Creating Opportunities Through Chess: ACT's Partnership with Chess4Change
C4CTeam with Sarpanch,Animedh and DNH Chess Board
At Animedh Charitable Trust (ACT), we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow and realise their potential. While education, healthcare, livelihoods and community development remain at the core of our work, we also recognise that sport can be a powerful catalyst for personal development. Chess, in particular, teaches children to think critically, solve problems, remain resilient in the face of setbacks and make thoughtful decisions.
It is this shared belief that brought ACT together with Chess4Change, a student-led initiative founded in 2023 by four young chess players—Aaditya Anand, Nehan Mehta, Krish Kapur and Vivaan Verma. United by their passion for chess and their desire to give back, they started Chess4Change with a simple mission: to ensure that children from underserved communities have the opportunity to experience the same life lessons and confidence that chess had given them.
Over the last three years, Chess4Change has grown into a grassroots movement that has introduced chess to over 1,000 children, distributed 450+ chess sets, contributed 400+ volunteer hours, and partnered with 13+ schools and organisations across schools, community centres, NGOs and government institutions.
A Partnership That Began with FIDE’s Women in Chess Initiative
ACT’s journey with Chess4Change began through the FIDE Women in Chess initiative, which aimed to promote women’s empowerment through meaningful livelihood opportunities.
As part of the initiative, women associated with ACT handcrafted drawstring chess bags that were used for chess-related programmes and events. The collaboration showcased how chess could create opportunities beyond the game itself supporting livelihoods while encouraging greater participation in chess.
While this initiative focused on women’s empowerment, it also brought ACT and Chess4Change together around a common purpose: using chess as a vehicle for social impact.
That shared vision soon evolved into something much larger.
From the Gift of Chess to Lasting Impact
The next chapter of the partnership began with the Gift of Chess initiative.
Together, ACT and Chess4Change distributed chess sets to government schools across Dadra & Nagar Haveli, ensuring that children who had little or no access to the game now had the resources to learn and play.
However, both organisations recognised that simply providing chess sets would not be enough.
To create lasting impact, access had to be accompanied by opportunity.
What began with the distribution of chess sets gradually evolved into a structured coaching programme. Professional coaches worked with students regularly, introducing them to the fundamentals of chess while helping them build concentration, discipline, confidence and strategic thinking.
The DNH Buddhibal Pratiyogita 2026
Months of coaching naturally led to the next milestone.
To provide students with an opportunity to apply what they had learnt, ACT and Chess4Change organised the DNH Buddhibal Pratiyogita 2026—the first inter-government school chess tournament in Dadra & Nagar Haveli.
The tournament brought together 103 students from 12 government schools, each representing weeks of preparation and determination.
For many participants, the day was filled with unforgettable firsts.
Their first chess tournament.
Their first opportunity to represent their school.
Their first experience using digital chess clocks.
Their first competitive game.
About Chess4Change
Founded in 2023, Chess4Change is a youth-led initiative driven by the belief that chess is much more than a competitive sport.
For its founders, chess taught patience, resilience, critical thinking, confidence and decision-making. They wanted to ensure that these same life lessons reached children who may otherwise never have had the opportunity to learn the game.
The initiative has worked with organisations including AngelXPress, Access Life, Our Children, The Right Pitch and Animedh Charitable Trust to make chess more accessible across diverse communities.
Perhaps the most inspiring aspect of Chess4Change is that it is entirely youth-led.
At an age when most teenagers are balancing academics and personal goals, the four founders have devoted countless weekends and holidays to teaching children, organising events, mentoring young players and building partnerships that make chess more accessible.
Their journey demonstrates that meaningful social impact is not defined by age, but by empathy, commitment and the willingness to take the first step.
Their work also reflects ACT’s own belief that young people can become powerful changemakers when given the opportunity and encouragement to lead.
Looking Ahead
The success of the DNH Buddhibal Pratiyogita is not the end of the journey, it is the beginning of a much larger vision.
Together, ACT and Chess4Change hope to:
- Expand structured chess coaching to more government schools.
- Make the DNH Buddhibal Pratiyogita an annual championship.
- Encourage greater participation by girls.
- Train student volunteers to become future coaches.
