Ahmedabad is home to numerous NGOs that have been tirelessly working for decades to uplift underprivileged communities, empower women, support people with medical conditions, and create lasting social change. From providing education and healthcare to promoting livelihoods and self-reliance, these organisations have played a crucial role in transforming lives. On this World NGO Day (February 27th), let’s take a look at 5 impactful NGOs that have been making a difference for years.
Manav Sadhna
Since 1995, Manav Sadhna has been dedicated to empowering underprivileged communities in Ahmedabad through initiatives in holistic education, nutrition, health and hygiene, community building, livelihoods, compassion in action, and disaster relief.
Rooted in the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi and Swami Vivekananda, the organisation began its journey at the Gandhi Ashram, supporting children from disadvantaged backgrounds. Over the years, its efforts have grown to uplift entire communities, improving sanitation, education, healthcare, and overall well-being.
Contact: +91 9687661061, +91 7567991313
Location: 10, New Vidyavihar Society, Ramji Mandir Rd, Ranip, Ahmedabad
Blind People’s Association (BPA)
Founded in 1954, the Blind People’s Association (BPA) is one of Asia’s largest organisations dedicated to supporting individuals with all types of physical limitations. Through education, vocational training, and employment opportunities, BPA empowers visually impaired and differently-abled individuals to achieve financial independence.
Located in Vastrapur, their campus features a special school, a rehabilitation centre, and a workshop where people with disabilities acquire essential skills. BPA also provides assistive devices like Braille books, mobility canes, and hearing aids, transforming thousands of lives.
Contact: +91 -79 – 26303346, 26306432, 26304070
Location: 132 Ft Ring Road, Andhjan Mandal BRTS bus stop, Vastrapur, Ahmedabad
Gramshree
Founded in 1995 by Gujarat’s first woman Chief Minister, Smt. Anandiben Patel, and social entrepreneur Smt. Anarben Patel, Gramshree works to empower marginalised women in Gujarat through skill-based training and income generation opportunities.
The organisation works to enhance women’s social and economic status by equipping them with skills in handicrafts, cooking, nursing, and more. With women making up over 60% of the handicraft sector’s workforce, Gramshree has been instrumental in creating employment opportunities and promoting financial independence.
Contact: +91 9586557711
Location: CRAFTROOTS 1st floor, Veer House, Near IOC Petrol pump, Bodakdev Ahmedabad
Saath
Founded in 1989, Saath (meaning ‘together’ in Hindi and Gujarati) is a Public Charitable Trust dedicated to uplifting deprived communities in Ahmedabad. Through livelihood services, skill development, healthcare, education, and child rights advocacy, Saath empowers socially marginalised individuals.
The organisation strives to build inclusive communities where vulnerable individuals have equal access to essential services and opportunities, regardless of their economic or social background.
Contact: +91-79-35164684
Location: 0/102, Nandanvan V, Nr. Prernatirth Derasar, Jodhpur Tekra, Satellite, Ahmedabad
Self-Employed Women’s Association (SEWA)
Established in 1972, SEWA is India’s largest trade union for self-employed women, representing over 3.2 million members across 18 states. Originally part of the Textile Labour Association, SEWA was founded in Ahmedabad to support poor, self-employed women in the informal sector.
The organisation strives for full employment and self-reliance by tackling the economic and social challenges faced by women workers. Through collective action and innovative initiatives, SEWA has been instrumental in improving livelihoods and securing rights for women in the informal economy.
Contact: +91 79 25506444, +91 79 25506477
Location: SEWA Reception Centre, Opp. Victoria Garden, Bhadra
