# Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion > Ignite Your Spark of Compassion ### Surakshit Bachpan Diwas: A Celebration of Safe Childhood and Compassion in Action Every year, 11th January is celebrated as Surakshit Bachpan Diwas to honor the birthday of our Founder and Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi. This day underscores our commitment to protecting childhoods and ensuring that every child is educated, safe, and healthy. It is a clarion call to action to reflect on the progress made and the challenges ahead in safeguarding the future of children. Why is it essential to celebrate a day dedicated to childhood safety? What role do families and communities play in shaping a safe environment for children? What role does mindful and selfless problem solving or compassion in action play in strengthening these efforts? Let’s explore the significance of Surakshit Bachpan Diwas, its origins, and how we can embrace compassion in action to ensure every child’s right to a safe childhood. Background of Surakshit Bachpan Diwas The day finds its roots in Kailash Satyarthi’s lifelong mission to eradicate child exploitation in all its forms. Central to this mission is the philosophy of “globalisation of compassion,” which calls for collective action to address injustice, transcending borders, cultures, and communities. Surakshit Bachpan Diwas is a powerful embodiment of this ethos, a day that reminds us to feel the pain of every child trapped in labour, abuse, or child marriage as if it were our own and to take meaningful action to alleviate it. The day reinforces the belief that safeguarding childhood is not a privilege granted to a few but a fundamental right of every child. Stories that inspire us Surakshit Bachpan Diwas stands as a testament to what compassion in action can achieve. Consider the story of Sarojini Hansda from Jharkhand. Sarojini, living in a broken house with her three children, was scared that her home would collapse during the rains. Her family’s safety seemed like a distant dream until our youth group stepped in. With their help, Sarojini accessed government support and began building a safe home. What makes this example, and countless others across our compassion communities (Bal Mitra Gram and Bal Mitra Mandal), so distinct is the way child leaders, women, and youth come together to address individual or community issues. Whether it is stopping a child marriage, bringing a school dropout back to class, or reaching out to the gram panchayat to build toilets in schools, every solution is driven by the collective power of compassion in action. These stories embody a spirit of collective fight against injustice and a commitment to secure every childhood. The Role of Families and Communities in Ensuring a Safe Childhood Families are the cornerstone of a child’s safety and well-being. They provide emotional security, moral guidance, and a sense of belonging, forming the first line of defense against harm. Compassion, in the form of kin compassion, comes most naturally to all of us. It begins at home, with parents and caregivers creating an environment where children feel valued, loved, and protected. When families embody kin compassion, they go beyond meeting basic needs; they become advocates for their children’s rights. For instance, parents who prioritize education and resist societal pressures like child marriage pave the way for brighter future. By participating in school activities, supporting child protection initiatives, and fostering open communication, families can ensure their children grow up in a nurturing environment. However, what we witness every day in our compassionate communities is the transformative power of social compassion, where community members support each other to solve problems collectively. As Kailash Satyarthi says, “When it comes to social compassion, you don’t delve into each other’s weaknesses or faults. You don’t envy others, but rather hold hands to support each other.” In rural areas, where resources are often scarce, community-led initiatives are vital for protecting children. Our Bal Panchayats, Mahila Mandals, and Yuva Mandals prioritize child safety measures and champion access to education for children. These collective efforts ensure that no child’s needs are overlooked and that every child’s potential is nurtured. But is that all enough? Check out what our Founder, Kailash Satyarthi says on transformative compassion and self-compassion  A Vision for the Future So how do we ensure safe childhood for every child and truly celebrate the essence of Surakshit Bachpan Diwas? It is when the policymakers, civil society organizations, communities, and individuals collaborate to: Strengthen community-based child protection mechanisms. Foster a culture of compassion in action where everyone feels accountable and take responsibility for safeguarding children. Drive awareness programs and empower families and individuals through financial support to reduce vulnerabilities. Encourage technology-driven solutions, such as mobile apps or helplines, to report and respond to cases of child abuse or neglect. Promote educational reforms that include child rights and safety as a core part of school curriculums. Surakshit Bachpan Diwas is more than a day of celebration. Let it be a reminder to reaffirm our commitment to protecting childhoods by embracing compassion in action. Together, we can create a world where every child can dream, grow, and thrive without fear.   ### करुणा के वैश्वीकरण का आह्वान संयुक्त राष्ट्र की कार्यवाही में शामिल सत्यार्थी आंदोलन की पहल पर हुआ यह एतिहासिक फैसलाहाल ही में संयुक्त राष्ट्र के "फ्यूचर एक्शन डेज़" शिखर सम्मेलन में "करुणा के वैश्वीकरण" को एक महत्वपूर्ण सिफारिश के रूप में स्वीकार किया गया है। कैलाश सत्यार्थी लंबे समय से यह कह रहे हैं कि भारत ने दुनिया को कई क्रांतिकारी विचार दिए हैं, और अब समय आ गया है कि करुणा के वैश्वीकरण का संदेश भी भारत से पूरी दुनिया तक जाए। दुनिया ने इस सुझाव को गंभीरता से लेना शुरू किया है। करुणा, जिसे अब तक एक आदर्शवादी विचार भर माना जाता रहा है, पहली बार संयुक्त राष्ट्र के एक्शन प्लान का हिस्सा बनी है। यह दर्शाता है कि अब इसे एक ऐसी शक्ति के रूप में देखा जा रहा है जो दुनिया के हर कोने में प्रभावी हो सकती है और समस्याओं का टिकाऊ समाधान दे सकती है। संयुक्त राष्ट्र का यह ऐतिहासिक कदम हमारी सीईओ अस्मिता सत्यार्थी के 21 सितंबर के उस भावुक भाषण के बाद आया, जिसमें उन्होंने दुनिया के नेताओं से सीधे सवाल किया: "अगर ये बच्चे आपके होते, तो क्या आप उनकी मौत पर राजनीति करते या तुरंत कुछ ठोस कदम उठाते?"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mls6H32Z6aUयह सवाल केवल एक औपचारिक चर्चा नहीं था, बल्कि उन बच्चों की पीड़ा की ओर ध्यान खींचने वाला था, जो रोज़ाना युद्ध, भूख, तस्करी और शोषण का शिकार हो रहे हैं। अस्मिता सत्यार्थी ने विश्व समुदाय को याद दिलाया कि ये बच्चे किसी एक देश की नहीं, बल्कि पूरी मानवता की जिम्मेदारी हैं। ‘करुणा का वैश्वीकरण’ न केवल एक विचार है, बल्कि एक ऐसा आंदोलन है जो बच्चों की सुरक्षा और उनके अधिकारों को वैश्विक स्तर पर प्रमुखता देता है। यह स्पष्ट करता है कि जब बात बच्चों की सुरक्षा की हो तो, राजनीतिक सीमाओं का कोई महत्व नहीं रह जाता। चाहे बच्चा किसी भी देश में जन्मा हो, उसकी सुरक्षा, शिक्षा और स्वतंत्रता की जिम्मेदारी सभी की है। यह सिफारिश संयुक्त राष्ट्र के सतत विकास लक्ष्यों (एसडीजी) के लक्ष्य 16 (शांति, न्याय और मज़बूत संस्थान) और लक्ष्य 4 (गुणवत्तापूर्ण शिक्षा) से सीधे जुड़ी हुई है। संयुक्त राष्ट्र के एजेंडा में ‘करुणा के वैश्वीकरण’ का शामिल होना उन सभी व्यक्तियों और संगठनों के लिए एक नई दिशा है, जो बच्चों के अधिकारों के संरक्षण और उनकी भलाई के लिए प्रयासरत हैं। अब वक्त आ गया है कि हम करुणा को केवल उपदेश या भाषण तक सीमित न रखें, बल्कि इसे अपने जीवन का अभिन्न हिस्सा बनाएं। हमें अपनी जिम्मेदारी समझते हुए करुणा और संवेदनशीलता को अपने कार्यों में ढालना होगा ताकि बच्चों की सुरक्षा सुनिश्चित की जा सके और उनकी उम्मीदों को पूरा करने में मदद मिल सके। ### My Encounter of Compassion in Action and Sisterhood Before arriving at Bal Ashram in February 2024, I had no idea what the word ‘Didi’ truly meant. In English, it loosely translates to ‘sister’, but that doesn't quite capture its full significance. But during my time at Bal Ashram, I discovered that Didi isn't just a term—it’s a role, a bond, and an embodiment of care that transcends simple definition. It’s a relationship of love, trust, and sisterhood, rooted in compassion and mutual respect.I spent much of my time with the girls in the Skill Centre at Bal Ashram, where I was lovingly referred to as Didi. Initially, I came to teach them, but soon I found myself learning much more. The sisterhood I witnessed among them was striking. Although I was new to this kind of unity, I quickly understood what it meant to be a Didi- a symbol of unconditional support and shared strength. Through their daily interactions, these girls taught me to see all women as sisters, to love without hesitation, and to welcome others into their hearts- a true embodiment of ‘Compassion in Action.’This spirit of compassion was clear from the moment I arrived. On my first day, they took me to their beauty parlour and threaded my eyebrows. It was such a simple act, yet it carried immense meaning. Through this small gesture, they told me I was one of them, and we didn’t need words to understand each other. The title of Didi had already forged a connection that transcended language. At first, only a few of the girls were confident enough to speak with me. Many were shy, offering only a wave or a timid smile. One girl in particular, Amrita, caught my attention. She was quiet but always smiled when she saw me. Although she seemed eager to talk, her limited English held her back. Yet, she found other ways to connect—holding my hand, showing me her drawings, and eventually bringing in her sketchbook. Despite the language barrier, we communicated through her art, forming a bond that didn't rely on words. However, when it came to speaking in English, Amrita struggled with confidence. I recall one particular IT lesson where she had to present a PowerPoint introduction about herself in English. She was visibly nervous, and as soon as she stood up to speak, she started crying. I stood by her side, helping her with each word, but her fear of standing out was palpable. This moment struck me because it wasn’t just Amrita; many of the girls felt the same fear—intimidated by the idea of presenting themselves in front of others. Part of my role as a volunteer was to help these girls build confidence through personality development sessions. Our first activity was simple—making and decorating paper airplanes. I was worried the girls might find it too childish, but to my surprise, Amrita's enthusiasm was contagious. She lit up when she saw the art supplies. "Didi, drawing?" she asked excitedly, eager to decorate her plane. She took her time perfecting the design, proudly showing off her work. Her passion for creativity shone through, and her joy eased my own anxieties about the activity.Over the next few weeks, I watched Amrita’s confidence soar. She transformed from the girl who cried during her first presentation to someone who stood up in English class, eager to share her own examples without any prompts. Her growth mirrored that of several other girls who began greeting me with hugs and calling out "Didi!" with excitement. It was heartwarming to see them become more comfortable with us, more comfortable with themselves. Meeting these girls was nothing short of life-changing. Although we were the same age, we were at vastly different stages in life. I have never had to fight for access to education or resources, but these girls have overcome incredible odds—child marriage, child labor, and exploitation—just to pursue their right to learn. Their resilience and determination are deeply inspiring. Despite the hardships they've faced, I never saw bitterness in their eyes. Instead, they brimmed with enthusiasm for the future, a kind of eagerness that’s rare among people my age back home. At Bal Ashram, they allowed themselves to have fun, free from judgment. They created a space of unconditional support, where each girl felt safe to express herself. And once they began to feel confident, as I saw with Amrita, their potential shone brightly.I am forever in awe of these girls, grateful for their acceptance of me, and the lesson of compassion they shared with me. Though I may never experience life as they do, I feel privileged to have been welcomed into their world as Didi. The lessons I learned from them about sisterhood and resilience will always stay with me. ### Stories of Change: My Time at Bal Ashram Change is rarely a dramatic event. It doesn’t always announce itself with a bang or sweep in like a storm. Instead, it often unfolds gradually—so subtly that you don’t notice it at first. But one day, you realize that something is different, better. This is the kind of change I have witnessed at Bal Ashram. It’s the kind that builds slowly, as trust forms and confidence blossoms in the most unexpected ways. When we first arrived as volunteers, the children at Bal Ashram were curious, though some hesitated to approach us. It wasn’t a lack of interest, but more a lack of confidence—theuncertainty of how to engage with someone unfamiliar. I could sense it in their quick glances and quiet observations from a distance. Yet, as the days passed, something shifted. Those shy glances turned into smiles, and before long, they approached us with open curiosity. Meeting Anand and Ishan (name changed) Anand was one of the children who stayed on the sidelines. For the first week or so, he kept to himself, avoiding group activities and staying quiet during playtime. But that began to change one day in an informal class where we started practicing one of English alphabets. He didn’t know many letters at first, but slowly, with patience, he began to master one after the other. His excitement was palpable—every time he learnt a new letter, he would run up to me, eager to show his progress. It was in these small moments that Anand began to find his voice. Soon, he wasn’t just showing off his literacy skills, but also joining other children on the football field. He started speaking up in groups, no longer content to sit on the sidelines. Watching him take pride in his achievements and breaking out of his shell felt like witnessing a quiet triumph. Then there was Ishan. He had seen more hardship than a boy his age should have to endure.His past experiences had taught him to be wary of trust, to protect himself from the pain of broken bonds. Yet, over time, he allowed himself to grow attached to us. I still remember that moment when it was time to say goodbye. His eyes welled up with tears, and he asked one of the older boys to help translate his feelings into English. He wanted us to know how much he was going to miss us. In that moment, I saw the depth of trust he had developed, and I hoped with all my heart that his future would be filled with relationships that never end in goodbyes. The Unspoken Lessons What struck me most during my time at Bal Ashram wasn’t just the changes I saw in the boys, but the lessons they unknowingly taught me. They chose again and again to share their storie with us—their hopes, dreams, and even their difficult pasts. It’s no small thing to trust someone with your story, especially when that story contains painful memories. Yet these children did just that, allowing themselves to imagine a future filled with possibility and hope. Their resilience, their willingness to trust, and their openness to new experiences have left a lasting impression on me. In every conversation, every shared smile, and every small victory, I saw the strength of their spirits. And as they grew, so did my admiration for them. To me, Bal Ashram isn’t just a place for learning, it’s a space where these boys have thefreedom to explore, to try new things, and to find their own paths. They create a family among themselves, and they invite us into that world with open arms. Through laughter, shared moments, and even the occasional silliness, they have built a space where no one is left behind and everyone feels welcomed. It’s in this atmosphere of acceptance and playfulness that the children continue to grow, supporting each other and finding joy in the process. Whether it's dancing, joking around, or simply sitting together in comfortable silence, they have learnt that they don’t have to face anything alone. They have created their own language of connection, one that’s aboutembracing what brings us together rather than what sets us apart. Their journey is ongoing, and though I have only been a small part of it, I know they are on the path to achieving something extraordinary. I feel privileged to have witnessed the first steps of that journey and look forward to seeing where it takes them. ### Transforming the World Through Compassion Quotient By Kailash SatyarthiCompassion has the tremendous power of social transformation to attain justice, peace and sustainability. Beyond societal benefits, compassion ensures personal growth, happiness and mental peace. While most of us are familiar with Intelligence Quotient (IQ) and Emotional Quotient (EQ) which are used to measure the level of human intelligence and emotions, respectively, there is no tool to measure the level of compassion in individuals. Let me share my ideas on developing such a tool - the Compassion Quotient (CQ).Over the years, I have encountered hundreds of activists and thousands of volunteers who have supported my cause of working for the most marginalized and excluded. As anticipated, their knowledge, understanding, skill set, capacity for learning, reasoning, and problem-solving varied, and so did their emotional behaviour. However, the most significant difference I noted was the level of their connection, feeling, and drive to act with the suffering of desperate parents and children, who would often reach out to us with the hope of being supported. A few activists remained unaffected; some momentarily showed empathy before moving on, while some were deeply affected by the parents' anguish and took prompt action to solve their problems.This difference was due to their varied levels of compassion. Compassion is the deepest connection with the suffering of others that compels one to take urgent action to alleviate that suffering. In simpler words, compassion is selfless problem-solving.Biological and neurological research has scientifically proven that humans are born with an inherent capacity for compassion. However, over time, we restrict our compassion to the people closest to us—our family and friends. For the betterment of oneself and society, we must explore ways and means to expand our circles of compassion to encompass the wider community and the planet. Similar to IQ and EQ, a method to measure a person’s ability for compassion is Compassion Quotient (CQ). Compassion Quotient (CQ) is a framework to give an individual a factual and objective picture of his/her existing level of compassion, the extent of its practice, and their ability to transform their environment and the world.The level of Compassion Quotient (CQ) can differ significantly between individuals, depending on a range of factors including their genetic makeup, family environment, their educational and socio-cultural background, exposure, personal beliefs and influences.Compassion has tremendous benefits. Compassionate people are happier, more content, resilient, and peaceful and enjoy better relationships in their personal and social lives. Individuals with a higher CQ are innovative problem-solvers, exhibit leadership qualities, and are considered more authentic and respected.To measure the ability for compassion or Compassion Quotient, one has to measure three things broadly – connection, feelings and actions. They could further be broken into nine modules of CQ.a) Cognisance: acknowledging another person's sufferingb) Connection: connecting with that sufferingc) Feeling: feeling the suffering as their ownd) Awareness: being fully aware of their thoughts and feelingse) Unison: an objective oneness with the sufferer without being consumed by their sufferingf) Desire: desire to alleviate the pain and suffering of the otherg) Idea: the thoughts that go into problem-solvingh) Drive: the strong motivation and focus to implement the ideasI) Action: finally, the person is compelled to take action to alleviate the suffering Each of the above nine Modules can be measured individually. CQ is the consolidated evaluation of these Modules. We can design a metric to understand the permutations and combinations to measure the ability of compassion.Similarly, Compassion Quotient of institutions and organisations could be measured by assessing their working environment and governance, including gender equity, inclusiveness, respect for diversity, openness to listen and learn, communication, behaviour, human dignity, sustainability and friendliness. Higher CQ means a stress-free atmosphere, collective ownership, team spirit, and higher productivity.Through my work over the years, I have witnessed a higher level of compassion, CQ, among individuals who spent quality time with child survivors and youth leaders at our child-friendly communities and our rehabilitation centre, Bal Ashram. These included academicians, politicians, medical professionals, journalists, corporate leaders, young people, and volunteers from India and abroad. Many also expressed awe at the remarkable transformation they felt. They all observed that the compassion amongst children, community members, teachers, and activists was highly contagious. People who were involved in direct action or social mobilisation reported similar experiences. Therefore, we can and must increase our Compassion Quotient through exposure, experiential learning, education, training, volunteering, meditation, and other methods.Once we ignite our inherent spark of compassion, it will extend to all walks of life, including corporate, educational, medical and political institutions, eventually spreading to all living beings and the entire planet. In today’s broken and divided world with growing uncertainties, enhancing Compassion Quotient can create a new paradigm for solving these pressing problems. We can reinvigorate the dormant power of humanity by creating a culture of compassion. ### Slum Dweller Turns Cafe Owner: The Incredible Story of Priyanka Sowame Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress | International Women's Day 2024 Special Struggling to make both ends meet, Priyanka Sowame took a leap of faith and decided to board the train to attend the Youth Summit on Human Fraternity & Compassion in September last year. Little did she know what life had in store. Residing in a nondescript slum in Pune, Priyanka - a mother of two - had been struggling hard to make both ends meet. Paying the rent and taking care of her two daughters was proving to be an uphill task. But a meeting with Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi and his wife Sumedha Kailash changed it all. A member of our Mahila Mandal in Pune, Priyanka had for long aspired to meet Kailash Satyarthi. "Meeting Shri Kailash Satyarthi and his wife at the Summit was a life-changing experience. It strengthened my resolve to start my own café, hoping to motivate more women to take risks and work towards a better life. Kailash ji’s life teaches us that whatever difficulties one may encounter in life, there is absolutely nothing stopping us," Priyanka says. The meeting left an indelible impact on Priyanka and she started working on a plan to start the eatery of her dreams - DD Cafe. Courtesy her association with Bal Mitra Mandal (BMM), she learnt about multiple government schemes and small business loans available to women entrepreneurs. "The Mahila Mandal group of the Bal Mitra Mandal provided me with a broader perspective and knowledge about my rights and financial assistance schemes, reinforcing my decision to have my own restaurant," she asserted. She further said, “Mahila Mandal has been a great platform for women to transform their lives with community engagement and a problem-solving approach as it inculcated a room for knowledge-sharing for women to become self-reliant, restore their dignity, and help them become the decision-makers of the family.” While living in a remote corner of Pune, Bhimnagar, a small colony in Vishrantwadi, Priyanka started facing acute financial challenges when her husband lost his job during the COVID-19 pandemic. Undeterred, she began baking cakes at home to sustain her family. Despite the initial lack of support from in-laws, her husband stood by her, and they chose to live separately, sharing parenting responsibilities. As lockdown restrictions eased, Priyanka worked outside while her husband took care of their two daughters. From filling up water early in the morning to taking care of and feeding their daughters, her husband made sure that Priyanka could go out and work. If that is not true companionship, then what else could be? Standing tall in her own right, 30-year-old Priyanka is now all set to train and empower other women who visit our BMM centre in Bhimnagar. She guides them on skills needed for becoming an entrepreneur and apprises them of various government schemes that offer financial assistance to women to help them walk on the path of their own financial freedom. Through DD Café, she weaves a tapestry of hope, resilience, and empowerment, inspiring young and old alike. In just three months, Priyanka’s café is generating around Rs 10,000 in profits monthly. Women's workforce participation rate: There is no denying that the inclusion of women in the workforce has created jobs and assisted millions of families in escaping destitution in India. As per a report published on the NITI Aayog website titled 'Decoding Government Support to Women Entrepreneurs in India,' India ranks 70th among 77 countries on the Female Entrepreneurship Index. We must encourage more women entrepreneurship opportunities as it is contributing to reshaping the landscape of India’s economy.A 'Mahila Mandal' is a collective of women formed to empower youth, particularly women, by providing them with enough space to communicate and resolve issues that concern them or their communities. These groups are owned and managed by women at the grassroots. The mindful problem-solving approach taken by these women helps them carve their own paths, become decision-makers for their families, and transform into empowered women. ### From being a virtual 'nobody' to becoming an overnight role model, see how Surjeet Lodhi waged war against alcoholism Traveling from Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh, we took the left turn to Sahba Village. Vibrant houses, though in worn out conditions, neatly decorated and coated with dung cakes to keep cool. As we asked for Surjeet Lodhi’s house, the children playing replied, “Accha, Sirju Bhaiya? Aaiye!”- The kids ask us if we mean the local hero, who they call Sirju. They led us to his house, excited to knock on his doors. Surjeet opens the door, with what already seems like a welcoming and humbling smile. Surjeet Lodhi is in his first year of pursuing journalism from Bhopal University. His relation with education goes a long way. When asked, all he says is that everything he is today, he owes to education and his teachers. He is the kind of person who will not look away from situations that make him uncomfortable. He will stare them down instead, planning a course of action to tackle them. Among many issues, the first one he challenged was the then prevalent alcoholism. In a village with approximately 800 households, there ran five illicit liquor shops. The consequences of this were rampant alcoholism, worsening health conditions, untimely deaths, anti-social behavior, domestic abuse, etc. The women told us how their husbands would not return for nights, coming back only after spending all their earnings on alcohol. If questioned or talked to bitterly, they would not hold back from thrashing the family members. This was the story of every home- Surjeet’s being no exception. Having faced the wrath of his father countless times, Surjeet decided to take down the problem as a whole. He engaged with grassroots activists, teachers, and women and children who were adversely affected by this behavior. Under Surjeet's leadership, they orchestrated rallies and campaigns against alcohol consumption. Surjeet penned letters to the authorities. Following months of persistent efforts, the five shops eventually succumbed to darkness. They were seized, and the shop owners were expelled from the village—a triumph still commemorated by the entire community. