Social Protection
Introduction
Despite notable global progress, women and girls in India continue to face systemic barriers that perpetuate poverty, inequality, and limited opportunities. The Global Gender Gap Report 2023 ranks India 127th out of 146 countries, reflecting persistent disparities in economic participation and political empowerment. These gaps are exacerbated by societal norms and structural inequalities, restricting access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities while leaving millions vulnerable to exploitation and marginalization. The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) reveals high rates of malnutrition and anaemia among women of reproductive age, alongside ongoing issues like child marriage and human trafficking, which disproportionately impact women and girls. Educational deprivation remains a critical concern, with over 4 million girls out of school, as reported by UNESCO. This disparity, especially pronounced in marginalized communities, perpetuates cycles of poverty and inequality. Collectively, these challenges hinder the well-being of women and girls and impede India’s social and economic progress.
Our Work
Ladli Foundation is dedicated to addressing the systemic issues that perpetuate cycles of poverty and inequality for women and girls in India. Our mission is to empower vulnerable women and girls, break cycles of exploitation, and foster a more equitable society. Guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we focus on areas like gender equality, reducing inequalities, improving health and well-being, enhancing access to quality education, and promoting decent work and economic growth.
Key Areas of Focus
Preventing Gender-Based Violence and Exploitation
Combating Forced Marriages : To prevent forced and unsafe marriages, we organize mass wedding ceremonies that are conducted with strict background checks to ensure the security and consent of brides.
Addressing Human Trafficking : We work closely with law enforcement agencies to rescue and rehabilitate victims of human trafficking, providing them with support services for recovery and reintegration.
Empowering Girls Through Education and Skill Development
Promoting Education : We implement initiatives aimed at improving girls' access to education, particularly in marginalized communities, and work to reduce dropout rates, thus helping girls build brighter futures.
Skill Development : Through vocational training and skill-building programs, we equip women with practical skills to improve employability and foster economic independence.
Improving Health and Well-being
Access to Healthcare : We advocate for increased availability and accessibility of quality healthcare services for women and girls, aiming to reduce malnutrition and anemia.
Reproductive Health : Ladli Foundation promotes reproductive health education and family planning access, empowering women to make informed decisions about their health.
Nutrition and Wellness : By supporting nutrition-focused programs, we address high rates of malnutrition and advocate for wellness practices to enhance women’s and girls' overall health.
Building Inclusive Communities
Community Engagement : Ladli Foundation works with communities to spread awareness on gender equality and social justice, fostering an environment where women and girls can thrive.
Social Inclusion : We create bridges between privileged and underprivileged communities, encouraging social inclusion and shared responsibility for social change.
Capacity Building : By training community leaders and local organizations, we help build sustainable solutions to local issues that perpetuate gender inequality.
Our Social Protection Projects
| Name Of Project | Description | Locations | Direct Beneficiaries | Partners |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mass Marriage(2012 - Ongoing) | In India, marriage is often tied to highcosts and dowry traditions, leading tosocial victimization and harmful practicesagainst underprivileged women. However,it also serves as an essential means of providing social security to uneducated women, protecting them from exploitationand trafficking. We organized massweddings for 1,753 women, covering allexpenses and conducting criminalbackground checks of potential grooms to ensure their safety and well-being. | Delhi NCR | 1,753 | |
| Sustainable Kanya Pujan (2019 - Ongoing) | The Sustainable Kanya Pujan initiative by Ladli Foundation transforms the traditional Navratri ritual into a socially impactful practice supporting underprivileged girls. Families from privileged backgrounds “socially adopt” adolescent girls, committing to their education, health, and well-being. This year-round support includes providing educational materials, health checkups, and tuition fees, safeguarding girls from challenges like exploitation and early marriage. By aligning cultural traditions with modern values, the initiative bridges social divides, promotes gender equality, and empowers girls with access to education and healthcare for a brighter future. | Delhi NCR | 4,601 | |
| Skill Development(2015 - 2024) | Ladli Foundation’s Sashakt initiative, launched in 2015, aims to bridge the digital divide and empower marginalized youth with essential skills, transforming the career prospects of over 25,000 students. Through eight advanced computer skill centres, Sashakt offers programs tailored to provide practical expertise, preparing young learners for success in a competitive job market. Focused on underprivileged girls and young women, the initiative equips participants with digital and vocational skills that are critical for economic independence and self-sufficiency. Sashakt is more than a training program; it’s a catalyst for social and economic upliftment, helping build a skilled, resilient, and inclusive workforce. | Delhi NCR | 25,000 |   |
Reach & Presence
1350+ Village Slums
20+ Projects
17 States
30+ Districts
Testimonials
Swami Avdheshanand Giri ji International Saint
Chief of Juna Akhara & Hindu Dharma Acharya Sabha
Swami Avdheshanand Giri ji International Saint
Chief of Juna Akhara & Hindu Dharma Acharya SabhaLadli Foundation’s relentless dedication to enhancing the quality of life for socially victimized females, particularly in the slums of India, is truly commendable. Through their impactful initiatives like social adoption and mass marriage, the Foundation has been transforming lives by providing these women with dignity, support, and opportunities for a brighter future. Having attended their programs, especially the social adoption and mass marriage events, it is evident that Ladli Foundation’s efforts go far beyond support—they empower women to reclaim their lives and build a stronger, more inclusive society. Their commitment to social security and upliftment continues to inspire and create lasting change.
