Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about PARD INDIA, our programs, and how you can support our mission.
A. Questions about PARD INDIA & its Actions
Pragathi Association for Rural Development (Acronym: PARD INDIA) is a grassroots non-profit organization dedicated to empowering disadvantaged children (V-kids), their families, and communities through transformative programs in education, health, environmental sustainability, skill development, and livelihood creation. By fostering strong partnerships with local communities and government institutions, we drive inclusive and sustainable development that creates lasting impact at the grassroots level across India.
Growing up in Yernagudem village in the East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh, our founder, Mr. Bethala Veera Swami, and his childhood friends witnessed many bright children leaving school due to poverty. Many were forced to work as child laborers in fields and shops or as daily-wage earners within their villages. Schools often lacked adequate resources, while children had limited access to mentorship, digital technology, and exposure to the wider world.
They realized that the gap between privileged and underprivileged children, both within villages and between rural and urban communities, was not one of ability but of opportunity. Driven by a desire to give back to society, they founded PARD INDIA to bridge this gap and create opportunities for disadvantaged children (V-kids) to achieve their full potential.
They realized that the gap between privileged and underprivileged children, both within villages and between rural and urban communities, was not one of ability but of opportunity. Driven by a desire to give back to society, they founded PARD INDIA to bridge this gap and create opportunities for disadvantaged children (V-kids) to achieve their full potential.
A group of childhood friends from Yernagudem village came together with a shared vision of giving back to their community through education. Their efforts led to the organization's formal registration as a society on 13 January 2011. As the organization expanded its reach and impact across villages and states, it was rebranded as PARD INDIA in 2017 to reflect its growing presence and steadfast commitment to empowering disadvantaged children (V-kids), their families, and communities across India.
Yes. PARD INDIA is a legally registered not-for-profit organization (NPO), established on 13th January 2011 under the Andhra Pradesh Societies Registration Act, 2001 (Act No. 35 of 2001), with Registration No. 19/2011. Our PAN (Charity ID) is AACAP0903G.
PARD INDIA is a national-level non-profit organization (NPO) with a significant presence in the Indian states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, reaching more than 110 villages. We expand our work into new villages only after building strong local community partnerships, ensuring that our interventions are sustainable, inclusive, and create long-term impact.
A “V-kid” is the primary beneficiary of PARD INDIA's interventions. The term refers to a child or student from a rural or semi-urban background who is often denied equal educational opportunities, a supportive learning environment, and exposure to the competitive world. Empowering V-kids, along with their families and communities, lies at the heart of our mission. Through our programs, we help them break the cycle of poverty, realize their full potential, and become responsible citizens who help build a brighter future for themselves, their communities, and the nation.
Our Executive Committee members, Project Management Teams, and Volunteers are primarily drawn from the local communities we serve, giving them valuable firsthand knowledge of the challenges and aspirations of our beneficiaries. Through baseline surveys/studies and community engagement, we identify the key issues faced by vulnerable children, families, and communities, and design tailor-made interventions that deliver sustainable, measurable, and long-term impact.
Our stakeholders include members, volunteers, employees, donors, partners, supporters, beneficiaries (V-kids, their families, and communities), and regulators, all of whom contribute to the success and impact of our mission.
PARD INDIA is governed through a multi-tier leadership and management structure that ensures transparency, accountability, and effective program implementation.
For more information, visit Our Governance page.
- Executive Committee (currently 16 members, elected every two years): The legally registered governing body responsible for policy decisions, strategic planning, budgeting, human resources, and financial administration.
- Directors and Advisors: Experienced professionals and subject-matter experts from India and around the world who provide guidance across project management, procurement, finance, human resources, information technology, education, healthcare, skill development, and environmental sustainability, etc.
- Brand Ambassadors: Respected personalities from the film industry, education sector, professional fields, and youth communities who voluntarily promote PARD INDIA's mission and help raise awareness on wider platforms.
- Project Management Teams: Full-time and part-time employees responsible for planning, implementing, monitoring, and reporting on programs and projects.
- State, District, Mandal/Block, and Village Committees: Dedicated PARD INDIA teams that strengthen community engagement, build partnerships, oversee program implementation, and support field activities at the grassroots level.
