In the vast landscape of India’s non-profit sector, numerous organizations are tirelessly working towards addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges. As of 2024, several NGOs stand out for their remarkable contributions and wide-reaching impact across the nation. Let’s delve into the list of India’s top 10 largest NGOs, shedding light on their missions, accomplishments, and the communities they serve.
What are NGOs?
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) are non-profit entities independent of government control, dedicated to addressing social, environmental, and humanitarian issues. They operate at local, national, and international levels, advocating for human rights, providing aid and services to marginalized communities, and fostering sustainable development. NGOs rely on donations, grants, and volunteer work to carry out their missions, serving as crucial agents of change and contributing to positive societal transformation.
Roles and Functions of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
Here are some functions of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs):
- Improving Government performance and accountability through advocacy and policy recommendations.
- Acting as social mediators to bring about behavioral change and awareness.
- Facilitating communication between communities and the government.
- Serving as pressure groups to mobilize public opinion against unfavorable policies.
- Encouraging community participation and preserving cultural diversity.
- Empowering women through advocacy and initiatives against gender-based discrimination.
- Mobilizing local resources to prevent environmental degradation.
- Providing education, training, and technical assistance to disadvantaged groups.
- Bridging gaps in service delivery and reaching marginalized populations.
- Monitoring and evaluating government policies for effective implementation.
Top-10 Largest NGOs in India 2024
NGOs in India drive social change, promote human rights, provide services, and advocate for marginalized communities through grassroots initiatives. Check the list of top-10 largest NGOs in India 2024:
| Biggest NGOs in India 2024 | |||
| S. No. | NGO | Focus Areas | Establishment |
| 1. | HelpAge India | Elderly care, pension, healthcare | 1978 |
| 2. | LEPRA India | Healthcare for slum dwellers, leprosy | 1989 |
| 3. | The Akshaya Patra Foundation | Mid-Day meals for School Children | 2000 |
| 4. | Pratham Education Fund | Education for underprivileged children | 1995 |
| 5. | Nanhi Kali | Girl’s Education | 1996 |
| 6. | Goonj | Disaster relief, community development | Unspecified |
| 7. | Care India | Poverty alleviation, social justice | 1946 |
| 8. | CRY | Child rights, healthcare, education | 1979 |
| 9. | Give India | Fundraising platform for various causes | Unspecified |
| 10. | Smile Foundation | Education, Healthcare, women empowerment | 2002 |
Largest NGO in India – HelpAge India
HelpAge India, established in 1978, champions the cause of elderly individuals, striving to enhance their quality of life. In 2020, it earned distinction as the sole Indian recipient of the ‘UN Population Award 2020’. Providing universal pension, healthcare, and combatting elder abuse are among its pivotal services, exemplifying its commitment to elderly welfare.
India’s Second Largest NGO – LEPRA India
LEPRA India, founded in 1989 in Hyderabad, focuses on delivering quality healthcare to marginalized communities, including slum dwellers and migrants. Stemming from BELRA’s leprosy prevention efforts dating back to 1925, LEPRA India has treated over 450,000 individuals for leprosy, provided protective footwear to 247,000 people, and assisted 95,000 individuals with disabilities, solidifying its position as the second-largest NGO in India.
Third Biggest NGO of India – Akshaya Patra Foundation
The Akshaya Patra Foundation, established in 2000 in Bengaluru, aims to eradicate classroom hunger by offering mid-day meals in government and government-aided schools. Remarkably, the organization has expanded its reach from feeding 1,500 students to serving 1.8 million students within two decades. This significant growth solidifies its position as the third-largest NGO in India, exemplifying its commitment to child welfare and education.
