About Us

Human and Natural Resources Development Society

We aim to empower communities to build sustainable livelihoods, strengthen self-reliance, and promote inclusive development through people-led institutions.

Human and Natural Resources Development Society (HANDS) is a non-profit, non-governmental organization established in 1994 in Ananthapuram District, Andhra Pradesh, by Mr. M. N. Swamy along with committed social workers, farmers, gender specialists, and environmentalists, with a vision to build a just, self-reliant, and sustainable society. Registered under the Societies Registration Act XXI of 1860, HANDS has over two decades of experience across the Rayalaseema region, working in both rural and urban areas to empower BPL and marginalized communities, including Dalits, Adivasis (STs), Backward Classes, minorities, women, persons with disabilities, youth, and high-risk groups. HANDS operates through two core sectors—Human Resources Development (HRD) and Natural Resources Development (NRD)—focusing on livelihood promotion, women’s empowerment, health and education, child and adolescent development, agroforestry, climate-resilient agriculture, water and soil conservation, and eco-restoration. Adopting a people-centric and participatory approach, HANDS strengthens Village Level People Institutions (VLPIs), Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and community networks, while working in convergence with government schemes, CSR partners, and financial institutions to promote sustainable livelihoods and environmental conservation. Guided by the belief of “Joining HANDS for supporting distressed people in society,” the organization remains committed to building resilient communities and a healthier planet.