Who Are We ?
Holistic Child Development India (HCDI) is a non-profit, charitable organization committed to the comprehensive and Holistic development of underprivileged and vulnerable children, their families, and their wider communities in India. Established in September 1994 under the Societies Registration Act XXI of 1860, HCDI has since remained at the forefront of child welfare initiatives across India.
With over 30 years of committed service, HCDI has implemented impactful programs across 14 states, serving thousands of children and families through a strategic, rights-based, and community-oriented approach.
HCDI’s Program EXECUTION: FOCUS AREA
Program Focus areas of HCDI
Child-Focused Community Development
Working with rural and tribal communities to ensure children’s access to quality education, healthcare, nutrition, and protection.
Specialized Interventions for High-Risk Children
Supporting children in exploitative conditions, including those with disabilities, through targeted rehabilitation and protection programs.
Early Childhood Education & Nutrition
Running models such as Gali Pre-Schools for rag-picker communities in Delhi-NCR, focusing on early learning and health to prepare children for mainstream education.
Holistic Child Development through Light to Life Program
Operating across 13 states under programs like Light to Life, supported by Mar Thoma Mission Board. These centres provide remedial education, socio-emotional learning, nutritional support, and life skills to over 5000 children.
Comprehensive Health Care and Wellbeing
Promoting a healthier future through targeted healthcare interventions for children, women, and marginalized communities in rural areas, including mobile health clinics, regular health camps, nutrition counselling, maternal healthcare, mental health support, and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) initiatives to build long-term community resilience. HCDI initiates programs to conduct primary health care check-ups for the children of interior villages, identifying malnourished children, pre-natal and post-natal health support for mother and child.
Climate Change Mitigation & Eco-awareness
Promoting sustainable livelihood practices, natural farming, and water conservation to build resilient communities in rural and tribal regions.
Emergency Response & Disaster Management
Offering rapid relief and recovery support during floods, pandemics, and other disasters, with a child-focused response strategy.
Community Empowerment in Remote Areas
In Assam’s Dhekiajuli & Helem Block, HCDI supports marginalized tribal communities through education and child empowerment programs that address high dropout rates, child labor, and poor health.
Capacity Building of Partners and Stakeholders
Organizing workshops, seminars, and trainings on child protection, gender sensitivity, financial compliance, and program management for staff, local NGOs, and community leaders.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Engagement
Successful CSR projects, such as the one in Thakarwadi Village (Pune), have brought transformative change in areas of health, water access, education, and women’s empowerment among tribal communities.
HCDI & Mar Thoma Mission Board (MMB)
The Light to Life Program
The Light to Life program focuses on several key areas benefiting children, including remedial education, nutrition, health and hygiene, emotional and social well-being, and life skills development. Family engagement through livelihood training (tailoring, candle-making, mushroom cultivation, etc.) promotes self-reliance and creates a supportive environment for children.
Quick Glance on Skill Development Programs
Abacus Training Program
As part of its skill development initiatives, Light to Life, Uppada project has introduced weekly Abacus training for children. Beyond enhancing mental calculation skills, the program helps children overcome difficulties in mathematics while also promoting mental agility, concentration, and cognitive efficiency.
Food Fest Program
Children from the Light to Life Mantralayam organized a Food Fest at the Mantralayam school campus in Andhra Pradesh. Students were divided into four groups and provided equal cooking materials. With enthusiasm and teamwork, they prepared diverse dishes, gaining confidence, collaboration skills, and basic cooking knowledge.
Computer Training Program
Light to Life Project, Shivanapura, Bangalore Rural, has introduced a Computer Training Program focusing on Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, along with typing skills. The initiative builds confidence in creating documents, spreadsheets, and presentations while inspiring interest in digital learning tools.
Culinary Training Program
- The Light to Life unit in Mallepura, Karnataka, conducted a culinary training program for senior children. A total of five training sessions were held during July and August, introducing the children to basic cooking skills. Participants enthusiastically prepared dishes such as Kesari Bath, Rice and Rasam, Lemon Rice, Egg Rice, and Upma, and served the food to the children in the project as part of a fellowship during the training days. The initiative not only built confidence and practical skills but also fostered a spirit of responsibility and teamwork among the children.
