Years of Unshakable Resolve
From a small group of women in 1997 to a movement across Odisha.
Message from the Director
A -year journey is indeed a remarkable milestone. Providing psycho-social counseling and support to women survivors of violence has always been an integral part of ISD’s mission. We reaffirm our commitment to continue our efforts with compassion and dedication, ensuring that every woman facing violence receives the care, support, and...Read More
— Subhashri Das, Director
The Beginning
The Institute for Social Development (ISD) began its journey in 1997 with a vision to build a violence-free, gender-sensitive society. Recognized by the Government and Civil Society as a pioneer frontline women’s organization in Odisha, we started by organizing the poorest women to participate in decision-making.
Our primary focus has always been:
- Strengthening livelihood security for women.
- Ensuring active participation in governance.
- Fighting human rights violations like trafficking, child marriage, and witch-hunting.
Vision & Mission
Vision
A violence-free, gender-sensitive society that promotes social development through the active participation of the poorest and most marginalized women in all decision-making processes.
Mission
To build an equal, just, and violence-free society — one where every womanstands strong and equal alongside her male counterpart.
Core Values
- Equality: Promoting gender justice and equal opportunities for all.
- Empowerment: Enabling women to gain control over their lives and decisions.
- Integrity: Upholding transparency, accountability, and ethical practice.
- Participation: Ensuring inclusive processes that involve communitymembers at every stage.
- Solidarity: Working collaboratively with partners, networks, andcommunities for shared goals.
Key Focus Areas
Violence-free society
Because silence protects the abuser.
Women as decision-makers
Because women must lead their own change.
Human rights & dignity
Because dignity is not a privilege.
Sustainable grassroots leadership
Because change must outlast projects.
Girl child rights
Because every girl deserves a chance.
Witch hunting
Because belief should never become violence.
Acid attacks
Because violence should never scar a life forever.
Sexual harassment
Because consent and respect are not optional.
Based on our Strategy Paper (2023-2027), our key objectives are:
Safeguarding Rights
Creating awareness about rights of women and disadvantaged groups.
Attitudinal Change
Striving to bring change among men and women on gender equality.
Rehabilitation
Providing institutional services for survivors of violence (Swadhar Greh, Ujjawala).
Research
Initiating studies to strengthen people’s knowledge.