THE LAUREATES

Transforming People’s Lives 2023

PRADAN: Empowering Rural Communities Towards Sustainable Change

In the vast and diverse landscape of rural India, where poverty often looms large, there exists a beacon of hope – Professional Assistance for Development Action (PRADAN). Established in 1983, PRADAN is not just an organisation; it is a movement that envisions a society where every individual, especially women from marginalised communities, can achieve social, economic, and political empowerment.

The genesis of PRADAN lies in the recognition of a group of visionary individuals who understood the urgent need for direct engagement with rural communities. Founded with the belief that sustainable development can only be achieved through the active participation and empowerment of marginalised groups, PRADAN has since recruited, trained, and deployed professionals committed to driving transformative change in India’s most impoverished regions.

At the heart of PRADAN’s mission is the empowerment of rural communities, particularly women, to take charge of their destinies and become active agents of change. Through a holistic approach encompassing livelihood promotion, gender equity, healthcare, education, and environmental sustainability, PRADAN has made significant strides in uplifting marginalised populations across the country. With a presence in 41 districts across 7 states, PRADAN directly impacts over a million families, with a special focus on vulnerable groups such as Dalits, Tribals, and Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). Their innovative interventions in rural livelihoods have led to tangible improvements in agricultural productivity, income generation, and access to markets for rural farmers.

By promoting sustainable farming practices, natural resource management, and micro-enterprise development, PRADAN has not only enhanced the economic well-being of rural communities but also fostered resilience to climate change. Their advocacy efforts have catalysed the creation of special initiatives by state governments, such as ‘Usharmukti’ in West Bengal and Agriculture Production Clusters (APCs) in Tribal Regions of Odisha, aimed at revitalising degraded landscapes and promoting sustainable agriculture. PRADAN’s commitment to excellence and impact has been recognized through numerous prestigious awards and accolades. From being honoured as the ‘NGO of the Year’ in 2006 to receiving the Development Catalyst 2022 Award, the organisation has consistently been lauded for its innovative approach, transformative impact, and exemplary governance practices.

As PRADAN looks towards the future, it is poised for exponential growth, with a vision to empower 50 million rural individuals by 2030. With its unwavering dedication and pioneering spirit, PRADAN continues to inspire hope and drive meaningful change in the lives of millions across rural India, ensuring prosperity and well-being for generations to come.