About
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Headquarters
Ghataprabha, Delhi
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Since
1997
Mahila Abhivruddi Mattu Samrakshana Samsthe (MASS) operates within the Belgaum district of Karnataka. MASS primarily focuses on empowering Dalit women Read more, particularly those who were formerly Devadasis, along with their children. Established as a membership association of ex-Devadasi women, MASS was formally registered as a society in September 1997 under the Karnataka Societies Act of 1960. Its inception stemmed from the withdrawal strategy of Devadasi rehabilitation projects conducted by the Karnataka State Women Development Corporation (KSWDC) and MYRADA, supported by funding from Oxfam NOVIB. The term 'Devadasi' refers to an ancient tradition found in certain regions of India, wherein young Dalit girls are dedicated to a local deity or goddess and are expected to lead a life of service to the deity. However, over time, these women have often faced exploitation and discrimination from society, and in some instances, have been forced into prostitution.
Demographies Served
Cause Area
Sub Sector
Programs
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Rural awareness and development programmes
For the past two decades, MASS has been actively engaged in various initiatives. Notably, its efforts have led to the prevention of 34 child marriages by MASS staff. To achieve this, MASS has collaborated with schools and healthcare professionals, both of whom play crucial roles in verifying the ages of brides and grooms. These stakeholders have been educated on the legal requirements for issuing age certificates, emphasizing the need for supporting evidence before such certificates can be issued.
MASS's Legal Support Service has significantly boosted the organization's visibility. This program extends its support not only to MASS members and the Devadasi community but also to non-members and non-Devadasi communities. To date, the Legal Support Programme has successfully resolved 718 disputes outside of court, leveraging the involvement of families, local leaders, and Panchayat members. -
Services for Dalit community
MASS has gained significant recognition in the region, not solely for its efforts concerning Devadasi issues, but also for its broader range of services. The organization's vision extends to encompass Dalit communities, other vulnerable women, and children. Examples of MASS's multifaceted work include promoting livelihood opportunities for ex-Devadasis and Dalits, ensuring access to quality education for Dalit children, campaigning against child marriage, and providing legal support to women who are victims of injustice. These initiatives underscore how MASS's work transcends beyond Devadasi women and the associated tradition, demonstrating its commitment to addressing broader societal challenges.
Leadership Team
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Sitavva Dundappa Jodatti
M&E
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Internal, External Assessors
No
Policies
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Ethics and Transparency Policies
No
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Formal CEO Oversight & Compensation Policy
No
Political & Religious Declarations
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On Affiliation if any
No
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On Deployment Bias if any
No
Registration Details
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PAN Card
AAATM7056N
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Registration ID
100/97-98
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VO ID / Darpan ID
KA/2017/0174968
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12A
AAATM7056NE20018
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80G
AAATM7056NF20214
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FCRA
094440075
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CSR Registration Number
Not Available
Location
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Headquarters
No. 574 Patil Building , Mahantesh Nagar, GHATAPRABHA 591 306 Taluka Gokak, Dist, Ghataprabha, 591306
Directions
Other Details
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Type & Sub Type
Non-profit
Society