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sOD8eIJ8zt8 This was merely one chapter in Surjeet's transformative journey. The region of Sahba was marked by ancient caste customs. The village's sole water source originated from a single well. The inherent naivety of humans often leads them to believe that everything is divisible. In Sahba, the well was partitioned into four sections—each designated for different castes. A lower caste individual was forbidden from crossing this imaginary boundary. Surjeet consistently viewed this system as flawed and obsolete. One day, a so-called ‘lower caste’ family hosted guests, and the daughter of the guests, unaware of the established division, approached the well. She subsequently endured humiliation from the upper caste for trespassing into their area. This incident did not sit well with Surjeet, who believed in ‘atithi devo bhava’- the guest is equivalent to God. Surjeet approached the children council with the disturbing case. They promptly decided to mobilize the entire village and urged the adult council to take decisive action against this primitive practice. Surjeet reflected, “Sometimes it feels like the village just wants to remain conservative. But I remembered that change has never felt smooth to anyone.” To foster harmony in his village, Surjeet orchestrated cross-cultural meetings and gatherings. Gradually, the negatives gave way to positives. In the current tide of time, as we strolled through the village, all we sensed was harmony and acceptance. The ancient curse of caste discrimination slowly lifted and burst into flames. By challenging this symbol of casteism, Surjeet ignited a fire to eradicate the cruel, shallow practices associated with it. Bit by bit, the rigid lines on the lands of Sahba blurred. Today, the new generation of Sahba doesn't even know if they come from an upper or lower caste—it simply ceased to matter. Surjeet’s compassion has garnered global recognition. In the year 2021, he was honoured with the Diana Award. When asked about receiving the award, he recalled, “I didn't even know what it meant. My teacher called me when the then Chief Minister, Shri. Shivraj Singh Chouhan, tweeted to congratulate me. My friends told me my name is now on Google.” There is boundless joy reflected on Surjeet’s face as he shares his experience with the award. Surjeet's story resonates in every household in the village. Even though Surjeet is set to leave home soon for college, the community will always have its arms open to welcome him back. They believe that their son will bring development home, paving the way for every child in the village. The entire village is collectively proud to have a son like him, a son like Sirju. ### Lighting Up Lives: The Inspirational Journey of Usman Malik – A Visionary in the Dark We generally look for the light at the end of the tunnel. On a dark road, at night, we follow the moonlight. Stars guide us home. Sunlight illuminates all that is dull, painting things in new colours, new shades every day. We get inspired when we see change.But how many of us truly experience all of this, feeling, sensing, hearing, breathing. Have you ever touched change? In Narangpur, the periphery of Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, lives a 25 year old visually impaired social worker, Usman Malik. Apart from social work, Usman is an important part of the Blind Cricket Team of Uttar Pradesh. Though he has never seen light, his smile brightens up the entire room. Living in a family of eight, Usman has started to treat and see every child as his sibling, and every elderly as his grandparent. “The world,” he says, “is one. Nobody can say that they own it. We belong to it, it doesn't belong to us.” With this humility, and in tie with compassionate communities, Usman has been helping anyone and everyone who comes his way. And because he believes in ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ - the whole world is my family, Usman has been holding free-of-cost eye checkup camps for years now. He has helped over 500 people with eye surgeries and handicapped children get equipment. Moreover, he has helped get finance, pensions, ration and identity cards for over 750 people. Taking cognizance of how children could not afford their school fee, Usman liaised with local politicians to get their fees either waved off or paid. The world is not all good. And Usman knows that. A bunch of individuals ran the ration mafia, causing unequal distribution, or none at all at times. “I don’t do wrong, neither can I let wrongdoers get away, no matter how powerful or threatening they may be.” Usman used the power of his words, his influence and the support he had of the entire community and law executioners to get such people behind bars. Money, fame, personal agendas do not hold any power over this man because all he wants to do is serve the society with honesty. Honesty is the virtue that he lives by. Usman has never walked away from a problem, neither will he ever. “Even if I have to talk to a corrupt official, he will have to tell me how to solve a problem. If there is a building, it will have to have an entry point somewhere, it cannot be built without one.”He felt his immediate environment and the customs followed were steeped in unethical practices. When Usman was made aware that child marriage and child labour were still prevalent practices, he said, “If someone’s childhood is slipping away from them, we must move fast to catch it.” Usman then took help of social workers and the police officers to bring an expeditious stop to such practices. Usman Malik – A Visionary in the Dark Society has painted a picture of an able person as a normative ‘normal’. Anything short of its considerations are thought to be weak. But Usman says, “Kamzor toh woh ho jiski soch kamzor ho.” Weak is the person whose mind is weak. For him, the only organs indeed required for a person to function is his/her mind and heart. As long as your heart is in the right place, you are as powerful as the strongest person. Over 18 million people in India suffer from visual impairment. While they share the pain, the hounding class divide among the suffering seems to be expanding. In such times, fighters like Usman come in like heroes without capes to bridge the inequalities. When we ask Usman about what inspires him, his reply makes us smile almost as wide as he does. “If there are people like the Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi who are fighting for people like us, we must also fight for ourselves- that is the only way we can progress. We must stand together. We must see ourselves as social reformers” Concluding his conversation, Usman shares a story of Mr. Ambedkar and his friend, leaving us with an exhilarating message. He says that when we stand tall with someone noble, we become nobler. Our perceptions changed, our hearts warmed, we bid goodbye to Usman even as he invited us to watch his next cricket match in which he was planning to hit consecutive boundaries. Usman might have never seen light, but he has lit up innumerable lives. ### From Child Bride to Education Advocate: Pooja Banjara's Inspiring Journey Towards Empowerment and Equality In a developed, progressive world, a 7-year-old child is pictured with starry eyes, hopes, and dreams. They have a little dance in their walk. They laugh the loudest, crack the silliest jokes, and prove to be the kindest of all. We want to protect them. We swear to take a grenade to save them. But that is not what happened with Pooja Banjara. At the age of 7, her family saw her fit to bejewel her in the attire of a bride. They saw her ready to replace her dreamy world with that of a married life. Residing in a shanty hut, when asked about the struggles faced by her, Pooja replies, “This world runs on conservativeness.” She was all of 7 years of age when her first battle began against child marriage. She had only just started attending school, already loving it. It was the love for education that sparked a fire in this child’s heart and made her stand up to her family. Pooja’s mother had studied till class 8th, she knew the power that a pen and paper possessed. She knew that only education could lead her daughter to real progress. With Pooja’s mother’s support, she was able to put a stop on her own child marriage.  Pooja Banjara Inspiring Journey  In 2012, Neemadi found itself with the first school ever. But to the vagabonds for whom the concept of education had not yet existed, schooling their children felt like fish learning to fly. It took activists and teachers and multiple rounds of discussions for the Banjara children to enter the structure of the school. Even so, it seemed to remain a right for boys, though globally advocated as basic and gender neutral. Neutrality only works in places that are not biased already. Pooja now has a spark in her eyes, as she narrates how they finally began their journey to school. “They said that equality must prevail. But equality can only find its grounds when we (girls) take what is rightfully ours. If it is indeed for us, if there is enough for everyone, why must we not claim it?”  Back in 2012, most of the Banjaras saw paper and pen up close for the first time. Pooja Banjara’s grandparents had a hard time understanding the need of straying their children away from rearing kettles and selling multani soil. Today, dadi expresses her confusion about the novelty of knowledge deciding and changing futures. “Our community has always worked like this- education does not make sense to us. It took me some time to understand but I am sure that these children will bring fame to our names.” The lines on her forehead speak of the time-old customs that she grew up respecting, now her wisdom: acceptance of a cultural evolution. Pooja’s mother had always been in favor of sending her daughter to school, and so she did. Pooja Banjara became one of the first girls ever to formally attend schooling. She decided that she will not allow any girl to be left behind. She took her courage, her heart and fierce words from door-to-door, influencing children, persuading parents and families to send their child to where they rightfully should be. In classrooms, with books and pencils. The nomadic community of Banjaras does not live in one place. Every five-six years, they would head in a new direction, looking for employment. But the presence of a functional school brought a halt to their travel. The children decided to stay put and study further, which would otherwise not be possible. Pooja’s mother, adorned in 1.5 kg heavy bangles (denoting married women) and a ghunghat says, “I would rather my daughter carry books weighing 1.5 kgs than bangles. I would rather my daughter be educated, aware and single than uneducated, naïve and married. I wish her to achieve all that I could not.” Being the sole earner in a family of six, Pooja’s mother is a daily wage laborer. Her education and household responsibilities could not save her from the societal customs of women having a lower status than men. Should a woman occupy a position higher than a man, such a family would be looked down upon by the community, disgraced. Pooja’s mother swears that she will never let her daughter go through what she had to. Mother, veiled in red and orange saree, tells us how she wishes to wake up to an all-educated world. Her little, but neatly maintained hut is wired with thorn-branches to keep away wild animals at night. The sun, scorching outside, beams slightly and lights up Pooja Banjara’s face. Perhaps, she brings sunlight to her household. As we conclude the talk, a small bird enters the hut and chirps merrily. Perhaps it sings songs of freedom, brings news from an educated world, announcing how they are not far from it. And that they will be led into it by their children. Neemadi- a small village in Rajasthan that provided the nomadic community of Banjaras with what they never had: a home.  ### Subhash Banjara: Bridging Hearts and Minds for a Permanence of Dreams The mind is the seat for reasoning, while the heart is home to compassion. We often wonder whether the two could coincide. Most times, it is said that we must follow one out of the two- it is either the heart or the brain. But when we met Subhash, he made us think otherwise. In the land of Neemadi, Subhash stays in a concrete house that shelters his family of four. He tells us that the house has been recently cemented because before pursuing academics, his family saw no point in spending on a permanent house. Subhash Banjara’s community is of vagabonds, the nomads. They barely stay in one place. Due to their constant travel and look-out for earning opportunities, the world’s progress barely touched their lives. It was not until 2012 when the first school opened in Neemadi that most of the community saw stationary lives for the first time ever. Education was an alien concept to the Banjaras, and Subhash was not immune to this initial skepticism. “But school has its ways, it could be the best and the worst place together at the same time, it grows on you,” says Subhash with a sheepish grin as he now thinks of the past. After seeing how education transforms a person, Subhash decided not to miss a single day of it. His humble abode- now concrete- stands as a testament of his will and his family’s decision to embrace permanence.   Knowledge limited to oneself is no knowledge at all- for it must be known and shared. Subhash's journey did not remain confined to the classroom, for he realized that knowledge unshared was like a song unheard. He took it upon himself to advocate for education throughout his nomadic community, knocking on each door with an ardent spirit. Education would not benefit the community if only a handful of children availed it. “If nothing,” he said, “the children would play instead of grazing a herd of sheep or cows, or even selling Multani Mitti.” He wished them to see a world that is beyond these limiting activities. Influencing other boys in the community, Subhash became an idol that they would now follow. On seeing how he could help others by impact, he made his way to YouTube. “I post about education, animals. I also like to post comedy videos to make everyone laugh.” His channel flourished, drawing hundreds of thousands of subscribers who marvel at his wisdom and laugh at his antics.   He embarked on a mission to transform his community, not just by opening their eyes to the world beyond sheep and Multani Mitti, but also by making tangible contributions. With a spark of determination, he and his friends set their sights on completing their course in ITI Fitters, with the grand dream of becoming car engineers.   The Banjara community, deeply entwined with animals and Multani Mitti, had long been the fabric of their identity. Subhash wants development to become Banjaras’ ally, not an adversary, to make it reachable. This is why they wish to make cars at an affordable price for their community particularly.   In the heart of Neemadi, Subhash Banjara has become more than just a name. He has become an inspiration, a catalyst for change in a world where hearts and minds can coexist, transcending the boundaries of all possibilities. And so, the story of Subhash and his nomadic community continues to unfold, painting the landscape with the colors of dreams turned into reality, where the heart's compassion and the mind's reasoning create a symphony that resonates through the ages, singing songs of permanence. ### Breaking the Chains: Akash Banjara's Journey to Freedom and Empowerment Freedom comes to us wrapped in an open space. We smell it, look up in the sky and breathe. Perhaps the sky is synonymous with being free. We look at birds soaring and we want to emulate them. When excited, we tend to jump, in attempts to touch and claim as much of the sky as we can. Sky means something to all of us, but it truly only belongs to birds. Meet one such bird, Akash Banjara. Akash was not always free to start with. The society she was born in was ready to tie her down in her first attempt to break free. She had to fight for her wings to not be clipped. In the community of Banjaras, the nomads, children are married off even before reaching adolescence. Unshielded from this misfortune, Akash was also engaged at the age of 3. In the lockdown of 2020, she was being pushed to marry at the novice age of 12. But in the limited time she had spent at her school, she learnt that she also had a voice. She knew the legal wrongs of the step her family was about to take. All she wished to do was to continue studying. So she decided she would have to stop her family. “If not me, then who would come to my rescue?” Akash explains that she was not brushing marriage aside. Marriage, for her, still is an important institution that should be respected. However, such an institution is not meant for children. She wants to stand up on her feet and change the world, bit by bit. She spent days and nights trying to make her family understand her point without hostility. Finally, her family’s rudimentary thoughts bowed in front of the vigour of a 12 year old. In her hovel, peep books from the back with a school bag- they take up most of the space but her mother is happy even so. “I will create all the space in the world if required for accommodating my daughter’s academic material.” A certain sense of pride, love and hope glint in Akash’s mother’s eyes- the look of a mother. “My daughter is brighter than the sun.” The mother shares how her daughter sparked a change for all the generations to come. Akash, with her other siblings, is a first generation learner who is looked up to by the entire community. Her efforts resulted in the elimination of child labour and child marriage from the Banjara community of Neemadi. Even though Akash Banjara was fighting her personal battle during the Covid lockdown, she did not abandon the society. With her heroic personality, she mobilised the children from the entire community. They made masks and distributed them in various institutions and households. Akash Banjara's Journey to Freedom and Empowerment Akash Banjara is the kind of child who wishes to take everyone along with her, leaving no one behind. She observed how the elderly women- who never got the opportunity to go to school- find themselves utterly dependent on someone else to help them with basics, like signatures. This also posed a threat because they are also very gullible. Taking cognizance of the situation, Akash Banjara started teaching the basic reading and writing to women. Many ladies today can write their own names and read basic hindi. Just a little touch of liberation makes them extremely happy and proud. Akash Banjara also talks to them about how she firmly believes that ladies ought to be independent. “This kind of talk is not always met with the most welcoming responses. But it does more good than bad.” Today studying in class 12th, Akash wishes to join the state service and fight against social evils. “Akash chhoo ke aaogi?” Akash translates to sky in Hindi. When we ask her if she would go and touch the sky, she smiles. “Didi, mai khud hi akash hoon.” - “Sister, I am Akash (sky) myself.” ### Rising Against Addiction: Niranjan's Compassionate Crusade Amidst the intricate tapestry of global social movements, one Indian social reformer stands out, bearing the torch of change. Meet Niranjan, a determined young man from the villages of Rajasthan, who has embarked on a journey that echoes the heartbeats of compassion and transformation. In the vast canvas of Sustainable Development Goals, target 3.a looms large—an aspiration to strengthen the fight against tobacco usage. With over 1.3 billion people worldwide under its grip, tobacco claims a staggering 8 million lives annually. India, too, faces this battle as 27% of its population succumbs to tobacco's allure, causing 1 million of the 8 million global deaths attributed to tobacco. Niranjan's journey unfolds as a testament to the power of compassion and action. Armed with knowledge garnered from compassionate community meetings and rallies, he approached his mother, a tobacco consumer, with empathy and concern. Overcoming initial resistance, Niranjan's unwavering support ignited a transformative journey of withdrawal. His involvement in the battle against substance abuse blossomed. Niranjan rallied the community, organizing awareness campaigns, meetings, and events that exposed the dark side of drugs, substance abuse, and alcoholism. Amid their efforts, Niranjan and his fellow villagers unearthed the presence of illicit liquor shops that fueled the addiction problem. With resilience, they submitted a complaint to Rajasthan's Chief Minister, urging action against these detrimental establishments. Niranjan's unwavering determination sustained the cause. His strength echoed against substance abuse, inspiring the youth to stand by women and children. His mission became one of fortitude and compassion, crafting a message that transcends borders and ignites hearts. Niranjan's journey resonates as a beacon of hope, a living embodiment of how a compassionate heart can spark a global change movement. ### A 12-Year-Old Girl's Endeavor Brings Electricity to a School After 16 Years In the midst of a school nestled among rural landscapes, where electricity remains a distant dream, there shines a remarkable girl child whose spirit is illuminated by a resolute sense of optimism. Despite the challenges that surround her, she embraces each day with infectious enthusiasm, undeterred by the lack of modern amenities. But her determination serves as a beacon, which has helped illuminate the path for her community and show that dreams can thrive even amidst the darkes adversities. Iqra, the 16-year-old girl, lives in the small village of Rohta in Meerut with her family of seven. Her father, a farmer, is the sole breadwinner, managing to send his children to school. At the age of 12, when Iqra was enrolled in a nearby school, she studied in classrooms that had no electricity or light. She thought it was normal and accepted it as her destiny due to their poor background. In the Meerut district, the female literacy rate is 63.98%, which is lower than the male literacy rate of nearly 80%. According to the National Statistical Survey (NSO) data for 2023, the overall literacy rate of Uttar Pradesh is 67.68%, making it one of the states with the lowest literacy rates in India. The state is also among the list which has the highest rate of female dropouts from schools due to a number of reasons, including early marriages, child labor, lack of infrastructure in schools, societal norms that prioritize household responsibilities over education for girls, poverty, etc. Iqra participated in the National Bal Panchayat (Children’s Council elections) and was appointed the secretary of her village's Bal Panchayat. Unfazed by the darkness, she saw a bright future ahead, fueled by the belief that education is the key to unlocking a world of possibilities. As her exposure broadened, she understood that electricity was not a luxury but a basic right for children studying in schools. Active participation in debates and discussions within the children's parliament gave her a deeper understanding of how the negligence of the local community and authorities was adversely affecting the children's future. In the year 2018, when she moved to the upper primary class, she discovered that her fellow classmates had to endure hot, fan-less days and study in the dark, , leading to difficulty in learning and and concentrating. This situation worsened during rainy or winter seasons, causing a significant drop in enrollment rates, particularly among girls. Fueled by determination, Iqra took the initiative to approach her school teachers and authorities, driven to bring about a positive change. However, her efforts were met with skepticism and discouragement, as the teachers recounted their past unsuccessful attempts to secure an electricity connection. Undeterred, Iqra embraced the challenge thrust upon her as the leader of the Children's Council and resolved to make a difference, vowing to persevere where others had faltered. (Bal Panchayat). Taking the challenge to heart, Iqra and her team of Children's Council members visited the local Junior Engineer officer, hoping for assistance. However, the officer dismissed them, underestimating the power of children to effect change. Unfazed, Iqra refused to give up. Just days before Diwali, the festival of lights, she decided that her classroom should also be illuminated. She could not accept that many children were dropping out due to the absence of electricity connections. Iqra discussed with her family members and strategized how she could help. Through diligent research, she discovered that she could directly approach the electricity block department to request a light connection for her school. Despite facing initial refusal from the appointed officer, her anger fueled a resolute determination, leading her to organize a Dharna, a protest sit-in. At just 12 years old, an age where most children are occupied with typical school activities, she stood unwavering, vowing not to relent until her classroom was illuminated with electricity. Initially underestimated, Iqra's determination held strong as she remained at the protest site throughout the evening, demanding electricity. Not even the threat of police involvement deterred her. Impressed by her unwavering spirit, the officer finally relented and instructed the Junior Engineer to install electric poles and provide a wired connection to Iqra's school. On Diwali morning, after 16 long years, the first electric bulb was finally lit up in her classroom. Iqra's triumph was met with exuberant celebrations by the school, children, andteachers alike. They eagerly anticipated her arrival at the school, where she would light the first bulb with her very own hands, symbolizing her determination and remarkable success. News of her remarkable accomplishment quickly spread like wildfire, and soon, her name became known throughout the entire village and community. With electricity now available in her school, the enrollment rate skyrocketed, especially among girls who were inspired by Iqra's undying efforts. Her dedication not only uplifted the community but also made the entire village proud of her. As Iqra continued her journey as the Bal Panchayat secretary, she knew that no challenge was too big when one's heart is set on making a difference. With compassion as her driving force, she proved that age and stature were no barriers to creating a brighter future for all. Thus, the legacy of a brave 12-year-old girl who brought light after 16 years continued to shine brightly, guiding generations to come. ### Empowering Equality, Compassion, and Change in the Face of Casteism Certain parts of India continue to practice discriminatory customs based on birth. India has undergone significant changes in recent years, but it is also true that the issues of untouchability and casteism persist in certain parts of Indian society. Casteism refers to the social stratification and hierarchical division of society based on birth, with individuals being assigned a specific caste at birth. This system has deep historical roots and has influenced social interactions, occupation choices, and access to resources for centuries. In the practice of untouchability, even the shadow of a person from a lower caste is considered impure by individuals from higher castes. This belief stems from the notion that contact with or proximity to individuals from lower castes can pollute or defile higher-caste individuals.    Often, victims of casteism face dehumanizing discrimination that forces them to drop out of school, prevent them from pursuing higher education, or even deny them job opportunities. Their basic sense of social security is not even met.     Over the years, social reformers have advocated for the outright rejection of this derogatory system. Lalita Duhariya, a 19-year-old woman from Dera Village in Viratnagar, Rajasthan, is one such reformer. The daughter of a construction worker and a housewife, Duhariya has two brothers and a sister. In a household of six, she learned to stand up for herself and others. Even though her family had limited resources, her father never compromised on her education.   Duhariya has seen how children from lower castes are treated in classrooms, and some have even been forced to drop out. She is not willing to accept such injustice, and she has been speaking out against casteism, girls' education, and women's rights in her hometown since she was nine years old.   Duhariya's compassion does not allow her to disrespect anyone based on their background. She believes that all religions and castes should be seen through the lens of equality and community. These are the values and principles that she fought to instil in her society. She realized that the only way to truly open everyone's eyes was to educate them about these topics, not belittle or ridicule them.   We also know that setting an example can go a long way. In India, sharing a meal or feeding someone is seen as an act of acceptance. With this in mind, Lalita initiated "communal lunch." She and her friends went door-to-door, inviting people from all castes to come together for lunch on the occasion of Makar Sankranti to promote community development. This social festival of Makar Sankranti is marked by colourful decorations, music and dance, kite flying, fairs, and food. The timing for a communal lunch could be said to be perfect. The message they were spreading was one of joining hands for compassion and progress.   Lalita's work is founded on the principle that no one should be left behind. She took it upon herself to reach out to and raise awareness among children who had dropped out of school to work as domestic help. As a result of her efforts to persuade the children's parents to send them back to school, there was a recorded increase in school enrolments. Over 16 students who had previously dropped out were re-enrolled and are now attending school regularly. Her active participation in rallies, and anti-fire cracker campaign have deeply impacted the cause of compassion. She joined compassion communities, taking up leadership roles, to influence a larger body.    Her work serves as an inspiration and a testament to the positive impact that dedicated individuals can have on their communities. By addressing the root causes of child labour and promoting education, Lalita is helping to create a more inclusive and nurturing environment for the children in her village.    Lalita Duhariya is an inspiring young woman who is dedicated to fighting for equality and social justice. She has shown that even one person can make a significant impact on society. Lalita's efforts have been recognized and celebrated, as she has received notable awards for her work.   One of the awards Lalita received is the Reebok Fit to Fight award. This accolade likely recognizes her commitment to fighting for social justice and promoting equality. The award may also acknowledge her efforts to empower others and create positive change through her advocacy work.   