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In the year 2014 the government launched the Swachh Bharat Kosh (SBK), in response to the call given by the Hon’ble Prime Minister to achieve the objective of Swachh Bharat (clean India) by the year 2019, on the 150th year of the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi through Swachh Bharat Mission.
Objective of the Swachh Bharat Kosh
SWK is a fund that would be utilised to build toilets in schools, rural and urban areas in furtherance to achieve the objective of cleanliness across the country. It has been set up with the objective to attract Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds from Corporate Sector and to get contribution from individuals and philanthropists to achieve the objective of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.
Governing Council
Secretariat
The Governing Council is to be assisted by a division set up in the Department of Expenditure, which will serve as its secretariat, headed by an Administrator, at the Joint Secretary level.
Monitoring
Admissible Activities
The 2014 guideline provides that the Kosh is to be used to achieve the objective of improving cleanliness levels in rural and urban areas, including in schools and might also extended to new innovative projects. The activities which are financed from the Kosh are as follows: –
Proposing of Projects
The line Ministries are given the responsibility of proposing projects to the Governing Council pertaining to the above-mentioned activities. The states can also apply for the funds of the Kosh through the respective line Ministries.
Implementation
Humanitarian Relief stands at the heart of our mission to serve humanity with compassion and dignity. We strive to reach people who are deprived of life’s most basic necessities—food, clean water, clothing, and shelter—especially those living in remote or disaster-affected regions, far removed from the privileges of a developing society. Openheart work tirelessly to identify communities in crisis, ensuring that timely aid reaches those who need it the most. Beyond immediate assistance, we remain committed to supporting individuals and families until they are able to rebuild their lives with stability and confidence.
Our approach goes beyond mere distribution of resources; it is guided by empathy, respect, and a belief in every person’s right to live with dignity. We collaborate with local partners to ensure sustainable recovery and empowerment, helping communities become self-reliant once again. Whether responding to natural calamities, poverty, or social neglect, our humanitarian initiatives aim to restore hope and bring relief to the most vulnerable. Each act of service is a step toward a more equitable and compassionate world—where no one is left behind in their struggle for survival.
Poverty remains one of the most pressing challenges in our society, and our trust is deeply committed to transforming the lives of individuals and families struggling to make ends meet. We work with the vision of creating a community where every person has access to the basic necessities of life and the opportunity to grow with dignity. Our efforts focus on uplifting the underprivileged by providing them with essential resources, skills, and guidance to improve their standard of living.
Through various initiatives, we offer direct support to poor families—helping them access food, shelter, healthcare, and education. We also encourage skill development and livelihood programs that enable them to become self-reliant and competitive in an ever-evolving world. Our approach combines compassion with practicality, ensuring that support is not just immediate but also sustainable.
By partnering with local communities and volunteers, we aim to break the cycle of poverty and open pathways to opportunity. Each initiative is designed to restore confidence, promote self-sufficiency, and instil hope. Our ultimate goal is to empower people to rise beyond economic hardships and lead fulfilling, dignified lives as active participants in society’s progress.
At the core of our mission lies a deep commitment to nurturing and uplifting orphaned and abandoned children—those who deserve love, care, and the opportunity to lead meaningful lives. Our organization provides these children with essential needs such as nutritious food, comfortable shelter, proper clothing, and quality education. Beyond physical well-being, we strive to create a nurturing and divine environment that fosters emotional security, moral values, and spiritual growth.
Through our Orphan Care initiatives, we aim to raise children with discipline, compassion, and self-confidence so they can grow into responsible and contributing citizens of society. Each child under our care is guided with individual attention and holistic mentoring to help them discover their identity and potential. We believe that every child, regardless of background, deserves dignity, affection, and the chance to dream.
Our services also include free medical support, access to educational resources, and recreational opportunities that ensure their overall development. By providing them with a strong foundation of care and values, we empower these children to become resilient, independent, and compassionate individuals—ready to face the world with hope and purpose.
At Openheart Trust, our commitment to humanitarian service extends beyond basic welfare. We work tirelessly to address the diverse needs of society—uplifting the poor, empowering the unemployed, promoting education, and restoring dignity to every individual we serve. Guided by the belief that “Service to Humanity is Service to God,” our initiatives are designed to bring lasting change to lives across economic, social, and geographic boundaries.
We provide free medical care, nutritious food, and educational assistance to underprivileged children and families. Education remains our highest priority, as we firmly believe that it is the key to confidence, independence, and lifelong empowerment. Alongside formal education, we also conduct technical training programs in fields such as computer literacy, electrical work, and mechanical skills—equipping youth with employable skills for a sustainable future.
To encourage continuous learning, we facilitate awareness programs and seminars that promote knowledge-sharing and intellectual growth. Scholarships are offered to meritorious students, while special care is extended to orphaned and street children, protecting them from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
Our trust actively responds to natural disasters—such as floods, cyclones, and earthquakes—by providing emergency relief, food, and rehabilitation support to affected families. We also organize free medical camps and health awareness drives to combat diseases like cancer, diabetes, tuberculosis, malaria, and hepatitis, while promoting preventive health measures. Our eye and blood donation initiatives ensure critical medical supplies for those in need, completely free of cost.
To reduce unemployment, Openheart proudly implements self-employment programs that provide financial and training support for individuals to start small enterprises. We also conduct adult education classes and cultural seminars to preserve and promote India’s rich heritage among socially and economically weaker sections.
