Centre for Action Research (CAR) is a non-profit trust headquartered in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Initiated by like-minded people in 2016, CAR works to protect, promote and enrich natural resources while supporting the identity and rights of the communities who depend on them.
CAR understands that the protection of water, forests, commons, minerals, land and the wider ecology cannot be separated from the well-being and rights of people.
The organisation was initiated in 2016 by like-minded people and has its registered office in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Its work combines public awareness, education, community mobilisation, capacity-building and training with efforts to connect vulnerable communities to resources, institutions and opportunities.
CAR’s approach is grounded in participation: community members are not simply recipients of support. Their lived experience, knowledge and practices are central to defining priorities and sustaining change.
Inclusive development for a sustainable world.
CAR’s guiding aspirationCAR’s stated vision connects ecological conservation with dignity, equality, justice and sustainable livelihoods.
Promote collective action to conserve nature, reduce environmental crises and sustain the conditions for all living beings to live in harmony with nature—while enabling communities to live with dignity, equality, justice and sustainable livelihoods.
Promote equal participation in the protection and sustainable development of natural resources while supporting education, health, training and livelihood development. Build awareness and networks to address climate change, pollution, poverty and injustice.
These principles are drawn from CAR’s supplied organisational profile. They guide how priorities are identified, resources directed and community participation supported.
Prioritise community knowledge and practices, recognising people’s ability to guide and sustain development processes.
Direct attention and resources toward the poorest and most excluded, helping create opportunities to strengthen economic security.
Promote women’s participation and leadership in social change, community decision-making and access to opportunities.
CAR’s core values bring together rights, fairness and mutual respect as the basis for environmental work and community development.
CoreCAR is headquartered in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, and its recent activity highlights describe work and engagement across districts in Odisha and beyond.
Its focus includes tribal and indigenous communities, Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), women and children, and other communities facing social and economic exclusion.
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