Additionally, Lalita was honored with the Ashoka Young Changemaker Award. This award is a testament to Lalita's innovative and impactful contributions to her advocacy efforts. ### Breaking Chains of Child Marriage and Empowering Futures Even as a child of 11 years when her peers were merrily engaged in playing games and watching movies, Payal Jangid - from remote Hinsla village in India’s western state of Rajasthan – dreamt of becoming a civil servant when she grew up. Hailing from a community where child marriage is a norm rather than an exception, Payal dared to stand up against her parents and say no to her marriage which they had fixed as per prevailing customs and local traditions.   Today, as a 20-year-old proud graduate, Payal is training to turn her dream into reality. But all this couldn’t have been possible had she not dared to voice her vehement opposition to her own impending marriage nine years back.   As per the fifth National Family Health Survey, 23.3 per cent women in the 20-24 age group were married before they turned 18. The National Crime Record Bureau data reveals that three children are being pushed into marriage everyday.   Payal’s strong stand against child marriage stemmed from the horrors and struggles other minor girls – who had been married off - had to endure every single day. Recognizing that the battle against child marriage needed to start at home, she exhibited immense courage and determination. She made the difficult decision to cut off communication with her father and even went on a hunger strike to convey the seriousness of her conviction. She understood that compromising at that moment would mean betraying herself and her cause entirely.   Payal faced societal and familial pressure, but she stood firm in her resolve. She persuaded her parents to attend community awareness meetings against child marriage. Finally, her conviction convinced her parents, although they were not happy with it.In 2012, she met Kailash Satyarthi and Sumedha Kailash. It was their speech that made her look beyond herself. Payal started secretly attending workshops, training, and mobilization meetings. She joined the compassionate community and started ground-breaking work against child marriages. Determined to stand up against child marriage, she started moving from one village to another to garner support for her drive against child marriage. She successfully created a space that was primarily child-friendly. Her focus revolved around educating girls, young women survivors, children, and the elderly.   Payal also decided to stand up against ‘Ghunghat Pratha’- a custom for women to cover their faces. She believed that it must be a woman’s choice and not her obligation.   Currently, Payal is associated with many youth and women groups who survived different forms of exploitation. She makes it a point to train herself on various issues around women empowerment, children’s, and women’s rights, discrimination, etc.   In 2013, she was chosen as a jury member of the World’s Children’s Prize. For helping create a safer society, she was awarded Sawdhan India Samman by a leading TV channel in 2016. In 2017, she received the Young Achiever Award from a global sports and fitness brand. Payal's unwavering determination and compassion have not only impacted her own life but have also brought about positive change in the lives of innumerable others across the country. Today she is a role model for others who is holding up the torch against the oppressive practice of child marriage. ### sss news Satyarthi Summer School World’s First-Ever Learning Program on Compassionate ActionA first-of-its-kind, immersive summer experience for college students ready to take on the world’s toughest challenges—with Compassion.The world is grappling with many complex challenges. Wars, systemic injustices, extremism and climate crises are all on the rise. The most vulnerable and marginalized populations are the worst sufferers. Also, there is an alarming increase in feelings of disconnectedness, loneliness and apathy.It is clear that we need a new path—one that leads to justice, equality, peace, and sustainability. Our Founder and Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi believes in the urgent need to globalise Compassion. He defines Compassion as the force born out of feeling the suffering of others as our own, that drives mindful and selfless action to end that suffering. To stand up against injustice and inequality, the world needs Compassionate Leaders. People like you who believe in doing their bit to create a better world, for everyone.That’s why we have created our first-ever, fully sponsored Satyarthi Summer School (SSS): a 30-day residential program from 8th June to 5th July 2025 in New Delhi, where a chosen cohort of 25 students will come together to practice mindful problem-solving to address complex challenges. The students will learn and work with grassroots communities, global experts, and change leaders, including Mr. Satyarthi to experience compassion as a force for transformation.We are thrilled to have received over 1200 applications. We are in the process of shortlisting the 25 young changemakers, and those selected will receive the offer letters soon.You believe in change. We believe in you. Program Dates 8 June – 5 July 2025 Location Mukti Ashram, Delhi and Bal Ashram, Rajasthan SMGC in News ❮ ❯ Why SSS? SSS is India’s first summer school focused on Compassionate Action—combining grassroots exposure with expert-led training. Not just that, it is a fully funded immersive experience! Learn Interact with the Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi and community leaders Apply Go beyond theory and use the Satyarthi Compassion Framework to solve real problems, in real communities Solve Tackle urgent challenges on the ground, not just case studies Build Supercharge your 4Cs- Critical Thinking, Communication, Collaboration & Creativity in high-stakes environments ### SSS Satyarthi Summer School 2025: Live Updates World's first-ever learning program on #CompassionateActionA first-of-its-kind, immersive summer experience for college students ready to take on the world’s toughest challenges—with Compassion. Satyarthi Summer School 2025, hosted by Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion, has finally kicked off! It is a fully-sponsored, 30-day residential program set to run till 5th July 2025 in New Delhi and Rajasthan, where a chosen cohort of 25 students from across the world have come together to practice mindful problem-solving to address complex challenges.The students will learn and work with grassroots communities, global experts, and change leaders, including Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi himself, to experience compassion as a force for transformation. Compassion, as Satyarthi envisions, is the force born out of feeling the suffering of others as one’s own, that drives mindful and selfless action to end that suffering.We have received applications from countries including Liberia, Ukraine, USA, Cameroon, Vietnam, Tajikistan, Mexico, Palestine, East Timor, Nepal, Bhutan and India.With a remarkable response of nearly 1300 applications from 250+ universities across 22 countries, the program’s global resonance is more than evident. Satyarthi Summer School 2025, hosted by Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion, has finally kicked off! It is a fully-sponsored, 30-day residential program set to run till 5th July 2025 in New Delhi and Rajasthan, where a chosen cohort of 25 students from across the world have come together to practice mindful problem-solving to address complex challenges.The students will learn and work with grassroots communities, global experts, and change leaders, including Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi himself, to experience compassion as a force for transformation. Compassion, as Satyarthi envisions, is the force born out of feeling the suffering of others as one’s own, that drives mindful and selfless action to end that suffering.We have received applications from countries including Liberia, Ukraine, USA, Cameroon, Vietnam, Tajikistan, Mexico, Palestine, East Timor, Nepal, Bhutan and India.With a remarkable response of nearly 1300 applications from 250+ universities across 22 countries, the program’s global resonance is more than evident. SMGC in News ❮ ❯ LIVE UPDATES ◉ 18:52 (IST) • 6 Jun 2025 Satyarthi Summer School is That's why we have created our first-ever, fully sponsored Satyarthi Summer School (SSS): a 30-day residential program from 8th June to 5th July 2025 in New Delhi, where a chosen cohort of 25 students will come together to practice mindful problem-solving to address complex challenges.The students will learn and work with grassroots communities, global experts, and change leaders, including Mr. Satyarthi, to experience compassion as a force for transformation. 03 july 25Founder and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Ashoka University and an institution in himself, Mr. Pramath Raj Sinha, graced Satyarthi Summer School 2025 as one of the faculty members."I’ve rarely encountered an international group with such diverse interests — I’m genuinely impressed. Honestly, I envy all of you. This is an incredible exposure. I have spent so much time with Kailash ji and Asmita. It’s deeply satisfying to see their vision come alive. This is a true ‘pinch-yourself’ moment, one I won’t forget for a long time", he said. Facebook Linkedin Instagram 30th June 25“The future belongs to the fearless hearts of our youth. I’ve always believed in the unstoppable power of young people to transform the world. But let me tell you from my 40 years of experience — the journey is neither easy nor always filled with success. To ensure consistency, sustainability, and real impact, one thing is essential: innovation — fresh ideas and bold strategies.” – Kailash Satyarthi during today’s interaction with the Satyarthi Summer School 2025 participants at Bal Ashram. Facebook Linkedin Instagram https://satyarthimovement.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/The-visit-to-one-of-our-Bal-Mitra-Gram-BMG-in-Rajasthan-was-a-powerful-eye-opener-for-the-part.mp429th June 2025The visit to one of our Bal Mitra Gram (BMG) in Rajasthan was a powerful eye-opener for the participants of Satyarthi Summer School 2025. They joined the children in a spirited rally, engaged in meaningful conversations, shared laughter and joy, and heard inspiring stories of how young leaders are raising awareness and driving change in their communities. Facebook Linkedin Instagram 26th June 25Sessions led by stalwarts Gabriela Ramos , M.R. Rangaswami, and Vivek Gambhir prompted participants at #SatyarthiSummerSchool 2025 to reflect deeply on #compassionateleadership and what it truly means to find a purpose in life. Facebook Linkedin Instagram https://satyarthimovement.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/What-does-SatyarthiSummerSchool-offer-to-young-changemakers-from-11-countries-An-experience-gro.mp426th June 2025What does Satyarthi Summer School offer to young changemakers from 11 countries? An experience grounded in community visits, hands-on learning, and in-depth conversations with global experts — all centered on #CompassionateAction. Hear from one of the participants, Keshav Kumar, as he shares his biggest takeaways and reflections so far. Facebook Linkedin Instagram 25th June 25Kailash Satyarthi defines Self-Compassion as “objectively seeing, feeling and alleviating our inner suffering or problems without self-doubt, self-obsession or distractions (such as ego, guilt, fear etc.), through mindful action, much like a neutral observer might.” In other words: accept yourself and don’t judge yourself. Facebook Linkedin Instagram https://satyarthimovement.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Bal-Ashram-is-the-space-where-I-went-to-school-for-the-first-time-ever.-It-gave-me-a-voice—-the.mp420th June 2025Bal Ashram is the space where I went to school for the first time ever. It gave me a voice— the power to change the world. From speaking at international platforms to stopping child labor in my village, I have learned that children can move mountains.”A fearless young leader from Balashram Jaipur. These are some of the interactions doing the rounds at Bal Ashram, where children from Bal Mitra Gram and Bal Ashram are inspiring the #SatyarthiSummerSchool 2025 participants with their lived experiences of #compassionateleadership. Stories of stopping child marriages. Ending child labour. Enrolling children in school. All led by children themselves. This is what a day at Satyarthi Summer School looks like. Facebook Linkedin Instagram 18th June 25At Satyarthi Summer School 2025, Pavan Mamidi, Sanjai Bhatt, and Tanishka Kachru captivated participants with their thought-provoking sessions. Facebook Linkedin Instagram https://satyarthimovement.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/@balashramjaipur-1.mp417th June 2025Through interactive sessions and a guided tour, the 25 students soaked in the ethos and values that make Bal Ashram so special. The day came to an end with a fun celebration of our participant Andrew's birthday. Facebook Linkedin Instagram https://satyarthimovement.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/CompassionateAction@kail.mp416th June 2025Dance, music, and the warmest hugs - the summer school participants received a true Bal Ashram style welcome. Facebook Linkedin Instagram 15th June 25During one of the sessions with Satyarthi Summer School participants, CEO Asmita Satyarthi explained why SMGC has conceived the idea of coming up with a measurable index for compassion. “The fundamental belief of SMGC is that compassion can be enhanced. For that it is very important to assess everyone’s capacity for Compassionate Action. That’s where the idea of the Satyarthi Compassion Quotient™ was born — and it has the potential to be a real game changer”, she said. Facebook Linkedin Instagram 15th June 25Catch a glimpse of the insightful session conducted by our faculty member, Sabarathinam Selvaraj, Engagement Manager, McKinsey & Company. Facebook Linkedin Instagram 11:30 AM 14th June 25Strangers became friends. Problems, though born of different geographies, found common ground” - Read today’s @timesofindia coverage about how #SatyarthiSummerSchool 2025 participants met and drew inspiration from our child leaders from Bal Mitra Mandal at Delhi’s Sanjay Camp. Facebook Linkedin Instagram 2:30 PM 13th June 25What can be more intense than me feeling that your problem is my problem? The intensity of that feeling brings with it an immense sense of responsibility and accountability. #Compassion is the force that rises from that very feeling.”During an engaging interaction with the participants at #SatyarthiSummerSchool 2025, Asmita Satyarthi, CEO of Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion, shared how @smgc_official defines and lives compassion. Facebook Linkedin Instagram https://satyarthimovement.org/v3.mp412th June 25Observed as World Day Against Child Labour, the cohort visited one of our Compassionate Communities, Delhi’s Sanjay Camp. They interacted with the child leaders, heard how they drove change by stopping child marriage, restoring electricity to the camp, and making people aware about the ills in society. The participants also took part in a rally against child labour with our youth leaders, and sang and danced with them. That day, all barriers were broken. Facebook Linkedin Instagram 11th June 25We asked our young changemakers at Satyarthi Summer School 2025 — What is Compassion? And their answers moved us. Feeling without drowning Solving problems like they’re your own Not sympathy or charityFrom being inclusive, courageous, and feeling the suffering of others as one’s own, their words reflect what #CompassionateAction truly means. The session decoded and expanded the difference between sympathy, empathy, and compassion. Facebook Linkedin Instagram 10th June 25Satyarthi Summer School 2025. A Summer of Compassion. A Lifetime of Change. Facebook Linkedin Instagram https://satyarthimovement.org/v2.mp410th June 25What better way to wrap up Day 1 of SatyarthiSummerSchool 2025 than dancing to some seriously groovy tunes? Participants played music from their home countries and taught each other the hook steps, turning the evening into a joyful celebration of cultures, rhythms, and connection. Facebook Linkedin Instagram 8:00 PM 9th June 25The highlight of the first day was Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi’s thought-provoking interaction with the cohort. He spoke about his journey, what prompted him to leave a comfortable engineering career and start a movement against child labour at a time when the social ill was considered a norm, and how compassion has been the root of all actions throughout his life.Satyarthi said, “I was deeply heartened and inspired to spend time with 26 extraordinary youth at our Mukti Ashram in Delhi. They have traveled from 11 countries to take part in the first ever Satyarthi Summer School on global compassion. It was the first time so many youth leaders from across the world have come together with the drive and commitment to build a compassionate, just, peaceful, and sustainable world. Their motivation is contagious. Facebook Linkedin Instagram 6:00 PM 8th June 25Day 0 of Satyarthi Summer School came to an end with the encouraging words of our CEO Asmita Satyarthi. During her address to the 26 changemakers she spoke about the idea with which Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion was launched.She said, "The world has never been as rich, as technologically advanced, and as interconnected as it is today. And yet, systemic issues like war, injustice, and deepening divides continue to persist — even intensify. In many ways, we are becoming more isolated and disconnected from one another. At Satyarthi Summer School, we want you to truly engage and talk to each other. Creating a new approach to life and society — that's the idea with which Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion was launched." Facebook Linkedin Instagram https://satyarthimovement.org/smgh.mp412:00 PM 8th June 25Day 0Satyarthi Summer School 2025, hosted by Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion, has finally kicked off! It is a fully-sponsored, 30-day residential program set to run till 5th July 2025 in New Delhi and Rajasthan, where a chosen cohort of 25 students from across the world have come together to practice mindful problem-solving to address complex challenges.The students will learn and work with grassroots communities, global experts, and change leaders, including Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi himself, to experience compassion as a force for transformation. Compassion, as Satyarthi envisions, is the force born out of feeling the suffering of others as one’s own, that drives mindful and selfless action to end that suffering.We have received applications from countries including Liberia, Ukraine, USA, Cameroon, Vietnam, Tajikistan, Mexico, Palestine, East Timor, Nepal, Bhutan and India.With a remarkable response of nearly 1300 applications from 250+ universities across 22 countries, the program’s global resonance is more than evident. Facebook Linkedin Instagram Satyarthi Summer School World’s First-Ever Learning Program on Compassionate Action You will build real-world skills that matter In just 30 days, you will learn how to break down complex social issues, create actionable solutions, and communicate them with power and purpose. Whether it’s writing stories that shift perspectives, using photography and film to spark change, or understanding how local problems connect to global issues — you will gain practical tools you can carry into your career and everyday life. You won’t be stuck in a classroom You will be out solving real problems—learning by doing, reflecting, questioning, and building solutions. Delving deep into our award-winning model of Compassionate Communities™ and engaging with the grassroots movement of SMGC, by interacting with youth, children, and women amongst others. Know More on Satyarthi Summer School Ready to Apply? Applications open on 17th April and close on 15th May 2025. Spots are limited, and we review applications on a rolling basis. Fill up this form to show your interest (or nominate somebody you know) in the selection process and we will reach out to you with a detailed application process within 72 hours. 1. Full Name 2. Email 3. Mobile 4. Educational Program currently enrolled in 5. University SSS is India’s first summer school focused on Compassionate Action—combining grassroots exposure with expert-led training. Not just that, it is a fully funded immersive experience!Learn: Interact with the Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi and community leadersApply: Go beyond theory and use the Compassion Framework to solve real problems, in real communities.Solve: Tackle urgent challenges on the ground, not just case studiesBuild: Supercharge your 4Cs — Critical Thinking, Communication, Collaboration & Creativity in high-stakes environmentsCreate: Craft bold, inspiring narratives that move people to act ### Satyarthi Summer School Satyarthi Summer School World’s First-Ever Learning Program on Compassionate ActionA first-of-its-kind, immersive summer experience for college students ready to take on the world’s toughest challenges—with Compassion.The world is grappling with many complex challenges. Wars, systemic injustices, extremism and climate crises are all on the rise. The most vulnerable and marginalized populations are the worst sufferers. Also, there is an alarming increase in feelings of disconnectedness, loneliness and apathy.It is clear that we need a new path—one that leads to justice, equality, peace, and sustainability. Our Founder and Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi believes in the urgent need to globalise Compassion. He defines Compassion as the force born out of feeling the suffering of others as our own, that drives mindful and selfless action to end that suffering. To stand up against injustice and inequality, the world needs Compassionate Leaders. People like you who believe in doing their bit to create a better world, for everyone.That’s why we have created our first-ever, fully sponsored Satyarthi Summer School (SSS): a 30-day residential program from 8th June to 5th July 2025 in New Delhi, where a chosen cohort of 25 students will come together to practice mindful problem-solving to address complex challenges. The students will learn and work with grassroots communities, global experts, and change leaders, including Mr. Satyarthi to experience compassion as a force for transformation.We are thrilled to have received over 1200 applications. We are in the process of shortlisting the 25 young changemakers, and those selected will receive the offer letters soon.You believe in change. We believe in you. Program Dates 8 June – 5 July 2025 Location Mukti Ashram, Delhi and Bal Ashram, Rajasthan SMGC in News ❮ ❯ Why SSS? SSS is India’s first summer school focused on Compassionate Action—combining grassroots exposure with expert-led training. Not just that, it is a fully funded immersive experience! Learn Interact with the Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi and community leaders Apply Go beyond theory and use the Satyarthi Compassion Framework to solve real problems, in real communities Solve Tackle urgent challenges on the ground, not just case studies Build Supercharge your 4Cs- Critical Thinking, Communication, Collaboration & Creativity in high-stakes environments ### Global Compassion Concert RSVP: Global Compassion Concert 2025 Join us for the first-ever Global Compassion Concert to celebrate 10 years of the Nobel Peace Prize awarded to Kailash Satyarthi. This memorable evening will honor his 44-year journey advocating equality, justice, and compassion.Experience a spectacular live performance by 3-time Grammy Award Winner Ricky Kej.Venue: Auditorium 2, Bharat Mandapam, DelhiDate: 11 January 2025Time: 6:30 PM onwardsKindly fill out the form to confirm your attendance. We look forward to hosting you at this historic event! Email ID Full Name Will you be attending the event? YesMaybe Number of Guests (including yourself) For any queries, reach out to contact@satyarthimovement.org Thank You! Thank you for confirming your presence at the first-ever Global Compassion Concert 2025. We are thrilled to welcome you for this historic evening of music and celebration! Close ### About-Movement About the Movement Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion SMGC is a global movement to ignite 'Compassion in Action' in the world. It is born out of four decades of Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi's revolutionary life and path-breaking endeavors as a social reformer. Embracing compassion as a way of life, he has inspired millions of people across 140 countries to take compassionate action and fight for the freedom, equality and justice for the voiceless and the most marginalized.This has resulted in unprecedented structural and systemic changes across the globe, including the development of high-level policies and direct frontline action. Need for Globalizing Compassion In spite of significant advancements in technology, global inequalities, extremism, war and conflict, climate crises are all on the rise leading to profound human suffering. There is an alarming increase in feelings of disconnectedness, loneliness, apathy and fear. The effects of the pandemic have intensified social exclusion. The numbers are staggering. 0 Billion people are living in conflict-affected areas (UN Press Release, 2022) 0 Million people are displaced due to the Ukraine War (UN SDG Report, 2022) 0 Suicides are committed every 2 minutes internationally (WHO Report, 2019) 0 Million people are suffering from anxiety (Our World Data, 2018) 0 % of Female high-school students in the US have considered suicide (Our World Data, 2018) The need for Compassion Wars, armed conflicts, inequalities, injustices, extremism, and the climate crisis are all on the rise, leading to profound human suffering. There is an alarming increase in feelings of disconnectedness, loneliness, apathy and fear.We need to seriously rethink, redefine, and reconstruct our approach to life and society. Compassion is the most powerful way to enablepeaceful co-existence, human fraternity and a sustainable future for all. We need the power of compassion to heal the world. Sumedha Kailash - Co-founder, Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion Our Vision To globalise compassion to restore justice, peace, equity and sustainability in the world. Our Mission To define, evaluate and enhance Compassion Quotient in individuals, institutions and communities. Our Theory of Change There is no easy solution to these issues. We need to seriously rethink, redefine, and reconstruct our approach to life and society, as well as our understanding of success. Compassion is key to enable peaceful co-existence, human fraternity and a sustainable future for all.All humans are born with an inherent capacity for Compassion. A compassionate person's response to the suffering of self and others is instantaneous and instinctive. Compassion is the driving force that steers us from cognizance to compassion in action. Our Objectives Catalysecompassion in action and compassionate leadership across sectors including business, civil society, academia, politics, faith, healthcare, judiciary, law enforcement to foster systemic change. Includethe most marginalised transcending gender, race, caste, religion and other barriers, end discrimination and create a compassionate society to ensure social inclusion for all. Learnand create knowledge rooted in experience and research, delivering evidence-based insights and real-life examples of compassion in action and compassionate leadership for transformative impact. Empoweryoung change-makers through targeted programs, to promote and amplify compassion in action and expand circles of compassion. Harnessthe power of self-compassion and compassion in action to combat loneliness, isolation and depression. Compassion is the feeling of the suffering of others as our own suffering with a strong drive to take action to alleviate that suffering.In simple words, compassion is mindful and selfless problem-solving.Compassion Quotient (CQ) is the measure of an individual’s ability for Compassion. CQ can be evaluated and its level can be increased. Increasing Level of Compassion Quotient Compassion in Action Expand our Circles of Compassion Globalization of Compassion Our Founders Mr. Kailash Satyarthi Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi, a social reformer par excellence, stands as one of the tallest leaders and the loudest voice for the oppressed and voiceless. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014 for his ‘struggle against the suppression of children and young people and for the right of all children to education.’ A Global Thought Leader and the founder of the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion, his dedication to social reforms is unparalleled. His fearless and unrelenting policy advocacy efforts towards the elimination of violence against the powerless have resulted in path-breaking legislations globally. Through his organization, Bachpan Bachao Andolan, Mr. Satyarthi has liberated more than 100,000 children from child labour, slavery, trafficking, and other forms of exploitation and developed a successful model for their education, rehabilitation, and reintegration into mainstream society. The Global March Against Child Labour, which he led, galvanized support in 103 countries, resulting in the adoption of ILO Convention 182 on the Worst Forms of Child Labour, which went on to become the only universally ratified convention in the history of the ILO. He is also the founding president of the Global Campaign for Education, an exemplary civil society movement working to end the global education crisis. He successfully spearheaded a countrywide movement to make education a Constitutional Provision, subsequently paving the way for the Right to Free and Compulsory Education in India in 2009. Mr. Satyarthi is credited for establishing GoodWeave International (previously known as Rugmark), a first-of-its-kind certification and social labelling mechanism for child labour-free carpets in South Asia. He has worked to advance ethical business practices to help businesses liberate their supply chains from child labour. He has been at the forefront of driving child-related agendas into the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which resulted in the UN Secretary-General appointing him an SDG Advocate in 2021. Mr. Kailash Satyarthi Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi, a social reformer par excellence, stands as one of the tallest leaders and the loudest voice for the oppressed and voiceless. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014 for his ‘struggle against the suppression of children and young people and for the right of all children to education.’ A Global Thought Leader and the founder of the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion, his dedication to social reforms is unparalleled. His fearless and unrelenting policy advocacy efforts towards the elimination of violence against the powerless have resulted in path-breaking legislations globally. Through his organization, Bachpan Bachao Andolan, Mr. Satyarthi has liberated more than 100,000 children from child labour, slavery, trafficking, and other forms of exploitation and developed a successful model for their education, rehabilitation, and reintegration into mainstream society. The Global March Against Child Labour, which he led, galvanized support in 103 countries, resulting in the adoption of ILO Convention 182 on the Worst Forms of Child Labour, which went on to become the only universally ratified convention in the history of the ILO. He is also the founding president of the Global Campaign for Education, an exemplary civil society movement working to end the global education crisis. He successfully spearheaded a countrywide movement to make education a Constitutional Provision, subsequently paving the way for the Right to Free and Compulsory Education in India in 2009. Mr. Satyarthi is credited for establishing GoodWeave International (previously known as Rugmark), a first-of-its-kind certification and social labelling mechanism for child labour-free carpets in South Asia. He has worked to advance ethical business practices to help businesses liberate their supply chains from child labour. He has been at the forefront of driving child-related agendas into the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which resulted in the UN Secretary-General appointing him an SDG Advocate in 2021. Ms. Sumedha Kailash Sumedha Kailash co-founded Bal Ashram Trust in 1988 with the aim of creating a safe environment where children, especially girls can learn and grow without any fear of being exploited. Born in a family of freedom fighters & revolutionaries of the Indian freedom struggle, Sumedha deeply espoused values of freedom, justice, compassion, and female empowerment. Under her leadership, the Bal Ashram Trust also created Bal Mitra Gram and Banjara Education Centres to bring about a constructive change in the lives of women and girls. She has been relentlessly working in this field for 45 years along with her team of activists and women’s councils to generate awareness on issues of child labour, child trafficking, girls’ education, and women empowerment among various tribes and communities in Rajasthan. Her impeccable journey won the recognition of Mahatma Award (2021), Ramkrishna Jaidayal Harmony Award in the year 2020, Godfrey Philip Bravery Award (2009) and Aadhi Aabadi Women Achievers Awards in the year 2014. Ms. Sumedha Kailash Sumedha Kailash co-founded Bal Ashram Trust in 1988 with the aim of creating a safe environment where children, especially girls can learn and grow without any fear of being exploited. Born in a family of freedom fighters & revolutionaries of the Indian freedom struggle, Sumedha deeply espoused values of freedom, justice, compassion, and female empowerment. Under her leadership, the Bal Ashram Trust also created Bal Mitra Gram and Banjara Education Centres to bring about a constructive change in the lives of women and girls. She has been relentlessly working in this field for 45 years along with her team of activists and women’s councils to generate awareness on issues of child labour, child trafficking, girls’ education, and women empowerment among various tribes and communities in Rajasthan. Her impeccable journey won the recognition of Mahatma Award (2021), Ramkrishna Jaidayal Harmony Award in the year 2020, Godfrey Philip Bravery Award (2009) and Aadhi Aabadi Women Achievers Awards in the year 2014. Compassion Quotient (CQ) Compassion Quotient (CQ) is the measure of an individual’s ability for Compassion. In other words, their capacity to notice, feel, connect with, respond and act to solve one’s own as well as others’ problems. As is the case with Intelligence Quotient (IQ) and Emotional Quotient (EQ), the level of CQ can differ significantly between individuals, depending on a range of factors such as: Genetic Makeup Family Environment Education Socio-cultural Background Personal Beliefs and Influences CQ can be evaluated and its level can be increased. We are developing a comprehensive framework to measure and increase CQ using a multidisciplinary approach. Compassionate Leadership Compassionate Leadership is the ability to make tough decisions and impact change while ensuring a culture of collaboration, engagement and growth. In order for this culture to be sustainable, ‘Compassionate Leadership’ must permeate across all levels within an organization. Data collected by Gallup shows USD 322 billion are lost in turnover and productivity costs on account of employee burnout. Leadership with a higher CQ plays a significant role in reducing stress levels and facilitating employee motivation and professional growth. A study by Potential Project shows that Compassionate Leadership results in 0 % higher employee job satisfaction 0 % higher employees’ organizational commitment 0 % employees are happier with their leader 0 % of employees feel less burnt out Benefits of Compassionate Leadership in the Workplace Clarity of Thought Clarity of thought empowers effective decision-making and precise understanding, cutting through complexity. Higher Productivity Higher productivity leads to achieving increased output and value in a given timeframe, driving overall success. Spirit of Collaboration The spirit of collaboration ignites collective synergy, propelling shared endeavors to new heights. Fostering a Solution-oriented Approach Cultivating a solution-oriented approach nurtures a mindset geared towards finding effective answers to challenges. Increased Employee Retention Investing in employee satisfaction cultivates increased retention and a more stable workforce. Structural and Systemic Problem Solving Through systemic problem solving, we tackle core issues, fostering comprehensive and holistic solutions. Rebuilding Chains for Global Impact We need to seriously rethink, redefine, and reconstruct our approach to life and society. Compassion is the most powerful way to enable peaceful co-existence, human fraternity and a sustainable future for all. We believe that Compassion is awakened by building chains of trust among people and groups, mobilizing conscientious leaders, connecting ideas and initiatives to form an active ecosystem of solutions, leading to transformative global impact. Join the Movement Our Legacy Chronicling the legacy and history of the formation of the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion.The photographs are a testimony to the relentless struggle, courage and sacrifice of millions of people around the world who fought for the freedom and fundamental rights of the most marginalised and invisible people. A HISTORIC FIRST The rescue of 15-year-old Sabo and 35 other bonded labourers from a brick kiln in Sirhind, Punjab, by Kailash Satyarthi in 1981 is the first ever documented civil society led rescue initiative in India. COMPASSION SOOTHES BURNS Eight-year-old Ashraf used to work at the home of a government official. Accusing him of having food meant for his children, the official burnt him with hot iron rods. He was rescued by Kailash Satyarthi and reunited with his family. INCEPTION OF BAL ASHRAM An incredible moment during the Canadian Labour Congress in 1996 when Asmita Satyarthi’s powerful speech led to the creation of Bal Ashram. NOBEL PEACE PRIZE Conferment of the Nobel Peace Prize on Kailash Satyarthi in recognition of his struggle against the suppression of children and young people on December 10, 2014, was the defining moment for globalizing compassion. He dedicated his Nobel Prize to the nation. LIGHT OF A BETTER TOMORROW Pained by the suffering of millions of young girls who are married off early, Kailash Satyarthi and Sumedha Kailash launched a pan-India ‘Child Marriage Free India’ campaign which saw spirited participation of 76,000 women across India. Nobel Peace Laureate Leymah Gbowee was also present on the occasion. QUESTIONING UNTOUCHABILITY Doors of the 400-year-old Nathdwara Temple near Udaipur in Rajasthan were firmly shut for people belonging to lower castes for decades. All this however changed on October 2, 1988, when Kailash Satyarthi entered the temple along with people who were so far labelled as “untouchables”. NO CHILD’S PLAY THIS! Despite a brutal attack on Kailash Satyarthi and his associates, a daring operation to rescue exploited Nepalese girls employed in a circus was carried out in Gonda district of Uttar Pradesh in 2004. Following this, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between Bachpan Bachao Andolan and Indian Circus Industry to stop employment and exploitation of children in the circus. EDUCATION FOR ALL A nationwide ‘Shiksha Yatra’ (Education March) was launched in Kanyakumari in 2001 demanding free and compulsory education. This culminated in Delhi and paved the way for education being made a fundamental right in India. 100 MILLION FOR 100 MILLION Honourable President of India Pranab Mukherjee launched ‘100 Million for 100 Million’ campaign at Rashtrapati Bhawan in Delhi. This global effort was aimed at mobilizing 100 million youth for shaping a better future of 100 million children who are less privileged. REST IN POWER Dhoom Das, Adarsh Kishore and Kalu Kumar are martyrs of our movement for globalizing compassion. They lost their lives in their struggle for rescuing children from slavery and gifting them the joys of freedom. FROM BONDAGE TO FREEDOM The picture on the left depicts children who were rescued from bondage in 1985. 35 years later, as is shown in the picture on the right, they came down to meet Kailash Satyarthi and Sumedha Kailash and shared their vision for the life ahead. GLOBAL MARCH AGAINST CHILD LABOUR Bringing the largely ignored issue of child labour on the global map, Kailash Satyarthi undertook 80,000 km global walk across 103 countries which culminated on June 6, 1998, at the UN headquarters in Geneva. When 36 children, who had once been child labourers, from different parts of the world entered the corridors of the UN headquarters shouting slogans, ‘Child Labour, Down, Down’ it was a watershed moment that led to the universally ratified ILO Convention 182. INDIA MARCHES AGAINST CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE Over 800,000 people marched across India in 2017 under the leadership of Kailash Satyarthi traversing 11,000 km in 35 days with a clarion call to ‘Make India Safe’ for its children. More than around 250,000 educational institutions and 500 corporate houses also joined in. LAUREATES & LEADERS JOIN HANDS Kailash Satyarthi launched Laureates and Leaders for Children Summit in 2016 at Rashtrapati Bhawan, hosted by the Honourable President of India Pranab Mukherjee. GLOBALIZING COMPASSION Born out of four decades of Kailash Satyarthi’s revolutionary life and path-breaking endeavors as a social reformer, Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion is a global movement aimed at igniting Compassion in Action in the world. ### Leading Social Reformer in India : Kailash Satyarthi: Social Reformer in India Changing Lives Kailash Satyarthi and His Impact as a Social Reformer in India India has a rich history of social reformers who have worked tirelessly to bring about change in society. Among the notable figures is Kailash Satyarthi, a globally recognized social reformer in India. Known for his fight against child labor and exploitation, Satyarthi has dedicated his life to ensuring the rights of children worldwide. His impactful initiatives have inspired many, making him a symbol of hope and resilience. Who is Kailash Satyarthi? – Champion of Social Reform in India Kailash Satyarthi is a Nobel Peace Prize laureate and an advocate for child rights. Born in 1954 in Madhya Pradesh, he began his career as an electrical engineer but later shifted his focus to social activism. His efforts have liberated over 100,000 children from slavery and exploitation across India and other parts of the world​. And this how he become novel peace prize winner social reformer in India. Key Contributions and Initiatives Bachpan Bachao Andolan (Save Childhood Movement)This organization was founded by Satyarthi in 1980 to rescue children from bonded labor and advocate for their education and rights. The movement has become a cornerstone in the fight against child trafficking in India. Bal Mitra Gram (Child-Friendly Villages)The Bal Mitra Gram model focuses on empowering rural communities to prevent child exploitation. It works by educating villagers on child rights and fostering democratic practices to safeguard children​ Satyarthi Kailash Satyarthi Children's Foundation (KSCF)Established as a global platform, KSCF promotes child protection and development. It engages with stakeholders, including governments and civil society, to address issues such as child labor, trafficking, and abuse​ Satyarthi. Global CampaignsSatyarthi has led international initiatives like the "100 Million for 100 Million" campaign, which mobilizes youth worldwide to support the most marginalized children Awards and Recognition of Kailash Satyarthi Kailash Satyarthi's work has earned him numerous accolades, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014, which he shared with Malala Yousafzai. He has also received the Defender of Democracy Award and the Harvard Humanitarian of the Year award. These honors highlight his global impact as a social reformer in India. Why Kailash Satyarthi's Work Matters to Expats For expatriates interested in India’s social landscape, Satyarthi’s journey is a testament to how grassroots activism can bring about substantial change. His efforts emphasize the importance of community participation in addressing social issues, offering valuable insights for global citizens and change-makers. That's the main reason why his work matters a lot and he become great social reformer in India. Books Written By Kailash Satyarth Sapno ki Roshni Every Child Matters Badlav ke Bol Will for Children Azad Bachpan ki Ore COVID-19 : SABHYATA KA SANKAT AUR SAMADHAN Kailash Satyarthi Featured on KBC (Kaun Banega Crorepati) Show https://youtu.be/C7uUVCQczm8?si=IBRLCqRWYoGhFWoA How to Support Kailash Satyarthi's Mission If you are inspired by Kailash Satyarthi’s work, you can contribute to his foundation through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness about child rights. The Kailash Satyarthi Children’s Foundation accepts support for initiatives like the Freedom Fellows Education Fund and the Justice for Every Child program. Conclusion: Social Reformers in India Like Kailash Satyarthi Inspire Change Social reformers in India, such as Kailash Satyarthi, showcase the power of compassion and determination. His relentless pursuit of justice for children continues to resonate globally. Supporting his mission can help ensure a brighter, safer future for vulnerable children. ### Financial Reports Financial Reports Our Financial Transparency At the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion, we prioritize transparency, ethical stewardship, and compliance with all regulatory guidelines. Our financial statements are shared to reinforce our commitment to integrity and accountability. Each report highlights how funds are allocated to support our mission, helping us make a tangible difference for the communities we serve. Download the PDFs below to view our annual financial reports Report FY 2023-24 Download Report Report FY 2022-23 Download Report Report FY 2021-22 Download Report Report FY 2020-21 Download Report Report FY 2019-20 Download Report Report FY 2018-19 Download Report Report FY 2017-18 Download Report Report FY 2016-17 Download Report Report FY 2015-16 Download Report Report FY 2014-15 Download Report Report FY 2017-18 Download Report Report FY 2016-17 Download Report ### Compassionate Leadership for a Just and Sustainable World: A Global Call to Action SMGC and UNESCO, in partnership with Indiaspora, organised a High-Level Side Event during the UN Summit of the Future Action Days at St. Bart’s Community House 325 Park Avenue in New York, ‘Compassionate Leadership for a Just and Sustainable World: A Global Call to Action’. The event was organised on September 21, 2024. This event focussed on the urgent need for Compassionate Leadership in the world, bringing together Nobel Laureates and global thought leaders. The esteemed speakers included Gabriela Ramos (Assistant Director-General for the Social and Human Sciences of UNESCO), Leymah Gbowee (Nobel Peace Laureate 2011), Kerry Kennedy (President, Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Foundation), M.R. Rangaswami (Founder and Chairman, Indiaspora), and Asmita Satyarthi (CEO, Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion). Perspective In a world increasingly challenged by escalating conflicts, deepening inequalities, and mounting environmental crises, the call for compassion has never been more urgent. The Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion (SMGC), founded by SDG Advocate Emeritus and Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi, and UNESCO, are at the forefront of this call, striving to ignite the spark of compassion in everyone to ensure justice, equity, peace, and sustainability for all. The Compassionate Leadership Academy, a collaborative platform, uniting the efforts of the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion and UNESCO was officially launched at this event. It is inspired by Mr. Satyarthi’s vision of compassion as the strongest connection with a problem that compels one to take meaningful action. The Academy aims to spread this form of leadership across all sectors, establishing compassion as a driving force in the pursuit of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. We believe that compassion can serve as the cohesive force that strengthens the pillars of the SDGs—People, Planet, Prosperity, and Peace—and accelerates their progress. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), are falling short of their targets. Issues such as wars, the climate crisis, inequality, human rights abuses persist, demanding urgent and innovative solutions. In response, the Compassionate Leadership Academy proposes a paradigm shift: integrating compassion into societies, governance, leadership and everyday interactions. This approach aims not only to alleviate immediate suffering but also to address the root causes of systemic injustices and build resilient communities capable of sustaining positive change. The world is in dire need of sustainable solutions and ethical leadership, and the Academy aims to position compassion as the core driver of the global development agenda. Through its programmes, the Academy will train and support a new generation of leaders who prioritise humanity and justice in their decisions, ensuring that development is inclusive, equitable, and truly transformative. The Compassionate Leadership Academy aims to: Promote compassionate global governance grounded in human fraternity, tolerance, and inclusion; Advance intercultural and interfaith dialogue, fostering mutual co-existence and solidarity among diverse communities; Foster compassion in action and cultivate compassionate leadership across various domains, including politics, governance, faith, business, civil society, academia, healthcare, judiciary and law enforcement; Enhance youth leadership in vulnerable populations and conflict-affected areas, empowering them to engage in mindful problem-solving approaches; Establish and enhance Compassionate Intelligence to develop transformative solutions for addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges. The congregation served as a collaborative platform, uniting the efforts of SMGC, UNESCO and other global experts in a shared mission to advance compassionate action to achieve justice, peace, tolerance and sustainability in the world. The attendees got the opportunity to engage in rich dialogue, explore new partnerships, and join a movement that seeks to redefine leadership for a more just and compassionate world. In this pivotal moment, where the attainment of the SDGs is at serious risk, the event offered us all to reevaluate our approach to life and society, reaffirming the belief that compassion is the force capable of guiding us toward a more just and sustainable future. Join the event at St. Bart's Community House 325 Park Avenue, New York Event  SMGC and UNESCO, in partnership with Indiaspora, are proud to host a High-Level Side Event during the UN Summit of the Future Action Days in New York, ‘Compassionate Leadership for a Just and Sustainable World: A Global Call to Action’. The event will be held on September 21st 2024 from 4:00 - 6:00 PM ET. This event will focus on the urgent need for Compassionate Leadership in the world, bringing together Nobel Laureates and global thought leaders. Proposed speakers include Ms. Gabriela Ramos (Assistant Director-General for the Social and Human Sciences of UNESCO), Ms. Leymah Gbowee (Nobel Peace Laureate 2011), Ms. Kerry Kennedy (President, Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Foundation), Mr. M.R. Rangaswami (Founder and Chairman, Indiaspora), and Ms. Asmita Satyarthi (CEO, Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion).   Context  In a world increasingly challenged by escalating conflicts, deepening inequalities, and mounting environmental crises, the call for compassion has never been more urgent. The Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion (SMGC), founded by SDG Advocate Emeritus and Nobel Peace Laureate Shri Kailash Satyarthi, and UNESCO, are at the forefront of this call, striving to ignite the spark of compassion in everyone to ensure justice, equity, peace, and sustainability for all. The Compassionate Leadership Academy, a collaborative platform, uniting the efforts of the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion, UNESCO will be officially launched at this event. It is inspired by Mr. Satyarthi’s vision of compassion as the strongest connection with a problem that compels one to take meaningful action. The Academy aims to spread this form of leadership across all sectors, establishing compassion as a driving force in the pursuit of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. We believe that compassion can serve as the cohesive force that strengthens the pillars of the SDGs—People, Planet, Prosperity, and Peace—and accelerates their progress. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), are falling short of their targets. Issues such as wars, the climate crisis, inequality, human rights abuses persist, demanding urgent and innovative solutions. In response, the Compassionate Leadership Academy proposes a paradigm shift: integrating compassion into societies, governance, leadership, and everyday interactions. This approach aims not only to alleviate immediate suffering but also to address the root causes of systemic injustices and build resilient communities capable of sustaining positive change. The world is in dire need of sustainable solutions and ethical leadership, and the Academy aims to position compassion as the core driver of the global development agenda. Through its programs, the Academy will train and support a new generation of leaders who prioritize humanity and justice in their decisions, ensuring that development is inclusive, equitable, and truly transformative. The initiative aims to: Promote compassionate global governance grounded in human fraternity, tolerance, and inclusion; Advance intercultural and interfaith dialogue, fostering mutual co-existence and solidarity among diverse communities; Foster compassion in action and cultivate compassionate leadership across various domains, including politics, governance, faith, business, civil society, academia, healthcare, judiciary, and law enforcement; Enhance youth leadership in vulnerable populations and conflict-affected areas, empowering them to engage in mindful problem-solving approaches; Establish and enhance Compassionate Intelligence to develop transformative solutions for addressing some of the world's most pressing challenges. This gathering will serve as a collaborative platform, uniting the efforts of SMGC, UNESCO and other global experts in a shared mission to advance compassionate action to achieve justice, peace, tolerance, and sustainability in the world. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in rich dialogue, explore new partnerships, and join a movement that seeks to redefine leadership for a more just and compassionate world. In this pivotal moment, where the attainment of the SDGs is at serious risk, this event invites us all to reevaluate our approach to life and society, reaffirming the belief that compassion is the force capable of guiding us toward a more just and sustainable future. RSVP Here ### Igniting Compassion: Key Moments from the Youth Summit on Human Fraternity & Compassion The Youth Summit on Human Fraternity and Compassion, held from September 30 to October 2, 2023, in Viratnagar, Rajasthan, was a landmark event that brought together over 600 global youth leaders, religious figures, social activists and thought leaders. Hosted by the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion (SMGC) in collaboration with the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity (ZAHF), the Summit aimed to foster open dialogues, generate actionable initiatives and build a global movement centred on compassion as a transformative force. A Historic Gathering to Globalise Compassion The Summit commenced with a powerful opening address by Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi, who set the tone for the three-day event by emphasising the urgency of globalising compassion in a world increasingly marked by divisions and fractures. Satyarthi’s call to action was both inspirational and urgent, “For the first time in the world, 500-600 youth have gathered under one roof to globalise compassion. Compassion has always been talked about, but today it has become a necessity due to the divisions within society and fractures in the world. Those who have gathered here today are part of history, contributing to the global movement of compassion.” Satyarthi’s message resonated deeply with the participants, many of whom are young leaders from diverse cultural, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds. His words underscored the critical role that the youth must play in fostering unity and bridging divides. The message was clear: compassion is not merely an abstract concept but a tangible force that can drive real, positive change in the world. Connecting Human Fraternity with Compassion Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, Secretary-General of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity, reinforced Satyarthi’s message by drawing a direct link between human fraternity and compassion. He stressed that human fraternity, as outlined in the Document on Human Fraternity co-signed by Pope Francis and the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, is deeply rooted in compassion. Abdelsalam asserted, “No human being is born with enmity or innate discrimination and hatred. All religions in the world call for compassion.” This sentiment served as a guiding principle throughout the Summit, encouraging participants to view compassion as a universal value that transcends religious and cultural boundaries. Leymah Gbowee, the 2011 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate from Liberia, also shared a poignant personal story that illustrated the transformative power of compassion. She recounted how a former child soldier, whose village was destroyed, chose a peaceful and compassionate path to seek justice. Gbowee’s story served as a powerful reminder of how compassion can overcome even the most harrowing circumstances, reinforcing the Summit’s overarching theme. Women Leaders Call Upon Bridging the Gender Gap The role of women in leadership, particularly in addressing the gender gap through compassion, was a central theme on the second day of the Summit. A distinguished panel of global women leaders, including Dr Epsy Campbell Barr, former Vice President of Costa Rica, and Asmita Satyarthi, the then Managing Trustee of SMGC, shared their insights on how compassion can empower women and create more equitable societies. Asmita spoke with pride about her mother’s role in standing beside her father, throughout his journey as a social reformer. “Behind every successful man stands a woman, but my mother stood beside my father, and that makes me immensely proud of her. We need men to stand up with us,” she remarked, highlighting the need for gender equality in leadership. Dr Epsy Campbell Barr expanded on this idea, “Women’s power in leadership is akin to that of a mother—a mother considers everyone and their needs,” she said, emphasising the unique perspective women bring to leadership roles. The discussion also touched on the social and economic disparities women face, with Dr Nahla Al-Saeedi, the first woman appointed as an advisor to the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, calling for educational institutions to raise awareness about women’s rights and support them in overcoming challenges. “A society cannot thrive without the equal contributions of men and women,” she asserted. Youth Climate Champion Prajakta Koli, known for her work as a social media content creator and her collaboration with UNDP India on climate change issues, also shared her perspective. She emphasised the role of social media in driving actionable change, stating, “For me, compassion means equality. Through my platform, I can influence my community to engage in compassionate actions that promote equality and justice.” Compassion in Action: The Commitments One of the Summit’s most significant outcomes was the creation of over 850 actionable initiatives designed to globalise compassion. These initiatives were not merely theoretical; they were specific commitments made by nearly 600 youth leaders, each pledging to implement compassionate actions within their communities. The breadth and diversity of these initiatives were remarkable, ranging from inspiring compassionate deeds in schools to leveraging established models and initiatives like Bal Mitra Gram (BMG), Bal Mitra Mandal (BMM), and Panchayats to promote compassion. Participants also committed to spreading the message of compassion during significant occasions such as Children’s Day (November 14) and various cultural and religious festivals. These initiatives were aimed not only at fostering compassion among humans but also at preserving the environment, reflecting a holistic approach to compassion that includes all living beings and the planet itself. The emphasis on interfaith dialogue was particularly significant, with religious leaders from various backgrounds coming together to champion compassion as a means to transcend religious and cultural barriers. The Summit also placed a strong emphasis on integrating compassion into policymaking, advocating for compassionate governance that prioritises inclusivity and social cohesion. Participants underscored the importance of addressing systemic injustices as key components of compassionate action. A Legacy of Compassion As the Summit drew to a close, the resounding message was clear: compassion is the guiding force for creating positive change in the world. Kailash Satyarthi reiterated this sentiment, stating, “Compassion is not merely a soft power; it can be the spark that illuminates the world and creates a brighter future.” The commitment to compassion extended beyond the Summit, with participants pledging to continue their efforts to promote compassion globally. The Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion, inspired by Kailash Satyarthi’s four decades of social reform, continues to lead the charge in promoting compassion across all sectors of society—from education to business to government. Similarly, the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity, with its significant recognition of individuals and institutions breaking down societal divisions, remains a key partner in this global endeavour. The Youth Summit on Human Fraternity & Compassion marked the beginning of a new chapter in the global compassion movement, one that promises to transform our fractured world into a more inclusive, empathetic, and harmonious society. ### Retreat The ‘Compassion in Action’ Youth Retreat December 26 - 31,  2024Embark on a life-changing journey at Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi’s Bal Ashram in India. Ignite your Spark of Compassion and experience true transformation as you spend time with real life heroes who have overcome the worst forms of exploitation to emerge as changemakers.Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion (SMGC) is delighted to invite you to a five-day exclusive experiential trip to the Bal Ashram, a long-term residential rehabilitation and empowerment centre in Viratnagar, Rajasthan, founded by the Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi.Over the last 25 years, Bal Ashram has been home to thousands of children rescued from child labour, slavery trafficking and exploitation from across the country. With its unique nurturing environment, the Ashram is an epitome of Compassion in Action, where every child not just overcomes their fears and trauma of exploitation, but also begins their transformational journey of leaders of tomorrow. This retreat isn’t just a visit to Bal Ashram – it is a journey into the very essence of compassion. It is your window to understand how Compassion in Action is both replicable and scalable to solve some of the most challenging global development issues and empower communities sustainably. The objective of this initiative is to help you increase your Compassion Quotient and apply Compassion in Action to all aspects of your life. Through the visit, you will harness knowledge and experience from Compassionate Communities, and learn from evidence-based practices. Furthermore, you will also embark on a journey of deep self-reflection, interactive problem solving, and community-based immersive learning. Highlights of this Immersive Journey Compassion in Action Learn about the Compassion Quotient and how to use the transformational force of Compassion to address complex problems. Social Impact Interact with compassionate community members and grassroots leaders, and experience transformation on-ground. Problem Solving Hone problem solving skills through hands-on understanding of problems at the grassroots level and finding implementation solutions. A One-of-its-kind Opportunity Interact with Kailash Satyarthi in a relaxed intimate setting, with his untold inspiring stories of courage, resilience, and compassion. Leadership Build lasting relationships with fellow participants, civil society and business leaders driving enduring change. Culture Explore parts of Rajasthan like never before with curated experiences around history, heritage, art, and food. Eligibility and Cohort Size This is a youth retreat meant for participants between the ages of 16-25 years. The cohort size for this retreat is 15 participants. We have very limited seats and so we encourage you to apply early if you are interested. Broad Itinerary December 26 Welcome dinner in New Delhi December 27 Arrival at the Bal Ashram, meet and greet with child survivors, youth, and community leaders December 28 Workshop to learn about the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion, visit the local Nomadic community, and learn about the Banjara Education Centre December 29 Visit a local Bal Mitra Gram (child friendly village), learn about the model and interact with the community, and later visit Rajasthan’s heritage sites, including Amer Fort December 30 Engage in a day-long series of insightful discussions with Kailash Satyarthi on Compassion in Action, exploring how you can actively contribute to building just and equitable communities, cities, and nations December 31 Retreat recap and experience sharing over breakfast with Kailash Satyarthi, final group activity, and departure for New Delhi Limited seats for only 15 youth! We are no longer accepting applications for December 2024. If you are still interested in joining, please email us at contact@satyarthimovement.org FAQs What is the cohort size for this retreat? How many participants will be accepted? The cohort size for this retreat is 15 participants. We want this gathering to be small and intimate where participants can make lasting friendships and engage deeply with our program. When will applicants know whether they are accepted as part of the 2024 cohort? We are accepting applications on a first come first serve basis until October 31 for foreign nationals and November 30 for Indians. All accepted participants will be sent their confirmation email within one week of the last date of application. Who is this retreat designed for? Do you have any minimum age requirement or eligibility criteria? This retreat is designed for the "next generation of compassionate leaders" and anyone between the ages of 16-25 years can apply. You need to be at least a junior in high school or 16 years of age to participate. Where is the retreat going to take place? The retreat is going to be held at Bal Ashram which is located in Rajasthan in India. What is Bal Ashram? Bal Ashram is a long term residential rehabilitation and empowerment center founded by Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi. It has been home to thousands of children rescued from child labor, slavery, and trafficking and exploitation from all over India. With its unique nurturing environment, the Ashram is an epitome of Compassion in Action where every child not only overcomes their fear and trauma of exploitation, but also begins their transformational journey of leaders of tomorrow. Where exactly is Bal Ashram? Bal Ashram is located in Viratnagar, Rajasthan. It is approximately 4 hours by road from New Delhi, and approximately 2 hours from Jaipur. What are some key guidelines and things to note regarding living at Bal Ashram? Bal Ashram has a strict no alcohol and no smoking policy on campus. We also only serve vegetarian food at Bal Ashram. Will we get to interact with Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi? Yes, as part of this specially curated program, you will get to interact with Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi over two days in a relaxed informal setting. We will curate the sessions in a way where Kailash-ji is able to share his journey and his passion for spreading the movement of global compassion, but also spend time with participants understanding their ambitions and aspirations. This will be a truly magical experience for all the participants. Is the program cost tax deductible in the US? Your payment is eligible for a tax deduction in the US. More details will be shared once you are accepted as part of the cohort. Can I make my own transportation arrangements to and from Bal Ashram? While we encourage all participants to join the program in New Delhi on Dec 26 in the evening for our welcome dinner, if you have other plans on Dec 26 and would like to join us directly at Bal Ashram on Dec 27, that is fine. However, we would request you to make your own arrangements to ensure you are at Bal Ashram by 4pm on Dec 27. Will I receive a certificate of participation from SMGC after the retreat? Yes, you will receive a certificate upon completion of the program on Dec 31. I am not going to be able to join the full program. Can I join for just a part of this retreat? No. Given the small size of our cohort, we are only able to accept participants who can commit to entire duration of our program. The program has been designed in a way where full participation is required to understand and appreciate the differet aspects of our compassion in action work. Can I participate with my partner or spouse or friend? Yes, certainly. They will need to apply and be accepted in the program separately. If accepted, you can share your room with them if you would like. Apply Now! Are you older than 16 years or will you be older than 16 years on Dec 26, 2024? YesNo 1. First Name 2. Last Name 3. Email 4. Phone 5. Address 6. Briefly describe why you would like to join this "Compassion in Action" retreat? What are you looking forward to getting out of it? 7. Tell us a little bit about your experience (or aspiration) with regards to engaging with any social causes or community activities. This is an optional question and it is okay to leave it blank if you don't have anything yet to share. 8. If selected as part of our 2024 cohort, are you available to be in India and fully participate at the retreat from Dec 26 to Dec 31, 2024? YesNo 9. Is there anything else that you would like to share with us? Sorry, you can't participate in the retreat as your age is less than 16 years. ### Our Leadership Our Leadership Our Founders Kailash Satyarthi Sumedha Kailash Kailash Satyarthi Kailash Satyarthi Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi, a social reformer par excellence, stands as one of the tallest leaders and the loudest voice for the oppressed and voiceless. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014 for his ‘struggle against the suppression of children and young people and for the right of all children to education.’ A Global Thought Leader and the founder of the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion, his dedication to social reforms is unparalleled. His fearless and unrelenting policy advocacy efforts towards the elimination of violence against the powerless have resulted in path-breaking legislations globally.As a worldwide campaigner, he has been the architect of the single largest civil society network for the most exploited children, the Global March Against Child Labour which led to the adoption of ILO Convention 182 on worst forms of child labour in 1999. He is also the founding president of the Global Campaign for Education, an exemplary civil society movement working to end the global education crisis and Good Weave International for being the first of its kind certification and social labelling mechanism for child labour-free carpets in South Asia.His fearless and unrelenting policy advocacy efforts towards the elimination of violence against the powerless have resulted in groundbreaking legislations globally.Through his organization, Bachpan Bachao Andolan, Mr. Satyarthi has liberated more than 130,000 children from child labour, slavery, trafficking, and other forms of exploitation and pioneered a successful model for their education, rehabilitation, and reintegration into mainstream society.Mr. Satyarthi's life and mission embody the profound impact of compassion, illustrating its transformative power to drive meaningful change. He strongly believes that compassion is not a weak emotion but one that provides endless energy and drive to take compassionate action to alleviate others' suffering as if it were one's own.Through his latest movement, Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion, Mr. Satyarthi aims to globalise compassion to promote a more just, peaceful and sustainable world. Read More >> Sumedha Kailash Sumedha Kailash co-founded Bal Ashram Trust in 1988 with the aim of creating a safe environment where children, especially girls can learn and grow without any fear of being exploited. Born in a family of freedom fighters & revolutionaries of the Indian freedom struggle, Sumedha deeply espoused values of freedom, justice, compassion, and female empowerment. Under her leadership, the Bal Ashram Trust also created Bal Mitra Gram and Banjara Education Centres to bring about a constructive change in the lives of women and girls.She has been relentlessly working in this field for 45 years along with her team of activists and women’s councils to generate awareness on issues of child labour, child trafficking, girls’ education, and women empowerment among various tribes and communities in Rajasthan. Her impeccable journey won the recognition of Mahatma Award (2021), Ramkrishna Jaidayal Harmony Award in the year 2020, Godfrey Philip Bravery Award (2009) and Aadhi Aabadi Women Achievers Awards in the year 2014. Read More >> Sumedha Kailash Chief Executive Officer Asmita Satyarthi Asmita Satyarthi A global leader and social reformer, Asmita holds an MBA from Indian School of Business in India and has led numerous organisations and driven transformation in areas of equality, justice, peace and sustainability.With an unwavering grit to advocate for social transformation, Asmita has spearheaded various organizations, including Global Sustainability Network, Wockhardt Foundation, and Goodera, among others. She has diverse experience ranging from the US Department of Justice, International Labour Organisation to grassroot work in India and other geographies. Asmita is committed to globalising compassion and establishing the urgency of compassionate action across all walks of life. Asmita has received several prestigious awards including the US State Department's 'Exceptional Leadership for Social Justice' award, the Rotary Club of Mumbai's Young Achievers Award, and the Dainik Bhaskar Group's Police Pride Award in Rajasthan. Read More >> Our Advisory Board Gabriela Ramos Minal Bajaj Narayana Murthy Pramath Raj Sinha Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar Gabriela Ramos Assistant Director General for Social and Human Sciences, UNESCO Gabriela Ramos Assistant Director General for Social and Human Sciences, UNESCOGabriela Ramos is the Assistant Director-General for the Social and Human Sciences of UNESCO, where she oversees the institution's contributions to building inclusive societies. Her mandate includes tackling economic inequalities of income and opportunity, and promoting social inclusion and gender equality. She also oversees the youth support agenda, promotion of values through sport, fight against racism and discrimination, and ethics of science, including of neurotechnology and the internet of things.She has overseen the development and adoption of the first global instrument to promote the ethics of artificial intelligence, adopted by acclamation in 2021 by UNESCO's General Conference. She launched the Global Forum against Racism, to catalyse the political support that member countries have given to this cause. She also leads the Management of Social Transformations (MOST) Programme to help UNESCO Member States strengthen the connection between research and policy and between knowledge and action. She is currently  leading UNESCO and international policy-makers and experts’ call to establish a global governance of the ethics of neurotechnology.Previously, Gabriela Ramos worked as Cabinet Director and Sherpa for the G20, G7 and APEC at the OECD, contributing to increasing the OECD's global impact and leading key initiatives such as "Inclusive Growth", "New Approaches to Economic Challenges", "Climate Change and Growth", the gender equality strategy and work on well-being and children. In 2013 she was awarded the Order of Merit (Ordre du Mérite) by the President of France. Her work to promote gender equality has earned her several awards including from Forbes and Apolitico. She is a board member of the "Paris Peace Forum"; the "UNICEF Advisory Board"; as well as the "Lancet Commissions on COVID and on Men's Violence against Women", and member of the Danone "Enterprise à Mission" Committee. Read More >> Minal Bajaj Honorary Director- Jamnalal Bajaj FoundationMinal Bajaj has been heading various activities of the Jamnalal Bajaj Foundation (JBF) as its Honorary Director, since 2009. She is involved in every aspect of the Foundation’s activities related to the Jamnalal Bajaj Awards initiative or looking into various potential developmental projects of other organization to provide financial aid. In her multifaceted role within the Bajaj Group her involvement and leadership has extended beyond the Foundation to sports, art and cultural initiatives, instituting her own NGO for the upliftment of marginalised urban women as well as creating the Bajaj Family Archives.In 2012, Minal founded Hamaara Sapna, her NGO in Mumbai. It is a culmination of a long held dream to give illiterate and home bound women a sense of self respect, self-confidence and relevant skills to navigate an increasingly complex world. Along with English, yoga, self-defense and computers, these ladies are taught tailoring with Khadi, thus promoting the ideology of self-reliance and Swadesh which was the belief of the guiding hands of the Bajaj Family.As a donor trustee of JBF, Minal was actively involved at every stage of the restoration process of Dr. Bhaudaji Lad Museum, India’s second oldest museum. As an avid sports fan, she extensively contributes her time, ideas and organizational skills to the Olympic Gold Quest and Ultimate Table Tennis as the Director of India’s top league for table tennis co-founded by her husband Niraj Bajaj. Read More >> Minal Bajaj Honorary Director- Jamnalal Bajaj Foundation Narayana Murthy Founder, Infosys Limited (NYSE: INFY) Narayana Murthy Founder, Infosys Limited (NYSE: INFY)Narayana Murthy founded Infosys in 1981. Infosys is a highly innovative software services global company listed on NYSE in the US and on the Bombay Stock Exchange in Mumbai with about US$ 18 billion in revenue and about US$ 73 billion in market capitalization.  He conceptualized, articulated, and implemented the Global Delivery Model (GDM) which has become the backbone of the Indian software industry. GDM is based on collaborative distributed software development principles and has resulted in the delivery of superior quality software to global customers delivered on time and within budget. He also introduced the concept of 24-hour workday to the world. In 2014, He was ranked 13th among CNBC’s 25 global business leaders. Fortune magazine listed him among the ‘12 greatest entrepreneurs of our time’ in 2012. He received Padma Vibhushan from India in 2008, Officer of Legion d’honneur from France in 2008, and CBE from Britain in 2007. The Economist ranked him among the 10 most-admired global business leaders in 2005. The Financial Times’ list of “Business pioneers in technology” ranked him among the top 10 in March 2015.  He is the first Indian winner of Ernst and Young’s World Entrepreneur of the Year award.He serves on the board of the United Nations Foundation. He has served on the boards of Ford Foundation in New York, Institute for Advanced Study at Princeton (New Jersey), HSBC in London, and Unilever in London. He is a member of the advisory board of the University of Tokyo (Japan), ESSEC Business School (France), IESE Business School (Spain) and Fundação Dom Cabral (FDC – Brazil). He is also a member of the Board of Governors and Trustees of the Asian Institute of Management, Manila. Read More >> Pramath Raj Sinha, PhD Founder & Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Ashoka UniversityFounding Senior Partner, JetriFounding Dean, ISBAuthor, An Idea Whose Time Has Come (2011) and Learn, Don’t Study (2023)Dr. Pramath Raj Sinha is a pioneering force in Indian higher education. He is the Founder & Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Ashoka University, a premier liberal arts and sciences university pioneering interdisciplinary education and research in India. He is a Founding Senior Partner of Jetri, India's only education-focused strategy and implementation firm. He was also the Founding Dean and is a member of the Executive Board of ISB, a top ranking business school in the world. Dr. Sinha has been instrumental in setting up a wide spectrum of change-based higher education initiatives, including a first-of-its-kind postgraduate management program for women, an entrepreneurship fellowship for the Himalayan region, and a solution-focused design university for the built environment. He was also the Founder and Chairperson of Harappa (now part of upGrad), an online-first learning institution on building habits and skills critical to workplace success in the twenty-first century. He has been a media entrepreneur, education consultant and management advisor at the 9.9 Group Private Limited, which he founded, and a Partner at McKinsey & Company. In 2025, Dr. Sinha was inducted into The Education Leaders Forum Fellowship—a recognition of his lifetime achievements and profound impact on education. In 2015, he was recognized as the 'Personality of the Year' by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) for his contributions to education. And, in 2013, he was listed as one of India's top 50 management thinkers by Thinkers50. He is an author of two books: An Idea Whose Time Has Come: The Story Of The Indian School Of Business (2011), and Learn, Don’t Study (2023). Academics are his first love. He received a PhD and an MSE from the University of Pennsylvania, and a BTech from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kanpur, where he was honored with the Distinguished Alumnus Award in 2018. Read More >> Pramath Raj Sinha, PhD Founder & Chairman, Harappa Education Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar Former Director General of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar Former Director General of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)Dr. Raghunath Anant Mashelkar is renowned for his world-class scientific research in polymer science and engineering, his transformative leadership of national research institutions, and his pioneering movements, such as evolving global systems for the protection of traditional knowledge, creating strong yet balanced IPR systems, and promoting an inclusive innovation movement based on the concept of Gandhian Engineering. He has been an influential thought leader in shaping Science, Technology, and Innovation policies in post-liberalized India. The President of India honored Dr. Mashelkar with three of the highest civilian awards: Padma Shri (1991), Padma Bhushan (2000), and Padma Vibhushan (2014). He has received a record 48 honorary doctorates from universities around the world, from London to Pretoria, Wisconsin to Monash, and Delhi. He served as the Director of the National Chemical Laboratory (1989-95) and later became the longest-serving head of three major organizations: Director General of CSIR (1995-2006), Chairman of the National Innovation Foundation (2000-2018), and President of the Global Research Alliance (2007-2017). He was also the President of the Indian National Science Academy (2004-2006) and the President of the Materials Research Society of India (2004-2006). Dr. Mashelkar has achieved many firsts in his career. He was the first Indian to win the prestigious TWAS-Lenovo Science Prize (2018), the highest science prize awarded by the World Academy of Sciences; the first Indian from India to be elected as a Fellow of the US National Academy of Inventors (2017); the first Asian scientist to win the BusinessWeek (USA) award of "Stars of Asia," presented by George H.W. Bush, the former President of the USA; and the first and only scientist to win the JRD Tata Corporate Leadership Award (1998). Read More >> ### The First-ever Roundtable Discussion on Developing Compassion Quotient The First-ever Roundtable Discussion on Developing Compassion Quotient The need for globalising compassion is more imperative than ever in the present international context, which is scarred by wars, deepening conflicts, inequalities, and global warming. International alliances are shifting, and exclusion, extremism, polarisation and division have unfortunately been mainstreamed in many countries. Despite global commitments to the UN’s ambitious Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to create peace and prosperity for people and the planet, they are not progressing quickly enough to achieve their 2030 deadline. Only 15% of the targets have been met so far, and progress has reversed for several critical targets, particularly for children. Yet collectively, the world has never been wealthier: economically, intellectually, and technologically. A fundamental shift must occur to reform global governance for an inclusive world. Cultivating compassion within society can be a powerful driver of this change. It can foster a sense of interconnectedness and responsibility for the well-being of all and inspire individuals and communities to take action. If compassion in action becomes central to how we work and live, how organisations grow and deliver their objectives, and how multinational and intergovernmental organisations approach internationalism, we can propel the world to a just and sustainable future. Once the spark of compassion is ignited, it will extend to all spheres of life. Despite its importance, no global standardised tool for measuring compassion levels for individuals and organisations, nor does a prospective theory of change on what affects or helps enhance the Compassion Quotient (CQ) currently exist. While most of us are familiar with Intelligence Quotient (IQ) and Emotional Quotient (EQ) which are used to measure the level of human intelligence and emotions, respectively, there is a need for a tool to measure the level of compassion in individuals and groups. We proudly hosted the first-ever international roundtable dialogue, in collaboration with the Centre for Social and Behaviour Change (CSBC) at Ashoka University on developing Compassion Quotient (CQ). Held on August 6, 2024, in Delhi, the event brought together global thought leaders from academia, business, research, and healthcare.The roundtable offered insightful discussions which will help us develop the matrix to measure CQ, and practical tools and tips to enhance CQ in individuals, groups, organizations, and communities. Read the summary Report ### Events & Campaigns Events And Campaigns Compassionate Leadership for a Just and Sustainable World: A Global Call to Action Compassionate Leadership for a Just and Sustainable World: A Global Call to Action SMGC and UNESCO, in partnership with Indiaspora, are proud to host a High-Level Side Event during the UN Summit of the Future Action Days in New York, ‘Compassionate Leadership for a Just and Sustainable World: A Global Call to Action’. The event will be held on September 21st 2024 from 4:00 - 6:00 PM ET. This event will focus on the urgent need for Compassionate Leadership in the world, bringing together Nobel Laureates and global thought leaders.Proposed speakers include Ms. Gabriela Ramos (Assistant Director-General for the Social and Human Sciences of UNESCO), Ms. Leymah Gbowee (Nobel Peace Laureate 2011), Read More The First-ever Roundtable Discussion on Developing Compassion Quotient The First-ever Roundtable Discussion on Developing Compassion Quotient The need for globalising compassion is more imperative than ever in the present international context, which is scarred by wars, deepening conflicts, inequalities, and global warming. International alliances are shifting, and exclusion, extremism, polarisation and division have unfortunately been mainstreamed in many countries. Despite global commitments to the UN’s ambitious Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to create peace and prosperity for people and the planet, they are not progressing quickly enough to achieve their 2030 deadline.  