Empowering Communities, Protecting Canines

Project DESI, initiated by Enactus MLNC, is dedicated to enhancing the welfare of stray dogs in the Delhi NCR region. The initiative primarily focuses on vaccination and sterilization drives, aiming to improve the health and longevity of these dogs while controlling their population. In addition to these medical interventions, Project DESI conducts awareness campaigns to foster empathy toward stray dogs, organizes food drives, and collaborates with NGOs and animal welfare organizations.

A Holistic Approach to Canine Welfare

Launched in 2014, Project DESI was developed in response to the growing challenges posed by stray dogs in urban areas. Initially centered on vaccination and sterilization, the project has expanded to include revenue-generating models through partnerships with organizations such as People for Animals and international groups that aid in spreading its impact. Support from entities like The Pollination Project, which provided a $1,000 seed grant, has further strengthened its efforts, enabling Project DESI to extend its reach both locally and globally.

The core objectives of Project DESI focus on improving the welfare of stray dogs while empowering underprivileged communities. Key initiatives include enhancing dog health through vaccination and sterilization—especially for rabies prevention—and conducting awareness campaigns to foster empathy. The project partners with NGOs and shelters to ensure the safety of stray dogs and empowers underprivileged women through the production of handmade pet accessories. Additionally, Project DESI promotes global awareness of the importance of caring for stray dogs to reduce accidents and enhance safety, creating a holistic approach to animal welfare and community upliftment.

A Sustainable Model for a Sustainable Future

Project DESI operates on a wider scale, utilizing multiple sustainable entrepreneurship models that generate revenue while supporting its mission. One of these models is Be Desi, a line of handmade pet accessories created by underprivileged women, which has generated over ₹4,37,000 in revenue and provided employment to more than 13 entrepreneurs. Another initiative is Desi Rasoi, a community kitchen that offers nutritious dog food at affordable prices, generating over ₹95,000 in revenue and feeding more than 325 dogs. Additionally, Svadhyaya is a stationery line designed to raise awareness about stray dogs, contributing ₹1,65,000 in revenue and employing over 7 individuals. Each of these segments plays a distinct role in advancing the overall mission of Project DESI while fostering community development and animal welfare.

Through these initiatives, Project DESI has impacted over 4,800 dogs and provided employment to more than 45 underprivileged women. The project aligns with seven UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), demonstrating its commitment to both animal welfare and social empowerment.

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BeDesi: More Than Just a Brand

Project BeDesi is dedicated to the sale and marketing of dog accessories. Established in 2014, this initiative is an integral component of Project Desi and focuses on empowering small-scale entrepreneurs, particularly women, by providing them with opportunities to build sustainable livelihoods. Our product offerings include a variety of stylish and functional accessories such as collars, leashes, bandanas, and sweaters for pets, all designed with care and attention to detail.

Among our innovative solutions are reflective collars, designed to enhance the safety of stray dogs during nighttime by improving visibility. These collars have proven effective in protecting both dogs and pedestrians from nighttime accidents. To date, we have sold over 5,000 reflective collars, making a significant impact on the lives of stray dogs.

Under the BeDesi brand, we strive to offer affordable dog accessories while maintaining high quality at lower prices. All items are handcrafted by underprivileged women, ensuring that the proceeds directly support their daily needs. A portion of the profits is reinvested into Project Desi, committed to animal welfare and social equity.

To date, we have generated an impressive income of ₹3.5 lakhs, with ambitious plans to expand this to ₹4.5 lakhs in the coming year. Our overarching goal is to create a more equitable society by offering job opportunities to those who need them the most, thereby fostering a community that thrives through collaboration and support.