


Column of Secretary
It takes great pleasure that our 16 Mile Rural Development Society has stepped into thirty year of existence. It has been offering services for the underprivileged and people in need around four districts of North Bengal. It made the services reach to the people with extended hand of support and co-operation from the government bodies, non-government financial agencies donors’ local governance and most of all the admirers of the society. These thirty years were not very easy for the organization. It was dedication and commitment of the project staffs and volunteers that stay there to ward of…. Read more
About Organization
16 Mile Rural Development Society was established with a vision to uplift rural communities through sustainable development and social empowerment. Founded by a group of dedicated individuals passionate about community service, the organization began its journey in 1991 at Malda District.
In its early years, the Society focused on addressing the immediate needs of rural families—improving access to education, healthcare, and livelihood opportunities. Over time, it expanded its initiatives to include women’s empowerment, environmental conservation, skill development, Child development, Health and Nutrition, Low cost sanitation, Micro-credit, Skill development training, Parental counseling, Vermin compost training, Folk-Media, Awareness regarding like Global warming, Renewable sources of energy and Youth engagement programs.
Today, 16 Mile Rural Development Society continues to work hand-in-hand with local communities, government agencies, and partner organizations to promote inclusive growth and improve the quality of life in rural areas. Guided by its core values of transparency, participation, and sustainability, the Society remains committed to building stronger, self-reliant villages for a better future.
It started its journey humbly in 16 Mile, Malda District, it is presently working in the district of Malda, South Dinajpur, North Dinajpur (Itahar ,Harirampur, and Kushmandi blocks) and Farakka block at Murshidabad.
It is at present covering approximately 1,25,000 beneficiaries. The humble journey that began in 1991 has now traversed a long way trying to serve the poor and the needy with a view to assist them to lead a dignified lifestyle, of course there is still a long way to go.
The working area of the society i.e. Kaliachak- I, II & III block, is the most backward in almost every respect. Educational status of the area is very low, so poor is the economic and cultural status of the people. Per capita income is very low. Public health condition is also poor. Right of women is far behind. Women including the children bind biri like bonded labour and earn for the family. Women and the children is the worst sufferer. Both of them are example of victims of mal-nutrition, lack of care as silent bulls to carry the burden of life.
We are committed to empowering women by ensuring their dignity, rights, and active participation in community development. The Society also strives to provide children with proper care, protection, and education—ensuring a healthy, happy, and secure childhood that nurtures their full potential.
Above all, our aim is to foster a self-reliant, progressive, and culturally enriched rural society where every individual can live with respect, equality, and opportunity.
Our vision is to heal society from the pervasive challenges of poverty, unequal wealth distribution, exploitation, and oppression that disproportionately affect the underprivileged. We view these issues as interconnected symptoms of a broader systemic imbalance that undermines human potential and dignity.
Empowerment lies at the heart of our mission. Through education, vocational training, and access to essential resources, we aim to equip individuals with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to uplift themselves and their communities. We believe that when marginalized voices are empowered, they can actively shape their futures and advocate for their rights.
Our approach also focuses on fostering sustainable economic opportunities through initiatives such as micro-credit programs and entrepreneurship training, enabling individuals to build independent and secure livelihoods. In addition, we are dedicated to promoting social justice, equality, and awareness while addressing systemic barriers that perpetuate discrimination and inequality.
Ultimately, we envision a society where every individual has the opportunity to thrive—free from the constraints of poverty and oppression. By working together, we can build inclusive communities that celebrate diversity, ensure equal access to opportunities, and pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future for all.
The mission of 16 Mile Rural Development Society is to promote sustainable rural growth and improve the quality of life for people in our communities. We are committed to empowering rural families through education, skill development, healthcare, environmental stewardship, and livelihood opportunities. By fostering self-reliance and inclusive development, we aim to build stronger, healthier, and more prosperous rural communities for future generations.