Read More Laureates and Leaders for Children Conclave 2024 Launch of Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion at the Laureates and Leaders for Children Conclave 2024 On March 11, 2024, the INDIA Laureates and Leaders for Children hosted its Conclave, “Creating a Compassionate World for Children,” in New Delhi. This gathering marked a continuation of the vital work of Laureates and Leaders for Children, bringing together Nobel Laureates and global leaders to foster a more compassionate world. During the event, our Founder, Mr. Kailash Satyarthi, introduced the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion (SMGC). Born out of four decades of Mr. Satyarthi’s revolutionary and path-breaking endeavors as a social reformer, SMGC aims to unite the fractured world through compassion in action. Read More Key Moments from the Youth Summit on Human Fraternity & Compassion Igniting Compassion: Key Moments from the Youth Summit on Human Fraternity & Compassion The Youth Summit on Human Fraternity & Compassion, held from September 30 to October 2, 2023 in Viratnagar, Rajasthan, was a landmark event that brought together over 600 global youth leaders, religious figures, social activists, and thought leaders. Hosted by the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion (SMGC) in collaboration with the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity (ZAHF), the Summit aimed to foster open dialogues, generate actionable initiatives, and build a global movement centered on compassion as a transformative force. Read More ### Home Page Click here for Live Updates Watch Our Story Join the Movement Our Story Satyarthi Movement For Global Compassion (SMGC) founded by Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi, is a global movement that champions compassion as a driving force for action and transformation. Its mission is to build a world rooted in justice, equality, peace, and sustainability through compassionate leadership and action across all areas of life.SMGC is committed to ‘Globalising Compassion’. We believe that Compassion is not a soft emotion - it is a powerful force, born from feeling another’s suffering as one’s own and taking mindful action to end that suffering. Read More Embracing compassion as a way of life Mr. Satyarthi has inspired millions of people across 140 countries to fight against child slavery and ensure freedom, education, equality and justice for the voiceless and the most marginalised. Let us enlarge our circle of compassion and pledge to act selflessly for those who need it the most. Donate Now The Need For Compassion 0 Billion people are living in conflict-affected areas (UN Press Release, 2022) 0 Million people are displaced due to the Ukraine War (UN SDG Report, 2022) 0 Suicides are committed every 2 minutes internationally (WHO Report, 2019) 0 Million people are suffering from anxiety (Our World Data, 2018) 0 % of Female high-school students in the US have considered suicide (Our World Data, 2018) Come, Join our Events A heart-to-heart touch can provide a profound and intimate connection, fostering a meaningful experience that words alone cannot convey. EVENTS IN SHORT Our Verticals SMGC Ignite Fostering compassion through learning and leadership programs anchored in the Satyarthi Compassion Quotient™ with a focus on systemic and sustainable problem-solving. SMGC Impact Catalyzing grassroots transformation by empowering children, youth, and women with a focus on democratic participation and collective action. SMGC Inspire Driving meaningful dialogue through conferences and conversations with Nobel Laureates, changemakers, thought leaders, and community voices from across the globe. “The message of compassion can only be understood and disseminated when everyone collectively understands their responsibilities.” Sumedha Kailash Co-founder, Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion “The commitment of people like Kailash and others around him has been extraordinary. And I’m proud to be part of this.” José Ramos-HortaPresident, Timor Leste & Nobel Peace Laureate 1996 Previous Next Compasion in Action Expand our Circles of Compassion Globalization of Compassion Theory of Change James M. Barrie Life is a long lesson in humility Social Reformer Kailash Satyarthi Compassion Quotient, Compassion in Action and Globalising Compassion - A conceptual framework Stories 531 VILLAGES Join the MovementJoin the Movement of Compassion and help create a world where kindness and empathy prevail, uplifting the lives of those in need. Together, we can build a society that nurtures and supports one another with love and understanding. Recurring Donations Donate now and make a compassionate difference in the lives of those facing hardship and adversity. Your contribution can bring hope, comfort, and relief to those in need, fostering a more caring and empathetic world. We are in midst of a crisis of civilization. Human connect through compassion is the most powerful way to restore justice, peace and sustainability in the world. Let us globalize compassion and learn how to walk together. - Kailash Satyarthi A huge fire broke out in the forest. All the animals were running away, including the lion, the king of the forest. Suddenly, he saw a tiny bird rushing straight towards the fire. He asked the bird, “What are you doing?” To the lion's surprise, the bird replied, “I am going to extinguish the fire.” The lion laughed and said, “How can you do it keeping just one drop of water in your beak?” But the bird was adamant, and said, “I am doing my bit.” Kailash Satyarthi Nobel Acceptance Speech, Oslo, 2014 Stories of Compassionate Action Slum Dweller Turns Cafe Owner: The Incredible Story of Priyanka Sowame 4 Minutes Read Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress | International Women’s Day 2024 Special Struggling to make both ends meet, Priyanka Sowame took a leap of faith and decided to board the train to attend the Youth Summit on Human Fraternity & Compassion in September last year. Little did she know what life had in store. Residing in a nondescript slum in Pune, Priyanka – a mother of two – had been struggling hard to make both ends meet. Paying the rent and taking care of her two daughters was proving to be an uphill task. But a meeting with Nobel Peace Laureate … Read More → From being a virtual ‘nobody’ to becoming an overnight role model, see how Surjeet Lodhi waged war against alcoholism 3 Minutes Read Traveling from Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh, we took the left turn to Sahba Village. Vibrant houses, though in worn out conditions, neatly decorated and coated with dung cakes to keep cool. As we asked for Surjeet Lodhi’s house, the children playing replied, “Accha, Sirju Bhaiya? Aaiye!”- The kids ask us if we mean the local hero, who they call Sirju. They led us to his house, excited to knock on his doors. Surjeet opens the door, with what already seems like a welcoming and humbling smile. Surjeet Lodhi is in his first year of pursuing journalism from Bhopal University. His relation … Read More → Lighting Up Lives: The Inspirational Journey of Usman Malik – A Visionary in the Dark 3 Minutes Read We generally look for the light at the end of the tunnel. On a dark road, at night, we follow the moonlight. Stars guide us home. Sunlight illuminates all that is dull, painting things in new colours, new shades every day. We get inspired when we see change.But how many of us truly experience all of this, feeling, sensing, hearing, breathing. Have you ever touched change? In Narangpur, the periphery of Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, lives a 25 year old visually impaired social worker, Usman Malik. Apart from social work, Usman is an important part of the Blind Cricket Team of … Read More → More Stories Kerry Kennedy President of Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights "Compassion means Empathy plus Action" Meenal Bajaj Honorary Director, Jamnalal Bajaj Foundation "There should be compassion in how we conduct businesses. We should make a difference by sensitizing and helping others." Padma Vibhushan Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar Former Director General of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) "In a world where darkness rules, let compassion be the light that leads us." Gabriela Ramos Assistant Director-General for Social & Human Sciences, UNESCO "Leadership must be grounded in compassion and a sense of moral accountability. The measure of compassionate leadership lies in its capacity to ensure the freedom, safety, health, and education of the most vulnerable and marginalized." Jody Williams Nobel Peace Laureate 1997 "Compassion in itself grows when it is for all" José Ramos-Horta President, Timor Leste & Nobel Peace Laureate 1996 "The commitment of people like Kailash and others around him has been extraordinary. And I’m proud to be part of this movement." Leymah Gbowee Nobel Peace Laureate 2011 "The world is calling all of us to step out and make changes, step out with compassion. I was a little girl who did just that and became a Nobel Peace Laureate" Justice Indira Banerjee Former Judge of the Supreme Court of India (2018-2022) "Securing the rights of children is a collective social responsibility, and everyone must have the right mindset to secure justice for children." Amit Gupta Chairman, TiE Global "Compassionate business is about three things: driving the business beyond the traditional profit-based model, capacity-building, and diversity." Iqra Youth Leader, Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion "Despite encountering multiple hurdles, driven by compassion, I was determined to find a solution for my fellow schoolmates who studied in dimly lit and sweltering conditions." Tara Banjara Youth Leader, Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion "Let’s pledge today to create a compassionate village, compassionate country and compassionate world." Kinsu Kumar Program Officer - Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion "The transformation in children is only because of the consistent practice of compassion at Bal Ashram" Previous Next Ignite Your Spark of Compassion All humans are born with an inherent capacity for Compassion. A compassionate person’s response to the suffering of self and others is instantaneous and instinctive. Compassion is the driving force that steers us from cognizance to compassion in action. Join the movement ### Laureates and Leaders Launch of Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion at the Laureates and Leaders for Children Conclave 2024 On March 11, 2024, the Laureates and Leaders for Children hosted its Conclave, “Creating a Compassionate World for Children,” in New Delhi. This gathering marked a continuation of the vital work of Laureates and Leaders for Children, bringing together Nobel Laureates and global leaders to foster a more compassionate world.During the event, our Founder, Kailash Satyarthi, introduced the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion (SMGC). Born out of four decades of Satyarthi’s revolutionary and path-breaking endeavours as a social reformer, SMGC aims to unite the fractured world through compassion in action. In fact, compassion has been the driving force behind some of the unique models, including Bal Ashram, Banjara Education Centres, Bal Mitra Mandal and Bal Mitra Gram implemented across the country.The Conclave facilitated thought-provoking discussions with eminent speakers, including Nobel Peace Laureates Kailash Satyarthi and Jody Williams; HE Serge Telle, former Prime Minister of Monaco; Padma Vibhushan Dr Raghunath Mashelkar, Former Director General of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR); Kerry Kennedy, President of Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights; Lelio Bentes Corrêa, Chief Justice of the Superior Labour Court of Brazil; and former judges of Supreme Court of India Justice Arjan Kumar Sikri and Justice Indira Bannerjee. The day-long event explored how a more compassionate world could be created by leaders from judiciary, faith, businesses, governance, education and healthcare.Launched with songs, joy, and a powerful sense of hope, SMGC seeks to reform global governance through compassionate dialogue and action. It aims to establish democratic, inclusive and dynamic institutions with compassionate leadership. Additionally, SMGC will build Compassionate Communities to promote inclusion, equity and social protection through youth leadership.Satyarthi addressed the gathering with a profound message: “Today, the world is wealthier and more interconnected than ever before. Yet, it is severely fractured and reeling from war, growing inequalities, hatred, climate crisis and potential threats of artificial intelligence. Children are always the worst sufferers. The UN Sustainable Development Goals have been derailed. Despite unprecedented wealth, resources, and knowledge, why do these problems persist? Institutions like the United Nations and governments, along with philanthropists have all gravely fallen short of uniting the world to end injustice and inequality. For decades, I have called for the globalisation of compassion. Today, we take the next step in this mission with the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion. Through this movement, I offer you hope. If our world is broken, we know that once, it was whole. I call on each of you to recognise that spark of compassion in you and join the global movement, for it is compassion that will unite our broken world.”The launch of the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion is a beacon of hope in these troubled times, striving to harness the power of collective compassion to create a brighter future for all, especially for the world’s most vulnerable children. Catch the glimpse of the Laureates and Leaders for Children Conclave 2024 Share on facebook Share on twitter Share on linkedin Recent Posts Do Your Bit All humans are born with an inherent capacity for Compassion. A compassionate person’s response to the suffering of self and others is instantaneous and instinctive. Compassion is the driving force that steers us from cognizance to compassion in action. Join the movement ### Founder's Corner Founder's Corner Transforming the World Through Compassion Quotient By Kailash Satyarthi Compassion has the tremendous power of social transformation to attain justice, peace and sustainability. Beyond societal benefits, compassion ensures personal growth, happiness and mental peace. While most of us are familiar with Intelligence Quotient (IQ) and Emotional Quotient (EQ) which are used to measure the level of human intelligence and... Read More Articles by Kailash Satyarthi Linkedin Articles By Kailash Satyarthi Read More How to Mitigate the Crisis of Adolescence Sabo's Liberation and the Birth of a Movement Compassionate Intelligence: A Moral Compass for Artificial Intelligence The Power of Compassion: Inspiring a New Generation of Leaders Dussehra: A Celebration of Compassionate Leadership My First Experience of True Freedom What is compassion and what is not? Commonwealth Education Ministers agree to incorporate Compassion in Action No Time to Relax: Ending Child Labour in this Generation Parliamentarians come together for the cause of children Walking together into a new future Special Moments in My Hometown, Vidisha Celebrating the First Anniversary of the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion Renewed Call from Vatican to End Child Exploitation Democracy in Dilemma Mahatma Gandhi: The Most Outstanding Compassionate Leader of the Last Century First-ever International Dialogue on Developing ‘Compassion Quotient’ The First Footprints of Ethical Consumerism ‘Chained in Supply Chains’ Children Deserve Freedom To Dream Without Fear Business Solutions To End Child Labour And Slavery Loneliness, the Silent Killer and its Antidote Story of My Autobiography 'Diyasalai' - A Matchstick Compassion in Geopolitics is the Solution to Global Peace Decent Work: A Path to Social Justice Youth on the Path of Making New India What am I? 20 Years of Making Education Accessible to All Biggest ever groundswell for clean supply chains Why am I bringing Nobel Laureates and world leaders to India? Letter To India How to Mitigate the Crisis of Adolescence Sabo's Liberation and the Birth of a Movement Compassionate Intelligence: A Moral Compass for Artificial Intelligence The Power of Compassion: Inspiring a New Generation of Leaders Dussehra: A Celebration of Compassionate Leadership My First Experience of True Freedom What is compassion and what is not? Commonwealth Education Ministers agree to incorporate Compassion in Action No Time to Relax: Ending Child Labour in this Generation Parliamentarians come together for the cause of children Walking together into a new future Special Moments in My Hometown, Vidisha Celebrating the First Anniversary of the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion Renewed Call from Vatican to End Child Exploitation Democracy in Dilemma Mahatma Gandhi: The Most Outstanding Compassionate Leader of the Last Century First-ever International Dialogue on Developing ‘Compassion Quotient’ The First Footprints of Ethical Consumerism ‘Chained in Supply Chains’ Children Deserve Freedom To Dream Without Fear Business Solutions To End Child Labour And Slavery Loneliness, the Silent Killer and its Antidote Story of My Autobiography 'Diyasalai' - A Matchstick Compassion in Geopolitics is the Solution to Global Peace Decent Work: A Path to Social Justice Youth on the Path of Making New India What am I? 20 Years of Making Education Accessible to All Biggest ever groundswell for clean supply chains Why am I bringing Nobel Laureates and world leaders to India? Letter To India articles by Our Founder Read All Articles Previous articles by Our Founder Read All Articles No Previous Articles ### Career Work With Us Join our vibrant team at the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion! We're a diverse, dynamic, and inclusive organization committed to globalizing compassion. Work at the heart of change With us, you’ll find endless opportunities to grow professionally and make a significant impact. Join a community that values creativity and the power of change.  We seek individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and value authenticity. We are committed to creating an environment where your talents and contributions are appreciated and celebrated.At SMGC, you will get a chance to work with a passionate, dynamic team dedicated to globalising compassion.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sOD8eIJ8zt8 Looking for your next career opportunity? Head - Information Technology Join our Team Director (Fundraising) Join our Team Executive Assistant Join our Team Sr Content Writer (Chairperson's Office) Join our Team Project Coordinator (M&E) Join our Team Finance Manager Join our Team ### Surakshit Bachpan Diwas 2024 Surakshit Bachpan Diwas 2024 We celebrate Surakshit Bachpan Diwas every year to commemorate the birthday of our founder and Nobel Peace Laureate, Kailash Satyarthi. He has liberated more than 100,000 children from child labour, slavery, trafficking, and other forms of exploitation. Read more about Kailash Satyarthi here. This year marked his 70th birthday, and below are the following updates:Felicitated 338 people, including men, women, children, and senior citizens, in 7 states across 124+ Gram Panchayats for their commitment to bringing sustainable change in communities through their compassionate actions.[Best_Wordpress_Gallery id="4" gal_title="Felicitation"]54 storytelling sessions were conducted with 7,677 participants to explain the difference between sympathy, empathy, and compassion through eccentric storytelling.[Best_Wordpress_Gallery id="6" gal_title="Stories of 3 sisters"] Health camps, quizzes, and sports activities took place in 7 states, reaching 15,700 people.[Best_Wordpress_Gallery id="8" gal_title="Quiz, drawing competition and health camps"] Event News ### SMGC BOOKLET A huge fire broke out in the forest. All the animals were running away, including the lion, the king of the forest. Suddenly, he saw a tiny bird rushing straight towards the fire. He asked the bird, “What are you doing?” To the lion's surprise, the bird replied, “I am going to extinguish the fire.” The lion laughed and said, “How can you do it keeping just one drop of water in your beak?” But the bird was adamant, and said, “I am doing my bit.” Kailash Satyarthi Nobel Acceptance Speech, Oslo, 2014 Compassion and Sustainable Development Goals In 2015, 17 Sustainable Development Goals were adopted by the United Nations to be achieved by 2030. Today, SDGs are at serious risk of attainment.We believe Compassion is the cohesive force that will strengthen the four pillars of SDGs - People, Planet, Prosperity and Peace and will help accelerate their progress. The need for Compassion Wars, armed conflicts, inequalities, injustices, extremism, and the climate crisis are all on the rise, leading to profound human suffering. There is an alarming increase in feelings of disconnectedness, loneliness, apathy and fear.We need to seriously rethink, redefine, and reconstruct our approach to life and society. Compassion is the most powerful way to enablepeaceful co-existence, human fraternity and a sustainable future for all. We need the power of compassion to heal the world. Sumedha Kailash - Co-founder, Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion Our Vision To globalise compassion to restore justice, peace, equity and sustainability in the world. Our Mission To define, evaluate and enhance Compassion Quotient in individuals, institutions and communities. Compassion is the feeling of the suffering of others as our own suffering with a strong drive to take action to alleviate that suffering.In simple words, compassion is mindful and selfless problem-solving.Compassion Quotient (CQ) is the measure of an individual’s ability for Compassion. CQ can be evaluated and its level can be increased. Our Objectives Catalysecompassion in action and compassionate leadership across sectors including business, civil society, academia, politics, faith, healthcare, judiciary, law enforcement to foster systemic change. Includethe most marginalised transcending gender, race, caste, religion and other barriers, end discrimination and create a compassionate society to ensure social inclusion for all. Learnand create knowledge rooted in experience and research, delivering evidence-based insights and real-life examples of compassion in action and compassionate leadership for transformative impact. Empoweryoung change-makers through targeted programs, to promote and amplify compassion in action and expand circles of compassion. Harnessthe power of self-compassion and compassion in action to combat loneliness, isolation and depression. Power of Democratic Participation Bal Panchayat is an exemplary model of democratic child and youth participation for social change. This is a council of elected leaders that works with the local government to highlight and resolve crucial issues being faced by the community.There have been 18113 Bal Panchayat leaders since 2001. Bringing Together Those Left Behind Our interventions with nomadic communities of India involve complex systemic transformation. These communities have always faced discrimination by mainstream society and labelled ‘criminals’.We work to ensure community members get identification documents, access to social protection and voting rights, helping prevent constant migration.Our focus is on education which helps create firstgeneration learners and empowering women and youth leaders to become agents of change.We work in 15 Nomadic Communities since 2008 Bal Ashram, the Compassion Lab In the Aravali hills of India, there exists a place where Compassion is a way of life.Here, children and youth from marginalised communities who have been rescued from the worst forms of abuse, exploitation and slavery, overcome their deep trauma. They learn to trust themselves and others, rediscover their childhood, and learn to dream. All through the power of compassion in action.Hundreds of these children and youth have become leaders and change makers themselves, fighting for the rights and freedom of the most marginalised. Some have become doctors, teachers, lawyers, engineersand entrepreneurs.Many of our learning programmes, dialogues and events are held at BalAshram, which continues to be a deep source of inspiration in our journey to globalise compassion. Champions of Change Payal Jangid Payal Jangid stopped her own child marriage when she was 10 years old. Through her advocacy and activism, Payal has been a champion for change and a fearless voice against the exploitation of children.For her courage and compassionate leadership, she received the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation’s Goalkeepers Global Goals Award at the age of 17, in 2019. Devli When Devli asked a group of world leaders at the United Nations’ General Assembly, “if a small girl like me can take a vow to enrol all children in school, then I am sure all ofyou dignitaries together can surely eradicate child labour and educate all children of the world.”Queen Rania of Jordan and Gordon Brown, the British Prime Minister came and hugged Devli. As a result of her act of bravery, 450 million dollars was announced to educate children globally. Compassionate Learning Experiential Learning Our Experiential Learning Program is a transformative journey involving deep self-reflection, interactive problem solving and immersive community-based learning. Participants witness grassroots change and learn from real-life acts of compassion in action. Research and Knowledge We conduct global research on compassion and its constituent elements, employing evidence-based methodologies and field research. We examine real-world models and transformational examples of compassion in action to create evidence-based knowledge of compassion as a tool for social transformation Circles of Compassion We facilitate the formation of ‘Circles of Compassion’ to encourage individuals to come together and drive social change within their communities. Through coexistence in peace and harmony with one another and the planet, these circles offer direction, motivation, innovative tools for problem-solving, fostering enduring and sustainable solutions. Experiential Learning Our Experiential Learning Program is a transformative journeyinvolving deep self-reflection, interactive problem solving andimmersive community-based learning.Participants witness grassroots change and learn from real-life actsof compassion in action. Research and Knowledge We conduct global research on compassion and its constituent elements, employing evidence-based methodologies and field research. We examine real-world models and transformational examples of compassion in action to create evidence-based knowledge of compassion as a tool for social transformation Circles of Compassion We facilitate the formation of ‘Circles of Compassion’ to encourage individuals to come together and drive social change within their communities. Through coexistence in peace and harmony with one another and the planet, these circles offer direction, motivation, innovative tools for problem-solving, fostering enduring and sustainable solutions. Compassionate Dialogues and Partnerships We curate conferences, events and dialogues to bring together global changemakers including youth advocates, thought-leaders and domain experts across sectors.The goal is to create awareness and understanding of compassion in action and compassionate leadership across the world.We partner with like-minded governments, organisations, institutions and worldwide to amplify our collective efforts to globalise compassion. Advancing the values embodying compassion and human fraternity is very much needed in our world today. H.E. Miguel Ángel Moratinos United Nations Under-Secretary-General Our Legacy Chronicling the legacy and history of the formation of the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion.The photographs are a testimony to the relentless struggle, courage and sacrifice of millions of people around the world who fought for the freedom and fundamental rights of the most marginalised and invisible people. A HISTORIC FIRST The rescue of 15-year-old Sabo and 34 other bonded labourers from a brick kiln in Sirhind, Punjab, by Kailash Satyarthi in 1981 is the first ever documented civil society led rescue initiative in India. COMPASSION SOOTHES BURNS Eight-year-old Ashraf used to work at the home of a government official. Accusing him of having food meant for his children, the official burnt him with hot iron rods. He was rescued by Kailash Satyarthi and reunited with his family. INCEPTION OF BAL ASHRAM An incredible moment during the Canadian Labour Congress in 1996 when Asmita Satyarthi’s powerful speech led to the creation of Bal Ashram. NOBEL PEACE PRIZE Conferment of the Nobel Peace Prize on Kailash Satyarthi in recognition of his struggle against the suppression of children and young people on December 10, 2014, was the defining moment for globalizing compassion. He dedicated his Nobel Prize to the nation. LIGHT OF A BETTER TOMORROW Pained by the suffering of millions of young girls who are married off early, Kailash Satyarthi and Sumedha Kailash launched a pan-India ‘Child Marriage Free India’ campaign which saw spirited participation of 76,000 women across India. Nobel Peace Laureate Leymah Gbowee was also present on the occasion. QUESTIONING UNTOUCHABILITY Doors of the 400-year-old Nathdwara Temple near Udaipur in Rajasthan were firmly shut for people belonging to lower castes for decades. All this however changed on October 2, 1988, when Kailash Satyarthi entered the temple along with people who were so far labelled as “untouchables”. NO CHILD’S PLAY THIS! Despite a brutal attack on Kailash Satyarthi and his associates, a daring operation to rescue exploited Nepalese girls employed in a circus was carried out in Gonda district of Uttar Pradesh in 2004. Following this, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between Bachpan Bachao Andolan and Indian Circus Industry to stop employment and exploitation of children in the circus. EDUCATION FOR ALL A nationwide ‘Shiksha Yatra’ (Education March) was launched in Kanyakumari in 2001 demanding free and compulsory education. This culminated in Delhi and paved the way for education being made a fundamental right in India. 