Chaany
NGO Name
Indian Head Injury Foundation / Chhanv Foundation
Project Categories
Women Empowerment
Abstract
The “Chaany” project supports acid attack survivors through comprehensive rehabilitation, including medical treatment, psychological counseling, education, vocational training, and livelihood opportunities, helping women regain independence, confidence, and economic self-reliance.
Detailed Description
The “Chaany” project provides holistic rehabilitation and livelihood support to women who have survived acid attacks. Recognizing that survivors face not only severe physical injuries but also emotional trauma, social isolation, and loss of financial independence, the project combines medical care, psychological support, education, and vocational training to help them rebuild their lives.
During the reporting year, the Chhanv Foundation supported 15 women acid attack survivors through a center-based rehabilitation model. The program provided critical reconstructive surgeries, including procedures to restore movement in the neck and hands, along with physiotherapy and ongoing psychological counseling. Medical treatment included support at leading hospitals such as AIIMS.
Beyond physical recovery, the project focuses on helping survivors develop practical skills and sustainable livelihoods. Women received training in areas including bakery, hospitality, digital marketing, computer literacy, and handicraft production. Survivors were also connected with livelihood opportunities through the Sheroes Hangout Café and Sheroes Store, where they can sell handcrafted products.
The project also provided professional hospitality training, including a 15-day certified program at the Taj Mahal Hotel, helping participants develop industry-relevant skills and confidence. Younger survivors, including Juli and Shompa, continued their education while undergoing rehabilitation.
A notable example is Juli, who joined the foundation as a young child after suffering an acid attack. At age 16, she underwent major reconstructive surgery and subsequently developed computer literacy and embroidery skills. She now creates embroidered pouches for the Sheroes Store and mentors other survivors in crafting and leadership.
During the year, $17,830 was invested in surgical treatment, rehabilitation services, and related support. Ten survivors reached advanced training levels and began creating products for the Sheroes Store, while several women completed professional hospitality training.
The project’s approach goes beyond providing immediate assistance by equipping survivors with education, skills, confidence, and income-generating opportunities, enabling them to move from trauma and dependency toward dignity, independence, and leadership.
Project Manager (India)
IDS Coordinator
Project Documents