The Youth Council for Development Alternatives (YCDA) is a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) established in 1993 with the mission to create sustainable improvements in the socio-economic conditions of disadvantaged and marginalized communities. Led by a team of experienced and trained social workers in various fields, YCDA focuses on key program areas, including Education and Child Protection, Youth Development and Livelihood Promotion. The organization’s headquarters is located in Baunsuni village, Boudh district, Odisha, where all activities are managed. To ensure effective program implementation, cluster and project offices have been established at the field level. YCDA collaborates with like-minded organizations, foundations, corporate bodies, and various government departments to fulfil its mission.
Our CEO-cum-Secretary, Mr. Rajendra Meher, has been honoured with the prestigious 6th Inderjit Khurana National Award 2025. This recognition celebrates his unwavering dedication, visionary leadership, and lifelong commitment to empowering communities and transforming lives.
For decades, Mr. Meher has been a driving force in advancing social development and placing children, families, and communities at the centre of meaningful change. This award reflects his consistent efforts, compassionate approach, and mission-driven leadership.
We extend our heartiest congratulations to Mr. Meher for this remarkable achievement. His accomplishments continue to inspire every member of the YCDA team to:
Dream bigger
Innovate boldly
Work harder for a better and brighter tomorrow
At YCDA, this honour is not just an award — it is a milestone that motivates us to strengthen our efforts in building resilient, inclusive, and empowered communities.
Once again, congratulations, Sir. We are proud to walk alongside you in the collective journey toward positive social change.
On the occasion of District Level Mandia Dibas, Balangir, under the Shree Anna Abhiyan Project, YCDA Belpada has been honoured with the Award for Best Facilitating Agency (FA). Additionally, Ms. Kuntula Dharua from Kandhenjhula Village, Belpada Block has been nominated for Best Millet Farmer.
These recognitions reflect the continuous and dedicated efforts of YCDA and the local farming community in promoting millet cultivation and sustainable agricultural practices. Through ongoing field support, capacity building, and awareness initiatives, the program is helping farmers adopt millet-based farming techniques that are both climate-resilient and economically beneficial.
The achievement reinforces the importance of:
Promoting traditional and nutrient-rich crops
Empowering farmers through training and technical support
Encouraging sustainable and environment-friendly farming systems
Enhancing livelihoods through millet cultivation
YCDA extends congratulations to the farmers, stakeholders and community members whose collective efforts have made this recognition possible. The organization remains committed to advancing millet cultivation and strengthening sustainable agriculture in the region.
YCDA is pleased to share a moment of great pride from the District Level Millet Celebration Day, organised by the Agricultural and Farmers Empowerment Department, Boudh, Odisha.
Under the Shree Anna Abhiyan, the Matrushakti Women Farmers Producer Company Ltd., Kantamal, has been honoured with the awards for Best Facilitating Agency (FA) and Best Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO).
This recognition reflects the continuous efforts, dedication and commitment of the Matrushakti FPO and YCDA in promoting millet cultivation and advancing sustainable farming practices among rural farming communities. The initiatives undertaken have strengthened:
Adoption of millet-based farming techniques
Capacity building and awareness among farmers
Improved livelihoods through sustainable agriculture
Community-level participation in climate-resilient cultivation
These achievements reinforce the growing importance of millets as a nutritious, climate-smart and economically viable crop. The Matrushakti FPO continues to empower women farmers by enhancing their leadership, improving market linkages and promoting sustainable agricultural models.
YCDA congratulates the Matrushakti Women Farmers Producer Company Ltd. and appreciates the efforts of all farmers, partners and stakeholders who contributed to this success.
In Chhendipada, the APC Project implemented by YCDA is empowering farmers to become leaders of climate-resilient agriculture. By strengthening knowledge, skills and access to sustainable farming practices, the initiative is supporting farming communities to adapt to changing climatic conditions while improving their livelihoods.
Through the project, farmers are:
Learning and practicing climate-smart agricultural techniques
Conserving soil and water to protect natural resources for future generations
Increasing productivity and income while maintaining an ecological balance
The project places farmers at the centre of environmental stewardship, helping them adopt farming techniques that are both sustainable and economically beneficial.
The APC Project in Chhendipada is contributing to:
Improved farm productivity
Reduced vulnerability to climate change
Stronger community resilience
Promotion of nature-friendly farming practices
Together, YCDA and farmers are working towards a future where agriculture supports both economic well-being and environmental sustainability. The initiative continues to sow the seeds of hope, resilience and prosperity across the region.
The Youth Council for Development Alternatives (YCDA) is a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) established in 1993 with the mission to create sustainable improvements in the socio-economic conditions of disadvantaged and marginalized communities.
On the occasion of Children's Festival "PATANGI"-2024, I extend heartfelt wishes to all children and commend YCDA's efforts in creating a vibrant platform that celebrates creativity, inspires growth, and brings joy to Puintala's young generation. Jai Hind!
Looking back at 25 years of cooperation with YCDA, We honor your invaluable commitment that has led to i to the improvement of the lives of Communities, Children and most importantly to the enrichment of the lives of thousands of children. No words can express the impact you made by Investing in the improvement of education, participation, and resilience of countless children. We sincerly hope to continue our cooperation in the future for children In Odisha, In India and in the whole world!
