The Plus Approach Foundation (PAF) is a commendable non-profit organization focused on creating a positive ecosystem for sustainable development through initiatives aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With its charitable status and tax exemptions under Section 80G of the Income Tax Act, PAF has been making strides in rural development since its inception in 2011.
Positive Inspired & Empowered (PIE) Village Initiative
The PIE Village concept, rooted in Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of village development, is a transformative model aimed at fostering progress and prosperity in rural India. By addressing fundamental needs and enhancing the quality of life in villages, PAF aims to empower communities through:
- Basic Necessities: Ensuring access to food, clothing, and shelter for all.
- Education and Health: Promoting education, healthcare, and overall happiness.
- Livelihood Opportunities: Enabling every family to earn a livelihood and providing employment for youth.
- Communal Harmony: Cultivating positivity and harmony within the community.
- Empowering Divyangs: Supporting differently-abled individuals through initiatives like providing artificial limbs.
PIE Matila – A Case Study in Almora, Uttarakhand
Matila, a remote village in Almora district, was selected as a PIE Village in 2021. Since then, PAF has positively impacted over 800 lives through various projects:
- “Yes I Can” Transformation & Skilling Academy:
- Remedial Classes for children to strengthen academic fundamentals.
- Digital Awareness and computer training programs.
- Vakta Programme to improve communication skills in students.
- Sewing & Tailoring Skill Centers to empower women economically.
- “Sapno Ka Ghar” (Dream House) Project:
- Renovation and construction of houses for poor families to ensure safe and hygienic living conditions.
- Incorporation of sustainable features like solar lights and rainwater harvesting systems.
- Vidushi Vivah (Kanyadan) Yojana:
- Financial and logistical support for the marriage of daughters from economically disadvantaged families.
- Health and Sanitation Awareness:
- Campaigns promoting hygiene, health practices, and positive thinking.
“Sapno Ka Ghar” – A Flagship Project
The Sapno Ka Ghar (Dream House) initiative addresses the critical housing needs of families living in unsafe, dilapidated homes in remote villages. It aligns with SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), aiming to provide dignified shelter and improve living conditions.
Key Features:
- Construction or refurbishment of houses with basic amenities like kitchens and toilets.
- Installation of sustainable systems, including solar lights and rainwater harvesting.
- Financial aid for the most financially challenged families.
Impact:
- Provides a safe, hygienic, and dignified living environment.
- Fulfills the fundamental need for shelter while creating a sense of security and stability.
- Offers a low-investment, high-impact solution to rural housing challenges.
Leadership and Trustees of Plus Approach Foundationy
The Plus Approach Foundation (PAF) benefits from the leadership and guidance of highly experienced professionals and trustees with diverse expertise in corporate governance, finance, and social development. Their collective vision and dedication drive the foundation’s impactful initiatives:
- R C Gupta
- Chairman, Plus Approach Foundation
- Former Executive Director (Finance & Accounts), GAIL (India) Ltd
- A seasoned leader with vast experience in financial planning and governance.
- A K Shrivastava
- Former Executive Director (Human Resources), GAIL (India) Ltd
- Renowned for his expertise in human resource management and organizational development.
- Amarendra Kumar
- Former Executive Director (Human Resources), GAIL (India) Ltd
- A visionary leader with a deep understanding of workforce empowerment and strategic HR initiatives.
- Rahul Chandalia
- CEO, Ratni Finance
- An expert in financial services, providing strategic insights into sustainable financial models.
- Shamsher Bahadur
- CEO, PieCube
- A dynamic entrepreneur contributing to innovative solutions for social and community development.
- Vinod Tiwari
- Trustee, Plus Approach Foundation
- A dedicated advocate for social welfare and a driving force behind the foundation’s impactful projects.
Conclusion
The Plus Approach Foundation’s efforts in rural development through initiatives like PIE Villages and Sapno Ka Ghar exemplify innovative and impactful solutions for community empowerment. By focusing on sustainable practices and holistic development, PAF is creating a blueprint for progress and prosperity in rural India.