Our Story

The Centre for Youth and Social Development (CYSD) is a non-governmental, non-profit organization established in 1982, has been working towards improving the quality of life of the tribal and rural poor by focusing on eradicating extreme poverty and hunger, and educating socio-economically distressed people to access their entitlements. It also aims to strengthen institutional mechanisms to enhance the quality of service delivery, enable community-based organizations to take up their development agenda, conduct research and build evidences in favour of the marginalized and underprivileged people to ensure social inclusion and participatory action.

Vision

An equitable society where women and men can freely realize their full potential, fulfill their rights and responsibilities and lead their life with dignity and self-respect.

Mission

To enable marginalized women, men and children to improve their quality of life. To this end, CYSD uses issue based research to influence policies from a pro-poor and rights based perspective. It also works to ensure transparent, gender sensitive, accountable and democratic governance by building the capacities of people and organizations in participatory planning.

Core Values

• Transparency
• Accountability
• Gender Equity
• Inclusive & Participatory Action

 

Life Cycle Approach

CYSD adopts a uniquely holistic approach to improving the quality of life by working directly with communities, sharing skills with partner organizations, and conducting research for pro-poor policies. This adaptability to changing development contexts has sustained CYSD for more than four decades, both within and outside Odisha. This success stems from strategic thinking and effective operations across three key domains: Sustainable Rural Livelihoods, Inclusive Education, and Building Disaster-Resilient Communities while addressing Climate Change Concerns.

CYSD’s approach involves action, reflection, replication, and influencing. It engages with various factors at different levels, including stakeholder interests and relationships, relevant policies and legislation, socio-economic and socio-political conditions, and environmental factors like climate change. CYSD works at the grassroots level with communities and builds the capacities of other like-minded organizations. It is known for complementing and supplementing state government efforts to enhance the impact of mainstream development programs. CYSD operates in two main ways: (1) Ensuring the effective implementation of government programs through community monitoring, and (2) Building evidence through action research for pro-poor policies.

Renowned for its community mobilization efforts, CYSD boasts strong community-based institutions such as women’s SHGs and federations, producer groups and collectives, farmer groups and federations, and village development associations. The organization also promotes environmental sustainability and initiates income enhancement activities for community members, particularly tribals. Furthermore, CYSD plays a crucial role in disaster risk reduction, leading preparedness, response, and recovery efforts since the 1999 super cyclone in the state.

Jaga Marichafulia and his wife from Kundra have been growing watermelons for generations, but their harvests were often meagre, and the money they earned wasn’t enough to cover their basic needs. They struggled due to a lack of proper irrigation, quality seeds, and technical knowledge. When Jaga learned about the Mukhyamantri Janajati Jeevika Mission through CYSD's intervention, he saw an opportunity for change. Through this program, he received training, high-quality seeds, bio-fertilisers, and bio-pesticides. These resources helped him grow healthier watermelon crops that sold for a higher price.

With improved farming practices and better inputs, Jaga’s income rose to 1,06,960 INR. This financial gain allowed him to improve his family's standard of living and invest in his children's education. Jaga’s success inspired other farmers in his community to try new farming methods. His commitment to sustainable practices, including organic farming of watermelon, rice, and ragi, ensured the long-term health of his farm and helped protect the environment.

“Today, as I reflect on my journey, I feel a deep gratitude for the CYSD team who have empowered me economically and instilled pride and dignity in me as a farmer,” said Jaga.