- Volunteers and Interns: Individuals from India and across the world who contribute their time and skills both online and offline, supporting areas such as fundraising, advocacy, communications, proposal writing, research, and fieldwork.
For more information, visit Our Governance page.
PARD INDIA is a national-level non-profit organization with a significant presence in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. By collaborating with foundations, NGOs, corporates, and academic institutions that share our vision, we are expanding our programs and strengthening a robust PAN-India network to empower children, families, and communities nationwide.
B. Questions about PARD INDIA Programs & Projects
PARD INDIA implements a wide range of education, health, environment, livelihood, and community development initiatives with the support of CSR partners, foundations, institutions, and individual donors.
Our ongoing flagship programs include:
Our ongoing flagship programs include:
- After School Education Program (ASEP)
- The POWER of Sewing Project
- Life-Saving Ambulance Project
- Medical Camps & Healthcare Education
- Scholarship Programs (VKSP & VKKB)
- IT Training for V-kids and Youth
- Plantation & Swachh Bharat Program
- Feed the Hungry & Nutrition Program
- Sports for Education Program
- STEM Education Projects
- AI and Digital Skills Training
- WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) Projects
- Fellowship Programs
- School Infrastructure Development, including Solar Energy Solutions
- Pregnant Women Nutrition Delight Program
- School and Household Kitchen Garden Projects
- Mental Wellness and Ambulance Services
- Rainwater Harvesting Projects
- Livelihood Creation Projects
- Employability/ Skill Development Projects
- Rural Development Projects
The After School Education Program (ASEP) provides academic support to children from government primary schools after regular school hours, helping improve learning outcomes, promote holistic development, and prevent school dropouts.
Launched on 6 August 2011 at the MPP (Special) School, Yernagudem, ASEP has grown steadily with strong support from communities and school administrations. PARD INDIA aims to expand the program to 150 government schools by 2030.
Who it serves: Children in Classes 4 and 5 from government primary schools.
Schedule: 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM, six days a week.
Location: School premises or community learning centers.
Learning Areas: Mathematics, English, Science, Moral Education, and Computer Basics.
Activities: Reading sessions, guest lectures, sports, cultural programs, life skills education, and celebrations of national and international observance days.
ASEP helps children improve academic performance, build confidence, and stay engaged in their educational journey.
Launched on 6 August 2011 at the MPP (Special) School, Yernagudem, ASEP has grown steadily with strong support from communities and school administrations. PARD INDIA aims to expand the program to 150 government schools by 2030.
Who it serves: Children in Classes 4 and 5 from government primary schools.
Schedule: 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM, six days a week.
Location: School premises or community learning centers.
Learning Areas: Mathematics, English, Science, Moral Education, and Computer Basics.
Activities: Reading sessions, guest lectures, sports, cultural programs, life skills education, and celebrations of national and international observance days.
ASEP helps children improve academic performance, build confidence, and stay engaged in their educational journey.
Dedicated and qualified READ Teachers, typically graduates with a B.Ed. degree, are appointed by PARD INDIA as part-time educators and mentors. They support children in completing their school homework, engage them in extracurricular and enrichment activities, monitor attendance, follow up on absences, provide guidance and counseling to children and parents, and maintain regular communication with families and school administrations.
Many parents in rural and semi-urban communities work until evening, leaving children with limited supervision after school. ASEP provides academic support, mentoring, and a safe learning environment. For children with irregular attendance or those at risk of dropping out, READ Teachers, along with PARD INDIA's local teams and school administrations, work closely with the children and their families to address the causes of absenteeism, encourage regular attendance, and help them stay engaged in their education.
PARD INDIA supports the education of children and youth from underprivileged backgrounds through two flagship initiatives:
Together, these initiatives help ensure that financial hardship does not prevent deserving students from accessing quality education, achieving their aspirations, and realizing their full potential.
Launched on 27 July 2014, our V-Kid Scholarship Program (VKSP) supports deserving students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, generally from Class 11 through graduation, helping them overcome financial barriers and achieve their educational and career aspirations. Through annual scholarships that cover essential expenses such as tuition, books, food, and accommodation, VKSP empowers students to complete their studies and build a brighter future.
Launched on 14th November 2022, the VKKB Program aims to "Inspire Young Minds" by identifying and nurturing talented students from government schools.