- Continue creating opportunities for children across underserved communities.
By combining ACT’s commitment to community development with Chess4Change’s passion for making chess accessible, the partnership aims to ensure that many more children experience the confidence and life skills that the game can nurture.
To be in the right place…
Women’s Day in 2018 in Dadra Nagar Haveli was when I immediately found myself in the right place.
My friend Nivedita Desai of Animedh Charitable Trust (ACT) invited me to visit Dadra Nagar Haveli, where ACT had been working since 2017. The women of the adivasi community of the Warli tribe had gathered in the village of Velugao to celebrate Women’s Day.
Women wearing colourful sarees and flowers in their hair were showcasing their tribal dance, singing songs, and performing street plays on topics that were close to their hearts — ones they were living every single day.
These women’s lives were shaped by vulnerability, resilience, and quiet strength. They were not only the backbone of their families and their community, but also the ones facing so much societal pressure that they were on the verge of crumbling under it. And yet they were holding themselves together, and to me they looked like strong, powerful women standing on the brink of change.
The next day, I met some of these women — part of a cooperative — over a discussion. As the conversation unfolded, among all the voices I heard, the strongest one said: “Our children stop studying after Std. 8th. They are 14 or 15 and working in factories under the Apprentice Act — they buy mobiles, drink alcohol, have live-in relationships, and if they are so much as scolded, they commit suicide.”
These were only the spoken words. There were many unspoken ones, visible in their eyes.
They added, “Our fathers did the same, and we are repeating the same cycle, generation after generation.”
They went on to share that there are no services for children with disabilities for miles around, and as mothers of these children, they were deeply worried — uncertain about where to go for help, and afraid of the stigma that came with asking.
Standing there, I realised I was witnessing a critical gap — between early signs of delays and disabilities and early support; between wanting to care and having access to services; between resilience and available resources. I could hear in their voices a cry for help, and the fear of disappointing their hope overwhelmed me for a week.
What I did not know was that my presence on that day would become my purpose — forever.
I wasn’t just witnessing stories. I was standing at the edge of a beginning.
I realised I was standing at an intersection of silence and need — where women were strong but unsupported, where disability was not a diagnosis but a destiny, shaped by ignorance and lack of access.
I went back to Ummeed Child Development Centre – where I had learned everything I know about child development and disability — and shared my thoughts with them. They immediately agreed to participate, and with their support, we conducted a needs assessment exercise to identify which pressing issue in the community should be addressed most urgently.
That single day became the seed from which two programs were born:
Nanhe Kadam — for children aged 0 to 6, addressing early childhood delays and disabilities. Mehek — a program to address mental health in children aged 7 to 13.
Today, seven years on from that day, I have witnessed the development of an ecosystem.
Many thanks to Nivedita Desai, Managing Trustee of ACT, for trusting me and my work.
A story that started with supporting young children has come full circle. Animedh Charitable Trust is now working in Dadra Nagar Haveli across:
- Adolescent girls — through menstrual health surveillance and safe practices around health and nutrition for mothers and babies (the first 1,000 days approach)
- Early Childhood Development and Disabilities — ages 0 to 6
- Mental Health for young adults — ages 15 to 22
My main focus remains mentoring women from the community who are trained as Early Childhood Champions (ECCs) and Child Development Aides working with children with disabilities. Together, we focus on early identification and early intervention, parental guidance, and community awareness.
That Women’s Day became the starting point for everything that followed.
Sometimes, change doesn’t begin with a plan — but by being in the right place.
In the heart of Dadra Nagar Haveli, where the rustle of leaves mingles with children’s laughter, Project Nanhe Kadam continues to weave stories of resilience. This initiative by the Animedh Charitable Trust (ACT) believes that every child’s potential blooms uniquely—and Bhavin, a spirited 18-month-old from the tribal community, is proof of this truth. While his smile lights up rooms, his journey to walk independently began with uncertainty. Through tailored care and community-driven support, Bhavin’s story reminds us that growth often begins with playful courage.
The Journey Begins: Recognizing Strength in Struggle
When Bhavin first joined Nanhe Kadam at 18 months, he was a bundle of curiosity. He could sit confidently and crawl swiftly, but taking his first independent steps felt like an impossible mountain. His parents watched him try, stumble, and try again—a cycle that left them torn between hope and worry.