Recognizing that corruption undermines social justice, our trust runs awareness programs promoting transparency and ethical conduct. We envision a society built on cooperation, compassion, and harmony—free from violence and discrimination.
At the heart of every effort lies our unwavering motto:
“Every day to help eradicate hunger by giving food and hope to the helpless and needy.”
We believe that every small contribution—whether through time, effort, or kindness—has the power to make people’s lives happier, healthier, and more comfortable.
Education is the foundation of a brighter future, and our trust firmly believes that no child should be deprived of learning due to hunger or lack of basic necessities. Through our Food, Nutrition & Education Support program, we encourage children from poor and rural backgrounds to attend school by providing them with essential requirements such as nutritious food, safe shelter, comfortable clothing, and necessary learning materials like books and stationery.
We recognize that a healthy body nurtures a healthy mind. Hence, we ensure that every student under the care of our trust receives wholesome and balanced meals that support their physical growth and mental well-being. Our goal is to help children focus on their studies without the burden of hunger or financial hardship.
In addition to supporting existing schools, we plan to establish new educational institutions in underserved areas where educational facilities are lacking. For students showing exceptional potential, we extend financial assistance to help them pursue higher studies and achieve their aspirations.
Through this initiative, we aim to create an environment where learning and nourishment go hand in hand—cultivating educated, healthy, and confident young individuals who will contribute positively to the society of tomorrow.
The Open Heart Social Organisation & Charitable Trust aim to create robust livelihood opportunities to enable households to earn more, and lead healthier lives. The Livelihoods portfolio covers a number of integrated community-based interventions across India that strive to improve rural incomes through modern farming practices, water management, soil conservation, livestock and animal husbandry, market linkages, crafts, etc.
The giant strides that India has made in economic growth has no doubt helped to reduce the percentage of people below the poverty line. However, over two-thirds of India’s population still lives in rural and semi-rural areas, where there is a daily struggle to earn enough from farm-related activities to feed the household. According to 2011 statistics from Asia Development Bank, 21.9% of India’s population (approximately 363 million) lived below the Poverty line of this, the rural poor account for nearly 260 million (C Rangarajan Committee Report, 2014).
Families in rural areas find it tough to break out of the cycle of poverty, primarily because a majority of Indian agriculture-based incomes continue to be dependent on the monsoons. Additionally, poor soil conditions, minimal use of modern farming methods, lack of systematic irrigation facilities, absence of post-harvest facilities and sustainable market linkages combine to put farm-based income generation capabilities in jeopardy.
To develop an equal and empowered society, it is imperative that a country includes the poorest of the poor in its growth story, which is why our Trust has identified the development of rural livelihoods as a focus area for rural development.
We are encouraging the rural public for storage of Water and also to improve the ground water level by using the modern methods. Supply of drinking water is undertaken by us where there is acute shortage along with the balanced maintenance of cleanliness of water.
At Openheart Trust, we believe that empowering women is essential to building a stronger, more compassionate, and equitable society. Many women, due to social, economic, or personal hardships, often feel trapped and helpless. Our mission is to restore their confidence, independence, and dignity by providing them with the right opportunities and resources to rebuild their lives.
We extend comprehensive support to women who have faced abuse, neglect, or economic struggle. Through our Women Empowerment initiatives, we offer vocational training, legal guidance, and child care facilities—ensuring that women receive both emotional and practical support to stand on their own feet. Our training programs include tailoring, handicrafts, candle-making, chalk and incense stick production, soap powder preparation, and phenyl manufacturing. These activities not only help women gain valuable skills but also create avenues for sustainable income generation.
Beyond skill development, our programs focus on education, awareness, and leadership—helping women realize their potential as equal contributors to society. We believe empowerment begins with self-belief, and through consistent encouragement, we aim to help women rediscover their strength and purpose.
Every initiative is designed to make women feel valued, capable, and self-reliant. By giving them tools to succeed, we empower them to transform not only their own lives but also their families and communities. Openheart stands firm in its belief that when women rise, society rises with them.
Women in India continue to face systemic barriers in education, health, employment, and social safety—despite progress in many areas. Discriminatory practices such as dowry deaths, sexual violence, and human trafficking persist in various regions, denying many women the chance to live with dignity. Cultural norms, family pressures, and patriarchal expectations often inhibit women from pursuing education or careers, leaving them dependent or voiceless.
Globally, women are disproportionately affected by poverty: an estimated 383 million women and girls live on less than US $1.90 a day, compared with about 368 million men and boys.
In India, women’s labor force participation remains low—just about 25 %—while men’s stands near 57.5 %. Further, women shoulder a heavy burden of unpaid care and domestic work: data from India’s most recent Time Use Survey shows women spend nearly 81.5 % of their time on unpaid household services, contrasted with 27 % by men.
Access to technology and information is another critical barrier: only 21 % of Indian women regularly use mobile internet—limiting their access to education, finance, and opportunity. Politically too, women remain underrepresented: as of 2024, just 14.7 % of Parliament seats were held by women. At Openheart Trust, we believe that equal opportunities for women are not just a matter of justice—they are foundational to societal progress. We work at the grassroots level to promote economic participation, social inclusion, and personal agency for women from marginalized communities.
