CORD is a bond of love and understanding encouraging a process of sharing which enriches both the giver and the receiver. In this process of giving and serving, the giver grows spiritually and the receiver is blessed with the power of transformation. – Swami Tejomayananda

What is CORD?

Founded under the guidance of Swami Tejomayananda, the Chinmaya Organisation for Rural Development (CORD) is the service wing of Chinmaya Mission. It encourages rural communities to live independently and respectfully, blending a spirit of self-reliance with a scientific outlook and spiritual values.

CORD focuses on integrated, participatory, and sustainable development in villages across Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh, through training, guidance, and community support.

History of CORD

The roots of CORD trace back to 1985, when Swami Chinmayananda started a rural healthcare and development program in Sidhbari, Himachal Pradesh. Inspired by a USAID proposal, he remarked:

“For many millennia, the women of the Himalayas have served the rishis and munis (sages). I too, have taken all my teachings in the Himalayas – this is an opportunity to do our bit for them.”

This led to the creation of the Chinmaya Rural Primary Health Care and Training Centre on April 10, 1985. Initial efforts focused on maternal and child healthcare, immunisation, family planning, and community health services.

By 2003, it became clear that healthcare was deeply tied to the larger challenges of village life. Thus, CORD was established as a separate trust, with a holistic mission of rural empowerment.

CORD’s Mission

To facilitate integrated and sustainable development in rural India through processes of self-empowerment.

CORD Outreach

Today, CORD is active in over 700 villages, touching the lives of more than half a million villagers in four states. It empowers women, youth, children, and communities through participatory programmes that encourage self-reliance, dignity, and holistic growth.

CORD’s Activities

CORD addresses multiple aspects of rural life with a people-first approach:

• Micro-Banking & Self Help Groups: Helping villagers access finances without collateral.

• Mahila Mandals: Empowering women through literacy and income generation.

• Yuva & Yuvati Mandals: Training rural youth in skills, leadership, and confidence.

• Balwadis & Balveers: Playgroups nurturing spiritual, academic, and physical growth of children.

• Natural Resource Management: Promoting organic farming, soil conservation, and waste management.

• Vocational Training & Income Generation: Tailoring, weaving, dairy, handicrafts, bamboo work, and more.

• Health Awareness: Organising camps, yoga, and hygiene education.

• Literacy & Career Guidance: Tuition, study material distribution, and workshops.

• Social Justice & Legal Aid: Addressing gender discrimination, domestic violence, child abuse, and alcohol abuse.

Awards & Recognition

CORD’s work has been widely recognised nationally and internationally. Some key awards include:

• Padma Shri Award for Social Services (2008 & 2010) to Dr. Kshama Metre, CORD’s National Director.

• Guardian International Development Achievement Award (2012).

• Nina Sibal Memorial Award for community rehabilitation (2006).

• Best Facilitator Award for promotion of Self Help Groups in Odisha (2006).

• Recognition from National Commission of Women for outstanding empowerment work (2013).

Dr. Kshama Metre herself has been celebrated as one of India’s foremost social transformers and served as a member of India’s Planning Commission (2007–2012).

CORD’s International Presence

• CORD Sri Lanka was launched in 2005 after the devastating Tsunami, reaching communities across Colombo, Jaffna, Batticaloa, Trincomalee, and Vavuniya.

• CORD USA was established in 2009, organising community service projects, blood donation drives, fundraisers, and student-led initiatives such as the chapter at the University of Miami.

How You Can Support CORD

You can support CORD by contributing to their initiatives or purchasing their handmade, sustainable products created by empowered rural communities. Each product tells a story of transformation and dignity.

👉 Support CORD by buying their products here.

Conclusion

CORD is not just an organisation—it is a movement of compassion, empowerment, and transformation. By bridging spirituality and service, CORD empowers rural India to live with self-respect, independence, and dignity.

As Swami Tejomayananda beautifully said, in giving and serving, “the giver grows spiritually and the receiver is blessed with the power of transformation.”