Mr. Amit Shah
Hon'ble Home Minister Of India (2019 - Till Date)
Mr. Amit Shah
Hon'ble Home Minister Of India (2019 - Till Date)The Ladli Foundation Trust has been exemplary in its commitment to empowering underprivileged communities and fostering social harmony. Their unique initiative of organizing mass weddings for girls from marginalized backgrounds reflects their dedication to promoting dignity and equality. These events not only relieve financial burdens on families but also celebrate our cherished cultural values of unity and compassion. Such efforts strengthen the social fabric of our nation and bring hope to countless lives. I deeply appreciate the tireless work of Ladli Foundation in creating impactful change at the grassroots level and inspiring others to contribute toward building a more inclusive and equitable society. May they continue to illuminate lives with their noble initiatives.
Shri Thawarchand Gehlot
Hon'ble Governor of Karnataka
Shri Thawarchand Gehlot
Hon'ble Governor of KarnatakaI wholeheartedly appreciate the exceptional work of Ladli Foundation in empowering underprivileged girls through its sustainable 'Kanyapujan' initiative. This noble effort not only celebrates the dignity of girl children but also fosters societal change by promoting gender equality and respect. By providing vital support and resources to girls from marginalized communities, Ladli Foundation is paving the way for a brighter and more inclusive future. The initiative’s focus on sustainability ensures long-term impact, inspiring others to join this mission of empowerment. I commend the dedication and vision of Ladli Foundation in creating a positive shift in societal attitudes and improving the lives of countless young girls across India.
Amisha Choudhary
Ms. United Nations 2017
Amisha Choudhary
Ms. United Nations 2017I am deeply moved by the transformative work of Ladli Foundation, particularly their social security initiatives that include social adoption and mass weddings for underprivileged girls. These efforts go beyond addressing immediate needs—they restore dignity, provide stability, and empower vulnerable individuals to lead fulfilling lives. The social adoption program ensures long-term care and opportunities for marginalized communities, while the mass wedding initiatives bring hope and joy to countless families, easing their financial burdens. Ladli Foundation's holistic approach to empowering women and children through healthcare, education, and social welfare is truly commendable. I am proud to support their mission of creating a more inclusive and equitable society.
Impact Stories
Stories of Change
My name is Kajal Mathur lives in Sangam Vihar, Delhi and I am 14 years old. I lost both of my parents during the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving me to care for my two younger siblings. Life became extremely difficult for us, but Ladli Foundation has been our pillar of support. They socially adopted us and have been covering both our education and healthcare expenses. We receive regular educational materials, health checkups, and other essential support, which has provided us with the stability we desperately needed. Thanks to Ladli Foundation, my siblings and I are not only receiving an education but also a sense of security and hope for a better future. I am truly grateful for their kindness and for giving us a chance at a brighter tomorrow.
- Kajal Mathur (Sangam Vihar, Delhi)
My name is Meena, and I am 25 years old. I come from an underprivileged family,and my father is physically challenged. With four daughters to marry off, it was incredibly difficult for my father to bear the expenses of our weddings, and we faced constant delays. This put a lot of pressure on us, both emotionally and socially, as society would often criticize my father for not being able to marry us off. But then,Ladli Foundation became a new ray of hope for us. Through their Shagun Initiative, Iwas able to get married with dignity, without the financial burden that had been weighing us down. I will forever be grateful to Ladli Foundation for giving me the chance to start a new chapter in my life with respect and happiness.
- Meena (Haryana)
My name is Muskan, and I live in Trilokpuri with my mother and stepfather. I am physically challenged, and my stepfather never really focused on my education or health, which made life even more difficult. But everything changed when Ladli Foundation took me under their Sustainable Kanyapujan Initiative. They socially adopted me and began covering my health and education expenses, which lifted a huge burden from my family. This support has allowed me to continue my studies without any barriers, and I now have the opportunity to pursue my dreams. I am truly grateful to Ladli Foundation for giving me the chance to thrive and for believing in my potential.
- Muskan (Trilokpuri, Delhi)
Media & Recognition