Our efforts include:
Vocational training and microenterprise support to help women establish small businesses and generate sustainable income Legal aid, counseling, and protection services for women facing abuse or exploitation
Digital literacy, awareness workshops, and access to information so women can engage confidently with the modern world Mentorship and peer support to strengthen self-esteem, leadership, and resilience By supporting these initiatives, you can join us in uplifting marginalized women—helping them move from silence to voice, from dependence to autonomy. Together, we can build a society in which every woman has the right, opportunity, and empowerment to shape her own destiny.
Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs): Empowering Communities, Building Futures
At Openheart, we recognize that true empowerment begins when women come together to support, inspire, and uplift one another. Through the formation of Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs), we create platforms where women—especially from rural and economically weaker sections—can unite to improve their livelihoods, gain financial independence, and contribute to the development of their communities.
Operating across Vijayawada and nearby regions of Andhra Pradesh, our SHGs help women access microfinance, skill training, and mentorship to start small businesses and cooperative ventures. Each group functions as a circle of strength, where members save collectively, share ideas, and invest in income-generating activities that promote self-sufficiency and dignity.
Openheart provides ongoing support through capacity-building workshops, financial literacy programs, and marketing assistance to ensure these women can sustain and grow their enterprises. We also connect SHGs with local markets and digital platforms to enhance visibility and profitability.
Some innovative and regionally relevant business ideas for SHGs include:
Organic food processing and millet-based snack production — leveraging Andhra Pradesh’s rich agricultural base.
Handcrafted Kalamkari textiles and eco-friendly jute products — combining tradition with sustainable entrepreneurship.
Homemade pickles, spices, and traditional sweets (like bellam gavvalu or karivepaku podi) — catering to both local and online markets.
Eco-friendly products manufacturing such as leaf plates, paper bags, and natural cleaning agents.
Tailoring and embroidery units producing school uniforms, reusable cloth bags, and home décor items.
Urban terrace gardening and nursery services to promote green living in Vijayawada’s expanding urban spaces.
Through these initiatives, Openheart not only helps women earn a livelihood but also nurtures leadership, teamwork, and confidence. Every SHG member becomes a change-maker—transforming her home, her community, and ultimately, society.
Our vision is simple yet profound: to turn collective strength into collective progress—one self-help group, one empowered woman at a time.
In India, one of the starkest challenges in the health sector remains the limited public investment in healthcare—historically hovering around 1.5% to 1.9% of GDP, well below the 2.5% target set by the National Health Policy.
This underinvestment often translates into weak infrastructure, limited access in rural and marginalized areas, and high out-of-pocket expenditures for even basic medical care.
The COVID-19 pandemic further laid bare these systemic weaknesses, as hospitals were overwhelmed, supply chains faltered, and many remote regions were left underserved. Recognizing these gaps, NGOs and trusts like ours have stepped in to fill critical voids—especially in preventive care, early screening, awareness building, and community-level health camps.
At Openheart, we believe in bringing health care to the doorsteps of the underprivileged. Through mobile health vans and community clinics, we conduct preventive health camps, general checkups, eye-screening, and disease detection programmes in villages and semi-urban sectors around Vijayawada and adjoining districts. We address reproductive health, immunization, HIV/AIDS awareness, and screening for non-communicable diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and cancer.
Basic sanitation, hygiene, and clean drinking water are integral to our health intervention model. Lack of adequate WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) facilities disproportionately affects women and girls—making them more vulnerable to infections and illness. We partner with local bodies and NGOs to improve hygienic infrastructure and educate communities about preventive practices.
Health camps we organise are more than one-day events—they are gateways to community trust, referrals, and follow-ups. In India, over 2.83 lakh health camps have been conducted under national campaigns—reaching millions in screening, counseling, and early detection of conditions like hypertension, cancer, tuberculosis, and anemia. Our trust aligns with such models, supplementing government efforts through sustained outreach and continuing care.
The magnitude of unmet medical needs is vast: studies suggest that about 60% of India’s population lacks reliable access to primary health services, making periodic medical camps an essential instrument to bridge coverage gaps.
Further, Openheart offers free ambulance services in our operational zones to ensure emergency care reaches remote patients. We coordinate these with our camps to transport critical cases to hospitals promptly.
We invite you to join this vital mission—your support can help us scale health camps, extend ambulatory services, procure medical equipment, and reach more villages with preventive health care. Together, we can work toward a future where underprivileged communities receive timely, dignified, and sustainable healthcare—no matter their location or circumstance.
At Openheart, we believe that education is not a privilege—it is a fundamental right and the most powerful tool for transforming lives. Our mission is to ensure that every child, regardless of background or circumstance, has access to quality education and the opportunity to shape a brighter future.
We extend our helping hand to children who are deprived of basic education by providing them with essential support such as food, clothing, books, and school fees. Through our unique initiative, we also encourage college and university students to form five-member volunteer teams under the Openheart banner to mentor and support underprivileged children in their local communities. This model fosters a spirit of compassion, leadership, and social responsibility among youth while ensuring consistent support for needy students.
Our goal is to make education accessible in every village by establishing and supporting schools equipped with proper infrastructure, dedicated teachers, and modern learning tools. We particularly focus on children from low-income families, helping them unlock their potential and become confident, capable individuals who can contribute meaningfully to society.
Currently, Openheart proudly supports over 550 students in pursuing their education—ranging from primary school to higher studies. We also assist meritorious students in securing placements and continuing their academic journeys through scholarships and career guidance.