100 MILLION FOR 100 MILLION Honourable President of India Pranab Mukherjee launched ‘100 Million for 100 Million’ campaign at Rashtrapati Bhawan in Delhi. This global effort was aimed at mobilizing 100 million youth for shaping a better future of 100 million children who are less privileged. REST IN POWER Dhoom Das, Adarsh Kishore and Kalu Kumar are martyrs of our movement for globalizing compassion. They lost their lives in their struggle for rescuing children from slavery and gifting them the joys of freedom. FROM BONDAGE TO FREEDOM The picture on the left depicts children who were rescued from bondage in 1985. 35 years later, as is shown in the picture on the right, they came down to meet Kailash Satyarthi and Sumedha Kailash and shared their vision for the life ahead. GLOBAL MARCH AGAINST CHILD LABOUR Bringing the largely ignored issue of child labour on the global map, Kailash Satyarthi undertook 80,000 km global walk across 103 countries which culminated on June 6, 1998, at the UN headquarters in Geneva. When 36 children, who had once been child labourers, from different parts of the world entered the corridors of the UN headquarters shouting slogans, ‘Child Labour, Down, Down’ it was a watershed moment that led to the universally ratified ILO Convention 182. INDIA MARCHES AGAINST CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE Over 800,000 people marched across India in 2017 under the leadership of Kailash Satyarthi traversing 11,000 km in 35 days with a clarion call to ‘Make India Safe’ for its children. More than around 250,000 educational institutions and 500 corporate houses also joined in. LAUREATES & LEADERS JOIN HANDS Kailash Satyarthi launched Laureates and Leaders for Children Summit in 2016 at Rashtrapati Bhawan, hosted by the Honourable President of India Pranab Mukherjee. GLOBALISING COMPASSION Born out of four decades of Kailash Satyarthi’s revolutionary life and path-breaking endeavors as a social reformer, Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion is a global movement aimed at igniting Compassion in Action in the world. Small acts of compassion keep the wheels of our society turning. We need to showcase those so that people know more good people out there. Leymah Gbowee Nobel Peace Laureate 2011 Compassion and human fraternity mean love in power. When more women are in leadership positions we could resolve the problems that we have as a society Dr. Epsy Campbell Barr Former Vice President of the Republic of Costa Rica It is our collective responsibility to understand compassion and unity among all people Kerry Kennedy President Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Despite encountering multiple hurdles, driven by compassion, I was determined to find a solution for my fellow schoolmates who studied in dimly lit and sweltering conditions. Iqra Youth Leader, SMGC ### Financial Report Financial Report 2022-23 Financial Report 2022-23 2021-22 4th Quarter (January 2022- March 2022) 3rd Quarter (October 2021 - December 2021) 2nd Quarter (July 2021- September 2021) 1st Quarter (April 2021- June 2021) Financial Report 2021-22 2020-21 4th Quarter (January 2021- March 2021) 3rd Quarter (October 2020 - December 2020) 2nd Quarter (July 2020- September 2020) 1st Quarter (April 2020- June 2020) Financial Report 2020-21 2019-20 4th Quarter (January 2020- March 2020) 3rd Quarter (October 2019 - December 2019) 2nd Quarter (July 2019- September 2019) 1st Quarter (April 2019- June 2019) Financial Report 2019-20 ​ ### Payment Information This Diwali Do your bit Support our Movement Bank Name : XXXXXXXXBank State : XXXXXXBank IFSC : XXXXXXAccount Number : XXXXXXXAccount Holder Name : XXXXX AFTER COMPLETING YOUR DONATION PLEASE SHARE YOUR PAYMENT SCREENSHOT ON OUR EMAIL AT CONTACT@SATYARTHIMOVEMENT.ORG. IF YOU ARE INDIAN CITIZEN INCLUDE YOUR PAN CARD NUMBER IN THE EMAIL. IF YOU ARE FOREIGN CITIZEN INCLUDE YOUR BIRHTDATE IN THE EMAIL. Terms and Conditions:Your donations are tax exempted under 80G of the Indian Income Tax ActTax exemptions certificates to be provided only for amount 500 INR or moreTax exemption certificates will be filled with the details submitted in the above formIn case of incomplete or false details your donation will be rejectedThis link is for Indian Nationals paying via Indian Bank accounts only ### Join the Movement Today! Join the Movement Today! Donate Now Why Support SMGC We firmly believe that no child should endure the horrors of exploitation, trafficking, child marriage or forced labour. For over 44 years, Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi’s groundbreaking efforts have been fueled by one powerful force - Compassion. Compassion is more than just empathy; it is the deepest connection with the suffering of others that compels you to take action to end that suffering. It was a single spark of compassion which compelled the engineer turned social reformer, Kailash Satyarthi to rescue the daughter of a bonded labour in 1981.  From an era when child labour was a barely heard-of issue, to influencing global laws and policies against child exploitation, education, and child marriage— our journey is a testament to the transformative power of compassion. We dream of a world where compassion becomes a way of life. At SMGC, we are empowering youth, women, children, and individuals to step up and become compassionate champions. Slowly but surely, we are dedicated to empowering compassionate leaders from all walks of life, igniting a global movement that bridges the gap between those who suffer and those who solve.Bal Ashram is a long-term rehabilitation center for children rescued from the worst forms of child labour and exploitation. Banjara Education Centres (BECs) are community-based learning centers that provide education to children from nomadic communities and address deep-rooted socio-cultural practices.Bal Mitra Gram (BMG) or Child-Friendly Village is an award-winning transformational model of preventive and holistic program with a focus on building child friendly communities in rural areas.Bal Mitra Mandal (BMM) is a preventive, holistic, and sustainable program for child rights and protection for building child-friendly urban slum communities.Your contribution not only brings light to places where darkness prevails but also inspires others to embrace compassion in action. Ignite Your Spark of Compassion! ₹ 2,500 ₹ 10,000 ₹ 25,000 ₹ 50,000 ₹ 1,00,000 Any other amount ❤️ Donate Now Together, let’s celebrate this festival of lights by creating a ripple effect that transcends boundaries and uplifts humanity. Educate and empower 1 child in India for a yearEducate and empower 3 children in India for a yearEducate and empower 5 children in India for a yearEducate and empower 5 children in India for a yearEducate and empower 10 children in India for a year ₹ 25,500 /- Educate and empower 15 children in India for a year ₹ 51,500 /-  Educate and empower 30 children in India for a year ### Blogs Blog Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi Calls for Global Compassion in Action Team SMGC October 8, 2023 Blog 2 Minutes Read Viratnagar, Rajasthan: Kailash Satyarthi, a Nobel Laureate, delivered a powerful message urging youth to become beacons of compassion and advocate for positive change in the world. He made this call at the launch of the inaugural Youth Summit on Human Fraternity and Compassion in Viratnagar, Rajasthan. Organized by the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion (SMGC) in partnership with the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity, this summit has drawn over 600 young leaders from various parts of India and the world. Mr. Satyarthi emphasized the urgent need to globalize compassion and address the societal divisions and fractures that have become increasingly … Read More → Prominent Women Leaders Call Upon Men to Help Bridge the Gender Divide Team SMGC October 8, 2023 Blog 2 Minutes Read Viratnagar, October 1: In a resounding call to foster compassion and equality while bridging the gender gap, a distinguished group of global women leaders gathered at the inaugural Youth Summit’23 on Human Fraternity and Compassion in India. During the second day of the summit held in Viratnagar, Rajasthan, these leaders, including a former Vice President, emphasized the pressing need to establish a framework to address this social and economic disparity. The esteemed women leaders who lent their voices to this crucial conversation included Ms. Asmita Satyarthi, Managing Trustee of the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion; Dr. Epsy Campbell Barr, former … Read More → Igniting Compassion: Highlights from the Inaugural Youth Summit on Human Fraternity & Compassion Team SMGC October 8, 2023 Blog 2 Minutes Read At the inaugural Youth Summit on Human Fraternity & Compassion, held in Viratnagar, Rajasthan from September 30 to October 2, 2023, global youth leaders collaboratively conceived more than 850 actionable initiatives to advance the #GlobaliseCompassion movement. These actions are designed to promote compassion for human fraternity and advocate for an inclusive society. Throughout the three-day event, reflections from young leaders resonated with the idea of compassion serving as the guiding principle for interfaith dialogues and the creation of a harmonious society. Over 500 youth leaders made specific commitments to carry out compassionate actions within their communities. Jointly hosted by the … Read More → ### Recent Activities Recent Events ### Youth Summit on Human Fraternity & Compassion Youth Summit on Human Fraternity & Compassion We celebrate Surakshit Bachpan Diwas every year to commemorate the birthday of our founder and Nobel Peace Laureate, Kailash Satyarthi. He has liberated more than 100,000 children from child labour, slavery, trafficking, and other forms of exploitation. Read more about Kailash Satyarthi here.This year marked his 70th birthday, and below are the following updates:Felicitation of 338 people, including men, women, children, and senior citizens in 7 states across in 124+ Gram Panchayats, for their commitment to bringing sustainable change in communities through their compassionate actions.[Best_Wordpress_Gallery id="4" gal_title="Felicitation"]54 storytelling sessions engaging 7677 participants were conducted to explain the difference between sympathy, empathy, and compassion through eccentric storytelling sessions.[Best_Wordpress_Gallery id="6" gal_title="Stories of 3 sisters"]Health camps, quizzes, and sports activities took place in 7 states, reaching 15,700 people.[Best_Wordpress_Gallery id="8" gal_title="Quiz, drawing competition and health camps"] Glimpses of Event Event Highlights Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi Calls for Global Compassion in Action Team SMGC October 8, 2023 Blog 2 Minutes Read Viratnagar, Rajasthan: Kailash Satyarthi, a Nobel Laureate, delivered a powerful message urging youth to become beacons of compassion and advocate for positive change in the world. He made this call at the launch of the inaugural Youth Summit on Human Fraternity and Compassion in Viratnagar, Rajasthan. Organized by the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion (SMGC) in partnership with the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity, this summit has drawn over 600 young leaders from various parts of India and the world. Mr. Satyarthi emphasized the urgent need to globalize compassion and address the societal divisions and fractures that have become increasingly … Read More → Prominent Women Leaders Call Upon Men to Help Bridge the Gender Divide Team SMGC October 8, 2023 Blog 2 Minutes Read Viratnagar, October 1: In a resounding call to foster compassion and equality while bridging the gender gap, a distinguished group of global women leaders gathered at the inaugural Youth Summit’23 on Human Fraternity and Compassion in India. During the second day of the summit held in Viratnagar, Rajasthan, these leaders, including a former Vice President, emphasized the pressing need to establish a framework to address this social and economic disparity.   The esteemed women leaders who lent their voices to this crucial conversation included Ms. Asmita Satyarthi, Managing Trustee of the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion; Dr. Epsy Campbell Barr, … Read More → Igniting Compassion: Highlights from the Inaugural Youth Summit on Human Fraternity & Compassion Team SMGC October 8, 2023 Blog 2 Minutes Read At the inaugural Youth Summit on Human Fraternity & Compassion, held in Viratnagar, Rajasthan from September 30 to October 2, 2023, global youth leaders collaboratively conceived more than 850 actionable initiatives to advance the #GlobaliseCompassion movement. These actions are designed to promote compassion for human fraternity and advocate for an inclusive society.   Throughout the three-day event, reflections from young leaders resonated with the idea of compassion serving as the guiding principle for interfaith dialogues and the creation of a harmonious society. Over 500 youth leaders made specific commitments to carry out compassionate actions within their communities.   Jointly hosted … Read More → Press Release Links Explore our curated collection of thought-provoking articles, previously featured on renowned platforms Arab News Wakanda Newtwork News Times of India Asia Times Amar Ujala Times Now Hindi Times Now News Hamari Duniya News Aalami Urdu Service WAM Annaharar Daiji World Ianslive Arab News Amar Ujala Hamari Duniya News Annaharar Wakanda Network News Times Now Hindi Aalami Urdu Service Daiji World Times Of India Times Now News WAM Ianslive Asia Times View More ### Explore Events A Youth Summit on Human Fraternity & Compassion Team SMGC September 14, 2020 The inaugural Youth Summit on Human Fraternity & Compassion is a collaborative endeavour between the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion (SMGC) and the Zayed Awards for Human Fraternity (ZAHF). Scheduled to take place in Viratnagar, near Jaipur, from September 30 to October 2, 2023, this summit aspires to be a transformative gathering with a global impact. Read More → Recent Posts ### Join the Movement Satyarthi Movement For Global Compassion (SMGC) aims to ignite 'Compassion in Action' in the world. It is born out of four decades of Mr. Kailash Satyarthi's (Nobel Peace Laureate 2014) revolutionary life and path-breaking endeavors as a social reformer. We have seen through concrete examples how a single spark of compassion can lead to paradigm shifting social transformation and meaningful impact at scale. SMGC is committed to ‘Globalizing Compassion’. We believe Compassion is the most powerful way to self-actualisation, rebuilding our shared humanity and ensuring a lasting and sustainable future for all.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wq5T0jR9J4c Do your Bit Join the Movement Today Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.Name *FirstLastLayoutEmail *Phone *Date of BirthLayoutStateCityPincodeLayoutSkills *Language KnownLayoutEducation (starting from the latest) *Work Experience (starting from the latest) * Submit The need for ‘Compassion’ SMGC is a global movement to ignite 'Compassion in Action' in the world. It is born out of four decades of Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi's revolutionary life and path-breaking endeavors as a social reformer. In spite of significant advancements in technology, global inequalities, extremism, war and conflict, climate crises are all on the rise leading to profound human suffering. There is an alarming increase in feelings of disconnectedness, loneliness, apathy and fear. The eects of the pandemic have intensified social exclusion. The numbers are staggering. 0 Billion people are living in conflict-affected areas (UN Press Release, 2022) 0 Million people are displaced due to the Ukraine War (UN SDG Report, 2022) 0 Suicides are committed every 2 minutes internationally (WHO Report, 2019) 0 Million people are suffering from anxiety (Our World Data, 2018) 0 % of Female high-school students in the US have considered suicide (Our World Data, 2018) Let us learn to walk together by igniting our spark of compassion - Kailash Satyarthi ### Our Initiatives Our Initiatives Compassionate Communities A ‘Compassionate Community’ is a rights-based, sustainable development model to address deep-rooted societal challenges. The aim is to create a more compassionate, empowered and equitable world with a community-centered, action-driven and participative approach.Youth and women leaders from these communities have shown exceptional courage and compassion to create transformative change and won several awards including the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation’s Global Goalkeeper Award.We believe that the need of the hour is to ‘Globalize Compassion’ by creating ‘Compassionate Communities’ around the world. Power of Democratic Participation Bal Panchayat is an exemplary model of democratic child and youth participation for social change. This is a council of elected leaders that works with the local government to highlight and resolve crucial issues being faced by the community.There have been 18113 Bal Panchayat leaders since 2001. Bringing Together Those Left Behind Our interventions with nomadic communities of India involve complex systemic transformation. These communities have always faced discrimination by mainstream society and labelled ‘criminals’.We work to ensure community members get identification documents, access to social protection and voting rights, helping prevent constant migration.Our focus is on education which helps create firstgeneration learners and empowering women and youth leaders to become agents of change.We work in 15 Nomadic Communities since 2008 Bal Ashram, the Compassion Lab In the Aravali hills of India, there exists a place where Compassion is a way of life.Here, children and youth from marginalised communities who have been rescued from the worst forms of abuse, exploitation and slavery, overcome their deep trauma. They learn to trust themselves and others, rediscover their childhood, and learn to dream. All through the power of compassion in action.Hundreds of these children and youth have become leaders and change makers themselves, fighting for the rights and freedom of the most marginalised. Some have become doctors, teachers, lawyers, engineersand entrepreneurs.Many of our learning programmes, dialogues and events are held at Bal Ashram, which continues to be a deep source of inspiration in our journey to globalise compassion. 0 + Lives Impacted 0 + Compassionate Communities 0 Women Trained in Vocational Skills 0 Elected Bal Panchayat Leaders 0 + Child Survivors Successfully Reintegrated Into Society Do Your Bit All humans are born with an inherent capacity for Compassion. A compassionate person’s response to the suffering of self and others is instantaneous and instinctive. Compassion is the driving force that steers us from cognizance to compassion in action. Join the movement Experiential Learning Program (ELP) The objective of our Experiential Learning Program is to help individuals increase their ‘Compassion Quotient’ and apply ‘Compassion in Action’ to all aspects of their life. This ELP model will harness knowledge and experience from ‘Compassionate Communities’ and include multidisciplinary research and evidence-based practices. Participants will embark on a journey of deep self-reflection, interactive problem solving and community-based immersive learning.The ELP will foster a sense of connectedness and personal fulfillment enhancing our commitment to human dignity, kindness and shared responsibility. SMGC Dialogues SMGC Dialogues serve as strategic engagements among global leaders, changemakers, and Mr. Kailash Satyarthi, aimed at promoting awareness and comprehension of 'Compassion in Action,' while also broadening the reach of 'Circles of Compassion'. Notable figures who have engaged in discussions with Mr. Satyarthi encompass: Peggy Dulany Founder & Chair, Synergos Hon. Kateryna Yushchenko Former First Lady, Ukraine;Member, NGIC Miguel Ángel Moratinos United Nations Under-Secretary-General Gabriela Ramos UNESCO Assistant Director-General Leymah Gbowee Nobel Peace Laureate and Liberian Peace Activist Kerry Kennedy President RFK Human Rights Compassionate Dialogues and Partnerships We curate conferences, events and dialogues to bring together global changemakers including youth advocates, thought-leaders and domain experts across sectors.The goal is to create awareness and understanding of compassion in action and compassionate leadership across the world.We partner with like-minded governments, organisations, institutions and worldwide to amplify our collective efforts to globalise compassion. Career Opportunities at SMGC Apply Now Apply Now ### Stories Stories of Compassion Champions of Change Payal Jangid Payal Jangid stopped her own child marriage when she was 10 years old. Through her advocacy and activism, Payal has been a champion for change and a fearless voice against the exploitation of children.For her courage and compassionate leadership, she received the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation’s Goalkeepers Global Goals Award at the age of 17, in 2019. Devli When Devli asked a group of world leaders at the United Nations’ General Assembly, “if a small girl like me can take a vow to enrol all children in school, then I am sure all ofyou dignitaries together can surely eradicate child labour and educate all children of the world.”Queen Rania of Jordan and Gordon Brown, the British Prime Minister came and hugged Devli. As a result of her act of bravery, 450 million dollars was announced to educate children globally. [dflip id="8267" type="thumb"][/dflip] Slum Dweller Turns Cafe Owner: The Incredible Story of Priyanka Sowame 4 Minutes Read Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress | International Women’s Day 2024 Special Struggling to make both ends meet, Priyanka Sowame took a leap of faith and decided to board the train to attend the Youth Summit on Human Fraternity & Compassion in September last year. Little did she know what life had in store. Residing in a nondescript slum in Pune, Priyanka – a mother of two – had been struggling hard to make both ends meet. Paying the rent and taking care of her two daughters was proving to be an uphill task. But a meeting with Nobel Peace Laureate … Read More → From being a virtual ‘nobody’ to becoming an overnight role model, see how Surjeet Lodhi waged war against alcoholism 3 Minutes Read Traveling from Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh, we took the left turn to Sahba Village. Vibrant houses, though in worn out conditions, neatly decorated and coated with dung cakes to keep cool. As we asked for Surjeet Lodhi’s house, the children playing replied, “Accha, Sirju Bhaiya? Aaiye!”- The kids ask us if we mean the local hero, who they call Sirju. They led us to his house, excited to knock on his doors. Surjeet opens the door, with what already seems like a welcoming and humbling smile. Surjeet Lodhi is in his first year of pursuing journalism from Bhopal University. His relation … Read More → Lighting Up Lives: The Inspirational Journey of Usman Malik – A Visionary in the Dark 3 Minutes Read We generally look for the light at the end of the tunnel. On a dark road, at night, we follow the moonlight. Stars guide us home. Sunlight illuminates all that is dull, painting things in new colours, new shades every day. We get inspired when we see change.But how many of us truly experience all of this, feeling, sensing, hearing, breathing. Have you ever touched change? In Narangpur, the periphery of Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, lives a 25 year old visually impaired social worker, Usman Malik. Apart from social work, Usman is an important part of the Blind Cricket Team of … Read More → From Child Bride to Education Advocate: Pooja Banjara’s Inspiring Journey Towards Empowerment and Equality 4 Minutes Read In a developed, progressive world, a 7-year-old child is pictured with starry eyes, hopes, and dreams. They have a little dance in their walk. They laugh the loudest, crack the silliest jokes, and prove to be the kindest of all. We want to protect them. We swear to take a grenade to save them. But that is not what happened with Pooja Banjara. At the age of 7, her family saw her fit to bejewel her in the attire of a bride. They saw her ready to replace her dreamy world with that of a married life. Residing in a … Read More → Subhash Banjara: Bridging Hearts and Minds for a Permanence of Dreams 3 Minutes Read The mind is the seat for reasoning, while the heart is home to compassion. We often wonder whether the two could coincide. Most times, it is said that we must follow one out of the two- it is either the heart or the brain. But when we met Subhash, he made us think otherwise. In the land of Neemadi, Subhash stays in a concrete house that shelters his family of four. He tells us that the house has been recently cemented because before pursuing academics, his family saw no point in spending on a permanent house. Subhash Banjara’s community is … Read More → Breaking the Chains: Akash Banjara’s Journey to Freedom and Empowerment 3 Minutes Read Freedom comes to us wrapped in an open space. We smell it, look up in the sky and breathe. Perhaps the sky is synonymous with being free. We look at birds soaring and we want to emulate them. When excited, we tend to jump, in attempts to touch and claim as much of the sky as we can. Sky means something to all of us, but it truly only belongs to birds. Meet one such bird, Akash Banjara. Akash was not always free to start with. The society she was born in was ready to tie her down in her … Read More → Rising Against Addiction: Niranjan’s Compassionate Crusade < 1 Minute Read Amidst the intricate tapestry of global social movements, one Indian social reformer stands out, bearing the torch of change. Meet Niranjan, a determined young man from the villages of Rajasthan, who has embarked on a journey that echoes the heartbeats of compassion and transformation. In the vast canvas of Sustainable Development Goals, target 3.a looms large—an aspiration to strengthen the fight against tobacco usage. With over 1.3 billion people worldwide under its grip, tobacco claims a staggering 8 million lives annually. India, too, faces this battle as 27% of its population succumbs to tobacco’s allure, causing 1 million of the … Read More → A 12-Year-Old Girl’s Endeavor Brings Light to a School After 16 Years 3 Minutes Read In the midst of a school nestled among rural landscapes, where electricity remains a distant dream, there shines a remarkable girl child whose spirit is illuminated by a resolute sense of optimism. Despite the challenges that surround her, she embraces each day with infectious enthusiasm, undeterred by the lack of modern amenities. But her determination serves as a beacon, which has helped illuminate the path for her community and show that dreams can thrive even amidst the darkes adversities. Iqra, the 16-year-old girl, lives in the small village of Rohta in Meerut with her family of seven. Her father, a … Read More → Empowering Equality, Compassion, and Change in the Face of Casteism 3 Minutes Read Certain parts of India continue to practice discriminatory customs based on birth. India has undergone significant changes in recent years, but it is also true that the issues of untouchability and casteism persist in certain parts of Indian society. Casteism refers to the social stratification and hierarchical division of society based on birth, with individuals being assigned a specific caste at birth. This system has deep historical roots and has influenced social interactions, occupation choices, and access to resources for centuries. In the practice of untouchability, even the shadow of a person from a lower caste is considered impure by … Read More → ### Gallery Gallery Hello. Our company has been present for over 20 years in the world. We make the best for help everyone. Phoebe Allen ORGANIZER Christina Lewis COORDINATOR #gallery-1 { margin: auto; } #gallery-1 .gallery-item { float: left; margin-top: 10px; text-align: center; width: 25%; } #gallery-1 img { border: 2px solid #cfcfcf; } #gallery-1 .gallery-caption { margin-left: 0; } /* see gallery_shortcode() in wp-includes/media.php */ 13 PROJECTS Dolor Sit Amet 45 TARGETS Dolor Sit Amet 26 DONATIONS Dolor Sit Amet 78 CAUSES Dolor Sit Amet A help to those who need it Each donation is essential to us Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Phasellus eu maximus ante, eget sollicitudin metus. Sed fringilla efficitur fringilla. Vestibulum ante ipsum primis in faucibus orci luctus et ultrices posuere DETAILS Previous Next 0 + MEDICINES * 0 NEEDED 0 k DONATIONS [ 0 ] VOLUNTEERS Voluntary Donations Proin at varius arcu. Sed posuere orci bibendum pharetra dapibus. MORE INFO Many Medicines Proin at varius arcu. Sed posuere orci bibendum pharetra dapibus. MORE INFO New Volunteers Proin at varius arcu. Sed posuere orci bibendum pharetra dapibus. MORE INFO ### Our Theory of Compassion Our Theory of Compassion Each drop creates the sea ‘Compassion’ and ‘Compassion in Action’ ‘Compassion’ is the feeling of suffering of others as our own, with an inner and instinctive drive to end that suffering. This generates energy, and leads to connectedness, hope and positivity. ‘Compassion in Action’ enables us to translate the feeling of compassion into meaningful action to alleviate the suffering of others, through situational, structural and systemic problem-solving. JOIN THE MOVEMENT Our Theory of Change There is no easy solution to these issues. We need to seriously rethink, redefine, and reconstruct our approach to life and society, as well as our understanding of success. Compassion is key to enable peaceful co-existence, human fraternity and a sustainable future for all. All humans are born with an inherent capacity for Compassion. A compassionate person's response to the suffering of self and others is instantaneous and instinctive. Compassion is the driving force that steers us from cognizance to compassion in action. Increasing Level of Compassion Quotient Compasion in Action Expand our Circles of Compassion Globalization of Compassion ‘Compassion in Action’ enables us to expand our ‘Circles of Compassion’ and helps us reach beyond our immediate circles to all walks of life, including corporates, academia, healthcare and politics, eventually spreading to the entire world. Expanding our ‘Circles of Compassion’ allows us to truly ‘Globalizing Compassion’, as we learn to coexist in peace and harmony with each other and the planet. Thanks to your help Compassion Quotient (CQ) Compassion Quotient (CQ) is the measure of an individual’s ability for Compassion. In other words, their capacity to notice, feel, connect with, respond and act to solve one’s own as well as others’ problems. As is the case with Intelligence Quotient (IQ) and Emotional Quotient (EQ), the level of CQ can differ significantly between individuals, depending on a range of factors such as: Genetic Makeup Family Environment Education Socio-cultural Background Personal Beliefs and Influences CQ can be evaluated and its level can be increased. We are developing a comprehensive framework to measure and increase CQ using a multidisciplinary approach. Best Experience ☆☆☆☆☆ 5/5Duis commodo enim dui, ac ultricies justo aliquam ut. Sed sed tortor commodo, elementum justo ut, dignissi.Tamara AllenVOLUNTEER Ignite Your Spark of Compassion JOIN THE MOVEMENT Contact Organization L-6, 3rd Floor, Kalkaji, New Delhi 110019 Office: 011 – 47511111 contact@satyarthimovement.org DETAILS ### Donate Now Donate Now ! HELP US Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Nunc orci nisl, tempus ut sem a, scelerisque sollicitudin arcu. Phasellus porttitor dignissim nisl, vel aliquet enim pharetra vitae. 