This initiative promotes academic excellence, recognizes talent, and supports deserving students throughout their educational journey by exposing them to a competitive environment and inspiring them to become confident, responsible, and future-ready leaders.
- Covers 40-50 government primary schools and about 1,000 Class 5 students in a Mandal/Block.
- Students participate in Level-1 and Level-2 talent tests conducted by PARD INDIA with the support of school administrations. The top performers in Level-1 qualify for the Level-2 Test.
- Level-2 winners receive six-year scholarships, from Class 5 to Class 10, along with scholarship certificates. New scholarship recipients are added each year.
- Level-1 and Level-2 winners are recognized withmerit certificates, mementos, and gifts at a public award ceremony.
This initiative promotes academic excellence, recognizes talent, and supports deserving students throughout their educational journey by exposing them to a competitive environment and inspiring them to become confident, responsible, and future-ready leaders.
Launched on 26 August 2012, the VKCP bridges the rural digital divide by providing free computer education and digital literacy opportunities to children and youth. The program offers training through customized learning modules covering computer fundamentals, MS Office, internet usage, e-learning, career guidance, and personality development.
Participants also gain practical skills in CV/resume writing, online job searches, and digital communication, while strengthening their knowledge of soft skills, STEM, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) through technology-enabled learning platforms.
Through VKCP, PARD INDIA equips children and youth with the digital skills, confidence, and career readiness needed to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world.
Participants also gain practical skills in CV/resume writing, online job searches, and digital communication, while strengthening their knowledge of soft skills, STEM, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) through technology-enabled learning platforms.
Through VKCP, PARD INDIA equips children and youth with the digital skills, confidence, and career readiness needed to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world.
- ASEP supports children at risk of dropping out and strengthens their learning.
- VKKB inspires and rewards academic talent among students from Classes 1-10.
- VKSP provides scholarships to help deserving students continue their higher education from Class 11.
- VKCP equips students from Class 3 through graduation with digital, technology, and career-readiness skills.
C. Questions about Impact Created
| Metric | 15 Years of achievement since 2011 |
|---|---|
| Lives touched | 492,567 |
| Direct beneficiaries | 116,841 children and adults |
| Children (V-kids) supported | 90,494 |
| Villages reached | 110+ |
| Communities influenced | 550+ |
| ASEP free education hours | 569,419 hours for 3,165 children |
| Digital literacy (VKCP) | 33,999 hours of IT training for 538 children and youth |
| Scholarships (VKSP& VKKB) | 80+ students |
The above data is as of 31st March 2026. Refer to the latest Impact Data: Our Impact and Impact Reports
Yes. For example, Madhuri from Yadavolu village, whose family depends on daily wage work, received a six-year scholarship through PARD INDIA and is now pursuing her dream of becoming an engineer. Similarly, Paturi Namratha Siri, a student from Yernagudem, credits the ASEP classes for improving her academic performance and self-confidence. Inspired by her progress, she now aspires to become a District Collector.
Read more impact stories at Stories of Impact
Read more impact stories at Stories of Impact
D. Questions about donating to PARD INDIA
To donate online, use our quick and secure online donation through our website in any of the following ways:
Ways of Participation Ways of Giving
Ways of Participation Ways of Giving
🏦 Bank Details (for Indian Donors):
| Name of the Beneficiary | Pragathi Association for Rural Development |
|---|---|
| Account Number | 16730200000136 |
| IFSC Code | BARB0YERNAG ('0' is ZERO) |
| MCR Code | 534012543 |
| Bank Name | Bank of Baroda |
| Bank Address | Yernagudem Branch, East Godavari District, Andhra Pradesh, India. PIN: 534313 |
| Account Type | Current Account |
| Address of Beneficiary | Door No:8-34, Yernagudem, Devarapalli (Mandal),East Godavari District, Andhra Pradesh, India;PIN-534313. Phone: (+91) 9959255384. |
🌍 FCRA Bank Details (For International Donors):
| Name of the Beneficiary | Pragathi Association for Rural Development |
|---|---|
| Account Number | 41502787900 |
| IFSC Code | SBIN0000691 |
| SWIFT Code | SBININBB104 |
| Branch Code | 00691 |
| Donation Purpose Code | P1303 |
| Sort Code | 60-01-59 (Equivalent Sort code: 600159) |
| Bank Address | State Bank of India, New DELHI Main Branch, FCRA Cell, 4th Floor, 11, Sansad Marg, New Delhi - 110001 |
| Address of Beneficiary | Door No:8-34, Yernagudem, Devarapalli (Mandal),East Godavari District, Andhra Pradesh, India;PIN-534313. Phone: (+91) 9959255384. |
Yes. International donors can use our FCRA-compliant account.
