Chinmaya Organization for Rural Development - CORD

The core of CORD's community empowerment strategy lies within its diverse Community-Based Organisations (CBOs). These CBOs, comprising women's groups, men's and farmer's clubs, adolescent girl's groups, children's groups, and advocacy groups, form the backbone of CORD's efforts in activating and empowering communities. CORD assists these CBOs in getting legal registration, enabling them to directly access Government funds. Moreover, CORD provides essential training to CBO members, equipping them with leadership skills, financial management expertise, and effective decision-making capabilities. Through the establishment of self-help groups, dedicated youth programmes, and targeted advocacy initiatives, CORD aims to promote financial inclusion, enhance educational opportunities, improve healthcare access, and foster overall social welfare. By empowering these diverse CBOs, CORD actively contributes to sustainable development and positive change at the grassroots level.

Through this programme, CORD focuses on the integration of disadvantaged individuals into the broader economy. By emphasizing collective interaction, product development, and marketing strategies, CORD nurtures the skills and capacities of these individuals. To support their financial needs, microcredit opportunities are made available through Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and activity groups. CORD's efforts in community-based livelihood are concentrated in two primary sectors: farming and allied activities, as well as non-farm and service-related undertakings. Special attention is given to women as farmers while encouraging natural and viable farming techniques.

CORD addresses social justice and promotes gender sensitization through collaborative efforts with various programme components. Recognised as a chosen "Service Provider" by the Social Justice and Empowerment Department of the Government of Himachal Pradesh, CORD engages in shared approaches to resolve diverse cases, ranging from ecological issues to domestic cruelty and more. By working closely with community groups, stakeholders, and relevant authorities, CORD aims to reduce partiality based on gender, caste, creed, and class, fostering an inclusive and equitable society.

CORD actively engages in community-based health initiatives, focusing on primary healthcare, family planning, child health, nutrition, and addressing social issues like female foeticide and HIV/AIDS. By partnering with Government frontline workers and combining programmes, CORD strengthens the delivery of healthcare services. Special attention is given to maternal and child health through awareness campaigns and partnerships with Government workers. CORD also promotes food security, balanced diets, and sustainable organic agriculture. In association with community groups, CORD conducts awareness programmes, education sessions, and training to promote sanitation, hygiene practices, and the construction of essential facilities.

CORD is committed to helping persons with disabilities through its Community-Based Inclusion and Rehabilitation (CBIR) programme. The programme focuses on empowering individuals by leveraging their abilities and facilitating holistic development across various aspects of their lives. CORD works closely with grassroots Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) and collaborates with medical, healing, and rehabilitation service providers to ensure comprehensive support. The programme also stresses on creating livelihood opportunities based on individuals' skills and abilities, integrating them into mainstream education, and advocating for their rights alongside dedicated agencies. CORD's long-standing commitment to inclusive development aims to transform the lives of persons with disabilities and foster their active participation in society.