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Vivamus in magna ac tellus fringilla eleifend. 69% GOAL : 1340 $ RAISED : 925 $ VIEW DETAILS DONATE NOW Free Volunteering Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Vivamus in magna ac tellus fringilla eleifend. 66% GOAL : 1000 $ RAISED : 668 $ VIEW DETAILS DONATE NOW Urgent Help Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Vivamus in magna ac tellus fringilla eleifend. 69% GOAL : 5000 $ RAISED : 3485 $ VIEW DETAILS Each drop creates the sea A concrete help for the causes Donec id blandit ante. Duis maximus, est quis ultricies euismod, nunc ante vulputate ex, nec volutpat risus risus in ipsum. Sed at purus diam. Recurring donations 45% One-time donations 86% MORE INFO Essential contributions Choose the perfect help plan for you Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Phasellus eu maximus ante, eget sollicitudin metus. Sed fringilla efficitur fringilla. Vestibulum ante ipsum primis in faucibus orci luctus et ultrices posuere DETAILS Monthly $ 19.99 RECURRING Praesent ultrices urna purus Sed vitae tristique nisl ultrices Donec a ligula lacinia, consect Nunc scelerisque velit a pulvinar. MORE Single Cause $ 79.99 ONE TIME Praesent ultrices urna purus Sed vitae tristique nisl ultrices Donec a ligula lacinia, consect Nunc scelerisque velit a pulvinar. Donec eu volutpat mi, non turpis MORE Write us for more information on donations Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, tempus iaculis duis pretium​ Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, tempus iaculis duis pretium​ DONATE NOW ### About Movement2 About SMGC Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion SMGC is a global movement to ignite 'Compassion in Action' in the world. It is born out of four decades of Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi's revolutionary life and path-breaking endeavors as a social reformer. Embracing compassion as a way of life, he has inspired millions of people across 140 countries to take compassionate action and fight for the freedom, equality and justice for the voiceless and the most marginalized.This has resulted in unprecedented structural and systemic changes across the globe, including the development of high-level policies and direct frontline action. Need for Globalizing Compassion In spite of significant advancements in technology, global inequalities, extremism, war and conflict, climate crises are all on the rise leading to profound human suffering. There is an alarming increase in feelings of disconnectedness, loneliness, apathy and fear. The effects of the pandemic have intensified social exclusion. The numbers are staggering. 0 Billion people are living in conflict-affected areas (UN Press Release, 2022) 0 Million people are displaced due to the Ukraine War (UN SDG Report, 2022) 0 Suicides are committed every 2 minutes internationally (WHO Report, 2019) 0 Million people are suffering from anxiety (Our World Data, 2018) 0 % of Female high-school students in the US have considered suicide (Our World Data, 2018) The need for Compassion Wars, armed conflicts, inequalities, injustices, extremism, and the climate crisis are all on the rise, leading to profound human suffering. There is an alarming increase in feelings of disconnectedness, loneliness, apathy and fear.We need to seriously rethink, redefine, and reconstruct our approach to life and society. Compassion is the most powerful way to enablepeaceful co-existence, human fraternity and a sustainable future for all. We need the power of compassion to heal the world. Sumedha Kailash - Co-founder, Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion Our Vision To globalise compassion to restore justice, peace, equity and sustainability in the world. Our Mission To define, evaluate and enhance Compassion Quotient in individuals, institutions and communities. Our Theory of Change There is no easy solution to these issues. We need to seriously rethink, redefine, and reconstruct our approach to life and society, as well as our understanding of success. Compassion is key to enable peaceful co-existence, human fraternity and a sustainable future for all.All humans are born with an inherent capacity for Compassion. A compassionate person's response to the suffering of self and others is instantaneous and instinctive. Compassion is the driving force that steers us from cognizance to compassion in action. Our Objectives Catalysecompassion in action and compassionate leadership across sectors including business, civil society, academia, politics, faith, healthcare, judiciary, law enforcement to foster systemic change. Includethe most marginalised transcending gender, race, caste, religion and other barriers, end discrimination and create a compassionate society to ensure social inclusion for all. Learnand create knowledge rooted in experience and research, delivering evidence-based insights and real-life examples of compassion in action and compassionate leadership for transformative impact. Empoweryoung change-makers through targeted programs, to promote and amplify compassion in action and expand circles of compassion. Harnessthe power of self-compassion and compassion in action to combat loneliness, isolation and depression. Compassion is the feeling of the suffering of others as our own suffering with a strong drive to take action to alleviate that suffering.In simple words, compassion is mindful and selfless problem-solving.Compassion Quotient (CQ) is the measure of an individual’s ability for Compassion. CQ can be evaluated and its level can be increased. Increasing Level of Compassion Quotient Compassion in Action Expand our Circles of Compassion Globalization of Compassion Our Founders Mr. Kailash Satyarthi Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi, a social reformer par excellence, stands as one of the tallest leaders and the loudest voice for the oppressed and voiceless. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014 for his ‘struggle against the suppression of children and young people and for the right of all children to education.’ A Global Thought Leader and the founder of the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion, his dedication to social reforms is unparalleled. His fearless and unrelenting policy advocacy efforts towards the elimination of violence against the powerless have resulted in path-breaking legislations globally. Through his organization, Bachpan Bachao Andolan, Mr. Satyarthi has liberated more than 100,000 children from child labour, slavery, trafficking, and other forms of exploitation and developed a successful model for their education, rehabilitation, and reintegration into mainstream society. The Global March Against Child Labour, which he led, galvanized support in 103 countries, resulting in the adoption of ILO Convention 182 on the Worst Forms of Child Labour, which went on to become the only universally ratified convention in the history of the ILO. He is also the founding president of the Global Campaign for Education, an exemplary civil society movement working to end the global education crisis. He successfully spearheaded a countrywide movement to make education a Constitutional Provision, subsequently paving the way for the Right to Free and Compulsory Education in India in 2009. Mr. Satyarthi is credited for establishing GoodWeave International (previously known as Rugmark), a first-of-its-kind certification and social labelling mechanism for child labour-free carpets in South Asia. He has worked to advance ethical business practices to help businesses liberate their supply chains from child labour. He has been at the forefront of driving child-related agendas into the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which resulted in the UN Secretary-General appointing him an SDG Advocate in 2021. Mr. Kailash Satyarthi Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi, a social reformer par excellence, stands as one of the tallest leaders and the loudest voice for the oppressed and voiceless. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014 for his ‘struggle against the suppression of children and young people and for the right of all children to education.’ A Global Thought Leader and the founder of the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion, his dedication to social reforms is unparalleled. His fearless and unrelenting policy advocacy efforts towards the elimination of violence against the powerless have resulted in path-breaking legislations globally. Through his organization, Bachpan Bachao Andolan, Mr. Satyarthi has liberated more than 100,000 children from child labour, slavery, trafficking, and other forms of exploitation and developed a successful model for their education, rehabilitation, and reintegration into mainstream society. The Global March Against Child Labour, which he led, galvanized support in 103 countries, resulting in the adoption of ILO Convention 182 on the Worst Forms of Child Labour, which went on to become the only universally ratified convention in the history of the ILO. He is also the founding president of the Global Campaign for Education, an exemplary civil society movement working to end the global education crisis. He successfully spearheaded a countrywide movement to make education a Constitutional Provision, subsequently paving the way for the Right to Free and Compulsory Education in India in 2009. Mr. Satyarthi is credited for establishing GoodWeave International (previously known as Rugmark), a first-of-its-kind certification and social labelling mechanism for child labour-free carpets in South Asia. He has worked to advance ethical business practices to help businesses liberate their supply chains from child labour. He has been at the forefront of driving child-related agendas into the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which resulted in the UN Secretary-General appointing him an SDG Advocate in 2021. Ms. Sumedha Kailash Sumedha Kailash co-founded Bal Ashram Trust in 1988 with the aim of creating a safe environment where children, especially girls can learn and grow without any fear of being exploited. Born in a family of freedom fighters & revolutionaries of the Indian freedom struggle, Sumedha deeply espoused values of freedom, justice, compassion, and female empowerment. Under her leadership, the Bal Ashram Trust also created Bal Mitra Gram and Banjara Education Centres to bring about a constructive change in the lives of women and girls. She has been relentlessly working in this field for 45 years along with her team of activists and women’s councils to generate awareness on issues of child labour, child trafficking, girls’ education, and women empowerment among various tribes and communities in Rajasthan. Her impeccable journey won the recognition of Mahatma Award (2021), Ramkrishna Jaidayal Harmony Award in the year 2020, Godfrey Philip Bravery Award (2009) and Aadhi Aabadi Women Achievers Awards in the year 2014. Ms. Sumedha Kailash Sumedha Kailash co-founded Bal Ashram Trust in 1988 with the aim of creating a safe environment where children, especially girls can learn and grow without any fear of being exploited. Born in a family of freedom fighters & revolutionaries of the Indian freedom struggle, Sumedha deeply espoused values of freedom, justice, compassion, and female empowerment. Under her leadership, the Bal Ashram Trust also created Bal Mitra Gram and Banjara Education Centres to bring about a constructive change in the lives of women and girls. She has been relentlessly working in this field for 45 years along with her team of activists and women’s councils to generate awareness on issues of child labour, child trafficking, girls’ education, and women empowerment among various tribes and communities in Rajasthan. Her impeccable journey won the recognition of Mahatma Award (2021), Ramkrishna Jaidayal Harmony Award in the year 2020, Godfrey Philip Bravery Award (2009) and Aadhi Aabadi Women Achievers Awards in the year 2014. Compassion Quotient (CQ) Compassion Quotient (CQ) is the measure of an individual’s ability for Compassion. In other words, their capacity to notice, feel, connect with, respond and act to solve one’s own as well as others’ problems. As is the case with Intelligence Quotient (IQ) and Emotional Quotient (EQ), the level of CQ can differ significantly between individuals, depending on a range of factors such as: Genetic Makeup Family Environment Education Socio-cultural Background Personal Beliefs and Influences CQ can be evaluated and its level can be increased. We are developing a comprehensive framework to measure and increase CQ using a multidisciplinary approach. Compassionate Leadership Compassionate Leadership is the ability to make tough decisions and impact change while ensuring a culture of collaboration, engagement and growth. In order for this culture to be sustainable, ‘Compassionate Leadership’ must permeate across all levels within an organization. Data collected by Gallup shows USD 322 billion are lost in turnover and productivity costs on account of employee burnout. Leadership with a higher CQ plays a significant role in reducing stress levels and facilitating employee motivation and professional growth. A study by Potential Project shows that Compassionate Leadership results in 0 % higher employee job satisfaction 0 % higher employees’ organizational commitment 0 % employees are happier with their leader 0 % of employees feel less burnt out Benefits of Compassionate Leadership in the Workplace Clarity of Thought Clarity of thought empowers effective decision-making and precise understanding, cutting through complexity. Higher Productivity Higher productivity leads to achieving increased output and value in a given timeframe, driving overall success. Spirit of Collaboration The spirit of collaboration ignites collective synergy, propelling shared endeavors to new heights. Fostering a Solution-oriented Approach Cultivating a solution-oriented approach nurtures a mindset geared towards finding effective answers to challenges. Increased Employee Retention Investing in employee satisfaction cultivates increased retention and a more stable workforce. Structural and Systemic Problem Solving Through systemic problem solving, we tackle core issues, fostering comprehensive and holistic solutions. Rebuilding Chains for Global Impact We need to seriously rethink, redefine, and reconstruct our approach to life and society. Compassion is the most powerful way to enable peaceful co-existence, human fraternity and a sustainable future for all. We believe that Compassion is awakened by building chains of trust among people and groups, mobilizing conscientious leaders, connecting ideas and initiatives to form an active ecosystem of solutions, leading to transformative global impact. Join the Movement Our Legacy Chronicling the legacy and history of the formation of the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion.The photographs are a testimony to the relentless struggle, courage and sacrifice of millions of people around the world who fought for the freedom and fundamental rights of the most marginalised and invisible people. A HISTORIC FIRST The rescue of 15-year-old Sabo and 34 other bonded labourers from a brick kiln in Sirhind, Punjab, by Kailash Satyarthi in 1981 is the first ever documented civil society led rescue initiative in India. COMPASSION SOOTHES BURNS Eight-year-old Ashraf used to work at the home of a government official. Accusing him of having food meant for his children, the official burnt him with hot iron rods. He was rescued by Kailash Satyarthi and reunited with his family. INCEPTION OF BAL ASHRAM An incredible moment during the Canadian Labour Congress in 1996 when Asmita Satyarthi’s powerful speech led to the creation of Bal Ashram. NOBEL PEACE PRIZE Conferment of the Nobel Peace Prize on Kailash Satyarthi in recognition of his struggle against the suppression of children and young people on December 10, 2014, was the defining moment for globalizing compassion. He dedicated his Nobel Prize to the nation. LIGHT OF A BETTER TOMORROW Pained by the suffering of millions of young girls who are married off early, Kailash Satyarthi and Sumedha Kailash launched a pan-India ‘Child Marriage Free India’ campaign which saw spirited participation of 76,000 women across India. Nobel Peace Laureate Leymah Gbowee was also present on the occasion. QUESTIONING UNTOUCHABILITY Doors of the 400-year-old Nathdwara Temple near Udaipur in Rajasthan were firmly shut for people belonging to lower castes for decades. All this however changed on October 2, 1988, when Kailash Satyarthi entered the temple along with people who were so far labelled as “untouchables”. NO CHILD’S PLAY THIS! Despite a brutal attack on Kailash Satyarthi and his associates, a daring operation to rescue exploited Nepalese girls employed in a circus was carried out in Gonda district of Uttar Pradesh in 2004. Following this, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between Bachpan Bachao Andolan and Indian Circus Industry to stop employment and exploitation of children in the circus. EDUCATION FOR ALL A nationwide ‘Shiksha Yatra’ (Education March) was launched in Kanyakumari in 2001 demanding free and compulsory education. This culminated in Delhi and paved the way for education being made a fundamental right in India. 100 MILLION FOR 100 MILLION Honourable President of India Pranab Mukherjee launched ‘100 Million for 100 Million’ campaign at Rashtrapati Bhawan in Delhi. This global effort was aimed at mobilizing 100 million youth for shaping a better future of 100 million children who are less privileged. REST IN POWER Dhoom Das, Adarsh Kishore and Kalu Kumar are martyrs of our movement for globalizing compassion. They lost their lives in their struggle for rescuing children from slavery and gifting them the joys of freedom. FROM BONDAGE TO FREEDOM The picture on the left depicts children who were rescued from bondage in 1985. 35 years later, as is shown in the picture on the right, they came down to meet Kailash Satyarthi and Sumedha Kailash and shared their vision for the life ahead. GLOBAL MARCH AGAINST CHILD LABOUR Bringing the largely ignored issue of child labour on the global map, Kailash Satyarthi undertook 80,000 km global walk across 103 countries which culminated on June 6, 1998, at the UN headquarters in Geneva. When 36 children, who had once been child labourers, from different parts of the world entered the corridors of the UN headquarters shouting slogans, ‘Child Labour, Down, Down’ it was a watershed moment that led to the universally ratified ILO Convention 182. INDIA MARCHES AGAINST CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE Over 800,000 people marched across India in 2017 under the leadership of Kailash Satyarthi traversing 11,000 km in 35 days with a clarion call to ‘Make India Safe’ for its children. More than around 250,000 educational institutions and 500 corporate houses also joined in. LAUREATES & LEADERS JOIN HANDS Kailash Satyarthi launched Laureates and Leaders for Children Summit in 2016 at Rashtrapati Bhawan, hosted by the Honourable President of India Pranab Mukherjee. GLOBALIZING COMPASSION Born out of four decades of Kailash Satyarthi’s revolutionary life and path-breaking endeavors as a social reformer, Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion is a global movement aimed at igniting Compassion in Action in the world. ### Footer 1 ABOUT US Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion is a global movement that champions compassion as a driving force for justice, equality, peace, and sustainability. Donate Now CONNECT WITH US L-6, 3rd Floor, Kalkaji, New Delhi 110019 011 – 47511111 contact@satyarthimovement.org Facebook Instagram Linkedin Youtube We're Hiring Founder's Corner SUBSCRIBE FOR UPDATES Join Our Newsletter and Experience Compassion in Action. Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.Email * Submit ©2024 SMGC. All rights reserved. Financial Report contact@satyarthimovement.org ### Header 1 contact@satyarthimovement.org We're Hiring Donate Now Main Menu About Movement Our Mission & Vision Need for Globalising Compassion Our Theory of Change Our Leadership Compassion Quotient Our Legacy Our Initiatives Compassionate Communities Experiential Learning SMGC Dialogues Stories of Compassion Founder’s Corner Explore Events & Campaigns Blogs Retreat Financial Reports Satyarthi Summer School Donate Now Main Menu About Movement Our Mission & Vision Need for Globalising Compassion Our Theory of Change Our Leadership Compassion Quotient Our Legacy Our Initiatives Compassionate Communities Experiential Learning SMGC Dialogues Stories of Compassion Founder’s Corner Explore Events & Campaigns Blogs Retreat Financial Reports Satyarthi Summer School ### Home Watch Our Story Join the Movement Our Story of Global Movement Satyarthi Movement For Global Compassion (SMGC) aims to ignite the spark of compassion in everyone to achieve justice, equity, peace, and sustainability for all. It is born out of four decades of Mr. Kailash Satyarthi’s (Nobel Peace Laureate 2014) revolutionary life and path-breaking endeavors as a social reformer. We have seen through concrete examples how a  single spark of compassion can lead to paradigm shifting social transformation and meaningful impact at scale. SMGC is committed to ‘Globalising Compassion’.  We believe Compassion is the deepest connection with the suffering of others that compels one to take meaningful actions to end that suffering. Read More Our Story of Global Movement Satyarthi Movement For Global Compassion (SMGC) aims to ignite 'Compassion in Action' in the world. It is born out of four decades of Mr. Kailash Satyarthi's (Nobel Peace Laureate 2014) revolutionary life and path-breaking endeavors as a social reformer. We have seen through concrete examples how a single spark of compassion can lead to paradigm shifting social transformation and meaningful impact at scale. SMGC is committed to ‘Globalizing Compassion’. We believe Compassion is the most powerful way to self actualisation, rebuilding our shared humanity and ensuring a lasting and sustainable future for all. Join the Movement https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XhDem17wJZI Let us enlarge our circle of compassion and pledge to act selflessly for those who need it the most. Donate Now The Need For Compassion 0 Billion people are living in conflict-affected areas (UN Press Release, 2022) 0 Million people are displaced due to the Ukraine War (UN SDG Report, 2022) 0 Suicides are committed every 2 minutes internationally (WHO Report, 2019) 0 Million people are suffering from anxiety (Our World Data, 2018) 0 % of Female high-school students in the US have considered suicide (Our World Data, 2018) Come, Join our Events A heart-to-heart touch can provide a profound and intimate connection, fostering a meaningful experience that words alone cannot convey. EVENTS IN SHORT Compasion in Action Expand our Circles of Compassion Globalization of Compassion Theory of Change James M. Barrie Life is a long lesson in humility Social Reformer Kailash Satyarthi Compassion Quotient, Compassion in Action and Globalising Compassion - A conceptual framework Stories 531 VILLAGES Join the Movement Join the Global Movement of Compassion and help create a world where kindness and empathy prevail, uplifting the lives of those in need. Together, we can build a society that nurtures and supports one another with love and understanding. Recurring Donations Donate now and make a compassionate difference in the lives of those facing hardship and adversity. Your contribution can bring hope, comfort, and relief to those in need, fostering a more caring and empathetic world. Do Your Bit All humans are born with an inherent capacity for Compassion. A compassionate person’s response to the suffering of self and others is instantaneous and instinctive. Compassion is the driving force that steers us from cognizance to compassion in action. Join the movement Stories of change Slum Dweller Turns Cafe Owner: The Incredible Story of Priyanka Sowame 4 Minutes Read Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress | International Women’s Day 2024 Special Struggling to make both ends meet, Priyanka Sowame took a leap of faith and decided to board the train to attend the Youth Summit on Human Fraternity & Compassion in September last year. Little did she know what life had in store. Residing in a nondescript slum in Pune, Priyanka – a mother of two – had been struggling hard to make both ends meet. Paying the rent and taking care of her two daughters was proving to be an uphill task. But a meeting with Nobel Peace Laureate … Read More → From being a virtual ‘nobody’ to becoming an overnight role model, see how Surjeet Lodhi waged war against alcoholism 3 Minutes Read Traveling from Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh, we took the left turn to Sahba Village. Vibrant houses, though in worn out conditions, neatly decorated and coated with dung cakes to keep cool. As we asked for Surjeet Lodhi’s house, the children playing replied, “Accha, Sirju Bhaiya? Aaiye!”- The kids ask us if we mean the local hero, who they call Sirju. They led us to his house, excited to knock on his doors. Surjeet opens the door, with what already seems like a welcoming and humbling smile. Surjeet Lodhi is in his first year of pursuing journalism from Bhopal University. His relation … Read More → Lighting Up Lives: The Inspirational Journey of Usman Malik – A Visionary in the Dark 3 Minutes Read We generally look for the light at the end of the tunnel. On a dark road, at night, we follow the moonlight. Stars guide us home. Sunlight illuminates all that is dull, painting things in new colours, new shades every day. We get inspired when we see change.But how many of us truly experience all of this, feeling, sensing, hearing, breathing. Have you ever touched change? In Narangpur, the periphery of Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, lives a 25 year old visually impaired social worker, Usman Malik. Apart from social work, Usman is an important part of the Blind Cricket Team of … Read More → More Stories