About Us

Our Story

Lok Astha Sewa Sansthan (LASS) was established in 2005 by four young individuals who had experience working on various social issues and in different development sectors. During the initial years, despite limited resources, all members remained committed to community development and continued their work with dedication. One member provided tailoring training to adolescent girls and earned an income in the evenings by repairing and stitching old clothes. Another member imparted computer education to girls. The income generated from these activities was utilized to support the other two members, who continuously worked in rural and indigenous communities. During this period, the workers lived closely with the communities—sharing meals, staying among the people, and understanding their problems firsthand.

Based on the suggestions and support of community members and fellow social workers, the organization was formally registered on 10 October 2006 under the Chhattisgarh Society Registration Act, 1973 (Act No. 44 of 1973). The registration number of the organization is 10377. Lok Aastha Sewa Sansthan is a non-profit, non-political, and non-religious voluntary organization.

The organization is registered under Sections 12A and 80G of the Income Tax Act, 1961, and has also obtained registration under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA). Its FCRA Registration Number is 327520053, granted by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, New Delhi.

The organization began its work in 10 villages located in tribal areas. Based on its effective work with communities, it received support from various national and international organizations, which enabled the continuous expansion of its operational area. With the support of UNICEF, the organization also gained significant experience as a Mother Organization, working across five districts of Chhattisgarh.

The organization works with indigenous communities, Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), and other marginalized communities. It has more than seven years of experience in the areas of child rights, the Right to Education, gender equality, women's and children's health, and child nutrition. In addition, the organization has undertaken important initiatives for the protection and empowerment of individual and community forest rights under the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act.

The organization has received national-level awards and recognition for its outstanding contributions to women's empowerment. It has also been working for many years in the areas of organic farming, nutrition gardens, natural resource conservation, and livelihood promotion. Furthermore, the organization continuously supports communities in accessing government development schemes and raises awareness to help people benefit from these programs.

Lok Astha Sewa Sansthan is committed to bringing sustainable and positive change in the lives of indigenous, marginalized, and vulnerable communities by empowering them socially, economically, and educationally.

Vision

Building an exploitation-free and discrimination-free society based on constitutional values, equality, and social justice.

Mission

• To promote programmes related to education, health, agriculture, employment, and income generation for weaker, deprived, and backward sections of society.
• Public education for holistic women's development and child welfare.
• To create awareness for the conservation and promotion of natural resources.
• To support making national social development schemes and public welfare programmes more beneficial for the people.
• To explore self-reliance and provide training through cottage enterprises based on local resources.

Core Values

• Gender Equality — Equal opportunities and participation for women and girls.
• Community Participation — Community-led development and collective action.
• Social Justice — Dignity, inclusion, and equitable opportunities for all.
• Transparency & Accountability — Integrity, openness, and responsible use of resources.
• Sustainability — Environmentally sustainable and resilient communities.
• Respect for Indigenous Knowledge & Culture — Valuing traditional knowledge, cultural identity, and local practices.

Governance

Lok Astha Sewa Sansthan is governed by a dedicated Governing Board that provides strategic direction, ensures transparency, and upholds accountability. The Board meets regularly to review programs, finances, and institutional policies.

Governance principles: Participatory Decision-Making · Transparency & Accountability · Ethical Practices · Community-Centered Approach

Institutional Representation

Representatives of Lok Astha Sewa Sansthan actively serve on various district-level government committees related to women's empowerment, child protection, health, nutrition, and social development.