History of Tribal Salvation Society
Origins and Motivation
The Tribal Salvation Society was established in the year 2000, spurred by the alarming conditions of extreme poverty, rampant migration, and distressing reports of child selling and sub-human living conditions endured by indigenous tribes, Dalits, minority communities, and the rural poor in various districts of Odisha, with a particular focus on the KBK (Kalahandi, Bolangir, and Koraput) districts. These marginalized groups, including orphans, impoverished children, physically challenged individuals, widows, women, and youths, have long been victims of systemic social injustices and emerging socio-economic challenges.
Foundational Principles
The organization originated in the remote village of Bidabaru, a cluster of small hamlets under Urladani G.P. in the Kalahandi District of western Odisha. Inspired by the principles of divine love, sacrifice, dedication, and brotherhood, our founders sought to create a platform dedicated to the upliftment and holistic transformation of the most vulnerable sections of society. Our guiding philosophy is rooted in the belief that every individual deserves dignity, equal opportunities, and the means to achieve a sustainable livelihood.
Early Registration and Expansion
On September 29, 2003, the Tribal Salvation Society was formally registered under the Society Registration Act XXI of 1860 by the ADM (Society Registrar) Kalahandi, Bhawanipatna. This registration marked a significant milestone, providing the organization with legal recognition and the ability to expand its activities more systematically.
Legal and Financial Framework
Further solidifying our operational framework, on July 16, 2010, the organization obtained registration under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) of 1976 and 2010. This enabled us to receive international support and contributions, bolstering our financial resources and capacity to implement large-scale projects. Additionally, the organization secured registration under sections 12A and 80G of the Income Tax Act, 1961, which facilitates tax-exempt status and allows donors to avail of tax benefits, thereby encouraging more philanthropic contributions.
Where We Work: Transforming the Poorest Regions of Odisha
At Tribal Salvation Society, we are committed to empowering some of the most vulnerable and marginalized communities in Odisha. Our primary focus is on the KBK districts—Kalahandi, Bolangir, and Koraput—regions that are synonymous with chronic poverty and socio-economic hardships. Additionally, we extend our efforts to other underserved districts, addressing the pressing issues faced by tribal communities, Dalits, and rural minorities.
The KBK Districts: A Legacy of Poverty and Marginalization
The KBK region, comprising Kalahandi, Bolangir, and Koraput, is one of the poorest regions in India. It is home to over 5 million people, predominantly tribal and rural communities, who have been left behind in the state’s development efforts. The socio-economic situation here is alarming:
- High Poverty Rates: The KBK districts have one of the highest poverty rates in India, with an estimated 72% of the population living below the poverty line. Many families survive on less than $1 a day, grappling with hunger and basic survival.
- Widespread Malnutrition: Malnutrition is a serious issue, particularly among children and women. The region’s dependence on subsistence farming and lack of access to nutritious food has resulted in high rates of stunted growth and infant mortality.
- Educational Deficits: Education remains a significant challenge, with the literacy rate in some areas as low as 50%. Female literacy is particularly low, and many children are forced to leave school to work and support their families.
- Inadequate Healthcare: Access to healthcare in the KBK districts is severely limited. Many villages lack even basic health facilities, leading to high maternal and infant mortality rates. Preventable diseases like malaria and tuberculosis remain prevalent, and malnutrition exacerbates health vulnerabilities.
- Shifting Cultivation and Landlessness: Much of the tribal population relies on shifting cultivation, a practice that is environmentally destructive and unsustainable. The lack of land ownership and poor agricultural infrastructure compounds their economic vulnerability, leaving many without secure livelihoods.
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