In underserved communities like Bhavin’s, limited awareness about developmental milestones often masks a child’s latent strengths. ACT’s Child Development Aides (CDAs) assessed Bhavin and discovered something vital: his determination was his greatest asset. Though his legs lacked stability, his grip was strong, and his curiosity for play was boundless. The challenge wasn’t just to help him walk—it was to channel his innate strengths into progress.
Nanhe Kadam’s Playbook: Turning Play into Progress
Project Nanhe Kadam thrives on a simple philosophy: growth begins where play and purpose meet. For Bhavin, this meant transforming everyday moments into opportunities. Local CDAs, trained by ACT and partners like Ummeed CDC, designed activities that felt less like therapy and more like adventure:
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Strength Through Play: Using colorful toys and household objects, Bhavin practiced standing while holding onto low tables. Each wobble was met with giggles, not frustration.
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Balance as a Game: “Catch the Ball!” became a favorite. Tossing soft balls encouraged him to shift his weight, building core stability.
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Parent as Partner: Bhavin’s mother learned to turn routines into exercises. Even meal times became chances to practice sitting upright or reaching for spoons.
“At first, I didn’t realize play could be so powerful,” shares Bhavin’s CDA. “But his joy in these activities became his motivation.”
Bhavin’s Breakthrough: From Crawling to Climbing
Progress wasn’t instant, but it was steady.
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Weeks 1–4: Bhavin mastered standing with support, gripping chairs tightly. His mother celebrated each 10-second milestone.
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Months 2–3: He began “cruising”—shuffling sideways while holding furniture. His confidence grew with every shuffle.
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Month 4: The magic moment arrived. During a game of “Follow the Leader,” Bhavin let go of the table and took two wobbly steps toward his CDA. The room erupted in cheers.
Today, Bhavin toddles around his home, chasing siblings and exploring corners he once only eyed from afar. His balance improves daily, and his parents beam with pride. “We always knew he was strong,” his father says. “Nanhe Kadam helped him show us how.”
The Bigger Picture: Empowerment Beyond the Individual
Bhavin’s strides reflect a larger truth: early intervention is not a one-size-fits-all solution. By training local CDAs, Nanhe Kadam ensures care is culturally resonant and personalized. Over 590 children have benefitted, but the ripple effect extends further—mothers become advocates, CDAs become leaders, and communities rethink what’s possible.
“Earlier, we saw delays as fate,” admits a CDA. “Now, we see them as puzzles to solve—together.”
Conclusion: Every Child’s Path is Unique
Bhavin’s journey isn’t about racing to milestones; it’s about savoring the climb. Where Amruta found her voice, Bhavin discovered his footing. Both stories, though different, share a common thread: with the right support, potential finds its way.
As Bhavin races after butterflies, his tiny footprints symbolize hope—not just for him, but for every child navigating their own unique path.
Join us in championing these journeys. Because every nanhe kadam is a step toward a world where no child’s potential goes untapped.
To support Project Nanhe Kadam or learn how you can make a difference, visit Nanhe Kadam Page. Together, let’s turn play into progress.
]]>Amruta’s Journey with Nanhe Kadam: Small Steps Toward a Brighter Future
In the lush, tribal-dominated regions of Dadra Nagar Haveli, a quiet revolution is unfolding—one that begins with the smallest members of the community. Project Nanhe Kadam (Little Steps), initiated by the Animedh Charitable Trust (ACT) in 2018, is transforming lives by addressing gaps in early childhood development. Born from the realization that long-term empowerment requires nurturing the youngest minds, this project focuses on children aged 0–6 years, offering early intervention for developmental delays and disabilities. Through community-driven efforts, Nanhe Kadam is not just changing individual lives but uplifting entire families.
Amruta, a bright-eyed girl from Bidri Patel Pada village, Silvassa, embodies the heart of this mission. Her story is a testament to resilience, hope, and the transformative power of timely care.
The Challenge: A Silent Struggle
Amruta was born in 2018 into a loving family, but her early years were marked by silent struggles. While children her age began babbling, walking, and exploring, Amruta relied on gestures to communicate. She could only nod her head for “yes” and utter two words: “Maa” (Mom) and “Na” (No). Gross motor skills, like sitting independently or walking, seemed out of reach. Her parents worried—was this their child’s destiny?