Agarbatti & Umbrella Making Program
As part of the School Work Experience Program, children from the Uppada Light to Life Unit participated in a two-day skill development training in agarbatti and umbrella making. The sessions provided hands-on exposure to the complete production processes, including material preparation, assembly techniques, and quality handling. Students actively participated with enthusiasm and dedication, developing fine motor skills, creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities. The training also introduced them to potential livelihood skills. Their efforts yielded outstanding results, with several students emerging as winners at the school level and advancing to the sub-district level competitions.
Fabric Painting Program
- Skill development program was organized in Light to Life, Helem project in Assam. Children were trained in Fabric painting and Dohibota (Dohibota is a traditional hand-embroidery technique of Assam). The sessions provided hands-on learning opportunities, enabling participants to explore creativity, improve fine motor skills, and gain exposure to traditional art forms. Elder children actively participated with keen interest and enthusiasm, demonstrating patience and attention to detail while learning the techniques. The training not only enhanced their artistic abilities but also helped build confidence and appreciation for cultural craftsmanship, while introducing them to valuable skills that can support future learning and livelihood opportunities.
Aqua Club
- The senior children of the Karuthal Light to Life Project, Aduvally, Thiruvananthapuram, took the initiative to start an Aqua Club, through which they have set up a students’ aquarium featuring a variety of fish species. This initiative provides a hands-on learning experience about aquatic life and ecosystems, allowing students to observe and understand the importance of maintaining a balanced aquatic environment. The Aqua Club not only nurtures curiosity and responsibility among the children but also fosters a deeper appreciation for nature and the significance of caring for living beings.
Emotional Development
- At Light to Life, Mallepura unit, Karnataka, a well-known child Psychologist, conducted an engaging session on emotional well-being. The program was held separately for three age groups: Balavadi to Class 4, Class 5 to 7, and Class 8 and above. Each session was carefully tailored to suit the respective age group, addressing topics such as understanding basic emotions, building friendships, developing confidence, managing stress, improving communication skills. The sessions encouraged active participation, equipping children with practical tools to support their healthy emotional growth and well-being
First Aid Training
- A practical session on First Aid was conducted in Jangamakottai Light to Light unit, Bangalore. The session was informative and engaging focusing on essential life-saving techniques for children. Participants learned basic first aid skills such as treating cuts, burns, fainting, and handling emergencies. The session helped children build confidence and awareness about health and safety in everyday life.
ECO-ED SUMMER CAMP
HCDI conceptualized & developed a Special Summer Camp initiative called Eco-Ed 2025.
- As part of this initiative, HCDI developed 8 training models on different topics concerning environment and value based living.
- TOT training for facilitators were conducted and later they organized ECO-ED Summer Camp in their respective Light To Life project units.
The camp aimed to build environmental awareness, encourage sustainable living, and provide interactive learning. Key topics included climate change, pollution, substance use, water conservation, soil health, waste management, plastic use and tree conservation. The children not only gained knowledge but also enjoyed the camp experience thoroughly, making it both educational and fun-filled event
CHILDREN’S PARLIAMENT
- The HCDI Light to Life Project’s Child Parliament Training Program engaged students in introducing democratic concepts through interactive sessions focused on leadership, teamwork, decision-making, participation, representation, and responsibility. Through interactive discussions and activities, participants learned about democratic values, leadership skills, teamwork, decision-making, participation, representation, and responsibility.
- The Child Parliament election simulated real democracy, involving nominations, campaigns with posters and speeches, and a transparent voting process using a digital EVM machine. All students and staff participated enthusiastically, with teachers explaining leadership responsibilities and ensuring fairness.
- Elected leaders now hold roles in parliament sessions, discussing project matters while receiving guidance to promote independence and problem-solving. Even non-elected students gained insights into teamwork and participation.
- This initiative significantly enhanced leadership qualities and civic awareness, with parents praising it for building a foundation for responsible citizenship and future responsibilities. Parents praised it for preparing children for future responsibilities.