By joining hands with us, you can become part of a movement that empowers young minds and transforms entire communities. Together, we can ensure that no child is left behind and that education truly becomes a light that illuminates every corner of our society.
At Openheart, we believe that empowering youth with the right skills is key to building sustainable livelihoods and vibrant communities. Our Vocational and Skill Training Programmes are designed to equip rural youth—especially those from economically weaker sections—with practical knowledge and entrepreneurial abilities that open doors to self-employment and financial independence.
Through our Rural Self-Employment Training Initiative, we provide free, high-quality training to individuals between the ages of 18 and 35. These programmes focus on both technical and soft skills essential for success in today’s competitive world. Participants receive hands-on instruction in diverse fields such as computer literacy, tailoring and fashion design, art and craft, candle making, catering, interior decoration, and small-scale manufacturing.
Every training centre established by Openheart is equipped with modern tools, experienced instructors, and a supportive learning environment. We take pride in the fact that over 50% of our beneficiaries are women, reflecting our commitment to inclusive development and gender equality.
Beyond skill acquisition, our programmes also focus on entrepreneurial mindset building—training participants in business planning, financial literacy, and market linkage so that they can confidently start and manage their own enterprises. Graduates of these programmes have gone on to establish small tailoring units, catering services, handicraft ventures, and digital assistance centres in their local communities.
By joining hands with Openheart, you are helping nurture a new generation of skilled, self-reliant, and confident rural youth who can contribute to India’s growth story. Together, we can transform potential into productivity and dreams into sustainable livelihoods.
Rural & Urban Development, Water & Sanitation — Building Equitable and Sustainable Communities
At Openheart Trust, headquartered in Vijayawada, we recognize that true development means progress that touches both the rural heartlands and the growing urban centres. Andhra Pradesh today is transforming rapidly — with 36.5 % of its population living in urban areas, while millions in rural regions still depend on agriculture and informal labour. This uneven development creates stark contrasts in access to housing, healthcare, transport, education, and above all, clean water and sanitation — areas where Openheart works intensively to bridge the gap.
Our Rural & Urban Development Programme focuses on creating self-reliant, inclusive, and sustainable communities. In villages surrounding Vijayawada, we work to strengthen livelihoods through vocational training, microenterprise support, and farmer capacity building. Agriculture still employs over 60 % of rural Andhra’s population, yet climate variability, groundwater depletion, and low diversification limit growth. We encourage eco-friendly agricultural practices, rainwater harvesting, and solar-powered irrigation to make farming more sustainable and climate-resilient.
Urbanisation brings its own challenges. Vijayawada’s metropolitan population has crossed 1.2 million, and like most Indian cities, it faces strain on housing, transport, and civic infrastructure. Nearly 44% of its residents live in slum areas or informal settlements with limited access to reliable drinking water and safe sanitation. Openheart works with local bodies and citizen groups to improve waste management, storm water drainage, street lighting, and urban greenery, ensuring that development benefits reach marginalized communities.
Water and sanitation are central to our mission. Under the Jal Jeevan Mission, Andhra Pradesh has achieved over 90 % rural household tap-water connections, yet supply regularity and quality remain concerns. Our trust assists in last-mile delivery — helping maintain village pipelines, monitor water quality, and promote water budgeting to prevent over-extraction from the Krishna basin. We also organize awareness drives on water conservation, plastic waste reduction, and rainwater harvesting, particularly vital in coastal Andhra’s drought-prone mandals.
In sanitation, India has achieved over 95 % Open Defecation Free (ODF) Plus certification, but sustainability depends on continuous usage and waste management. Openheart conducts quarterly cleanliness drives, builds community toilets in peri-urban slums, and promotes composting and greywater reuse to strengthen public hygiene.
We also integrate infrastructure development with social empowerment — supporting women-led self-help groups in sanitation maintenance, promoting youth volunteerism in civic cleanliness, and facilitating small-scale enterprises in waste recycling, organic composting, and eco-friendly brick manufacturing.
Our future plans include:
Developing model green villages with renewable energy, safe drinking water, and zero waste.
Launching urban micro-projects for flood-resilient roads, tree-lined corridors, and solar-powered public lighting.
Strengthening public participation through data-driven dashboards that track ward-level sanitation, water supply, and waste collection.
By combining innovation with compassion, Openheart Trust envisions a balanced Andhra Pradesh — where both rural hamlets and city neighbourhoods thrive with clean water, healthy sanitation, sustainable livelihoods, and an enduring respect for the environment. Together, we can build communities that are not just developed, but dignified and resilient.
What is Art and Culture? What is the difference between the two?
When we think of ‘Art and Culture’, what comes to mind is everything that the UPSC asks questions on – be it Persian literature, the Bhakti-Sufi tradition or Gandhara art, etc. You possibly have a vague idea about these two terms, so before we proceed to their definitions, what’s the difference between the two?
Bharatnatyam and Thang Ta are performing arts. They thus would be classified as an Art form. However, by being a part of these performances as performer or audience, having a feeling of “this is a part of me, my identity” would mean that this art form is intrinsic to one’s culture.
Similarly, while cooking the perfect idli/dosa/aloo paraatha may be an art in itself, the process of indulging in a plate of idli/dosa and/or aloo paraatha especially when abroad (you wouldn’t care less when you have it at home or at a hotel in India) would make the majority of you feel very much like you belong to what one would refer to as “Indian culture”.
