Our Story
Badhte Kadam began a decade ago as a small group of alumni pooling resources to support a handful of students from their hometown. What started as an informal collection has grown into a structured scholarship program supporting over 150 scholars across 25 states, alongside health and livelihood initiatives for the wider community.
Vision
A world where every capable student, regardless of background, has the resources and support to pursue their education.
Mission
To identify promising students from underserved communities and provide them with scholarships, mentorship, and a lasting support network.
Values
- Integrity: We are transparent about how funds are raised and used.
- Dignity: We support scholars as partners, not charity cases.
- Community: Lasting change happens when communities lead their own progress.
Founders
Meera Iyer
Co-Founder & Director
Meera has spent over a decade in education policy and is passionate about closing access gaps in higher education.
Arjun Rao
Co-Founder & Treasurer
Arjun oversees fundraising and financial stewardship, ensuring every contribution reaches the students who need it.
Our Journey
2016
Badhte Kadam founded with 5 scholars.
2019
Expanded to a formal scholarship program across multiple states.
2022
Launched community health camps alongside the scholarship program.
2025
Reached 150+ scholars supported across 25 states.