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Milestones

Our Journey

Milestones (1988 – 2026)

For over three decades, the Association for Rural Community Development (ARCOD) has been at the forefront of transforming rural lives through integrated development initiatives. Our journey reflects a deep commitment to sustainability, equity, and community empowerment.

Early Foundations (1988 – 1995)

ARCOD began its journey with a focus on natural resource management and grassroots mobilization:

  • 1988: Fellowship support from Shruti, New Delhi, strengthening grassroots engagement.
  • 1988–89: Drinking water awareness initiatives supported by CAPART.
  • 1989–92: Wasteland development programs funded by the Ministry of Environment & Forests, Government of India—restoring degraded lands and improving productivity.
  • 1990–91: Formation of community collectives with support from IGSSS and Oxfam.

Natural Resource Management & Sustainable Agriculture (1990 – 1998)

  • Watershed development and ecological agriculture initiatives in Kelamangalam, supported by Misereor and EZE (Germany).
  • Strengthened water security and promoted sustainable farming practices across rural communities.

Health & Social Development (2000 – 2015)

  • 2000–2004: Reproductive and child health programs improving access to essential healthcare services.
  • 2004–2020: Community-led HIV prevention initiatives in Krishnagiri and Sivagangai districts.
  • 2010 onwards: Continued support for children and families affected by HIV/AIDS.

Child Rights & Education (2004 – Present)

  • 2004–2007: Child-Friendly Village Planning supported by UNICEF—creating safer, inclusive environments for children.
  • 2009–2020: Gift a Future program—enabling quality education for underprivileged children.
  • 2012–2023: Implementation of CHILDLINE 1098—providing emergency support to children in distress.
  • 2013 onwards: Quality education for linguistic minorities in Hosur region.
  • 2018 onwards: LAMP initiative promoting girls’ education in rural areas.

Livelihoods & Women Empowerment (2003 – Present)

  • 2003–2007: Microcredit support strengthening NGOs across Tamil Nadu.
  • 2006–2009: Women leadership development in Panchayati Raj Institutions—empowering grassroots governance.
  • 2006–2009: Skill development programs across multiple districts—enhancing employability.
  • 2015–2023: Promotion of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), improving farmer incomes and market access.

Worker Welfare & Community Development (2000 – 2018)

  • Long-term welfare initiatives for tea estate workers across Tamil Nadu—improving living and working conditions through Fair Trade partnerships.

Youth & Community Capacity Building

  • Youth development programs fostering leadership and community participation.
  • Parenting awareness and adolescent care programs improving family and community well-being.

Recent & Ongoing Initiatives (2018 – Present)

  • Promotion of girls’ education and gender equity.
  • Capacity building on sustainable agriculture (2023 onwards) to enhance climate resilience and farmer incomes.

Our Impact

Over the years, ARCOD has:

  • Strengthened rural livelihoods and sustainable agriculture
  • Improved access to healthcare and education
  • Empowered women, youth, and marginalized communities
  • Built resilient, self-reliant village ecosystems

Looking Ahead

ARCOD continues to evolve, building on its legacy to address emerging challenges in rural development—focusing on climate resilience, inclusive education, and sustainable livelihoods.