Our Founder
Dr. Alexander Daniel founded the Institute for Integrated Rural Development (IIRD) in 1987 with a vision rooted in social justice and grassroots empowerment. A firm believer that real transformation begins within the oppressed, he inspired communities to understand their own struggles and rise against inequality. Dr. Daniel emphasized the importance of conscious allies working alongside marginalized groups to dismantle systems of exploitation. His deep compassion, strategic thinking, and commitment to rural upliftment laid the foundation for IIRD’s holistic approach. Today, his vision continues to guide the organization's mission across regions and generations.
Empowering Rural Lives Since 1987
The Institute for Integrated Rural Development (IIRD) is a pioneering non-profit based in Marathwada, Maharashtra, focused on sustainable and inclusive rural development. Since 1987, IIRD has worked with marginalized farmers to promote eco-friendly farming, economic independence, and community-led change. Starting with just six villages in Paithan, its reach now spans multiple districts and states. IIRD helps farmers reclaim control by using local inputs, bypassing exploitative markets, and building micro-enterprises. Beyond income, it nurtures awareness, confidence, and self-reliance. The movement has influenced policy, inspired donors, and attracted global partnerships for systemic rural transformation.
150+
15
Community-led Development
Grassroots NGO
Our Mission & Philosophy
The Institute for Integrated Rural Development (IIRD) is committed to facilitating and strengthening sustainable development initiatives led by grassroots communities. Our mission focuses on improving livelihoods, promoting skill development and rural enterprises, ensuring food and nutritional security, fostering environmental sustainability, advancing gender justice, and strengthening local governance and community resilience.
At the core of IIRD’s work is its guiding philosophy—PEACE: People’s Education and Action for Community Empowerment. PEACE is not just a framework; it is a transformative vision of development that redefines how we relate to society and the environment. IIRD believes true development must emerge from the people themselves—not as a top-down model, but as a collective journey toward justice, dignity, and sustainability. In this journey, environmental care and social equity are not separate goals—they are natural outcomes of community empowerment.
Our Objectives
1. Poverty Alleviation (SDG 1: No Poverty)
IIRD empowers marginalized communities—particularly women—by promoting sustainable livelihoods through self-employment, skill training, and micro-enterprise support. The organization also helps the poor gain control over their habitat and productive resources to break the cycle of poverty.
2. Combating Hunger Through Sustainable Agriculture (SDG 2: Zero Hunger)
By promoting organic and sustainable farming practices, IIRD ensures food security and builds resilient livelihoods. It also undertakes nutrition-focused interventions to address malnutrition, especially among women and children.
3. Promoting Healthy Lives (SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being)
IIRD enhances rural healthcare access by supporting community-based health systems and implementing targeted nutritional programs for maternal and child health in underserved areas.
4. Inclusive and Equitable Learning (SDG 4: Quality Education)
The organization provides inclusive education opportunities for rural school dropouts and promotes need-based vocational and life skills training for youth and adults, fostering long-term empowerment.
5. Empowering Women (SDG 5: Gender Equality)
IIRD works to strengthen women’s decision-making power and access to resources, while mainstreaming gender equality across all its development programs through leadership initiatives and positive discrimination.
6. Safe Water and Sanitation (SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation)
Through community-led efforts, IIRD ensures access to safe drinking water and improved sanitation. It promotes watershed development, water conservation, and hygiene education for sustainable outcomes.
7. Fair Work and Inclusive Growth (SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth)
IIRD enhances skill development and strengthens rural enterprises through women’s self-help groups (SHGs). It encourages entrepreneurship in agriculture and allied sectors via Green Colleges and eco-vocational training.
8. Reducing Inequality (SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities)
By implementing inclusive policies, IIRD reduces inequality in access to resources, services, and opportunities for marginalized populations—especially women and socially excluded groups.
9. Sustainable Housing (SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities)
The organization promotes access to safe, adequate, and affordable housing and essential services by empowering communities to lead and manage their own housing initiatives.
10. Sustainable Consumption (SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production)
IIRD encourages eco-friendly practices such as organic farming, local food systems, and farmer producer companies. It reduces chemical inputs and supports sustainable production models that protect resources for future generations.
11. Climate Action (SDG 13: Climate Action)
IIRD raises awareness and mobilizes community action on climate issues by promoting climate-resilient farming, water conservation, reforestation, and eco-education programs.
12. Biodiversity Protection (SDG 14: Life on Land)
The organization safeguards rural ecosystems through soil and water conservation, afforestation, and biodiversity protection, ensuring a healthier environment and sustainable land use.
Location Details
IIRD is located in Bidkin, Aurangabad, Maharashtra, serving as a hub for rural development initiatives across the region.
Address
Bidkin, Aurangabad, Maharashtra
Hours
9 AM - 5 PM