In many tribal communities like Amruta’s, limited access to healthcare and parental awareness about developmental milestones often lead to undiagnosed delays. ACT’s assessments revealed an urgent need: early childhood intervention could not wait.
Nanhe Kadam’s Approach
Project Nanhe Kadam operates on a simple yet powerful principle: empower communities to heal themselves. ACT trained four local women as Child Development Aides (CDAs), equipping them with skills to identify delays and provide therapeutic support. These CDAs became bridges between families and experts, delivering care right at doorsteps.
The program focuses on:
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Early Identification: Screening children for developmental delays.
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Therapeutic Support: Customized exercises for motor, speech, and cognitive skills.
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Parent Education: Guiding caregivers to become active participants in their child’s growth.
For Amruta, this meant weekly sessions with a CDA, who designed playful activities to strengthen her muscles and spark her speech.
Amruta’s Transformation: From First Steps to First Words
Change began with small, steady strides.
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Months 1–6: Amruta learned to sit without support. Her mother, guided by the CDA, practiced balance games and gentle stretches with her.
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Months 7–14: Amruta took her first steps—wobbly but determined. Her mother recalls, “She’d fall, get up, and try again. Her courage amazed me.”
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Months 15–17: A language breakthrough! Amruta started mimicking words. “Dada! Mama! Nana!” she’d exclaim during playtime. Her giggles filled their home.
Today, Amruta walks confidently, runs with friends, and speaks in short phrases. Her mother tears up as she shares, “I never imagined she’d call me ‘Maa’ so clearly. Nanhe Kadam showed us what she’s capable of.
The Ripple Effect: Beyond One Child
Amruta is one of many children touched by Nanhe Kadam. The project’s success lies in its sustainability: by training local CDAs, ACT ensures that support remains embedded in the community. Parents, once hesitant, now advocate for early screenings. Women CDAs take pride in their role as changemakers.
“Earlier, we didn’t know these delays could be fixed,” says a CDA. “Now, we see children thriving. It gives us hope.”
Conclusion: Building Futures, One Step at a Time
Amruta’s journey mirrors the ethos of Nanhe Kadam—every small step matters. By investing in early childhood, we don’t just change trajectories; we unlock potential.
As Amruta races across her village, her laughter echoing, she reminds us that every child deserves a chance to soar. Projects like Nanhe Kadam are not just interventions—they’re promises of a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow.
Join us in celebrating these little victories. Because when we nurture nanhe kadam, we pave the way for giant leaps.
To support Project Nanhe Kadam or learn more, visit Nanhe Kadam Page. Together, let’s turn small steps into lifelong strides.
Artisan to Advocate
At Animedh Charitable Trust (ACT), we believe in the power of community, the dignity of work, and the unwavering spirit of the human heart. Today, we want to share the inspiring story of Nutan, a valued member of our Animedh family, whose journey embodies all of these values.
Nutan first joined us as an artisan in 2017 with Kalpana, seeking a way to support her family and learn new skills after a break in her career. She quickly immersed herself in learning embroidery and tailoring, demonstrating a natural talent and a dedication to her craft. She found joy and purpose in the work, and a supportive community within Animedh.
But life threw an unexpected challenge her way – a diagnosis of stage 3 blood cancer. This news, as she shared, was devastating. Her initial reaction was fear and uncertainty, but fueled by her love for her son and her desire to see him complete his education, she found the strength to fight.
“I had just one glimpse, for my son. I just wanted him to complete his education. Whatever happens after that, his education should be completed.”
The journey was far from easy. Nutan faced both physical and emotional hurdles, undergoing chemotherapy and radiation. During this difficult time, the support of her family, especially her husband and her sister, was crucial. And Animedh stood by her side as well.
“Animedh supported me a lot. They used to call and ask about me. They felt very bad about what happened to me. They also helped me with funds.”
This is what makes Animedh more than just a workplace; it’s a family. We strive to create an environment where every individual feels valued, supported, and empowered, even in the face of adversity.