Please click International Donations for details.
Please click International Donations for details.
Yes. PARD INDIA has impacted the lives of thousands of children and families, and this would not have been possible without the support of compassionate individuals like you. Even a contribution of ₹1 per day can help create lasting change. No matter the size of your donation, it can make a meaningful difference in improving the lives of disadvantaged children (V-kids), their families, and communities.
Just donating ₹1 a day is ₹365 a year; you can be "The POWER of ONE".
You can donate from as little as ₹100 and be an "Agent of Change".
Just donating ₹1 a day is ₹365 a year; you can be "The POWER of ONE".
You can donate from as little as ₹100 and be an "Agent of Change".
Every donation made to PARD INDIA is automatically recognized under one of the following membership categories:
View the list of Lifetime Star Members: Lifetime Star Members
Learn more about our Donors and Supporters: Our Donors
By becoming a member of PARD INDIA, you are not only helping transform the lives of disadvantaged children (V-kids), their families, and communities, but also enabling us to implement grassroots projects and programs more effectively. Your support and participation, whether direct or indirect, help create lasting impact where it is needed most.
- Agent of Change: Donation of ₹100 to ₹364 (any time of the year)
- The POWER of ONE: Donation of ₹365 to ₹9,999 (any time of the year)
- Lifetime Star Member: Donation of ₹10,000 or above (any time of the year)
View the list of Lifetime Star Members: Lifetime Star Members
Learn more about our Donors and Supporters: Our Donors
By becoming a member of PARD INDIA, you are not only helping transform the lives of disadvantaged children (V-kids), their families, and communities, but also enabling us to implement grassroots projects and programs more effectively. Your support and participation, whether direct or indirect, help create lasting impact where it is needed most.
Yes. Please find various options for Donate in Kind or write to us: info@pardindia.org.
Yes. Please read our 80G Tax Exemption FAQs for eligibility and procedure.
Yes, partially. PARD INDIA generates a small portion of its income through services and activities such as computer and internet training, skill development workshops, sewing centers, and charity fundraising events. These activities help sustain our projects and programs.
In accordance with our accounting policies, income generated from these activities is treated as donations and voluntary contributions rather than commercial revenue.
In accordance with our accounting policies, income generated from these activities is treated as donations and voluntary contributions rather than commercial revenue.
E. Questions about Transparency and Accountability
PARD INDIA's work is made possible through the generous support of:
- Membership contributions from local communities
- Donations from PARD INDIA's members
- Individual donors from India and around the world
- Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) partnerships with companies and foundations that support our programs and initiatives
- Businesses, trusts, and charitable institutions through non-CSR contributions
- Internal revenue generation activities (a relatively small source of funding)
PARD INDIA follows the following cost-conscious approach to ensure that the maximum possible share of funds directly benefits disadvantaged children (V-kids), their families, and communities:
- Minimal salary expenses: We rely heavily on trained volunteers, interns, community committees, and local stakeholders while keeping salaried staff to a minimum.
- Low administrative and overhead costs: We maintain modest branch office expenses and incur no costs for representative offices in various locations. Our registered office is provided rent-free by our Founder.
- Strong financial controls: We closely monitor project and program expenditures and have robust budget control mechanisms in place to ensure accountability and responsible financial stewardship of donor funds.
At PARD INDIA, every donation, whether received online or offline, is tracked through a project and program coding system and allocated to the specific cause chosen by the donor. Our backend tracking and accounting systems ensure that funds are utilized as intended, with all revenues and expenditures recorded against designated projects, programs, and cost centers in accordance with standard accounting procedures. This helps maintain transparency, accountability, and effective use of funds.
