Our Origin

Chaupal was founded in 2006 as a collective effort of grassroots tribal organizations committed to advancing the rights and well-being of tribal communities.

Chaupal Gramin Vikas Prashikshan Evam Shodh Sansthan emerged when four community-based people’s organizations Adivasi Adhikar Samiti, Pahadi Korwa Mahapanchayat, Adivasi Janadhikar Sangathan, and Janchetna came together with a shared vision to strengthen the struggle for Adivasi rights, particularly through the Right to Food campaign.

These organizations had been collaborating since 2003 while working in tribal regions of Chhattisgarh. Their long-standing partnership and shared commitment to community led action led them to formalize their collective efforts by establishing Chaupal as a platform for coordinated advocacy, capacity building, and grassroots engagement. Representatives from these four founding organizations continued to be part of Chaupal’s Governing Board, ensuring that decision making remains rooted in community leadership and collective wisdom.

Chaupal was registered under the Societies Registration Act in 2006 and later received FCRA registration in 2010, enabling it to expand its work while remaining anchored in community driven values and collective action.