Vikash Educational Charitable Trust (VECT)

Founded in 1993 by Sri Subhas Chandra Choudhury, a former Chief Commissioner of Customs and Central Excise in the Indian Revenue Service, VECT was established together with a group of his professional colleagues with one clear purpose: to support bright students and bring about lasting change in the quality of life for underprivileged families and communities.

VECT is based in Odisha, a region where 57% of the population lives below the poverty line, more than double the national average of 26.1%, which makes this work especially urgent.

More than three decades on, VECT continues to be guided by Mr Choudhury and a team of directors, all senior retired government officers, who oversee its day to day operations. They are supported by a network of nearly 20 volunteers across Odisha, professionals working in social infrastructure and related fields, alongside four salaried staff who keep VECT's programs running smoothly on the ground.

It is this depth of local knowledge, experienced leadership and genuine community trust that makes VECT such a valued partner for Women for Change, as we work together to open the door to tertiary education and a meaningful career path for young women across the region. Through this partnership, we are supporting 50 young women to complete their three-year nursing diploma, contributing towards their tuition and living costs as well as extra training in spoken English and self-defence, helping them graduate as confident, job-ready nurses.