Best NGOs In India: How They Are Revolutionising Social Development in India

India, a land of immense diversity, is steeped in history and tradition. However, it also faces many challenges such as poverty, education gaps, and health issues. Numerous organisations are working diligently to improve the lives of people across the country. These organisations, known as Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), play a crucial role in social development. Identifying the best NGO in India can be subjective, as effectiveness often depends on specific needs and interests. However, to assist you in finding an organisation aligned with your values, we’ve compiled a list of the best 10 NGOs in India that are making a significant impact.

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What is an NGO ?

A Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) is a type of non-profit organisation that operates independently from government control. NGOs are established to address social, environmental, or humanitarian issues and work to promote the public good. They often focus on areas such as education, health care, poverty alleviation, human rights, and environmental protection.

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Here is a list of the best 10 NGOs in India:

1. CRY (Child Rights and You)

Address: 189/A Anand Estate, Sane Guruji Marg, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400011

Contact: 091159 11500

CRY (Child Rights and You) is a prominent NGO in India dedicated to improving the lives of underprivileged children. Established in 1979, CRY focuses on ensuring children’s rights to education, healthcare, and protection from exploitation. The organisation is dedicated to protecting children from exploitation, including child labour and trafficking, by creating safe and nurturing environments.

CRY’s initiatives span across various regions in India, collaborating with parents, teachers, community members, and government officials to drive impactful change. Their programs include providing access to quality education, health services, and addressing issues related to child malnutrition and dropouts.

2. Smile Foundation

Address: V-11, Green Park Extension, Delhi – 110016 (Level-1)

Contact:  +91 8800277244

Smile Foundation, established in 2002, is a leading NGO in India dedicated to transforming the lives of underprivileged children and families. Driven by a commitment to social responsibility, Smile Foundation aims to bridge the gap between India’s economic growth and the needs of its most vulnerable citizens.

The organisation’s core focus is on education, recognising it as a powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty and inequality. However, Smile Foundation’s holistic approach extends beyond education to encompass healthcare, livelihood programs, and women empowerment. By addressing the interconnected challenges faced by families, the foundation strives to create sustainable and lasting change.

Smile Foundation’s operational philosophy centres around:

• Impactful programs: Delivering effective initiatives in education, healthcare, and livelihood development.
• Community engagement: Fostering partnerships with civil society to drive positive change.
• Good governance: Adhering to high standards of transparency and accountability.
• Innovation: Utilising technology and knowledge to maximise social impact.

Smile Foundation strives to empower individuals and communities, fostering a more equitable and prosperous India. Smile Foundation has garnered significant recognition for its impactful work in uplifting underprivileged communities across India. The organisation has been at the forefront of driving social change through its focus on education, healthcare, livelihood, and women empowerment.

Smile Foundation’s commitment to excellence and its measurable impact has been acknowledged through numerous awards. The organisation has been honoured with the SR Universe Social Impact Award 2023 for Mission Education, the Best CSR Excellence Award 2023 by ASSOCHAM, and the CSR Health Impact Award for both 2023 and 2022 by the IHW Council. Additionally, Smile Foundation was recognised as the NGO that brought the most happiness by India Today RPG Group in 2023.

In 2022, the foundation solidified its reputation with the CSR TIMES Award for its Skill Training & Livelihood Initiative. The Best NGO of the Year title at the Iconic Achievers’ Awards 2022 is a testament to Smile Foundation’s overall impact. Furthermore, the organisation’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic was lauded with the Healthcare Asia Award 2022 for Covid Management Initiative of the Year (India). The Business World Social Impact Leadership Award 2022 is another feather in the cap for this exceptional organisation.

3. Akshaya Patra Foundation

Address: 3rd Floor, 3rd Main Road, 1st & 2nd Stage,  Yeshwantpur Industrial Suburb, Rajajinagar Ward No. 10, Bengaluru – 560022
Contact: +91 8030143400

The Akshaya Patra Foundation, founded in 2000, is a renowned NGO in India committed to eliminating classroom hunger and enhancing educational outcomes. Their flagship program provides nutritious mid-day meals to millions of school children, ensuring they receive the essential food needed for optimal learning and development.

