in 2007, explained the change.

“Now, whoever asks me to kill, I tell them: ‘Look, give me the child, and I’ll take her to Anila Madam.’”

The midwives rescued at least five newborn girls from families who wanted them killed or had already abandoned them.

One child died, but Anila arranged for the other four to be sent to Bihar’s capital, Patna, to an NGO which organised their adoption.

The story could have ended there. But I wanted to know what had become of those girls who were adopted, and where life had taken them.

Anila’s records were meticulous but they had few details about post-adoption.

Working with a BBC World Service team, I got in touch with a woman called Medha Shekar who, back in the 90s, was researching infanticide in Bihar when the babies rescued by Anila and the midwives began arriving at her NGO. Remarkably, Medha was still in touch with a young woman who, she believed, was one of these rescued babies.

Anila told me that she had given all the girls saved by the midwives the prefix “Kosi” before their name, a homage to the Kosi river in Bihar. Medha remembered that Monica had been named with this “Kosi” prefix before her adoption.

The adoption agency would not let us look at Monica’s records, so we can never be sure. But her origins in Patna, her approximate date of birth and the prefix “Kosi” all point to the same conclusion: Monica is, in all probability, one of the five babies rescued by Anila and the midwives.

When I went to meet her at her parents’ home some 2,000km (1,242 miles) away in Pune, she said she felt lucky to have been adopted by a loving family.

“This is my definition of a normal happy life and I am living it,” she said.

Monica knew that she had been adopted from Bihar. But we were able to give her more details about the circumstances of her adoption.

Earlier this year, Monica travelled to Bihar to meet Anila and Siro. 

Monica saw herself as the culmination of years of hard work by Anila and the midwives.

“Someone prepares a lot to do well in an exam. I feel like that. They did the hard work and now they’re so curious to meet the result… So definitely, I would like to meet them.”

Anila wept tears of joy when she met Monica. But Siro’s response felt different.

She sobbed hard, holding Monica close and combing through her hair.

“I took you [to the orphanage] to save your life… My soul is at peace now,” she told her.

But when, a couple of days later, I attempted to press Siro about her reaction, she resisted further scrutiny.

“What happened in the past is in the past,” she said.

But what is not in the past is the prejudice some still hold against baby girls.

Reports of infanticide are now relatively rare, but sex-selective abortion remains common, despite being illegal since 1994.

If one listens to the traditional folk songs sung during childbirth, known as Sohar, in parts of north India, joy is reserved for the birth of a male child. Even in 2024, it is an effort to get local singers to change the lyrics so that the song celebrates the birth of a girl.

While we were filming our documentary, two baby girls were discovered abandoned in Katihar - one in bushes, another at the roadside, just a few hours old. One later died. The other was put up for adoption.

Before Monica left Bihar, she visited this baby in the Special Adoption Centre in Katihar.

She says she was haunted by the realisation that though female infanticide may have been reduced, abandoning baby girls continues.

“This is a cycle… I can see myself there a few years ago, and now again there’s some girl similar to me.”

But there were to be happier similarities too.

The baby has now been adopted by a couple in the north-eastern state of Assam. They have named her Edha, which means happiness.

“We saw her photo, and we were clear - a baby once abandoned cannot be abandoned twice,” says her adoptive father Gaurav, an officer in the Indian air force.

Every few weeks Gaurav sends me a video of Edha's latest antics. I sometimes share them with Monica.

Looking back, the 30 years spent on this story were never just about the past. It was about confronting uncomfortable truths. The past cannot be undone, but it can be transformed.

And in that transformation, there is hope.

[coochiequeens]

Heroes

Amitabh Parashar BBC Eye Investigations

Midwife Siro Devi is clinging to Monica Thatte, sobbing. Monica, in her late 20s, has returned to her birthplace - the Indian town where Siro has delivered hundreds of babies.

But this is no straightforward reunion. There is a painful history behind Siro's tears. Shortly before Monica was born, Siro and several Indian midwives like her were regularly pressured to murder newborn girls.

Monica, evidence suggests, is one they saved.

I have been following Siro’s story for 30 years, ever since I went to interview her and four other rural midwives in India’s Bihar state in 1996.