International Girl Child Day Celebration
- International Girl Child Day was celebrated at the Dhekiajuli Light to Life Project in Assam with active participation from children. The programme focused on creating awareness about the importance of girls’ education, health, safety, and equal rights. Various activities, including skit performances, a film screening on girl child education, and message-sharing sessions on the value of girls in society were conducted. The day was observed with great enthusiasm, fostering confidence, empowerment, and respect for the girl child while reinforcing positive attitudes toward gender equality within the community.
Community Cleaning Activity
In Light to Life Mundiya Project Jaipur, students took part in a community cleaning activity to promote cleanliness and public hygiene. The children actively cleaned common areas such as streets and public spaces, demonstrating teamwork and commitment. They also interacted with community members to spread awareness about the importance of maintaining a clean and healthy environment. This initiative helped students develop a sense of social responsibility, discipline, and civic duty. The activity not only strengthened values of cooperation and service among the children but also encouraged residents to adopt hygienic practices, contributing to a cleaner, healthier, and more responsible community.
Cultural Fest
- Light to Life Aduvally project in Kerala, conducted a vibrant Cultural Fest, during which children showcased their talents through dance performances, songs, action songs, skits, poems, and group presentations. The event offered a joyful platform for creative expression, confidence building, and teamwork. Children participated with great enthusiasm and energy, contributing to a lively and celebratory atmosphere at the centre. The Cultural Fest not only highlighted the diverse talents of the children but also fostered self-esteem, collaboration, and a strong sense of community among participants.
COMMUNITY OUTREACH PROGRAM
The Light to Life, Mallepura project, facilitators and Child Parliament members mobilised resources including provisions, groceries and old clothes locally, senior children from the project including Child Parliament Members and staff visited Karnataka Sneha Jeevi Old Age Home and donated the materials. The children also conducted a 7-minute-long skit on the topic, “Respect for the Elderly”. The skit fostered joy and a sense of fellowship among the residents and also fostered compassion, empathy and respect for elders for the children
Tailoring Class for Community Women
A practical session on First Aid was conducted in every Light to Light Project unit. The session was informative and engaging focusing on essential life-saving techniques for children. Participants learned basic first aid skills such as treating cuts, burns, fainting, and handling emergencies. The session helped children build confidence and awareness about health and safety in everyday life.
BEAUTICIAN CLASSES
The Light to Life Sankeshwar, Karnataka Unit organized a Beautician Training Program, which conducted every Saturday. The training provided to adolescent girls and women with practical knowledge in basic beauty care, hygiene, and grooming. The program benefited women from seven nearby villages around Sankeshwar, offering them a valuable platform for developing employable skills. The initiative proved especially impactful in rural areas where employment opportunities for women are limited, empowering participants to build confidence and explore income-generating avenues.
DANCE TRAINING
Light to Life, Uppada project in Kerala organizes dance training sessions for children every Saturday. The program provides children with opportunities to perform during special celebrations and participate in school-level arts festivals. Currently, the children are learning Bharatanatyam, developing both their artistic skills and confidence through these regular sessions.
The session encouraged creativity, rhythm, and graceful movement, with children participating enthusiastically. Through engaging activities and step-by-step instruction, the class helped children improve their coordination, confidence, and expression while fostering a deeper interest in dance. The session was lively, energetic, and joyful, leaving the children motivated and eager to continue exploring dance as a form of both art and recreation.
DRAWING COMPETITION
Light to Life, Mantralayam organized a Drawing Competition to encourage artistic expression among children. All the students participated with enthusiasm and displayed creativity through their drawings. The activity helped to boost imagination, self-confidence, and enjoyment in learning through art. The drawing and painting with water colours and crayons, simple decorative art helped children to improve creativity, concentration and boost their confidence. It gave children a creative platform to express their thoughts and imagination through art. Children were divided into groups by age and given themes – “Nature” and “My School.” Children participated with enthusiasm, expressing their ideas creatively through colours and drawings. The facilitators appreciated their efforts, and the event highlighted the children’s talents, confidence, and creativity.
With the support from Mar Thoma Mission Board, HCDI during the last fiscal year 2024-25, Organized 10 different regionwise Training and Capacity building program for the Light to Life Project facilitators and Unit Administrators. The training program aimed to enhance teaching & facilitation skills, strengthen program implementation and support children’s holistic development.
