Transforming
Tomorrows
By Enabling Farm-Based Livelihood
Who we are
ASA was born in May 1996 with a small watershed project in the Jhabua district of Madhya Pradesh by two motivated individuals namely, Ashis Mondal and Ms. Gangana Jayanthi. Deeply inspired by the rain water harvesting works of Sadguru Water & Development Foundation led by Late Shri Harnath Jagawat in Gujarat, Ashis and Jayanthi wanted to recreate the model of community led water harvesting measures in the remotest tribal dominated district of Jhabua. As time progressed, ASA included the theme of Sustainable Agriculture and Market linkage for the small holder farmers to make it an integrated model of livelihoods development of small holders through restoration and development of natural resources. Overall the aim was to stabilize the agriculture through water proofing mechanism and build a stable livelihoods for the vulnerable small holder communities with emphasis on building community institutions, equality and sustainability.
At ASA, we turn farmers into entrepreneurs.
Action for Social Advancement (ASA) is a leading field implementing organization committed to empowering and uplifting communities through sustainable farm-based livelihoods. Founded in 1996 by a group of foresighted natural resource development professionals in central India, ASA today has expanded its footprint to focus on welfare of small and marginal farmers across the country.
Driven by our passion for equal opportunities and dignified livelihoods, we partner with farming communities to undertake integrated on-ground interventions that foster economic and societal progress..
Vision
Empowering communities with sustainable livelihoods through inclusive participation, local institutional development and gender equity.
Mission
Ensuring livelihoods of poor people by providing development services through natural resources development.
Our Impact
Our Approach
Livelihood Enhancement Model
for Regenerative Future
Equitable access to resources, opportunities and decision-making processes are crucial for sustainable livelihoods and brighter futures. At ASA, we harmonize People, Nature and Economy within agricultural ecosystems to cultivate a thriving Regenerative Production Landscape that enables and empowers.
We call it the Livelihood Enhancement Model. With a focus on poverty alleviation and gender equality, we build community institutions that serve as platforms for capacity building, collective action and the upliftment of marginalized groups.
Our Partners
Government
National
Organizations
International
Organizations
Financial
Institutions
Expanding our footprints
With an extensive footprint spanning across 8 states of India, ASA is deeply rooted in the heart of smallholder agricultural communities. We are actively involved in fostering growth and sustainability by supporting small farmers, implementing innovative practices, and driving agricultural advancements. We look forward to expanding our reach further, touching even more lives and creating brighter futures wherever we go.
Awards & Recognition
Donor Testimonials
When it comes to giving, a hundred hands are better than one. Here are our hundred hands, our donors, who have always cared to share and support our efforts of alleviating poverty and elevating farmer communities.
Anita Chester
Managing Director,
Laudes India
Anita Chester
Managing Director,
Laudes India
The role of ASA in building a more secure future for people and the planet cannot be over-emphasised. Having their ear to the ground and building the capacity of communities, ASA’s journey is an exemplary success story in alleviating agrarian distress, supporting rural livelihoods and regenerating the landscape. Equally, they have embraced the opportunity to connect to the bigger picture, helping farmers develop a strong commercial sense and connect them to the markets. It has truly been a rewarding partnership for us and we have gained tremendously from their visionary leadership.
Ashwin J Laddha
MD & CEO,
Orient Paper & Industries Limited
Ashwin J Laddha
MD & CEO,
Orient Paper & Industries Limited
We are proud to see the strides made by ASA on a valued CSR outreach partner of Orient Paper, in empowering marginalized agricultural communities in Madhya Pradesh and beyond. OPIL, one of India’s premier paper manufacturers, believes in purpose-driven growth, by reshaping land, lives and livelihoods through our social-impact initiatives. Our vision aligns seamlessly with ASA’s approach to developmental work-empowering local communities so we make a sustainable positive impact.
Keep up the excellent work. Together, let’s continue making a difference!”
Sanchit Kukreja
Programme Manager - South Asia
Organic Cotton Accelerator