Operating across several states, Akshaya Patra partners with government schools to deliver high-quality meals, supporting both education and health. The foundation’s efforts help increase school attendance and reduce dropout rates by addressing food insecurity, a major barrier to education.

With a strong focus on efficiency and sustainability, Akshaya Patra runs a network of central kitchens to produce and distribute meals. Beyond feeding hungry minds, Akshaya Patra is committed to holistic child development. The organisation implements programs to enhance children’s health, hygiene, and nutrition while also educating communities about the significance of education and child well-being.

4. Oxfam India

Address: 2nd Floor of Building no. 1, Malhan Business Center, Sunlight Colony – 2, Ashram, New Delhi – 110014

Contact: +91 9958992255

Oxfam India Foundation is a leading NGO that works to reduce poverty and inequality in India. Established in 1951, Oxfam India focuses on creating a fairer world where everyone has a chance to live a good life.

Oxfam India works to create a just and equitable society where Adivasis, Dalits, Muslims, and informal sector workers, particularly women and girls, can live free from violence, discrimination, and oppression. 

Their work includes helping people get better access to education, healthcare, and clean water. They also work to ensure that everyone has fair wages and is treated equally, regardless of their background. Oxfam India helps communities prepare for and recover from disasters, like floods and droughts.

Oxfam India’s vision for the future is to create a just and discrimination-free India. The organisation is committed to standing firm against crises and injustices, working tirelessly to address the inequalities and discrimination impacting millions of Indians. 

Over the next five years, Oxfam India aims to extend its support to a broader range of socially and economically excluded groups, including Dalits, Adivasis, Muslims, and informal sector workers, with a special focus on empowering women to live lives of dignity and free from discrimination. 

The foundation acknowledges that achieving these goals requires widespread support and more voices joining the cause. By influencing policies and challenging attitudes, Oxfam India strives to fight discrimination nationwide. As a leading force against inequality, the organisation is dedicated to ensuring that everyone in India can enjoy a fairer, more equal society, leaving injustice and discrimination behind forever. It is regarded as among the best NGOs in India.

5. Nanhi Kali

Address: K. C. Mahindra Education Trust, Cecil Court, Near Regal Cinema, Mahakavi Bhushan Marg, Mumbai 400001.

Contact: +91 22 6897 5500

Nanhi Kali Foundation is an NGO dedicated to improving education for young girls in India. It was started in 1996, with support from Anand Mahindra, a prominent business leader and philanthropist. Anand Mahindra is known for his commitment to social causes and has been a driving force behind the foundation’s efforts.

The foundation works to ensure that girls from poor families can attend school and receive a good education. They provide essential items like school supplies and uniforms, and offer extra help such as tutoring to help the girls succeed.

Nanhi Kali views education as a powerful weapon against poverty, empowering girls to reach their full potential. By working with local communities and schools, they make sure the girls get the support they need.

Since its inception, the initiative has supported the education of over 581,908 girls(2023). This year alone, it has provided educational support to 186,041 girls. Additionally, the launch of the Digital Equalizer For Girls (DEFG) program has been a significant milestone, focusing on enhancing both digital and life skills. 

The DEFG curriculum includes modular training in digital literacy, critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, creativity, and communication. Through this program, 31,908 girls have been empowered with essential skills for their personal and professional development.

6. Goonj

Address: Madan Pur Khadar, Near Sunder Public School, New Delhi. Nearest Landmark: Please take the road along GD Goenka School & Jal Board, Sarita Vihar.

Contact: 011- 41401216

Goonj Foundation is an NGO that makes a big impact by addressing basic needs like clothing and sanitation in India. Driven by a vision to address poverty creatively, Anshu Gupta, passionate social entrepreneur, founded Goonj in 1999.

