World · India Bureau
Philanthropy Should Build Capacity, Not Just Run Programmes: Adani
Dr Priti Adani has called for philanthropic organisations to focus on building institutional capacity rather than merely implementing individual programmes. She emphasised that women's independence encompasses freedom of choice, opportunity, and upward mobility.
LSN India ·
Philanthropic efforts in India should prioritise capacity-building over programme implementation, according to Dr Priti Adani, who underscored the need for a more sustainable approach to social change. Speaking on the issue of women's empowerment, she stressed that true independence extends far beyond symbolic gestures, encompassing tangible economic and social freedoms.
Dr Adani outlined a vision of independence that resonates with millions of Indian women, defining it as "the freedom of choice, the freedom of opportunity and the freedom of upward mobility." This framework suggests that meaningful empowerment requires creating systemic conditions that enable women to make autonomous decisions about their lives and livelihoods.
The emphasis on capacity-building reflects a broader recognition within the philanthropic sector that long-term impact requires strengthening institutional structures and local governance rather than relying on temporary interventions. By investing in capacity development, organisations can create self-sustaining ecosystems that continue to benefit communities beyond the tenure of specific programmes.
Dr Adani's remarks come amid growing discourse in India about the effectiveness and sustainability of philanthropic models. Her perspective aligns with international best practices that highlight the importance of local ownership and institutional strengthening in achieving lasting social development outcomes.