The program also oriented Unit Administrators and Education Supervisors on resource mobilization, career guidance and financial accountability. HCDI Leaders trained the participant to adapt approaches to children’s evolving needs, with collaboration, continuous learning and innovation for stronger child development outcomes.
Training & Capacity Building Program
Investing in People, Transforming Communities:
At HCDI, we believe exceptional programs are built by exceptional people. With support from the Mar Thoma Mission Board (MMB), HCDI created a robust training ecosystem that empowers every Light to Life team member to reach their full potential.
Our Training Mission:
HCDI coordinates comprehensive capacity-building programs that equip stakeholders with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to create meaningful change. From Unit Administrators to classroom facilitators, every team member receives world-class professional development.
Who We Train ?
Program Leadership: Unit Administrators and Education Supervisors guiding project implementation
Educational Staff: Facilitators and teachers working directly with children
Support Personnel: Non-teaching staff ensuring smooth operations
Training & Capacity Building Program
- Child Development & Education
Deep insights into child development, socio-emotional learning, child psychology, appropriate pedagogy, and child protection frameworks. - Financial & Administrative Mastery
Specialized training in budget management, financial systems, resource planning, and project administration for operational excellence. - Leadership & Community Engagement
Leadership development, soft skills, and community integration strategies to build lasting partnerships.
Programs are only as strong as the people who run them. Regular training keeps our teams current with best practices and continuously improves their ability to serve vulnerable children and families.
Generously funded by the Mar Thoma Mission Board, this initiative invests in the human capital shaping Light to Life’s future. HCDI coordinates this essential work, creating learning experiences that ripple through communities across India.
Monitoring Efforts of HCDI
HCDI plays a critical role in planning, designing, and supervising the Light to Life program, funded by the Mar Thoma Mission Board based in New York, USA. The organization ensures effective execution and monitoring of child development programs across multiple partner agencies.
For Light to Life units managed by various implementing organizations—including CARD, STARD, NDO, and Kripa Samithy—HCDI provides continuous oversight and guidance in program implementation at the field level. This includes regular field visits, performance monitoring and evaluation, and compliance checks to maintain the quality and efficiency of programs delivered by these partner agencies. Currently, HCDI monitors 16 projects across 8 states in India, as entrusted by the Mar Thoma Mission Board.
HCDI also offers advisory support on program planning, training support and financial management, ensuring that centres meet both local community needs and donor expectations. Overall, the Light to Life program represents a comprehensive approach to child development, addressing not only educational needs but also the physical, emotional, and social well-being of children. The program empowers children to break the cycle of poverty and lead lives of dignity and purpose.
Project Improvement Support from MMB
CONSTRUCTION OF TOILET FACILITIES FOR CHILDREN IN JANGAMAKOTE PROJECT
In response to requests from children and parents, the Light to Life program with the support from Marthoma Mission Board, constructed separate toilet facilities for boys and girls at the Jangamakote project. These child-friendly, gender-sensitive facilities provide a safe, hygienic, and dignified environment while improving the learning atmosphere and encouraging better health practices. The project has minimized sanitation-related illnesses, increased attendance—particularly among teenage girls—and enhanced overall well-being. Community involvement through voluntary contributions from staff, students, and parents, who provided free labor for masonry, painting, electrical, and plumbing work, strengthened local ties. The new facilities addressed accessibility challenges during the rainy season and demonstrate how proper sanitation infrastructure creates lasting improvements in children’s health, education, and development.
INSTALLATION OF RO/UV WATER PURIFIERS FOR CHILDREN IN UPPADA PROJECT
- The Uppada Light to Life project installed a Hot and Normal Water Dispenser with RO+UV+Alkaline purification technology to address water scarcity and health risks from contaminated tanker water. This facility now provides safe, clean drinking water for children, parents, and staff, significantly reducing waterborne illnesses and supporting uninterrupted learning. Children and parents have expressed relief and appreciation for the hygienic water access, while improved health conditions have led to better attendance and engagement. The initiative supported by Marthoma Mission Board, has enhanced the centre’s capacity to conduct programs effectively and serves as a model for other institutions, demonstrating how small infrastructure improvements can build community trust and promote health awareness.