Languages, religions, filial piety and singing hymns are all part of culture, not art.
Culture is a way of life. Art is a manifestation of culture, of creative urges of people belonging to a certain culture. Customs and traditions too are nothing but a manifestation of culture.
The Oxford Dictionary defines ‘Culture’ as “the arts and other manifestations of human intellectual achievement regarded collectively”, and as “the ideas, customs, and social behaviour of a particular people or society.”
The same dictionary defines ‘Art’ as “the expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, typically in a visual form such as painting or sculpture, producing works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power”, and as “the various branches of creative activity, such as painting, music, literature, and dance.
Disaster Relief & Emergency Response — Openheart Trust
Natural disasters—cyclones, floods, earthquakes, and storms—strike with little warning, often wreaking havoc on communities that are already vulnerable. In India’s coastal states, the poorest are disproportionately affected, with limited means to recover and rebuild. In Andhra Pradesh, with its long eastern coastline (approximately 973 km, making it one of the states with the longest coastlines in the country), the risk from cyclones and monsoon flooding is ever present.
When Cyclone Hud-hud made landfall near Visakhapatnam on 12 October 2014, it brought winds gusting close to 205 km/h and severe destruction across coastal districts.
Over 700,000 people were evacuated across Andhra Pradesh and neighbouring Odisha, with approximately 500,000 people in Andhra Pradesh alone moved to relief camps and safe shelters before the storm struck. Such events illustrate both the scale of potential damage and the urgent need for effective relief mechanisms.
Openheart Trust stands ready to respond when disaster strikes. Our volunteer teams mobilize swiftly, coordinating with local authorities and partner NGOs to deliver critical aid in affected areas—distributing food, clean water, and temporary shelter, and clothing, medicines, and hygiene kits. Because we operate close to the communities we serve, we can assess local needs quickly and respond adaptively to each crisis.
We also bring technical capacity to bear: whether restoring water supply systems, repairing sanitation infrastructure, or deploying medical and mental health support, our relief efforts aim to meet the acute needs while laying the groundwork for recovery. In major disasters, we support large-scale relief camps and distribution networks; in local emergencies—like home fires or localized flooding—we provide immediate assistance and link affected families to further help.
Beyond immediate relief, Openheart Trust is committed to resilience building and preparedness. That includes training communities in disaster risk reduction, maintaining stocks of emergency supplies, and reinforcing vulnerable infrastructure. When our old age home was demolished due to road widening, for example, we also saw how vital it is to rebuild with resilience in mind—so that structures can better withstand future shocks.
We invite you to stand with us in this mission. Every contribution—whether in funds, supplies, technical skills, or volunteer time—helps make our emergency actions stronger, faster, and more compassionate. Together, we can ensure that when the next disaster arrives, communities in Andhra Pradesh and beyond are not left alone to face it.
Caring for the Elderly: Dignity & Support in Their Golden Years
In India, the population of senior citizens is rapidly rising. As of the 2011 census, there were around 104 million Indians aged 60 and above, making up about 8.6% of the total population. By 2022, that number had climbed to 149 million, approximately 10.5 % of the population, and projections suggest the elderly could number 347 million by 2050, constituting over 20 % of India’s populace.
Against this demographic shift, traditional systems of elder care are weakening. The joint family structure that once protected and honored elders is dissolving as urban migration and nuclear family norms take hold. Many elderly individuals find themselves isolated, especially when children relocate for work or education. In India, although older adults still live with family, institutional care is often stigmatized, and many elders are left to fend for themselves when family support erodes.
At Openheart, we refuse to let old age become a burden without care. We aim to rebuild that sense of belonging and security by establishing structured old-age homes that provide much more than shelter. Alongside safe living environments, we incorporate emotional, social, and intellectual engagement programs—such as yoga, meditation, storytelling, music, and community events—to keep seniors active, connected, and respected. We also deploy specialized healthcare services attuned to geriatric needs, including regular checkups, chronic disease management, physiotherapy, and mental health support.
Our commitment has already taken shape: Openheart managed an old-age home caring for over 30 seniors, with volunteers providing daily support, companionship, and assistance. Sadly, due to a road-widening project, the facility was demolished, and we now seek resources to rebuild a safe, permanent residence where aging citizens can live with dignity, care, and love.
By supporting this cause, you help us restore more than a roof over someone’s head—you help restore their dignity, hope, and sense of belonging. Together, we can ensure that our elders are never forgotten in a fast-moving world.
Openheart does play a greater role to plant trees and to make people aware of importance of plants and reduce pollution in the environment. OPENHEART creates awareness among community and students of different schools and colleges to impart technical / extension know how to thwart population.
Hence the beauty of the earth is restored in all its magnificent Manifestations to protect the nature.
We have taken up the task of protecting environment by planting as many plants as possible, Educating Public about environmental changes taking place. Conducting seminars on the ways in which the environment can be protected at urban level like usage of cars and water etc. Similarly for the rural public the usage of pesticides in farms and the utilization of the natural resources to the minimum level so that the environment is not disturbed. For every quarter of the year, trust is conducting and conducts environment program through meetings and rallies last 15 years from its establishment.
Climate Action — Openheart’s Green Mission
“We won’t have a society if we destroy the environment.” This conviction guides every environmental initiative at Openheart Trust. Over the years, we have planted thousands of trees, conducted awareness campaigns in schools and communities, and regularly organized seminars and rallies to educate people on sustainable living, pollution reduction, and ecological balance.
In Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, forest cover trends offer both hope and urgency. Between 2015 and 2021, Andhra Pradesh’s forest area grew by 647 sq km, and Telangana’s by 632 sq km.
However, recent reports show that Andhra Pradesh lost 138.66 sq km of forest and tree cover between 2021 and 2023—ranking second highest nationwide for forest loss in that span. Meanwhile, Telangana is also seeing pressures from encroachments and deforestation.
Globally, India remains among the most polluted countries: urban areas frequently exceed safe levels of particulate matter (PM₂.₅), and all 1.4 billion Indians are exposed to unhealthy ambient air.
Against this backdrop, Openheart’s environment programs are more than symbolic gestures—they are strategic interventions. Our quarterly environmental drives include mass tree planting (with emphasis on native and soil-stabilizing species), awareness campaigns in schools and colleges about reducing vehicular emissions, water conservation, waste segregation, and judicious use of pesticides. In rural areas, we counsel farmers on sustainable agriculture practices (organic farming, crop rotation, minimal pesticide use) to preserve soil health and ecosystem balance.
Looking ahead, Openheart intends to scale up climate action in ways suited to the geography of Vijayawada, the Telugu states, and South India:
Urban green corridors & rooftop gardens: In Vijayawada and nearby towns, promoting vertical greening, green pockets along roads and canal embankments, and community gardens to reduce heat islands.
Native species reforestation & mangrove restoration: Along the Krishna–Godavari delta and coastal Andhra, restoring mangrove belts to buffer storms, improve carbon sequestration, and protect biodiversity.
Agro forestry & farmer incentives: Encouraging integration of trees into farmland (e.g. fruit, timber, and nitrogen-fixing species) so that farmers gain income while improving carbon capture.
Solar landscaping & micro-solar gardens: Combining small solar installations with shade trees, e.g. solar panels elevated above agricultural plots or gardens, generating clean energy while supporting plants below.
Community carbon-credit projects: Setting up small-scale afforestation or agro forestry projects certified for carbon credits, enabling revenue generation for local communities and sustainability of the green programs.
Waste-to-biofuel & composting initiatives: In semi-urban and rural communities, converting organic waste into biogas or compost—reducing methane emissions and supporting circular economy.
Air-quality monitoring & citizen science: Installing low-cost air sensors in Vijayawada and surrounding rural areas, involving students and communities in monitoring, data collection, and awareness.
Climate education & disaster-resilience planting: In schools and villages, building curriculum modules on climate change, planting species resilient to heat, drought, and flooding to prepare landscapes for climate extremes.
Through these efforts, Openheart aims not only to reverse environmental degradation locally but also to contribute meaningfully to climate resilience in the Telugu states and South India at large. With your support, we can restore the beauty of the earth, strengthen communities, and protect our shared future.
A Vital Initiative by Openheart Trust
Road accidents in India have reached alarming proportions. According to official data, in 2022, there were 168,491 fatalities in road crashes nationwide. That year, over 119,900 of those deaths were attributable to over-speeding, and 4,201 deaths were linked to drunk driving violations, with additional causes including wrong side driving, red-light running, and mobile phone use. Two-wheeler users remain disproportionately affected — in 2021, they accounted for over 69,240 deaths out of the total 155,622 reported fatalities.
The scope of the challenge is immense: in 2022 alone, India recorded over 450,000 road accidents, resulting in more than 150,000 reported injuries — though other sources estimate the real fatality figure may be closer to 270,000 when unreported cases are included.
On average, 462 people die every day in road accidents in India.
In June 2025, Openheart Trust launched a comprehensive Road Safety Campaign across Vijayawada and neighbouring districts. Working closely with schools, local traffic authorities, and youth groups, we have conducted more than 10 safety camps covering topics such as responsible driving, the dangers of speeding and drinking and driving, pedestrian safety, helmet use, and first aid for accident victims.
Our approach is multi-dimensional:
Awareness & Education: We engage communities through workshops, street plays, and interactive sessions emphasising traffic rules, safe road behavior, and the shared responsibility of road users.
Traffic Camps & Demonstrations: In collaboration with traffic police, we host camps to simulate accident scenarios, teach basic life-saving techniques, and distribute reflective gear and safety leaflets. School Safety Clubs: We establish student-led safety clubs that peer-educate on traffic discipline, helmet use, and safe walking routes.
Data-based Focus Zones: Based on recent NCRB data, evening rush hours (6–9 pm) in Vijayawada have seen alarming accident surges, with over 1,522 accidents, 1,416 injuries, and 373 fatalities in 2023 alone.
The Times of India
Targeting such high-risk hours and stretches is central to our planning.
We align our programs with proven models such as the Zero Fatality Corridor (ZFC) approach, which combines engineering improvements, enhanced enforcement, emergency response, and community engagement. The ZFC model has already cut crash fatalities by 52 % on the Mumbai–Pune Expressway and is being replicated across Indian states.
Going forward, Openheart plans to:
Map black spots in Vijayawada district and work with authorities to improve signage, road lighting, speed control measures, and pedestrian crossings.
Train traffic marshals and volunteer first responders in every ward to provide timely assistance in the “golden hour.”
Promote helmet subsidy drives and seatbelt awareness campaigns in college hostels and commuting hubs.
