“There are some parts of the world that, once visited, get into your heart and won’t go. For me, India is such a place. When I first visited, I was stunned by the richness of the land, by its lush beauty and exotic architecture, by its ability to overload the senses with the pure, concentrated intensity of its colors, smells, tastes, and sounds. It was as if all my life I had been seeing the world in black and white and, when brought face-to-face with India, experienced everything re-rendered in brilliant Technicolor.”              

  – Keith Bellows

Why should I volunteer in India?

India is an emerging economy and therefore coming to India means to be a discoverer. Whether you volunteer with international organizations, educational institute, or a local NGO, you will experience and understand how things are done, what problems you have to face, and how to solve them. You will gain knowledge for your future career as well as have the pleasure of contributing in a meaningful way. Participating in volunteer programs in India is a great way to immerse yourself in others culture and develop new skills and expand your creativity. India is also a wonderful place to travel and explore comparatively inexpensive. There are countless places to visit and discover from majestic Himalayas to the scenic beaches, from the prayers on the banks of the Ganges River to an Indian wedding.

Who all can volunteer?

Anyone who is at least 18 years of age can volunteer in India. Some organizations focus on youth but age is not a barrier in volunteering even with more than 60 years of age you are not too old to volunteer. A volunteer may be a retired professional, a student, parents or grandparents. Some have personal experience about how to protect the rights of people with a disability. Other just want to give something back to the society. Whoever you are, if you have a will to serve the community, you can volunteer.

What are the volunteering opportunities available?

There is unlimited volunteering opportunities in India, whether you would like to work with nonprofit or NGOs, educational institutes, government agencies or a profit based volunteer organization. You can teach street children in Delhi or Mumbai participate in projects which deal with community development, child education, health care, women empowerment or you can use your niche skillset to serve the humanity. Volunteering in India help you find the volunteer employment that you are looking for in order to promote your personal growth and contribute to society in an expressive way.

What to bring to India while volunteering?

While planning to volunteer in India, light cotton clothes are advisable in summer or rainy season and for the winter season one has to keep in mind that it can get really cold in the north India. Besides clothing you can take some cosmetics and toiletries with yourself like sun protection, insect repellent, cleansing tissues etc. You may need your mobile charger, adaptor, camera, sunglasses also. It is essential that you should have a money belt or a document holder to carry all your important documents like passport, visa, plane tickets, credit cards, money, immunizations record etc. and always have a copy of all the original documents.

Volunteers are recommended not to bring jewelry with them and label your entire luggage with your name and contact details.

Apart from volunteering, what all can I do?

The country has incredible sights to be seen and discovered. Majestic Himalaya in north, beautiful beaches in south, magnificent historical monuments, lush tropical forests, picturesque landscapes, wide desert, rich culture, colorful people and festivals. In India you can also enjoy camel or elephant riding, practice yoga and spirituality take part in Indian festivals. If you are a shopping lover, then India is the best place with almost infinite shopping opportunities.

Thanks to all for your interest in this quick guide. If you are planning to volunteer in India, then what are you waiting for? Come and be a part of the experience and make a difference. If you are looking for more information, comment and let us know.