SADRAG: Mala Bhandari on Driving Social Change and Empowering the Deprived
True fulfillment often lies beyond personal gain. Mala Bhandari, the Founder of SADRAG (Social Action for Developmental Research and Action Group), is a testament to this truth. After a successful decade in corporate research and consultancy, Mala transitioned into the non-profit sector to address the systemic inequalities in child rights and basic education. Her journey, rooted in a family legacy of service, is a compelling narrative of how one individual's conviction can spark meaningful change in the lives of the most deprived.
Mala's motivation for social work was sparked early by her father's involvement with the Red Cross. "I grew up in an environment where giving back was a core value," she recalls. Despite her professional success, she felt a growing restlessness. "I was frustrated with the disconnect between high-level research and ground reality. I wanted to see the impact of my work directly. SADRAG was born from that desperation to do something real."
The Purpose of SADRAG
SADRAG was established in 2004 as a group of professionals dedicated to improving the quality of life for deprived populations. "Our full name is Social Action for Developmental Research and Education Group," Mala explains. "We focus on bridging the gap between research and action, ensuring that scientific learning is applied to solve the most pressing problems in education and child rights."
Building a Sustainable Non-Profit
Running an NGO in India is a challenge of both logistics and finance. Mala is candid about the struggle for consistent funding. "We started with my personal savings and the support of my family," she shares. "My mother-in-law was a huge pillar of support, taking care of my daughter so I could dedicate my time to the field. In the early days, I didn't take a salary—every penny went into the projects."
SADRAG's sustainability model relies on a mix of institutional funding, corporate CSR projects, and individual well-wishers. Mala emphasizes that transparency and "honest outreach" are the only ways to build long-term trust with donors. "When you solve a problem with integrity, people notice. We don't just ask for money; we present a conceptualized solution and find partners who share our values."
Recruiting for Values
Hiring for a social enterprise requires a different lens. "Skill is important, but value system is critical," Mala asserts. "We look for people who are genuinely interested in social upliftment rather than just a job. In our interviews, we ask candidates if they are willing to take a pay cut from their corporate salaries to join this mission. If they aren't willing to sacrifice for the cause, they won't last in this sector."
This focus on value alignment has allowed SADRAG to launch impactful programs like 'Uthha Suraj' in Noida, which integrates children from underprivileged backgrounds into the formal school system. "Seeing a child who used to be on the streets now going to school is the ultimate reward," Mala says with a smile.
Mala's Advice for Social Entrepreneurs
- Find Your Inherent Quality: Identify what you are truly passionate about and where your unique skills can make the most difference.
- Start Small, Think Big: Don't wait for a massive grant. Start with a single project, prove the concept, and the support will follow.
- Build a Support System: Social work is an emotionally demanding journey. Surround yourself with family and friends who believe in your vision.
- Be Authentic: Don't be a copycat. Create an original model that addresses a specific need in your community.
The Vision: An Unstoppable Mission
Looking ahead, Mala aims to scale SADRAG's model of developmental research and action across India. She believes that the next decade will be about moving from a capitalist, self-interest-driven society back to a culture of collective responsibility. For Mala, SADRAG is not just an organization; it's an unstoppable movement to ensure that every child, regardless of their background, has the right to education and a life of dignity.
SADRAG at a Glance
- Inception: Founded in 2004 as a developmental research and action group.
- Key Focus: Child rights, basic education, and women's empowerment.
- Legacy: Over 20 years of on-ground impact in Noida and surrounding areas.
About the Guest
Mala Bhandari is the Founder of SADRAG. A graduate of Savitri Bai Phule Pune University, Mala has over 20 years of experience in the social sector. She is a recognized expert in child rights and basic education, with a background in leading complex social research projects. Mala is a passionate advocate for systemic reform and is dedicated to creating a more equitable society through developmental action. She is a mentor to young social entrepreneurs and a vocal advocate for the role of women in community leadership.
SADRAG (Social Action for Developmental Research and Action Group) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the upliftment of deprived populations through research-backed social intervention. By focusing on child rights, education, and social protection, SADRAG works to bridge the gap between policy and practice, ensuring sustainable development for the most vulnerable sections of society.