During the COVID-19 pandemic, 24,405 children in Odisha alone became half or full orphans, exposing them to a high risk of exploitation, abuse and child labour. The Balasore region is particularly affected, where many families live below the poverty line and frequent natural disasters further exacerbate the situation. The orphans in this region often suffer from poverty, malnutrition and the loss of access to education, which considerably limits their future prospects.

The education project in Balasore is responding to this urgent need by setting up three tuition centres in the villages of Sergarh, Remuna and Sanaata. These centres are aimed at school dropouts and orphans between the ages of 6 and 14 who are growing up without parental care. The aim is to provide these children with access to education and a safe learning environment to help them break out of the cycle of poverty. In addition to educational support, the centres offer emotional help to deal with the loss of parents and traumatic experiences.

In addition to the educational programmes, there is a focus on the physical and mental health of the children. The coaching centres offer sports facilities with equipment for cricket, football, hockey and kabaddi as well as indoor games such as chess and carrom. Participation in local competitions encourages the children's sporting talent. Daily yoga and meditation sessions in the morning and evening help to strengthen the body and mind and promote positive thinking.

Another key element of the project is cultural promotion. The children are given the opportunity to learn music, painting and dance. Local music teachers give regular lessons and musical instruments such as harmoniums and drums are available. The children are also provided with daily meals to meet their basic needs.

The project not only offers the children education, but also creates a safe environment in which they are supported physically, emotionally and mentally to fulfil their potential and build a better future.