CHALE CHALO (literally meaning “Let’s Move Forward” in Hindi) is a grassroots development organisation driven by a strong commitment to inclusive, equitable, and sustainable development. Established on 21 April 2005 and registered under the Indian Trusts Act, 1882, the organisation has been working across the drought-prone western and cyclone-prone coastal regions of Odisha, addressing challenges such as poverty, inequality, disasters, inadequate access to quality services, climate vulnerability, and environmental degradation.

Since its inception, CHALE CHALO has worked closely with marginalised and vulnerable communities to strengthen their capacities, secure their rights and entitlements, and improve their overall well-being through participatory and community-led development processes. The organisation believes that lasting and meaningful change is possible when communities are empowered to lead their own development journeys.

Guided by the principles of human dignity, social and gender justice, democratic participation, transparency, accountability, and environmental stewardship, CHALE CHALO collaborates with communities, government institutions, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders to co-create sustainable solutions. Its work focuses on quality education, health and nutrition, water and food security, sustainable livelihoods, climate resilience, natural resource conservation, ecosystem resilience, and disaster risk reduction.

Over the years, CHALE CHALO has built strong grassroots relationships and institutional partnerships that enable it to respond effectively to local needs while advancing long-term community resilience and sustainable development. Through its integrated and rights-based approach, the organisation continues to work towards a future where all people can live with dignity, equality, security, and harmony with nature.