After her treatments, Nutan gradually returned to Animedh, first taking on small tasks from home, then eventually rejoining us full-time in a new role. This transition wasn’t just about returning to work; it was about reclaiming her life and finding a renewed sense of purpose. She embraced the added responsibilities of her new position in production sector, learning data entry and taking on a more supervisory role.
“Responsibility has increased… I’m still facing some difficulties in the production field, [but I embrace it].”
Her story is a testament to her incredible resilience. She not only battled stage 3 blood cancer twice but also transformed her challenges into opportunities for growth. She learned to value challenges. She learned to become her own champion. She is now a source of inspiration and positivity for others facing similar struggles.
“Moral support. Give them positivity. Anyone who comes to me, I give them positivity. It’s the first pill, before medicine.”
Nutan’s story reminds us that even in the darkest of times, hope, community, and the human spirit can prevail. We are incredibly proud to have her as part of the Animedh family, and her journey continues to inspire us all.
Donate to help us provide support and opportunities to individuals like Nutan.
From Struggle to Success: Tanisha’s Story with Project Nanhe Kadam
In the heart of Amboli village, a little ray of hope was born in 2021. Tanisha’s story is one of resilience, courage, and the transformative power of support. Despite facing early challenges with motor skills and speech, her journey with Animedh Charitable Trust’s Project Nanhe Kadam is an inspiring tale of triumph.
Tanisha’s early years were marked by obstacles. Born with difficulties in walking and talking, she faced limitations that seemed impossible. However, everything changed when Tanisha’s path crossed with Project Nanhe Kadam, a dedicated initiative by ACT aimed at early childhood development and disabilities support for vulnerable children aged 0-6.
Through Project Nanhe Kadam, Tanisha received personalized care and attention tailored to her specific needs. Skilled therapists and caring professionals worked tirelessly to provide her with therapy sessions, skill-building activities, and home programs designed to enhance her motor skills and speech abilities.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Project Nanhe Kadam was its holistic approach. Tanisha wasn’t just a recipient of therapy; she was embraced as part of a supportive community where her progress was celebrated every step of the way. The project didn’t just focus on her individual needs; it also provided support and guidance to her family, empowering them to become active participants in her development journey.
With each passing day, Tanisha’s confidence grew. Through the unwavering support of Project Nanhe Kadam, she achieved milestones that once seemed impossible. From taking her first independent steps to uttering her first words, Tanisha’s progress was nothing short of extraordinary.
Today, Tanisha is a shining example of the impact that Project Nanhe Kadam can have on the lives of vulnerable children. Her journey from adversity to triumph is a testament to the dedication and compassion of Animedh Charitable Trust and the transformative power of early childhood interventions. As we celebrate Tanisha’s achievements, let her story serve as a beacon of hope for children everywhere, reminding us that with the right support and encouragement, anything is possible.
Meet Kalpana - A homemaker and now an International Conference Speaker
Kalpana Suresh Bomble, a Mumbai resident, led a fulfilling life with her husband and two daughters. Her friend informed her about an opportunity at ACT, which sparked her interest in exploring her passion for work. Little did she know this opportunity would lead her on an extraordinary journey beyond her expectations.
Let’s dive into her trip to Italy! Having only seen air travel in movies, Kalpana had no idea what to expect from her first flight. The anticipation filled her with excitement and curiosity. As Kalpana entered the airport, she was awestruck by the grandeur and vastness of the surroundings. It felt like a dream come true, and she eagerly captured each moment through photographs to carry back a suitcase full of memories. The clean and beautiful shops, along with the polite and well-mannered staff, added to her overall positive experience. Despite feeling a bit nervous during immigration, she was well-prepared and answered the questions confidently.
She found herself mesmerized by the breathtaking view outside the plane window. The allure of the experience made her forget about the in-flight entertainment, as she was captivated by the wonders of the sky. The air hostesses were welcoming and helpful, making her feel loved and cared for. Although she initially struggled with tying her seatbelt, she mustered the courage to ask for assistance, and soon, she became comfortable with the journey. The service provided by the air hostesses left a lasting impression on her. She appreciated their warmth and attentiveness. The food served on the flight, include dishes like dal rice, matar paneer, cookies, and soft drinks.
Kalpana had never given much thought to how a foreign country would look. She wished to be surprised and embraced the unknown.
