Get to know us
Maiam Foundation, founded and funded by Thiru. Balagangatharan (popularly known as Eairakai Nayagan), has been actively engaged in social service for over 20 years. Officially registered as a non-governmental, non-profit trust based in Pondicherry, the Foundation is committed to creating a sustainable and empowered future.
Our work spans a wide range of impactful initiatives including:
Environmental education and training
Tree plantation drives, including the creation of micro forests with native and RED-listed species
Women empowerment through Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and support for startups
Organic farming and promotion of rooftop gardens with government subsidies
Distribution of Hunger-Free Trees as return gifts (featuring medicinal, pollinator-friendly plants)
Nursery development and plant biodiversity conservation
School to Farm programs, integrating students, NSS volunteers, and farmers
Collaboration with government and other institutions for rural and agricultural development
Our mission
Our mission is to promote environmental stewardship through education, training, and active community participation in green initiatives; to empower women and rural communities by supporting Self-Help Groups, entrepreneurship, and capacity-building; to foster sustainable agricultural practices and encourage organic farming; to create green spaces by planting native and endangered species to enhance biodiversity; and to bridge the gap between education and agriculture through innovative programs that integrate students and farmers.
Our vision
To build a self-sustaining, environmentally conscious society where every individual is empowered to protect nature, promote biodiversity, and thrive with dignity.
Our team
Mr.Sathianarayanan
Managing Trustee
Mr.Muneeswaran (Ex-Defense)
Trustee
Mr.Loganathan
Trustee
Mr.Balagangatharan
Founder - Managing Trustee
Mr. Balagangadharan from Puducherry- India is a multifaceted individual with a deep commitment to environmental causes, farmer support, and social activism. Through his leadership in the “Maiam Foundation” and various organizations, he has made significant contributions to education, sustainable practices, and community development. His extensive experience in academic book design and his role as a regional head demonstrate his dedication to fostering positive change in both local and global contexts.
Education and Experience:
Computer Application for Book Design
Academic Book Designer in Computer for Oxford University-UK, New York University Press, Yale University, and Cambridge University Press.
Professional Background:
Founder of "Maiam Foundation"
Environmental Initiatives:
Environmentalist and Advocate
Organizer and Coach for Environment Awareness Education Programs
Initiative of "Natural Walk" for School Children
Seed Collector
Planted over 10,000 trees as part of the "Move 100000 Tree" campaign
Specialist in creating "Micro Forests," implemented 10 in and around Puducherry and Tamil Nadu
Social Activism:
Helped initiate the "Home Library"
Facilitator for Women Self-Help Group (SHG) Formation and Training
Provided Financial Guidance for Schools, Colleges, and MSMEs
General Secretary of "Puducherry Kalai Illakiya Perumandram"
President of Vanchinathan Mandram (54 years old)
Attended various training sessions conducted by NABARD (Government of India), the Agriculture Departments of Puducherry and Tamil Nadu, herbal medicine by Aayush, and forest development by Auroville, aimed at the welfare and development of SHGs, farmers, children, and the environment
Farmer Supporter:
Regional Head of THOFA (Tamil Organic Farmer Association)
Member of PNOFLFCS (French Institute of Puducherry)
Secretory (Puducherry) - India Vettiver Network