BOARD AND TEAM MEMBERS

Lt. Gen. SM Mehta, former Lt General of the Indian Army, served as CEO of The Hans Foundation, a major grant-making organization. The foundation funded 350 NGOs, benefitting over 10 million people in 27 states, focusing on disability, education, health, and livelihoods. Collaborating with six state governments and the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, it led programs ranging from statewide development to mental health initiatives. His military career spanned leadership roles in the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers, with expertise in engineering and management. He's a Fellow Member of IETE, IIPE, and Institution of Engineers, also chairing the National Advance Management Program at IIPE. His transition to the social sector has enriched his knowledge in education, disability, health, and livelihoods.

Sh. Mallikarjuna Iytha is a social entrepreneur and the CEO of Inclusive Divyangjan Entrepreneur Association (IDEA), focusing on creating opportunities for people with disabilities. With extensive experience in fair trade and the development sector, he has empowered marginalized communities for over 20 years. Formerly the President of Fair Trade Forum-India, he co-founded Believe India Fair Trade to connect social enterprises. He's also a core team member of Ekal Sansthan and Ekal Gramottan Foundation, driving grassroots projects in rural areas. With an M.Phil in Environmental Sciences and a Master's in Microbiology, he's authored five books on development issues and received accolades like the "Pillar of Civil Society in India" award. Passionate about driving social change, he aims to strengthen the civil society movement in India. 

Dr. Sanjaya Pradhan, CEO of eKalakaar (eK), pioneers a digital art platform empowering traditional performing artists. With over two decades of experience spanning corporates, governments, and NGOs, his expertise spans arts & culture, CSR, skills & livelihoods, disability & inclusion, and entrepreneurship development. He's led initiatives at Tata Power, Mahindra, NSDC, and Gram Vikas. He's also Director of IDEA, focusing on Divyangjan Entrepreneurship, and PANTISS, promoting livelihoods in mining areas. As founding president of TISSAA, he strengthens alumni engagement globally. Holding a Ph.D. and M.A. in Social Work from TISS, his scholarly journey includes an Erasmus Mundus Scholarship in Spain. Committed to fostering impact in arts and social progress, he aligns aspirational communities with market opportunities, driving meaningful change.