The main reason they visited Italy was the event. They were invited to an exhibition and people from different countries gave speeches. Unaware that the event was being broadcast live, she was taken aback when she learned about it in the evening. Journalists approached them and asked questions about their products and production methods.
She was initially filled with nervousness at the thought of speaking in front of such a large crowd. However, her hard work and determination bolstered her courage to share her story. She delivered her speech in Hindi, sharing her journey, work, and beginnings.
For Kalpana, the speech held immense personal meaning. It allowed her to express her real-life experiences, her journey, and the efforts she had put into her work. Through her speech, she emphasized the support IWAS provides to women in their work and training endeavors, highlighting the importance of empowering women. It was truly an eye-opening experience.
During her stay in Italy, she explored various tourist attractions, marveled at the exquisite architecture, and savored the local cuisine. The overall experience left a lasting impact on her. Her most cherished memories were of visiting the picturesque gardens and churches. Her first encounter with a church was a profound experience, with the wooden interior and Lora explaining the rich history and culture behind it.
Kalpana’s journey abroad brought about significant changes within her as a person. She developed confidence in her communication skills and better understood the lifestyle and culture abroad. She expressed her gratitude for the opportunity and appreciated the support she received from her companions, particularly Manali and
Nivedita Mam.
Kalpana’s adventure to a foreign country opened her eyes to a world she had never imagined. From her first flight to exploring Italy’s beauty, she gathered precious memories and learned valuable life lessons. The trip allowed her to grow as an individual, reinforcing her appreciation for her roots while embracing the experiences and
diversity that the world has to offer.
Meet Rupali, a housewife who broke the chains of chauvinism and grew to become an entrepreneur.
“Feminism isn’t about making women strong. Women are already strong. It’s about changing the way the world perceives that strength.” —G.D. Anderson
Mrs Rupali Ushakant Satpute came from a household where it wasn’t very common for a woman to step outside and work. Not only her household but also her neighbours and people in her colony had the same mind frame. She lived with her in-laws, husband, and two children.
Her parents were tailors because of which she got the knack of tailoring at a very young age. She was always ambitious from the beginning but never got a platform to express her talent.
Her two daughters studied in St. Catherine’s School where she found out about Animedh Charitable Trust (ACT) and that it was conducting a tailoring class. In 2013 after completing a 3 month course she decided to join their personality development class which brought an immense change in her. She felt more confident about herself and her talent for stitching.
“Nivedita Ma’am has supported me throughout my journey and has always been there to help and motivate me.”
“I am in charge for tailoring class conducted by ACT. When I used to step out of the house earlier, I used to feel very scared and fear “what would the neighbours say?” After I completed the tailoring course, I started stitching clothes for my children and then began to take outside work as well. The first order I took up was to stitch school uniforms and post that I was asked to interview the ladies who were keen on joining the tailoring course. This made me quite confident. I was then offered to take charge of the ACT tailoring project “Shivan”. Tailoring has completely changed my life.”
Her remarkable journey from being a housewife with no income to a businesswoman who earns enough money every month to support her family has made her an inspiration to a lot of people.
Now she is able to tailor ready-mades and she is also a shining role model to her peer group.
Currently she is in charge of ACT’s Project Shivan – An Incubator to Help Women Tailor Garments in Bulk. Here women are given orders from government factories or private factories for different types of garments which they learn to sew. In Shivan, she is directly mentoring five other women to become entrepreneurs like her.
There are so many women out there who could do wonders but are tied down by social norms. It is us who have to stand up for our rights. Nobody can help you until you help yourself. Rupali portrays not only her story but also the story of all those women who have struggled for their rights.
“Have confidence and don’t fear anything. Go out, meet people and trust your instincts. The world is not limited to just four walls. Explore the world out there and find yourself.” – Rupali
It is time for us to leave the obsolete thinking and start anew. Women at home are not competitors but a helping hand to grow the family. Families where women are allowed to work not only help the economic status of the household but also serve as an inspiration and role model to their kids.
Her story is in many ways is an exemplification to the work and vision of ACT and their aim to empower women and children.
To follow similar stories of hope and change and how you can be a part, visit: www.animedhtrust.org