They had been identified by a non-governmental organisation as being behind the murder of baby girls in the district of Katihar where, under pressure from the newborns’ parents, they were killing them by feeding them chemicals or simply wringing their necks.

Hakiya Devi, the eldest of the midwives I interviewed, told me at the time she had killed 12 or 13 babies. Another midwife, Dharmi Devi, admitted to killing more - at least 15-20.

It is impossible to ascertain the exact number of babies they may have killed, given the way the data was gathered.

But they featured in a report published in 1995 by an NGO, based on interviews with them and 30 other midwives. If the report’s estimates are accurate, more than 1,000 baby girls were being murdered every year in one district, by just 35 midwives. According to the report, Bihar at the time had more than half a million midwives. And infanticide was not limited to Bihar.

Refusing orders, Hakiya said, was almost never an option for a midwife.

“The family would lock the room and stand behind us with sticks,” says Hakiya Devi. “They’d say: ‘We already have four-five daughters. This will wipe out our wealth. Once we give dowry for our girls, we will starve to death. Now, another girl has been born. Kill her.’

“Who could we complain to? We were scared. If we went to the police, we’d get into trouble. If we spoke up, people would threaten us."

Amitabh watching the extraordinary interviews he did with the midwives in the 90s

The role of a midwife in rural India is rooted in tradition, and burdened by the harsh realities of poverty and caste. The midwives I interviewed belonged to the lower castes in India’s caste hierarchy. Midwifery was a profession passed on to them by mothers and grandmothers. They lived in a world where refusing orders of powerful, upper-caste families was unthinkable.

The midwife could be promised a sari, a sack of grain or a small amount of money for killing a baby. Sometimes even that was not paid. The birth of a boy earned them about 1,000 rupees. The birth of a girl earned them half.

The reason for this imbalance was steeped in India’s customof giving a dowry, they explained. Though the custom was outlawed in 1961, it still held strong in the 90s - and indeed continues into the present day.

A dowry can be anything - cash, jewellery, utensils. But for many families, rich or poor, it is the condition of a wedding. And this is what, for many, still makes the birth of a son a celebration and the birth of a daughter a financial burden.

Siro Devi, the only midwife of those I interviewed who is still alive, used a vivid physical image to explain this disparity in status.

Siro has worked as a midwife since she was a child

“A boy is above the ground - higher. A daughter is below - lower. Whether a son feeds or takes care of his parents or not, they all want a boy.”

The preference for sons can be seen in India’s national-level data. Its most recent census, in 2011, recorded a ratio of 943 women to every 1,000 men. This is nevertheless an improvement on the 1990s - in the 1991 census, the ratio was 927/1,000.

Anila Kumari (second left), a social worker, led sessions in the 1990s to nudge the midwives into a different approach

By the time I finished filming the midwives’ testimonies in 1996, a small, silent change had begun. The midwives who once carried out these orders had started to resist.

This change was instigated by Anila Kumari, a social worker who supported women in the villages around Katihar, and was dedicated to addressing the root causes of these killings.

Anila’s approach was simple. She asked the midwives, “Would you do this to your own daughter?”

Her question apparently pierced years of rationalisation and denial. The midwives got some financial help via community groups and gradually the cycle of violence was interrupted.

Siro, speaking to me in 2007, explained the change.

“Now, whoever asks me to kill, I tell them: ‘Look, give me the child, and I’ll take her to Anila Madam.’”

The midwives rescued at least five newborn girls from families who wanted them killed or had already abandoned them.

One child died, but Anila arranged for the other four to be sent to Bihar’s capital, Patna, to an NGO which organised their adoption.

The story could have ended there. But I wanted to know what had become of those girls who were adopted, and where life had taken them.

[decontextifier]

Hey Guys!!!

Just a side note- My friend joined an NGO and she does crowdfunding. This NGO is Called "Muskurahat"

"Muskurahat is an organisation which helps the underprivileged children of India receive education and it's based in Mumbai"

I request everyone, if you can of course to donate, even 1 rupee (1 dollar - 80 rupees) counts. And if possible please spread this around

Remember there is no pressure to donate the highest possible amount, it's all up to you, and how you wish to see the world change :)

[planindiango1]

Plan India is continually striving to advance children’s rights and equality for girls thus creating a lasting impact in the lives of vulnerable and excluded children and their communities. As a step in this direction, we have been organising the National Conference on Plan for Every Child (P4EC).

