At Jan Mitra Nyas, we believe that every girl deserves the opportunity to pursue her education, regardless of her family's financial circumstances. Through the Rajdulari Scholarship 2026, we are proud to support 20 deserving girls from Varanasi and surrounding areas, helping them continue their educational journey with confidence and hope. The scholarships cover students from school to higher education, selected through a merit- and need-based process.
The scholarship selection process was conducted with transparency and care by Shruti Raghuvanshi, who carried out intensive interviews with every applicant. She personally verified academic records, educational documents, family backgrounds, and the students' academic performance before finalizing the list of beneficiaries. Beyond documents, the interviews helped assess each girl's commitment to education and her aspirations for the future.
The photographs, taken at the PVCHR office, capture these meaningful moments—from one-on-one discussions and document verification to counselling sessions and the joyful distribution of scholarship support. They reflect not only a financial assistance programme but also a nurturing environment where young girls are encouraged to dream bigger and believe in themselves.
We extend our deepest gratitude to Parul Sharma and the 200 generous donors from Sweden, whose compassion and commitment to education have made these scholarships possible. Their support is opening doors for girls who may otherwise have been forced to interrupt their education because of financial hardship.
Each scholarship is more than financial assistance—it is an investment in confidence, opportunity, and the future. These young women represent the next generation of teachers, healthcare professionals, lawyers, entrepreneurs, and community leaders.
On behalf of Jan Mitra Nyas, we sincerely thank Parul Sharma, the 200 Swedish donors, and Shruti Raghuvanshi for her dedicated work in ensuring that every scholarship reached a deserving student through a fair and rigorous selection process.
Together, we are proving that when communities invest in girls' education, they invest in a stronger, more just, and more compassionate future.
Voices of the Voiceless: How Lenin Raghuvanshi is Fighting for Human Rights and Social Change in India
Human Rights Beyond Laws: A Journey of Dignity, Justice, and Hope
Human rights are often discussed in the context of laws, policies, and constitutional guarantees. But at their core, human rights are about something much deeper—human dignity, equality, and the belief that every person deserves to live with respect and freedom.
In a powerful conversation with Aarti B. R. Singh, renowned human rights activist Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi shared his inspiring journey of standing against injustice, empowering marginalized communities, and creating meaningful social change across India. His story is a testament to how one determined voice can spark transformation in the lives of thousands.
The Inspiration Behind a Lifelong Mission
For decades, Lenin Raghuvanshi has dedicated his life to advocating for the rights of those who are often unheard and overlooked. His work emerged from witnessing the harsh realities of caste discrimination, bonded labor, social exclusion, and systemic inequality.
Rather than accepting these injustices as inevitable, he chose to challenge them. This commitment eventually led to the establishment of the People's Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR), an organization focused on restoring dignity, justice, and opportunity to marginalized communities.
His journey demonstrates that social change begins when ordinary people decide that injustice should not be tolerated.
Challenges on the Path to Change
Working for human rights is rarely easy. Throughout his journey, Lenin faced numerous obstacles, including social resistance, deeply rooted prejudices, and opposition from powerful interests benefiting from inequality.
Many communities had lost faith in institutions and struggled to believe that change was possible. Convincing people to stand up for their rights often required patience, trust-building, and long-term engagement.
Despite these challenges, Lenin emphasized that persistence, dialogue, and community participation are essential tools for overcoming barriers and achieving lasting impact.
Empowering Communities Through Awareness
One of the key lessons from Lenin's work is that awareness is empowerment.
Many individuals facing discrimination or exploitation are often unaware of their legal rights and available support systems. Through grassroots education, community meetings, and advocacy campaigns, PVCHR has helped people understand their rights and gain confidence in raising their voices.
When people become aware of their rights, they become active participants in shaping their futures rather than passive victims of injustice.
The Importance of Women's Equality
A significant part of the discussion focused on gender equality and women's rights.
Lenin highlighted that true social progress cannot be achieved without ensuring equal opportunities for women. While society has made considerable progress, many women continue to face discrimination, violence, and unequal access to education and employment.
Achieving gender equality requires collective effort—from families, educational institutions, communities, and policymakers. More importantly, it requires changing mindsets and challenging stereotypes that limit women's potential.
Empowering women ultimately strengthens families, communities, and society as a whole.
Building Trust Within Communities
Social change cannot be imposed from the outside. It must be built with the participation of the people it seeks to serve.
One of the reasons PVCHR has earned credibility over the years is its consistent presence within communities. By listening to people's concerns, respecting local experiences, and working collaboratively, the organization has fostered trust and long-term engagement.
This community-centered approach ensures that solutions are sustainable and responsive to real needs.
Signs of Positive Change
Although many challenges remain, Lenin expressed optimism about the progress that has been achieved.