To ensure transparency and accountability, we maintain:
Financial Transparency
Impact of Your Donation
Collective Fundraising Project
To ensure transparency and accountability, we maintain:
- Project-specific fund tracking and allocation
- Regular budgeting and financial monitoring
- Weekly and monthly project and accounts reviews
- Standard accounting and financial controls – Tally Accounting system
- Impact assessments and performance evaluations
- Donor feedback and reporting based on donor preferences and the purpose of the contribution made by them.
Financial Transparency
Impact of Your Donation
Collective Fundraising Project
You can support PARD INDIA by starting your own fundraising campaign, creating a crowdfunding page, or spreading the word within your network of friends, family, colleagues, and social media contacts. Volunteers, interns, supporters, and well-wishers are all encouraged to help raise funds for our projects and programs.
Learn more on our Raise Funds for Us page.
Learn more on our Raise Funds for Us page.
Companies can partner with PARD INDIA through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, employee engagement programs, sponsorships, and project-based collaborations that support our education, health, environment, skill development, and livelihood creation initiatives.
To explore partnership opportunities, visit our CSR Partnership page or contact us at info@pardindia.org.
To explore partnership opportunities, visit our CSR Partnership page or contact us at info@pardindia.org.
F. Questions about Volunteering, Internships and Careers
To become a volunteer, visit our Volunteer page and apply online. Alternatively, you can download the volunteer application form, complete it, and email it to info@pardindia.org.
Virtual volunteering opportunities are available for people anywhere in the world, allowing you to contribute your time and skills regardless of your location.
Virtual volunteering opportunities are available for people anywhere in the world, allowing you to contribute your time and skills regardless of your location.
Yes. PARD INDIA offers internship opportunities for students and young professionals interested in contributing to social development initiatives.
To apply, visit our Internship Opportunities page and submit your application online. Alternatively, you may contact us at info@pardindia.org for offline application options and additional information.
To apply, visit our Internship Opportunities page and submit your application online. Alternatively, you may contact us at info@pardindia.org for offline application options and additional information.
No. Employment opportunities at PARD INDIA are currently open only to Indian citizens. However, overseas applicants are welcome to contribute as unpaid virtual volunteers, supporting our programs and initiatives from anywhere in the world.
Once your application is submitted, you will receive an acknowledgment email. Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates are contacted, typically within 30 working days.
For current openings and application details, please visit our Career Opportunities page.
For current openings and application details, please visit our Career Opportunities page.
G. Popular Searches
The “Feed the Hungry” initiative by PARD INDIA is directed towards the malnutrition problem that most rural communities face today. As one of the best NGOs in India, we distribute happy meals, food supplies, and happiness grocery kits to all those who need them. We believe feeding the poor and underserved can solve many problems and be a great step towards rural development. You can donate money (any amount), send grocery items, or bags of rice and millets to support our initiative and help us feed as many rural communities as possible.
Social media has become a powerful platform, and your support can help spread the word about the good work PARD INDIA is doing for the underprivileged communities. You can follow us on our social media accounts for regular updates on our programs and awareness camps and repost them on your accounts so more people can see them. Being one of the popular NGOs in India, we are active on multiple social media platforms, including:
As one of the top 10 NGOs in India, PARD INDIA works across multiple sectors to improve the quality of life in rural communities. Education remains one of our highest priorities because it plays a crucial role in shaping communities and breaking the cycle of poverty. Through our READ Project, we empower V-kids with quality education, practical skills, digital literacy, and career-oriented training, helping them prepare for modern employment opportunities and build a brighter future.
PARD INDIA is promoting STEM-based modern education and job-focused skill development to help underserved rural children thrive in today's technology-driven world. Like what International Charity Organizations in India are doing, PARD INDIA provides computer training, internet access, and digital literacy programs, equipping V-kids with skills for future careers. With your support, we can ensure that rural youth are not left behind in the digital revolution and create lasting change in their communities.
As one of India's trusted non-profit organizations in India and a strong advocate for women's empowerment, PARD INDIA is committed to helping rural women achieve economic independence and self-reliance. Through our close engagement with communities, we recognize the immense potential of women and the transformative impact of skill development. To support this vision, we implement livelihood and capacity-building initiatives such as “The POWER of SEWING”, Business Enterprises, soft skills training, forming Self-Help Groups (SHGs), and other employability-focused programs that help women build sustainable incomes, gain confidence, and improve their quality of life.