People Forum of India Plans Grassroots Expansion in Maharashtra, Dr. Bhargav Mallappa Meets Minister Ramdas Athawale

New Delhi, August 21, 2025 — Dr. Bhargav Mallappa, National Deputy Chairman of the People Forum of India (NBSS), met Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Dr. Ramdas Athawale in New Delhi on Thursday to discuss strengthening grassroots social justice initiatives, with a special focus on Maharashtra.

During the meeting, Dr. Mallappa emphasised the need to translate policy into tangible outcomes for marginalised groups. “Social justice cannot remain a policy discussion alone—it must translate into real, measurable change in the lives of women, youth, and disadvantaged communities,” he said, adding that the Forum seeks to act as a bridge between government programmes and community realities.

Dr. Athawale, who represents Maharashtra in the Rajya Sabha, welcomed the Forum’s vision and praised its strategy of combining civic participation with policy implementation. He noted that people-led organisations could play an important role in ensuring government schemes reach intended beneficiaries.

Outlining the Forum’s next steps, Dr. Mallappa announced plans to expand its presence in Maharashtra through volunteer mobilisation and awareness campaigns on social justice and women-centric initiatives. “Our grassroots work in the state will focus on enabling self-reliance, dignity, and opportunity for every section of society,” he said.

The meeting ended with both leaders agreeing that stronger collaboration between government bodies and civil society organisations would be essential to improving the impact of welfare programmes at the community level.