Utthan's journey began in 1981, when four women chose to work in the desolate Bhal region of Gujarat, helping marginalized communities to self-organize around critical livelihood issues and develop local leadership. This initiative led to the formation of a community-based organization known as Mahiti (meaning 'knowledge'), which has been a local force since 1994. Over the years, Utthan has expanded its reach, collaborating with local governance bodies, government departments, and civil society networks to support inclusive, responsive, and sustainable development. By grounding our work in lived experiences and aligning with wider systems, Utthan co-creates practical, scalable solutions in areas such as water governance, livelihoods, gender equity, and natural resource management. We believe that lasting change is possible when communities and institutions work together to build a future anchored in dignity, voice, and collective responsibility.

To empower women and young girls by providing them with the perspectives, resources, and tools they need to raise their voices, access and control productive resources and services, and make decisions about their own lives and bodies.