IMPROVEMENT OF PATHWAYS AND RESTROOM INFRASTRUCTURE AT ADUVALLY PROJECT
The Karuthal Aduvally Light to Life project improved pathways and restroom infrastructure to enhance accessibility and functionality. Pedestrian-friendly paths were constructed, and restroom facilities were upgraded with durable, moisture-resistant doors, ensuring safer movement across campus and better hygiene standards. These improvements create a more welcoming environment for children, elderly visitors, parents, staff, and volunteers. The project team gained valuable experience in budget-conscious construction, and the enhanced facilities support child-focused programs effectively. The initiative supported by Marthoma Mission Board has improved the center’s overall appeal and may inspire similar improvements in nearby communities, promoting better infrastructure and hygiene standards.
ESTABLISHMENT OF A SCIENCE LAB AND WATER PURIFIER IN KAMSHET PROJECT
The Kamshet Light to Life project with support from Marthoma Mission Board, implemented two transformative interventions: a Science Lab and a Water Purifier. The Science Lab, equipped with instruments, charts, and models, enables hands-on experiments that bridge theory and practical learning, enhancing critical thinking and curiosity. The Water Purifier replaced unsafe dam water with clean, safe drinking water, reducing waterborne illnesses. These developments have profoundly impacted the learning environment—children now conduct experiments they once only imagined and enjoy healthy water daily. The results are evident in brighter smiles, improved health, deeper engagement, and increased attendance. The initiative has ignited scientific curiosity, promoted hygiene awareness, empowered educators, and strengthened community credibility.
COMPUTER LAB, CEILING FANS, AND ENVIRONMENT ENHANCEMENT AT SHIVANAPURA PROJECT
The Shivanapura Light to Life project implemented three key improvements: establishing a Computer Class with three desktop systems for digital literacy and 21st-century skills development; installing ceiling fans to improve air circulation and create a comfortable learning atmosphere; and transforming the program hall with colourful paint and safe playground materials. These interventions support literacy, numeracy, creative expression, and critical thinking while promoting physical activity and social interaction. The improvements have significantly enhanced the educational, social, and personal growth of children, leading to increased participation, better focus, and reduced discomfort. The project supported by Marthoma Mission Board, demonstrates how thoughtful, child-cantered environmental enhancements elevate program quality and strengthen community bonds.
HCDI’S Special Event
Golden Jubilee of Child Ministry (1975 – 2025)
31st Anniversary of HCDI (1944 – 2025)
1975 – 2025 A legacy of Service
This ministry was founded In 1975. Over past five decades, It has flourished, impacting and transforming the lives of more than a million children across the nation.
The Golden Future
As we celebrated 50 extraordinary years of transforming lives, we stand at the threshold of an even more promising future. The golden thread that began in Northern Kerala now weaves through the entire fabric of INDIA, touching lives, building communities and creating hope where none existed.
Our commitment for the next 50 years:
Every child we serve will not just survive, they will thrive. Every community we touch will not just change, they will lead change. Every partnership we will build will not just support, they will multiply impact. From the founding vision 1959 to the digital horizons of 2030, HCDI continues weaving golden threads of transformation, one child, one community, one dream at a time.
Current News
50 Celebrating Glorious years In Child-Care program
Golden Jubilee of Child Ministry (1975 – 2025)
31st Anniversary of HCDI (1944 – 2025)
1975 – 2025 A legacy of Service
This ministry was founded In 1975. Over past five decades, It has flourished, impacting and transforming the lives of more than a million children across the nation.
The Golden Future
As we celebrated 50 extraordinary years of transforming lives, we stand at the threshold of an even more promising future. The golden thread that began in Northern Kerala now weaves through the entire fabric of INDIA, touching lives, building communities and creating hope where none existed.
Our commitment for the next 50 years:
Every child we serve will not just survive, they will thrive. Every community we touch will not just change, they will lead change. Every partnership we will build will not just support, they will multiply impact. From the founding vision 1959 to the digital horizons of 2030, HCDI continues weaving golden threads of transformation, one child, one community, one dream at a time.