The Ashram

Gandhi Nidhi Madhya Pradesh was established in 1950 as a vital initiative under the auspices of the Gandhi Smarak Nidhi in New Delhi, aimed at preserving the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi. The founding members included prominent leaders such as Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, G.D. Birla, J.D. Tata, Rajendra Prasad and many more, who envisioned a movement that would engage all Indian states in promoting Gandhi's principles of self-reliance and community empowerment.

Promoting Swarajya and Local Empowerment

Located in Chhatarpur, a region steeped in history and culture, Gandhi Nidhi Madhya Pradesh embodies the spirit of swaraj (self-rule) by focusing on empowering local villages—the heart and soul of India. This initiative is aligned with Gandhi's vision of uplifting rural communities through sustainable practices and self-sufficiency.

Historical Context

Before independence, Chhatarpur was ruled by British-supported kings, notably Kunwar Sone Singh Ponwar and his descendants. After India gained independence in 1947, the region acceded to India and became part of Vindhya Pradesh, which later merged into Madhya Pradesh in 1956. The locals affectionately refer to this initiative as the Gandhi Ashram Chhatarpur, reflecting their respect and connection to the values it represents.

Key Focus Areas

Gandhi Nidhi Madhya Pradesh operates with a commitment to several key sectors that reflect Gandhian ideals:

⦁ Natural Healing: A dedicated naturopathy clinic promoting holistic health practices.
⦁ Organic Farming: Encouraging sustainable agricultural methods that respect the environment.
⦁ Khadi Promotion: Manufacturing and promoting Khadi textiles as a symbol of self-reliance.
⦁ Education: Operating a school and public library to foster learning and community engagement.
⦁ Social Justice: Advocating for communal harmony and social equity through various initiatives.

The Ashram is deeply integrated into the local community, providing a space for residents to seek assistance and participate in various programs. By focusing on education, health, and sustainable practices, Gandhi Nidhi Madhya Pradesh aims to uplift the community while honouring the principles laid down by Mahatma Gandhi.

Through its multifaceted approach, Gandhi Nidhi Madhya Pradesh not only preserves Gandhi's legacy but also actively works towards creating a sustainable future for the people of Chhatarpur. By promoting self-reliance, organic farming, and social justice, this initiative stands as a testament to the enduring relevance of Gandhian philosophy in contemporary society.

Together, we can continue to foster an environment that nurtures both people and the planet, ensuring that Gandhi's vision remains alive for generations to come.

Our Vision & Mission

Our Vision

Gandhi Nidhi Chhatarpur has a key central role in promotion of Gandhian thought through the message of Swarajya.

Our Mission

This is being achieved through the spread of words, by creating libraries, camps and through deeds in the form of self-sustaining practices keeping the heart of India i.e. villages as the focal point.

“The constructive programme may otherwise, and more fittingly, be called the construction of Poorna Swaraj, or complete Independence by truthful and nonviolent means. This means that every person, regardless of race, colour or creed, is able to achieve complete independence through truthful, and non-violent means. This autonomy is never exclusive. It is inherently entangled, and compatible with internal, and external, interdependence.” - Mahatma Gandhi

To further the manifold constructive activities in which Gandhiji was interested and such other activities of a like nature which give concrete shape to his ideas to establish Sarvodaya Social Order.