Institute for Social Action and Research
ISAR is Ahmedabad based NGO working across Gujarat, committed for social upliftment of weaker sections of the society.
“For most of history, Anonymous was a woman – Virginia Woolf”
About ISAR
For the last three decades ISAR has been actively working in the field of social development among women and children, gender issues with right based and empowerment approach, gender sensitization, environmental issues and now it has also extended its area of work for developing scientific attitudes in the society.
Maru Ghar, a significant part of our work, is a short-stay home for victims of domestic violence and trauma. In order to work with social issues such as domestic violence, gender discrimination, female foeticide, and many more, ISAR directs its efforts along three strategic fronts: 1/ Catalyzing Behavior Change through Community Engagement (CaBCCE), 2/ Development of Resources and Training Tools (DeReTT), and 3/Empowering Adolescents and Ensuring Child Protection through Gender-Transformative Approaches (EEGTA).
Our Vision
Our vision is to build individual and institutional capacity in issues related to women and children by partnering with government and academic institutions.
Our Mission
Our organization is dedicated to a critical mission: putting an end to the pervasive issue of violence against women. We firmly believe that every woman deserves to live a life free from fear, abuse, and discrimination.
Maru Ghar
(One’s Own Space by Virginia Woolf)
Maru Ghar is more than just a temporary refuge for survivors of domestic violence; it embodies a philosophy that acknowledges individuals within the broader context of their lives and experiences. Our approach is rooted in creating an environment of warmth, inclusivity, and cultural sensitivity, while actively collaborating to address the root causes of oppression and abuse (Bonomi, et al., 2006; Lindhorst & Oxford, 2008). Women that stay at Maru Ghar, get free mental and legal counseling. Furthermore, residents of Maru Ghar, have the chance to acquire a range of valuable skills, both practical and professional, during their stay. From literacy to sewing and vocational training, we empower individuals with the tools they need to enhance their self-sufficiency. Through these programs, we aim to foster independence and provide avenues for economic empowerment, ensuring that residents do not feel wholly reliant on Maru Ghar if they choose otherwise. Know more about Maru Ghar.
If you or someone you know is dealing with domestic violence, mental or physical trauma, sexual assault, anxiety, substance abuse, or any related challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. At ISAR, we strongly advocate for equality and respect in all relationships, both personal and professional. Violence has no place in any circumstance, and we believe every individual deserves to live free from fear and harm. Should violence occur, we stand by survivors, empowering them to raise their voices and assert their fundamental human rights.
Our doors are open to individuals from all walks of life, irrespective of background, circumstance, caste, culture, or place of origin. Rest assured, your safety and well-being, and confidentiality, are our top priorities. Don’t suffer in silence—reach out, and let us support you on your journey to healing and empowerment. You can reach out to us via call, email, social media, or contact form on this website.
ISAR encourages individuals to find the courage to break away from old beliefs and empower themselves to move towards a brighter future. The organization provides support and guidance along the way, but ultimately it is up to each individual to take flight and create their own path.
The ISAR logo embodies a powerful message of hope and transformation. The half-gray circle symbolizes the shadows of the past, juxtaposed with a half-golden yellow circle representing the radiant light of the future. Within this dynamic contrast, the figure of a human body with open wings epitomizes courage and resilience, signifying the ability to soar beyond adversity. Adjacent to it, a supportive hand signifies the collaborative ethos of ISAR, embodying the organization’s commitment to unity and assistance. Completing the emblem, the circle with a break symbolizes the liberation from antiquated paradigms, embracing innovation and progress. Together, these elements encapsulate ISAR’s ethos of empowerment and collective advancement.
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Photo Credits: Nevil Zaveri