‘ASTRA’ is an abbreviation and reads as ‘ASSOCIATION for SOCIAL TRANSPARENCY, RIGHTS and ACTION’. Established on 16th June 2006, it is a non-profit organization working towards a just and fair society, that simultaneously works on the basis of a sustainable development, social transparency, towards a society free of corruption while empowering the citizens on their rights and duties, privileges and responsibilities.

Chandan M.C. and Sunil P. are the founder trustees of the organization and decided to work on the issues of corruption and transparency within the society. Individually, they have been challenging such issues for as long as they can remember in their own small ways. Since the beginning of this year, they began to think seriously in streamlining this concept and spreading awareness amongst their friends and college mates. Their approach may be termed as “social activism” in the present parlance.  But they are also clear that along with immediate interventions of challenging such practices there is an urgent need to also mobilize people to understand such violations and challenge them. They are completely dedicated towards these causes and believe in action both individual and collective.

Brinda Adige is a staunch social development and rights activist, who believes that the need of the hour is to build people’s awareness towards human dignity, values and a way of living that is free of violence. She has extensive experience on issues related to gender discrimination, child rights, organizing/facilitating awareness on civic issues and proactive sue of legislations.  Brinda Adige is the chief mentor for ‘ASTRA’.

The organization is managed by professional social workers with who are concerned on doing their bit to make our society a better place. They are hard working and believe that, ‘for any positive change to happen it is necessary to be with the people at the grassroots level’. ‘ASTRA’ is a committed, professional and transparent institution in all aspects -administration, activities, accounts and concepts. Any citizen has the right to avail any information regarding our work, strategy and ideology.  Complete reports on funds raised and the utilization of the same can be sought.

Vision:

For a society that is respectful of people's dignity, conserves environment and is free of violence in any form.

Mission:

Strive towards building a society that is accountable and free of corruption.

Principle:

Every human being in a democracy has rights and duties, privileges and responsibilities, it is important for every citizen to be aware of these and be knowledgeable to seek the same. Complete transparency through information dissemination will pave the way for more secure and corruption free services. One must understand that while fighting for legitimate rights, justice is not always delivered to people.  Often we demand rights and feel that if rights are determined and recognized then justice follows. It may never follow. ‘ASTRA’ strives towards rights and justice be simultaneously addressed.