Driven by Values, Defined by Action

People’s Action for National Integration (PANI) is a grassroots social development organization dedicated to uplifting underprivileged communities in northern India, with a strong presence in Uttar Pradesh.

Founded in 1986 by a collective of Gandhian social activists under the visionary leadership of Paras Bhai, a devoted champion of social justice, PANI was born from a simple yet profound belief - true nation-building begins in villages, with people at its core.

Guided by Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of rural reconstruction and self-reliance, PANI has spent decades nurturing community-led change and empowering individuals to shape their own futures. ... In 1989, the organization was formally registered as a not-for-profit entity under the Societies Registration Act XXI, 1860, solidifying its commitment to social transformation through grassroots action.

Vision

PANI envisions itself as a medium for building an inclusive society that prospers in harmony with its surroundings.

Mission

Our mission is to empower people so that they have greater control over their life situations and take responsibility to make a world that is mutually rewarding.

Our Core Values

Equity

We stand for fairness – within our team and in our work. We ensure that the most marginalized have equal access to rights, resources and opportunities to thrive.

Dignity

Respect is at the core of everything we do. Whether working with communities or within our organization, we uphold the right of every individual to be heard, valued and empowered.

Integrity

We act with honesty and purpose. Our work is rooted in truth, fairness and an unwavering commitment to doing what is right – always.

Transparency and Accountability

We hold ourselves accountable to the people we work with, to each other and to our mission. We believe in open dialogue, responsible action and impact that speaks for itself.

When Compassion Became Action

PANI’s story began not as an organization, but as a response to a moment in history. In 1986, as communal tensions simmered in Ayodhya, a group of Gandhian activists, led by Paras Bhai, chose not to be bystanders. Instead, they stepped into villages – listening, learning and working to bridge divides through dialogue and collective action. What emerged was more than just a call for unity; it was a movement rooted in the power of people to heal, rebuild and transform their own realities.

This was the seed of PANI – A belief that social change isn’t delivered; it is nurtured from within communities. Long before formal structures and registrations, PANI was a presence in the lives of people, walking alongside them in their struggles and aspirations. The journey began with no blueprints, no predetermined models – only the conviction that lasting change starts with those who live it.

PANI’s Journey

1986 - 1990

FOUNDATION

Founded in 1986 and formally registered in 1989, PANI began as a grassroots initiative committed to identifying and supporting the most vulnerable communities. In its early years, the team worked informally - listening, mobilizing and refining approaches to drive meaningful, community-led change. These formative years laid the foundation for PANI’s long-term vision and impact.

1991 - 1995

INITIAL PHASE

In its early years, PANI’s founders actively engaged with the development sector - building knowledge, networks and institutional partnerships. The first major grant came in 1992 from Cebemo (Netherlands) for women’s empowerment and health, followed by CAPART support for a safe drinking water campaign.

1996 - 2000

EXPANSION

During this phase, PANI expanded its programs and reach, with support from partners like ActionAid, CCF, Misereor and EED Germany. New initiatives focused on community health, child development, livelihoods and strengthening grassroots institutions, addressing the needs of people across all life stages, from birth to old age.

2001 - 2005

AMPLIFICATION

This phase was marked by rapid expansion - both in outreach and vision. PANI strengthened its internal systems, enhanced program efficiency and transparency and hired professional staff. Strategic planning was initiated for long-term direction, while grassroots partnerships, visibility and geographic presence were significantly expanded.

2006 - 2010

SPECIALIZATION

With the foundation in place, PANI focused on deepening its thematic expertise. Programs became more targeted, aligning closely with the evolving needs of communities across life stages - from childhood to old age - supported by long-term partners like Action Aid, Misereor and EED.

2011 - 2015

TRANSFORMATION

PANI expanded thematically and geographically, introduced Natural Resource Management and Climate Change, and began engaging with CSR partners, marking a strategic shift toward broader impact and sustainability.

2016 - 2020

OPTIMIZATION

PANI introduced a Theory of Change, aligned with SDGs, and streamlined systems, processes and strategies to enable scale and thematic depth across all development areas.

2021 - 2026

(Continued Optimization)

Poised for the future, PANI is deepening community-rooted leadership, investing in capacity-building and refining its systems to amplify impact and sustainability across an expanding landscape of rural development.

Audited Financial Statements

Audited Financials
(Consolidated)

2023-24

Audited Financials
(Consolidated)

2022-23

Audited Financials
(Consolidated)

2021-22

Audited Financials
(FC)

2023-24

Audited Financials
(FC)

2022-23

Audited Financials
(FC)

2021-22

Our Policies and Commitments

Guided by our values of Equity, Dignity, Integrity, Transparency and Accountability, these policies ensure that our work remains ethical, inclusive, and responsible – both within the organization and in our engagement with communities. They provide a clear framework for decision-making, safeguard practices and help us stay true to our purpose.

Charting the Road Ahead

PANI envisions a future where communities drive their own transformation, thriving in a just and equitable society. Our strategy for 2021-2026 focuses on deepening impact through grassroots empowerment, sustainable livelihoods, gender justice, child development and climate resilience.

We aim to strengthen local leadership, ensuring communities have the knowledge and tools to advocate for their rights. Our interventions will integrate technology, climate-smart solutions and participatory governance, making development more inclusive and scalable. PANI will also prioritize institutional sustainability, enhancing internal governance, transparency and partnerships to amplify our reach.

As we move forward, PANI remains committed to its Gandhian values, fostering dignity, equity, and self-reliance. The journey ahead is about co-creating solutions with people, for people, ensuring a future where no one is left behind.

Annual Report

2022-23

Annual Report

2021-22

Annual Report

2023-24