20+ Years Of Social Service To Society
Our Story...
How CARD Started
Empowering Lives. Enriching Communities. Uplifting Rural India.
Founded in 2006, CARD (Centre for Agriculture and Rural Development) was established by Mr. Dharmu Dhar Podha, who left his government job in the Ministry of External Affairs to dedicate his life to social service. Inspired by the needs of tribal communities, senior citizens, women, and other vulnerable groups in Boudh district, he started CARD with a vision of promoting inclusive development, social justice, and community empowerment. What began as a small initiative has grown into a committed organization working for sustainable change and human dignity.
From the Desk Of...
Executive Secretary
Greetings,
It gives me immense pleasure to welcome you to the website of CARD (Centre for Agriculture and Rural Development). Since its inception, CARD has been committed to serving marginalized and vulnerable communities, empowering them to lead lives of dignity, equality, and self-reliance. My journey in social development began after completing my Master's degree (M.A.) and Master of Social Work (M.S.W.). I had the privilege of serving for more than five years as a Stenographer under the Government of India,
Ministry of External Affairs. While the position offered stability and growth, I felt a deeper calling to work directly with communities facing social and economic challenges. In 2003, I made the life-changing decision to leave my government service and dedicate myself to social development and community empowerment.
Driven by a vision to uplift the underprivileged, tribal communities, destitute individuals, and senior citizens of Boudh district, I established CARD (Centre for Agriculture and Rural Development) in 2006. Since then, our organization has been working tirelessly to promote rights-based development and inclusive growth for those who are often left behind.
One of our proud initiatives is the establishment of Surekha Devee Old Age Home, which provides care, shelter, and dignity to elderly individuals in need. We also founded Surekha Devee Gau Shala, reflecting our commitment to animal welfare and sustainable rural development.
Over the years, CARD has expanded its activities across various sectors, including education, women’s empowerment, rural development, skill development, tribal development, livelihood promotion, and social welfare. Our efforts are guided by the belief that sustainable development can only be achieved when every individual has access to opportunities, resources, and the ability to exercise their rights.
As we move forward, we remain committed to strengthening communities, promoting social justice, and creating lasting positive change. I express my sincere gratitude to our supporters, partners, volunteers, and well-wishers whose trust and cooperation continue to inspire our work.
Together, we can build a more equitable, compassionate, and empowered society.
Governing Committee
Experienced leaders managing CARD’s operations, planning, and governance with transparency and dedication.
Mrs Santilata Bagh
President
Mr Dharmadhar Podha
Executive Secretary
Bighnaraj Pradhan
Treasurer
Mr Dharmadhar Podha
Executive Secretary
Our Office Staff
Our executive members turn CARD’s vision into action through leadership, collaboration, and community service.
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Our Mission
To implement grassroots programs that improve the quality of life through agriculture development, education, healthcare, environment protection, livelihood generation, and social welfare, with a focus on the most vulnerable: the elderly, persons with disabilities, widows, orphans, and poor children.
Our Vision
To build a just, equitable, and empowered rural society where every individual has access to basic needs, opportunities for growth, and a life of dignity.
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