Greater awareness of human rights, increased participation by marginalized groups, and stronger community networks are creating new opportunities for social transformation. More people today are willing to challenge discrimination and advocate for justice than ever before.
These positive developments demonstrate that change, while gradual, is possible when individuals and communities work together.
The Role of Collective Action
One of the central messages of the conversation was that meaningful change requires collective action.
Governments, civil society organizations, educational institutions, businesses, and citizens all have a role to play in building a more equitable society. Human rights should not be viewed as the responsibility of activists alone—they are a shared responsibility.
Every act of empathy, advocacy, and support contributes to creating a society where dignity and justice are accessible to all.
The PVCHR Story: From Oppression to Hope
The work of PVCHR offers a powerful example of how grassroots initiatives can create lasting impact. Through advocacy, education, rehabilitation, and community empowerment, the organization has helped countless individuals reclaim their rights and rebuild their lives.
Its success demonstrates that sustainable social change is possible when efforts are rooted in compassion, participation, and respect for human dignity.
A Call to Action
Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi's journey reminds us that social transformation begins with awareness and action. Whether through supporting marginalized communities, promoting gender equality, raising awareness, or standing against discrimination, every individual has the power to contribute to positive change.
Human rights are not abstract concepts reserved for legal documents. They are lived realities that affect people's daily lives.
When we choose dignity over discrimination, equality over exclusion, and justice over silence, we help create a future where every voice matters.
Final Thoughts
The conversation with Lenin Raghuvanshi is more than a discussion about human rights—it is a story of resilience, courage, and hope. It highlights the extraordinary impact that committed individuals and empowered communities can have in shaping a more just and inclusive society.
His work serves as a reminder that real change starts when people refuse to remain silent in the face of injustice and choose instead to become voices for those who cannot be heard.
Because when dignity is protected and rights are respected, entire communities can move from oppression to hope.
Listening is a Human Right — and in Varanasi, it begins with a paper cup.
Across 50 villages of Varanasi, Jan Mitra Nyas — in partnership with CRY (Child Rights and You) — is helping children share their dreams, fears, challenges, and hopes through a simple paper-cup phone.
While CRY is implementing this campaign across six northern states,
Jan Mitra Nyas is leading it locally in Varanasi, its area of work since 2001.
Because when adults listen, children’s voices don’t just echo —they spark movements.
The “Lift the Cup and Listen” campaign by Janmitra Trust was successfully conducted across 50 villages of Varanasi.
Launched on Children’s Day, the campaign aimed to amplify children’s voices, understand their concerns, and encourage meaningful dialogue between children, parents, teachers, and communities. Using a symbolic paper-cup phone, children shared their thoughts, challenges, and aspirations.
The initiative covered 50 villages across four blocks and engaged local officials, teachers, parents, and community members. The campaign strengthened children's confidence, participation, and communication skills.
๐ธThe Right to Breastfeed: One Mother, One Brick, One Act of Courage๐ธ
This World Breastfeeding Week, meet the brave Musahar women of Varanasi’s brick kilns who are reclaiming their right to breastfeed — building a healthier future for their children against all odds.
๐ฅ Amidst scorching heat, gruelling labour, and systemic discrimination, these mothers are asserting that breastfeeding is not just nourishment — it’s dignity, agency, and power.
๐คฑ “Brick-making can wait, but my baby cannot,” said Kajal (name changed), as she stood up to her supervisor and chose her newborn’s well-being over productivity — a quiet revolution in the heart of oppression.
๐ค Thanks to the work of CRY – Child Rights and You and JanMitra Nyas (JMN), more mothers are now accessing institutional deliveries, timely vaccinations, and nutritional support — even while migrating.
Shruti Nagvanshi’s incredible journey from the narrow lanes of Kashi to the global stage of Radio City Business Titans Awards 2025 in Phuket is a story of resilience, purpose, and impact. ๐ซ
๐น Honored for Excellence in Promoting Human Dignity and Social Leadership
On March 4, 2025, JanMitra Nyas conducted a crucial POSH Act orientation for volunteers and staff under the Shiksha Plus initiative. Led by Shruti Nagvanshi, a government-trained POSH expert, and introduced by Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi, this session reinforced JMN’s commitment to workplace safety, gender sensitivity, and harassment prevention.
✅ Highlights of the Workshop:
๐น Engaging interactive plays on workplace harassment scenarios
๐น Comprehensive session on POSH Act, 2013 and legal provisions
In the annals of cultural confluence and societal upliftment, the third convention of the Sahastrabuddhe (Chitpawan Brahmin) Kool Sammelan, organized by Sahastrabuddhe Kool Pratisthan, stands as a beacon of excellence. Held on the 16th and 17th of December 2023 in the ancient city of Varanasi, this gathering was a testament to the tireless efforts of Shri Upendra Vinayak Sahasrabuddhe which is supported by JanMItra Nyas (JMN), a public charitable trust dedicated to the welfare of marginalized communities for a better India.
