Who we are

About SOVA
Vision/Mission
Where We Work
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Our journey began in 1993 when the tribal people of Koraput were displaced by the construction of the Upper Kolab Hydroelectric Dam. People who had been living for centuries along the reservoirs were forced to move much further uphill, where the land was not as suitable for agriculture and lacked other natural resources like forests. As a result, the infrastructure and institutions of the tribals fell apart.

The displaced people were grappling with the difficulties of starting over again when we stepped in. We motivated them to form groups to discuss issues, fight for their rights, plan for their future and regain their sense of community. Over the years, we’ve continued to add programs and build strong, trusting relationships with the communities we serve. Starting in 13 villages with only a few staff members, today we work in 225 villages with over 100 staff members.

By partnering with local and national NGOs as well as government agencies, our combined efforts form a much bigger picture for eliminating poverty in India. As a lead NGO in South Odisha, we build the capacity of local NGOs and community-based organizations so they can work to their full potential.

The grassroots community organizations and programs we develop and support provide tribals a platform to make informed decisions, stand up for their rights and help each other thrive. We measure success not by our own actions, but by those adopted and carried forward by the tribals themselves.