A catalyst for grassroots transformation.
NWDT is a grassroots non-governmental organization committed to socio-economic empowerment, gender equality, environmental stewardship, and community resilience in southern Tamil Nadu. Operating from Cumbum Town, the Trust bridges the gap between urban slum populations, remote rural farming hamlets, and indigenous tribal communities — combining targeted skill development, microfinance orientation, sustainable agriculture advocacy, and holistic child development.
An inclusive, equitable, and self-reliant society where women, children, and marginalized communities — including smallholder farmers and indigenous populations — live with dignity, financial independence, and ecological security.
- Empower women economically through vocational training and community-based financial institutions (SHGs & JLGs).
- Advance climate-resilient livelihoods through organic farming and soil-water restoration for smallholder farmers.
- Uphold child rights and rural education, fostering leadership among adolescent girls and youth.
- Foster gender equity and legal-rights awareness, enabling women's leadership in local governance.
- Improve health, sanitation and nutrition for slum, tribal, and agricultural worker families.
- Strengthen ecological conservation through biodiversity preservation and agro-forestry.
- Uplift landless agricultural coolies and tribal communities through income diversification and access to welfare schemes.
Core beneficiaries
Board of Trustees
S. Lakshmi
W/o Sankaralabu · No. 20/08, Bharathiyar North 4th Street, Cumbum – 625516, Theni District, Tamil Nadu · Social Work
P. Vasanthi
W/o Pitchaipandian · No. 44, Varatharajapuram Middle Street, Cumbum – 625516, Theni District, Tamil Nadu · Social Work
N. Lakshmi
W/o Narasimhan · No. 153, Golikara Street, Cumbum – 625516, Theni District, Tamil Nadu · Social Work