Ingrained within the fabric of India’s rich tradition and culture, philanthropy has stood the test of time, perpetuating itself through the ages. Mrs. Urmila Shukla, hailing from a traditional Marwari family, born and brought up in Ayodhya, UP, have encountered numerous challenges of gender discrimination early in her life. However, her marriage to a military officer provided her with opportunities to explore diverse regions of India, each with its unique customs and practices.

Driven by foresight, a clear vision, and profound indigenous knowledge, Mrs. Shukla harbored a deep-seated desire to foster equal employment opportunities for women in rural areas, thereby supporting their families. In pursuit of this noble goal, she founded the Amritansh Foundation in 2004 in Kota, Rajasthan.

Unlike conventional voluntary organizations, Amritansh Foundation transcends traditional boundaries, delving into novel areas such as Organic Farming, Regenerative Agriculture, Soil Conservation, Agriculture Extension, Rural Tourism Promotion, Waste Management, Vermicompost, and Heritage Conservation.

Functioning as a catalyst, coordinator, and facilitator, the Foundation ensures active participation from rural communities and entrepreneurs in the implementation of interventions.

Since its inception, the Foundation has tirelessly endeavored to create wealth for the nation, with a strong emphasis on research and development for the welfare of farmers and advancement of farm technology. Initiatives like recycling farm waste through traditional and modern methods, and the dissemination of Vermiculture Technology have made a sustainable impact on countless farm units across the country.

Organic Agriculture promotion, which began modestly with local farm families in Kota, has now expanded across five states in India and continues to grow globally.

Moreover, Amritansh Foundation has broadened its mandate to include biotechnology applications for agriculture, scientific waste management, organic agriculture, sustainable farming, and recycling, contributing to environmental sustainability.

Recognizing the potential of tourism as a vehicle for rural employment, the Foundation collaborates with local farmers to promote rural tourism, offering visitors an authentic experience of Indian agriculture while generating livelihood opportunities for rural youth, as well as generating interest in the young minds to opt for various agriprenurial fields for future employement.

In addition to these initiatives, the Foundation actively supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and endeavors towards achieving carbon neutrality. Programs encompass Watershed Development, Bioremediation, Skill Development for women in Apparel and Textiles, Literacy & Primary Education which supports Mission Life, Food and Nutrition, Women’s Health and Sanitation, with a special emphasis on Mental Health and Wellbeing, are been carried out. 

With its unwavering commitment to social and environmental causes, Amritansh Foundation continues to be a shining example of sustainable practices, fostering positive change and sustainable development in India and beyond.