Goonj collects unused clothes and other materials and turns them into useful items for people in need. They provide essentials like clothing, sanitary products, and more to underprivileged communities. Their approach not only helps with immediate needs but also promotes awareness about issues of poverty and inequality. Anshu Gupta envisions a nation where resources are equitably shared between urban and rural communities.

Goonj’s acclaimed School to School initiative is tackling the educational challenges faced by thousands of remote and under-resourced village and slum schools. The program repurposes surplus materials from well-equipped city schools, not merely as items to be given away, but as a means to drive meaningful behavioural change among both the recipients and the donors.

Many children in these underserved areas leave school for seemingly small reasons, such as the lack of a notebook, pencil, water bottle, or the inability of their parents to afford ongoing stationery costs items that are often in excess in urban schools.

7. Lepra

Address: Near TEC Building, Cherlapally to Rampally Road, Cherlapally, Hyderabad – 501 301, Telangana, India.

Contact: +91 90634 79553

LEPRA India is an important NGO that focuses on helping people affected by leprosy and other health issues. Founded in 1989, LEPRA India provides medical care, support, and education to improve the lives of those in need. Their work includes offering free treatment for leprosy, as well as providing rehabilitation services to help people recover and live with dignity.

In addition to treating leprosy, LEPRA India also addresses other health concerns such as tuberculosis and diabetes. They run programs to educate communities about these diseases, promote better hygiene, and ensure access to healthcare.

Vision: To become a leading force in minimising the occurrence and effects of leprosy and other overlooked diseases.

Goals:

1. Empower individuals affected by neglected diseases, particularly women and children, to claim their rights and achieve a life of dignity by overcoming discrimination.
2. Reduce the prevalence of diseases and prevent disabilities associated with leprosy, lymphatic filariasis (LF), and eye conditions.

Values:

• People-Centric: Prioritising the needs and rights of individuals impacted by these conditions.
• Transparent and Accountable: Ensuring openness and responsibility in all practices.
• Innovative and Bold Leadership: Embracing creative approaches and leading with courage.
• Effective and Efficient: Achieving impactful results through optimal use of resources.
• Collaborative: Partnering with others to reach shared objectives.

Purpose: To help children, women, and men affected by leprosy and other neglected diseases improve their lives, rise above poverty, and overcome social prejudice.

8. Cherish Foundation

Address: 87-D, Opposite Tulips Grand Hotel, Chengicherla Road, Medipally, Hyderabad, Telangana, India 500098
Contact: +91 9849770988

Parataiah Raman Subramanyam is an Indian social worker and the founder of the Cherish Foundation, an NGO based in Hyderabad. The Cherish Foundation focuses on improving the lives of underprivileged children and families, particularly through education, healthcare, and support for orphans. Under his leadership, the foundation has worked to provide safe homes, nutritious food, and quality education for children in need.

Cherish Foundation is committed to nurturing children’s holistic growth and development. By implementing a child-centred approach, the foundation prioritises the physical, emotional, and intellectual growth of every child under its care.

Recognising the importance of dreams and aspirations, Cherish Foundation encourages children to explore their potential and set ambitious goals. By offering guidance, support, and opportunities for skill development, the foundation empowers children to believe in themselves and achieve their aspirations.

A cornerstone of the foundation’s philosophy is creating a stimulating and interactive learning environment. Through a variety of approaches, including open-ended questioning, hands-on activities, and individualised attention, Cherish Foundation nurtures children’s curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking skills.

By prioritising children’s interests and well-being, the Cherish Foundation is committed to providing a holistic and enriching experience that equips children with the tools they need to succeed in life.

The organisation also engages in various community development projects aimed at enhancing living conditions and fostering self-reliance. Parataiah Raman Subramanyam’s unwavering commitment to social welfare has made a substantial difference in the Hyderabad region.

9. Salam Baalak Trust Delhi

Address: 2nd Floor, DDA Community Centre, Chandi Wali Gali, Paharganj, New Delhi, 110055

Contact: contact@salaambaalaktrust.org

Salaam Baalak Trust Delhi is a dedicated NGO that focuses on helping street children in Delhi. Founded in 1988, the trust works to improve the lives of kids living on the streets or in difficult situations.

