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.
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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 & Vision
PANI was born in 1986 out of a vision to promote harmony and integrated rural development, inspired by Gandhian principles. These formative years were about listening to communities, building trust, and shaping the organisation’s moral and operational foundations. In 1989, PANI was formally registered, marking the transition from a people’s movement to an institution grounded in service and inclusion.
1991 – 2000
Learning, Growth & Consolidation
This decade marked PANI’s steady growth and learning. The organisation began implementing structured community development programmes, focusing on women’s empowerment, education, health and sanitation. The first institutional collaborations and grants - such as those from Cebemo (1992) for women’s empowerment and CAPART for safe drinking water - laid the groundwork for expansion. PANI developed its team, built systems and shaped its values around Equity, Dignity, Integrity, Transparency and Accountability.
2001 – 2010
Expansion & Visibility
Between 2001 and 2010, PANI experienced major geographical and thematic expansion. With support from ActionAid, Misereor, CCF, and EED, new programs addressed child rights, livelihoods, health and governance. The decade also saw partnerships with state and national networks, enhancing visibility and credibility. Professionalisation within the organisation improved accountability, while the spirit of volunteerism continued to drive grassroots efforts.
2011 – 2020
Thematic Strengthening & Innovation
During 2011–2020, PANI entered a phase of thematic deepening and innovation. The focus shifted toward gender equality, adolescent empowerment, sustainable agriculture, climate resilience and community-based governance. Partnerships diversified - linking with CSR, government and international networks - while the organisation strengthened its Monitoring & Evaluation systems and evidence-based planning. PANI’s work became aligned with the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), marking a period of transformation and renewed purpose.
2021 – 2030
Optimization, Technology & Sustainable Growth
The most recent phase reflects consolidation and forward-thinking adaptation. PANI refined its Theory of Change, streamlined its systems, and strengthened leadership across levels. Emphasis on climate-responsive water and agriculture, digital transformation and community-led sustainability defines this period. Guided by Gandhian values and rooted in local realities, PANI continues to invest in people - building self-reliant, inclusive, and climate-resilient rural futures.
Legal Status
PANI
Renewed Society Registration Certificate
PANI
80G
PANI
FCRA Approval
PANI
12 AA
PANI
TAN
PANI
PAN
PANI
EPF Registration form
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.
(19-Sub Policies of HR Policy)
- Conflict of Interest Policy
- Anti Bribery and Corruption Policy
- Grievance Redressal Policy
- Code of Conduct
- Inclusion Policy
- Sexual Harassment Prevention Policy
- Whistle Blower Policy
- Manpower Budget Policy
- Recruitment Policy
- Personnel File Policy
- Confirmation Policy
- Deputation Policy
- Salary policy
- Leave Policy
- Safety Policy
- Group Mediclaim Insurance policy
- Learning and Training Policy
- Performance Appraisal Policy
- Travel Policy
(3-Sub Policies of Finance & Accounting Policy)
- Budget Management Policy
- Investment Policy
- Grant Management Policy
- Child Protection Policy
- Gender Policy
- Disability Policy
- HIV/AIDS Policy
- Environmental Policy
- Humanitarian response Policy
…
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