The Rural Educational Activities for Development (READ) is a civil society organization working for the empowerment of Tribal and Dalit communities since 1993. READ was established by a group of like-minded individuals who sought to bridge the gap between development initiatives and marginalized communities they deeply cared for. The organisation emerged as a vehicle for realising its vision of a peaceful, equitable, and just society, particularly for those who have been traditionally excluded from the mainstream of development.
In its home state of Odisha, these communities primarily include the Adivasis (Scheduled Tribes) and Dalits (Scheduled Castes), who have remained on the margins for decades. READ is registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, with the Government of India in the year 1993.
Over the years, READ has been working in 180 villages across the districts of Rayagada, Ganjam, Gajapati, and Kandhamal, focusing on women, marginalized farmers, youth, and children from Dalit, Adivasi, and other underprivileged communities. The organization has a dedicated team of 18 staff members working across various thematic areas.
The organization is guided by its Board of Governors, who are responsible for formulating policies, providing strategic direction, and ensuring the annual auditing and accountability of the organization.