Their main services include providing safe shelters, education, and healthcare. The trust runs homes where children can stay, get nutritious meals, and attend school. They also offer medical care to keep the children healthy and emotional support to help them deal with their struggles.

By offering these essential services, Salaam Baalak Trust Delhi aims to give street children a chance for a better future. They work hard to ensure these kids receive the care and opportunities they need to succeed.

Awards and recognition : 

A Special Jury Award by NITI Aayog to Dr. Praveen Nair for her work with street children, 2020

Jamnalal Bajaj Award for outstanding contribution in the field of development and welfare of women and children 2017

UNAIDS Civil Society Award for outstanding commitment & support to fight against HIV/AIDS, India 2006

10. Bharti Airtel Foundation

Address: Airtel Center, B – Wing 1st Floor, Plot No. 16, Udyog Vihar, Phase – IV, Gurgaon, Haryana – 122015, India
Contact: (0124) 4823500, 0124-4823500

The Bharti Airtel Foundation is a leading NGO that works to improve lives in India. Established by Bharti Airtel, the foundation focuses on improving education, healthcare, and rural development.

Their key programs include providing educational support to children, offering medical care to those in need, and improving infrastructure in rural areas. They help build schools, supply learning materials, and support health clinics to ensure people get the care they need.

The foundation collaborates closely with communities to identify their needs and implement effective solutions. By investing in education and healthcare, the Bharti Airtel Foundation aims to create better opportunities and a healthier future for everyone.

Awards and recognition : 

Mamta Saikia, CEO, Bharti Airtel foundation has been awarded the prestigious Mahatma Award for ‘Leadership In Social Impact Through CSR.’

Bharti Airtel Foundation was recognised as India’s Best Workplaces for Women (2023) among the Top 100 organisations for the 2nd time in a row by Great Place To Work.

Presented with Nexus of Good award by Mr. Anil Swarup, Former Secretary, Government of India for their QSP State Partnerships.

Recognised among India’s Most Trusted Leaders and sixth time as Top 20 India’s Best NGOs to Work For by Great Place to Work.

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FAQs

Q. What is the best NGO in India?

1. Unfortunately, there’s no single best NGO in India. India faces a wide range of social issues, and different NGOs excel in addressing specific needs. This list we have provided in this article highlights 10 NGOs making a significant impact across various sectors like education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment. Consider your interests and the causes you care about most when choosing an NGO to support.

Q. How can I find the best NGO for me?

1. This list in this article provides a starting point, but you can delve deeper to find an NGO aligning with your values. Research their mission, programs, and impact reports. Consider factors like transparency, accountability, and geographical focus.

Q. What are some of the best NGOs in India for specific causes?

Education: CRY, Smile Foundation, Akshaya Patra Foundation, Nanhi Kali

Healthcare: LEPRA India, Salaam Baalak Trust Delhi (indirectly through healthcare access)

Women’s Empowerment: Oxfam India, Nanhi Kali (focuses on girls’ education)

Street Children: Salaam Baalak Trust Delhi

Rural Development: Bharti Airtel Foundation (among others)

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Conclusion

NGOs are instrumental in addressing India’s multifaceted challenges. The best NGOs in India, such as CRY, Goonj, Akshaya Patra Foundation, and many more work tirelessly to improve lives through education, healthcare, and other vital services. These organisations not only provide immediate aid but also work towards long-term solutions for a better future. Supporting and collaborating with these NGOs can help make a significant difference in communities across the country. However, it is difficult for the NGOs to generate funds for these noble causes on their own. This is where Ketto comes into the picture. 

Ketto is a crowdfunding platform in India dedicated to connecting patients with a vast network of compassionate individuals. Ketto empowers ordinary people to contribute to extraordinary causes. Through Ketto SIP, you can contribute as little as Rs 100 a month and help educate an underprivileged child and give them a bright future. With the help of the best NGOs in India and by contributing to Ketto SIP, we can make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.