Deploy mobile safety awareness vans to rural habitations to reach road users who may lack exposure to safety messages.
Use data analytics and Smartphone apps to collect local crash data, identify trends, and tailor interventions specific to Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
Road accidents are not inevitable—they can be prevented with sustained education, infrastructure, enforcement, and citizen involvement. At Openheart, every safety camp, every volunteer, and every awareness session is a step toward safer roads, fewer tragedies, and a community that values life above speed. Together, let us pledge to drive responsibly, save lives, and transform our roads into corridors of care rather than conflict.
Sports & Recreation: Nurturing Youth through Play and Performance
At Openheart Trust, we believe that sports and recreation are vital for the holistic development of youth—physically, mentally, and socially. Whether in rural villages or urban neighbor hoods, we actively support talented young men and women by helping them access coaching, equipment, travel support, and competition opportunities.
Many of our trust’s volunteers emerge from our sports initiatives—young people who, through participation in teams and events, develop leadership, discipline, and a commitment to serve others. Over 70 youth who completed vocational training under Openheart have also benefited from our backing and been placed in meaningful roles, a fact we take great pride in.
Around 23 % of India’s population engages in at least one sport, indicating growing but still limited participation.
A 2022 report found that only about half of children and adolescents meet global physical activity guidelines, underscoring a need to build culture and infrastructure.
The Sports & Physical Activity report reveals that 67 % of students say their school lacks basic sports equipment, and 21 % do not have access to a playground.
In rural areas (which house about 65 % of India’s population), sports infrastructure remains scarce—many villages lack accessible fields, coaches, and training facilities.
Physical inactivity among adolescents is high in India—over 70 % in some studies—posing risks of lifestyle diseases over time.
We identify youth with athletic potential in Vijayawada and surrounding districts, providing them with financial assistance, coaching support, and access to training facilities.
We organize recreational events, neighborhood tournaments, and friendly matches to build confidence, camaraderie, and regular engagement in physical activity.
Our trust facilitates sports scholarships, travel grants, and gear sponsorships, so that talented players aren’t held back by financial constraints.
By partnering with schools, local clubs, and sports federations, we help bridge gaps in infrastructure—contributing to creating playgrounds, providing equipment, and arranging coaches.
We also promote recreation for all—encouraging community-wide engagement in games, fitness, and wellness activities beyond competitive sports.
Through sports and recreation, Openheart Trust aims to transform young lives—giving them a platform to excel, a community to belong to, and a future to believe in. When youth succeed on the field, they become confident, responsible, and eager to contribute off the field too. Let us together nurture the champions of tomorrow.
Towards Inclusive Rehabilitation & Support for Persons with Disabilities
At Openheart, our belief is that everyone deserves the opportunity to lead a life of dignity, regardless of physical, sensory, intellectual, or psychological challenges. Rehabilitation is not merely about care—it is about restoring independence, building skills, and integrating individuals into mainstream life. With modest yet dedicated efforts, we aim to bring hope and happiness to lives often overlooked.
In India, disability is a significant but under-recognized issue. According to the National Sample Survey (NSS 76th Round, 2018), about 2.2% of the population—approximately 26.8 million people—live with some form of disability, with a slightly higher prevalence in rural areas (2.3 %) than urban (2.0%) Although census data estimates 2.21% of the population (26.8 million) as persons with disabilities, it is widely believed that actual numbers may be higher due to underreporting.
Sadly, many persons with disabilities receive little to no aid: about 20.8% of those who acquire disability after birth receive no government support, and over 60% report job loss due to disability. Accessing public infrastructure is also a challenge, with 57.7% saying they face difficulties entering public buildings, and 40% struggling with public transport.
Against this backdrop, Openheart commits to treating, educating, empowering, and rehabilitating persons with special needs in an environment of compassion and respect. We strive to minimize their suffering by providing timely therapy, assistive devices, physiotherapy, counseling, and tailored education. Our vocational training programs are adapted to each individual’s abilities—whether in crafts, digital assistance, inclusive business models, or remote-enabled work—to help them secure employment or start small ventures.
We also believe in integration. Rather than isolating special-needs persons, we promote inclusion by creating shared spaces where talents can flourish and barriers can be reduced. Through awareness campaigns, community sensitisation, and partnerships with local government, we work to break down social stigma and improve accessibility.
By joining us, you become a partner in restoring voices, enabling mobility, and transforming lives. Together, we can ensure that every person with disability in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh—and beyond—receives the dignity, support, and opportunity they deserve.
Sustainable Energy & Clean Power Initiatives
India stands at a crossroads in its energy journey. While coal and other fossil fuels have historically powered growth—and still make up over 70% of electricity generation in many years—there is a clear shift underway toward cleaner, renewable sources.
In fact, as of mid-2025, non-fossil fuel sources nearly accounted for 49% of India’s installed capacity, largely driven by solar expansion.
Coal combustion remains a major source of carbon emissions: India’s total CO₂ emissions from fuel combustion exceed 2,500 million tonnes, with energy-related emissions being a substantial share.
The heavy reliance on coal not only degrades air quality but also contributes to climate vulnerabilities—especially in rural regions that already bear the brunt of environmental stress.
At Openheart Trust, we are committed to helping communities in Vijayawada and surrounding rural areas transition toward clean, sustainable energy solutions. We educate citizens on energy conservation, promote behavior changes such as switching off lights and appliances when unused, and improving insulation or shading to reduce cooling needs.