The Plan for Every Child (P4EC) National Conference organised by Plan India in solidarity with national and international efforts focusses on reaching out to every child in difficult circumstances, especially girls and young women in building their agency and leadership to achieve SDGs. P4EC has been a unique conference every year bringing experts from all over the world to the table to bring diverse perspectives and present solutions to the complex issues related to child protection, health, education, participation, violence against girls, equality, early childhood care, sexual and reproductive health and so on.

Plan India has successfully organised three National P4EC conferences in 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2021 in New Delhi. The P4EC was launched in 2016 in partnership with Ministry of Women and Child Development and Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India. The first edition of the P4EC in 2016 was on the theme of “Children in Difficult Circumstances”; which was followed by the second edition in 2017 on “Leave no Girl Behind” and the third edition in 2018 on “Girls Get Equal”. The 2021 conference was organised under the theme of ‘Build Back Better with Girls’.

[mariacallous]

With millions of people voting in India’s General Election, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) are seeking a third term in office, and are widely tipped to get it. The Hindu nationalist movement in India predates Modi and the BJP but their decade in power has catapulted Hindu nationalism into the mainstream. 

Modi’s rise to power has reshaped India including the landscape for foreign funded organisations and media. Many human rights groups, journalists and activists critical of the government have come under intense scrutiny. A direct outcome has been the suspension or cancellation of their licences under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) which permits non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to receive funds from abroad. 

In the past nine years more than 16,000 NGOs have had their FCRA registration cancelled due to “violations” according to, national daily The Hindu, including those working on rights of India’s most vulnerable minority groups. 

Aakar Patel the former head of Amnesty International India – which was forced to halt operations in 2020 due to allegations of FCRA violations- told Bellingcat, “I think India should do away with a law that is used maliciously in a targeted fashion. There is no reason for one part of the private sector to be governed by a special law that the rest of the private sector is not subject to. And it is the government that decides, arbitrarily, what activity and which entity should submit itself to FCRA.” 

However, some media outlets that have thrived in the Modi-era, with content promoting Hindu nationalism and vilifying minority groups, are in fact receiving foreign donations or operating in ways that may be inconsistent with Indian laws. Bellingcat identified two such far-right outlets–OpIndia and Hindu Existence. We also found two other outlets receiving donations in ways that lack transparency–and both of these sites have links to a RSS-affiliated organisation in the US. The RSS (Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh) was founded in 1925 and is often described as a volunteer, “paramilitary” organisation accused of stoking riots against minority groups and carrying out assassinations plots.

[earthcareawards1]

What Makes the Green Innovation Awards a Game-Changer for Sustainability? Earth Care Awards

The Green Innovation Awards recognize groundbreaking ideas and solutions that contribute to environmental sustainability. These awards highlight efforts that push the boundaries of green technology and eco-friendly practices.

Organized by Earth Care Awards, this prestigious event celebrates innovations that promote a cleaner, greener future.

As part of its mission in India, Earth Care Awards aims to inspire individuals and organizations to adopt sustainable practices that protect the environment. The Green Innovation Awards not only honor winners but also raise awareness about the importance of eco-conscious development for future generations.

[nothingiglesbian]

The Naz foundation

The Naz Foundation (India) Trust is a non-governmental organisation (NGO) in that country that works on HIV/AIDS and sexual health. It is based in the Indian capital of New Delhi

.🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈

It is a Delhi-based organization that has been at the forefront of the battle against Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code that discriminates against individuals based on their sexual orientation. The organization was established in 1994 with the primary aim of serving various communities by responding to the issue of HIV/AIDS, raising awareness about prevention, providing care and support to children and people with HIV, and removing stigma and discrimination against them.

They provide exceptional help free of cost also they have a very strict policy of not making names public All queer folks can reach out to naz foundation in case of any distress or problem.

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@virologistandpotato