Transforming Madurdaha into an empowered community with education, health care, self-reliance and sustainability

Our Vision

Empowering the economically weakest through

education

healthcare

self-reliance

environmental sustainability

fostering sustainable community development across India.

Our Mission

Dakshini Prayash is dedicated to uplifting the lives of the economically weakest by providing holistic education and comprehensive healthcare, and fostering self-reliance and environmental sustainability. Through innovative programs and initiatives, we aim to create a replicable model for community development, emphasizing empowerment, sustainability, and inclusivity by collaborating with local communities, stakeholders, and partners. We strive to build a brighter future where every individual has the opportunity to thrive and contribute positively to society and maintain environmental balance.

The Four Pillars of Holistic Development

Through our four pillars - Education, Health, Self-Reliance, and Sustainable Development, we work hand-in-hand with the people of Madurdaha to create resilient and mindful individuals, families, and communities. We’re working towards building a future that is driven by purpose.

Here is a quick snapshot of our activities in the community.

Why are we called Dakshini Prayash?

Although our organisation is based in Kolkata, a city in the east of India, the name ‘Dakshini’—meaning southern—was chosen to reflect our roots in Madurdaha, a locality situated on the southern fringes of the city.
The word ‘Prayash’ translates to 'an unending endeavour' - beautifully capturing the spirit of our Founder, the late Mrs. Nalini Mukherjee.

Full Circle: Alumni in Focus

Bibek Maity completed class 8 with us in 2016 and went on to finish his schooling at Tirthapati Institution. In 2024, he graduated from Naba Ballygunge Mahavidyalaya—a proud milestone for all of us who’ve seen his journey up close.

Raised by a single parent in a low-income neighbourhood, Bibek navigated several obstacles along the way. Throughout, Dakshini Prayash stood by him—with academic guidance, emotional encouragement and financial support.

After graduation, Bibek rejoined us as a team member in the Self-Reliance unit. He completed a Tally course and now manages our finances, from raw material purchases to customer payments and salaries. His journey has come full circle.

“To me, Dakshini Prayash is more than just a school—it’s family. They’ve stood by me every step of the way.”

Sushama began her journey at the education wing of Dakshini Prayash, where she studied until class 8. Focused and sincere, she stayed committed to her studies even when life got difficult.

When she was in class 6, her father fell seriously ill, and by class 10, she had lost him. The family struggled emotionally and financially—but Sushama kept going. With quiet resilience, and steady support from her mentors at Dakshini Prayash, she completed her schooling, graduated from Jogomaya Devi College, and later pursued a computer course to become job-ready.

She now works at Bajaj Finance and has built a life of dignity with her husband. The relationship with Dakshini Prayash continues, and her family remains closely connected to the community.

“I could not have continued my education without Dakshini Prayash. They stood by me—emotionally, financially, in every way. Their belief in me helped me believe in myself.”

Surya spent his early years in a quiet village in Bengal, before moving to Kolkata with his family in search of better opportunities. He joined our school in class 5. Bright and deeply curious—especially about math—he dreamed early on of becoming an engineer.

After completing class 8 at MSV, he scored 80% in his class 10 Boards and later enrolled in a 3-year Polytechnic course. With no access to coaching, Surya prepared for the JELET exam using online resources and secured admission into Techno India—one of Kolkata’s top engineering colleges.

Today, Surya continues to study engineering and is teaching himself programming through YouTube videos. Focused, self-driven, and deeply humble, Surya’s story inspires many young students walking a similar path.

“Dakshini Prayash believed in my dream and helped me move one step closer to it every time I felt stuck. They are a part of my journey, every step of the way.”

Vishwa Asha: A Community of Care

Launched in 2017, Vishwa Asha brings warmth, dignity, and connection to the elderly residents of Madurdaha. This initiative creates a sense of belonging by bringing seniors together for shared experiences—film screenings, book readings, and simple moments of joy.

Beyond companionship, Vishwa Asha also supports basic needs within the community by distributing food staples, kerosene, and organizing regular health check-up camps. It is our way of honouring those who have given so much—and ensuring they feel seen, supported, and celebrated.

Dakshini Prayash endeavors to prepare the students to become responsible citizens with not only their intellect, but also physical well-being, social awareness, and moral development.
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With more student enrollments in our school, we reach out to you for support to sponsor a child’s holistic growth for a year. This will include all basic requirements of academic supplies and nutrition. The change-makers of tomorrow need your support today.

Support 'Power of Pencil'To donate in USD, click here

*The contribution is eligible for tax deduction under Section 80G of the Indian Income Tax.

Foundation Day 2020

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