More ambitiously, we advocate for and support the installation of off-grid solar power systems in villages and hamlets lacking access to reliable electricity. Given India’s abundant sunlight and falling solar technology costs, solar energy is increasingly viable: the country has now installed over 127 GW of solar capacity nationwide.
We help households install rooftop and micro-solar systems—providing training, technical assistance, and sometimes seed funding—so that rural homes, schools, and community centres become partly self-reliant in electricity.
Our efforts also include raising awareness about cleaner cook stoves and biogas solutions—shifting from traditional biomass burning (which causes indoor air pollution) toward cleaner, safer alternatives. In doing so, we not only reduce carbon emissions but also protect people’s health, especially women and children, who are most exposed.
By promoting sustainable energy use, Openheart aims to reduce carbon footprints in rural communities, lessen dependence on polluting fuels, and pave the way for a greener, healthier future. With your support, we can bring solar light and clean energy to every corner of Andhra Pradesh.
Global peace is one of the main objectives of our trust and the trust strives to provide the support in the issues relating peace. Global peace is one of the main objectives of our trust and the trust strives to provide the support in the issues relating peace.
The Openheart Social Organisation Charitable Trust (OSOCT) Trust is to minimize human suffering among vulnerable groups having HIV / AIDS. AIDS gradually destroys the body’s immune defence system and makes the body vulnerable to opportunistic diseases. As of today, millions have been diagnosed with AIDS, and millions have died. Through awareness programs, treatments, referrals and counselling, OSOCT has effectively reduced individuals suffering from sexually transmitted infections (STI) & HIV / AIDS. OSOCT plans to provide sensitization training, advocacy, awareness, support and free legal aid to HIV / AIDS patients. Help us raise awareness to HIV prejudice and help stop the spread of HIV. We need your help to moderate the devastating effects of HIV / AIDS.
Volunteerism at Openheart
Volunteerism lies at the heart of Openheart’s mission. Today, over 400 dedicated volunteers work with us at the grassroots, helping us carry our services into villages and urban pockets where support is most needed. These individuals are selected for their genuine desire to serve others—regardless of caste, creed, or religion—and are trained intensively before stepping into the field.
Our volunteer training program provides both technical knowledge and field awareness. Whether its health camps, education drives, disaster relief, or community outreach, volunteers learn the practical skills required for their roles. We emphasize ethical behavior, respect, empathy, and non-discrimination as fundamental values—so that every act of service reflects dignity and compassion.
While precise national data on volunteer numbers is evolving, it is estimated that India has nearly 18.65 crore (186.5 million) people who volunteer their time and support to nonprofit organizations.
Reports also note that volunteering in India has grown steadily, with many initiatives logging millions of hours annually. This underscores the potential and importance of community participation in social change.
At Openheart, volunteers are more than helpers—they become storytellers, change agents, and ambassadors of hope. Their consistent efforts enable us to reach deeper into communities, sustain our programs, and amplify impact. When you volunteer with us, you don’t just give time—you become part of a movement that uplifts lives with responsibility, humility, and unity.
Openheart Blood Donation Guild
At Openheart, we firmly believe that every drop counts—and that voluntary blood donation is one of the purest forms of service to humanity. Our Blood Donation Guild brings together compassionate citizens ready to give life to others. As a member, you pledge to donate blood to those in need within your area, whenever possible. Just fill out our membership form, and we will connect you to donation camps and urgent requests nearby.
We organize annual blood donation camps—especially on our foundation day—and many enthusiastic youths, students, and community members actively participate. These events strengthen our network of regular donors and build awareness on the importance of safe, voluntary blood donation.
🩸 The Need & the Numbers
India’s clinical demand for blood is estimated at 36.3 donations per 1,000 eligible persons, amounting to roughly 14.6 million whole blood units annually.
However, India currently collects about 12.5 million units, which is significantly less than required.
In Andhra Pradesh alone, the state collected over 700,000 blood units in the 2024–25 financial year—surpassing its estimated need of about 530,000 units.
In South India more broadly, studies in coastal regions show that over 80 % of donors are under 35 years old, and males make up around 95 % of donors.
Prevalence of transfusion-transmitted infections (TTIs) in Indian blood donors has been decreasing: from 2.267% in 2020, to 1.614% in 2022.
These figures underscore both the vital need for more donors—and the importance of safety, screening, and building a culture of voluntary giving.
Our Commitment & Your Role
Screening & Safety: All donated blood is tested rigorously for TTIs (HIV, HBV, HCV, syphilis) to ensure it is safe for recipients.
Local Matching & Urgent Alerts: We maintain a directory of donors by blood group and area, so requests for rare groups can be fulfilled quickly.
Awareness & Education: Through workshops, campus drives, and social media outreach, we encourage young people—especially in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana—to become regular donors.
Camp Infrastructure: We coordinate with hospitals, mobile blood units, and local clinics in Vijayawada and surrounding districts to host camps that are accessible to both rural and urban donors.
Recognition & Motivation: Donors are honored through certificates, badges, and public recognition to encourage retention and inspire others.
By joining the Openheart Blood Donation Guild, you become part of a life-saving community. Your decision to donate blood regularly could be the difference between life and death for someone in crisis. Together, we can work toward a future where every patient in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and all of South India has timely access to safe blood. Will you send us your arm to save lives?