At its core, JanMitra Nyas is committed to the welfare of marginalized communities, striving tirelessly for a better India. The convention served as a testament to their unwavering dedication to this noble cause, shedding light on their tireless endeavors. JMN and its Founder-Chief organizer, Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi, epitomized the essence of Indian diversity, constitutional values, and the spirit of Varanasi, aptly described as the "Ka’ba of Hindostan" by the illustrious poet, Mirza Ghalib.
Varanasi, with its rich tapestry of cultures and traditions, provided the perfect backdrop for such an event. Ghalib's ode to Banaras, encapsulated in his Persian Masnavi "Charagh – e – dair," beautifully portrays the city's allure and significance. In his poetic tribute, Ghalib, a Muslim by faith, expressed profound admiration and respect for Banaras, recognizing it as the spiritual epicenter of Hinduism.
The convention not only celebrated the cultural diversity of India but also underscored the importance of transcending religious boundaries. It highlighted the sagacity of embracing a true secular spirit, where mutual respect and universal love reign supreme.
Central to the convention's discourse was the role of the Chitpavan Brahmin community. Originating from the Konkan region of Maharashtra, this community has a storied history, evolving from humble beginnings as messengers and spies to prominent figures within the Maratha empire. Despite facing societal challenges in the past, the Chitpavans have risen to prominence, symbolizing resilience and adaptability.
As we gracefully conclude this annual report, a profound sense of accomplishment and gratitude envelops us, prompting introspection into the transformative journey of the past year. At the core of JanMitraNyas' mission lies an unwavering commitment to the comprehensive rehabilitation of torture survivors—a mission that has intricately shaped our strategies and initiatives across diverse domains.
In our unwavering pursuit of psycho-social rehabilitation, testimonial therapy has emerged as a foundational pillar, intricately addressing the nuanced needs of 124 survivors. The profound transformation achieved through the establishment of 34 folk schools and the orchestration of honor ceremonies is palpable in the social reintegration of 119 participants, fostering a profound sense of belonging and community among those who have endured profound suffering.
Our endeavors in legal advocacy and compensation, encompassing 278 meta-legal interventions across 171 cases, epitomize our steadfast dedication to upholding human rights. The substantial compensation disbursed in 19 torture cases, totaling over 72,52,000 INR (88,900 USD), stands as a tangible testament to our unwavering commitment to pursuing justice for survivors.
The pioneering livelihood integration project in Varanasi, Sonbhadra, and Badaun districts has sown the seeds of hope, yielding tangible results with the cultivation of over 36,536 kg of vegetables, fostering sustainability, and generating earnings. Additionally, our initiatives in health and well-being, media coverage, international recognition, and the adept handling of challenges have collectively fortified our resilience and determination.
The transformative odyssey in Front-of-Pack Labeling (FOPL) advocacy signifies a year of significant achievements. Engaging with elected representatives, collaborating with food industry associations, and nurturing civil society engagement have etched remarkable milestones in our advocacy journey. The recognition from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and the consequential impact on child rights underscore the profound influence of our initiatives.
Our cultural milestone, marked by the inauguration of the Mirza Ghalib Global Center for Diversity and Pluralism, attests to our steadfast commitment to cultural enrichment and inclusivity. The scholarship initiatives, education programs, and health-focused efforts for adolescent girls, pregnant mothers, and young children exemplify our dedication to bridging educational gaps and fostering holistic well-being.
Despite the challenges faced, the kitchen gardening initiative has empowered families, providing fresh produce and additional income. The discernible impact on lactating women, pregnant women, and underweight children further underscores the targeted success of this initiative.
In conclusion, as we gaze into the future, our resolve to drive positive change remains unwavering. The challenges encountered only serve to fortify our determination, and the celebrated achievements stand as a testament to the collaborative effort of our team, donors, and well-wishers. We extend our deepest gratitude for your steadfast support and eagerly anticipate continuing this journey together, sculpting a future defined by resilience, empowerment, and positive transformation.
"Eradicating The Dominant Caste-based Discrimination"
Exclusive Interview with Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi
Founder & CEO People's Vigilance Committee on Human Rights Dalit Rights Activist, India
Held on: Wednesday 19, October 2022 #Dalit #PVCHR #NeoDalit #SDG
Centre for Cognitive Activities (#CCA) is here with the Second episode of the second edition of "The Leader's Mindset" to kindle some motivation within you. We are overwhelmed to unveil our next guest - Mr. Lenin Raghuvanshi, a #Dalit rights activist, Political Thinker and a Social Entrepreneur from India. He is one of the founding members of People's Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (#PVCHR), which works for the upliftment of the marginalised sections of the society. Watch the full Video on Youtube- https://lnkd.in/dJEhG2wF
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