Ladli Foundation Supports 2.7 Million in Education and Anti-Child Marriage Efforts

Devendra Kumar established the Ladli Foundation in 2010, motivated by the difficulties his sister faced while they were growing up in a Delhi slum. His own history of poverty and abandonment led him to build a grassroots movement for the empowerment of vulnerable women and girls. Since its inception, the foundation has reached more than 2.7 million people. Its work includes educational support, campaigns against child marriage, and the installation of digital labs that serve over 100,000 students. These initiatives are designed to address the deep-seated inequalities found in underserved neighborhoods.

The foundation’s history is tied to the hardships of Devendra’s own childhood. Abandoned by his parents and raised in a slum where crime was common, he experienced child labor and violence firsthand. These early years shaped his understanding of survival and eventually turned into a commitment to community service. The turning point came when he successfully prevented his young sister from being married off. Recognizing that many other families faced similar pressures, he founded the Ladli Foundation to protect girls from early marriage and keep them in school.

The foundation relies on active community participation and a network of volunteers to carry out its programs. Local residents help manage educational projects and maintain the digital labs established in collaboration with government schools. These labs are central to providing students with necessary digital literacy skills. In addition to technology, the foundation has introduced AI-enabled smart washrooms to improve hygiene standards, addressing a common reason why girls miss school. By involving the community directly, the foundation ensures its services remain relevant to local needs.

The impact of this work extends into the wider development of the community. By tackling child marriage and providing access to modern technology, the foundation helps create a path toward better employment and economic stability. Health and well-being are also prioritized through initiatives focused on menstrual hygiene. Beyond these practical measures, the foundation’s presence encourages a shift in social perspectives by challenging traditional ideas about gender and the value of education.

The Ladli Foundation intends to expand its reach further, with plans for new initiatives to support vulnerable populations. As the organization grows, it maintains its original focus on the empowerment of women and girls. Its progress offers a template for similar organizations, illustrating how community-driven efforts can lead to steady, long-term change.