TRDF - Rural Development & Women Empowerment in India

Who we are

Rooted in tradition,
driven by change.

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Our Motivation

In the states of Jharkhand and Bihar, the abundant flora lends itself to tasar sericulture, sustaining a traditional tasar silk production industry for generations. Within this industry, women from marginalized communities find an opportunity to earn cash income by crafting yarn from locally sourced cocoons.

Our Journey

Recognizing the potential for impactful change, Tribal and Rural Development Foundation (TRDF) advocates for a focused approach to yarn making as a means of livelihood, aiming to amplify its social impact.

Our impact

Changing lives,
one thread at a time

TRDF works with women from rural communities, facing marginalization across economic status, social class and caste.

At the end of 2025, TRDF had helped create livelihood opportunities for 830 women in rural Bihar and Jharkhand.
By providing ongoing training, raw material, and marketing support, TRDF has supported the generation of an estimated INR 23.50 million in wages for women.
On average, women engaged in part-time yarn-making can earn up to INR 4,500 per month with TRDF's support.

TRDF strives to bolster the local economy and ecosystem, by creating income opportunities that eliminates the displacement caused by migration. Women are able to sustain a stable lifestyle for their families, ensuring uninterrupted educational opportunities for their children in the long term.

OUR TEAM

The brilliant minds behind the mission

Ms. Arati Pandya

Director

Qualification : M.Phil(Eco), Experience of 36 years in development sector on ethical business, gender issues, programme evaluation and development.Worked in iNGOs like Christian Aid(UK), Handicap International (France), and Indian NGOs like CRY, Azad Foundation, CEC.... Freelance consultant to Traidcraft(UK), Fairtrade(Holland), etc

Mr. Pavan Aggarwal

Director

Qualification : From 1994 to 2011 worked as Sr Auditor & Tax Consultant in CA Firm.2012 to 2014 Worked as Finance & Admin Head in Divya Agro Ind Pvt Ltd, (A dairy plant)Kota, 2015 to 2016 Worked with Mesha Engineering Pvt Ltd, Bangalore as Finance & Admin Head, 2017 - onword worked as DGM (F & A) at Eco Tasar Silk Pvt Ltd, Delhi. 2019 - onward associated with Tribal & Rural Development Foundation.

Mr. Hrishikesh

Advisor

Qualification : A seasoned designer with over 24 years of experience, specializes in sustainability, management, and technology-driven design innovations. a NIFT Delhi alumnus, he excels in design thinking and processes,transforming ideas into impactful solutions. He has developed customized Management Information Systems for efficient project management. As an artist, Hrishikesh creates meaningful art installations, enhancing spaces. His dedication to sustainable development and innovative design makes him a valuable asset in any project.