Light Up a Girl’s Future This Diwali

At Clifford Chance, we believe in equality and opportunity for all - values that guide not only our work in law but also how we give back to the communities where we live and work. With deep ties to India, we are proud this Diwali to support Project Nanhi Kali ("little bud"), a program transforming the lives of underprivileged girls through education, skills development, and sports leadership.

At Project Nanhi Kali, girls learn 21st-century skills and sports leadership skills which are aligned with India’s National Education Policy 2020. The intervention includes skills training during school hours with emphasis on financial literacy, digital proficiency, and key life skills. These include effective communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving, as well as fostering gender awareness and challenging stereotypes.

After school hours, the girls participate in a physical education module that includes athletics and team sports such as football which now proudly supports over 1000+ football teams. This promotes physical well-being and instills valuable traits like teamwork and leadership, all of which fosters strong personal growth and a sense of self-worth for every girl in the programme. To inculcate physical and mental endurance, multi-level sporting events are held at school and district levels, including the 50-metre dash, shuttle run, standing long jump, and endurance run.

Every girl also receives an annual Nanhi Kali kit consisting of one drawstring bag, a pair of shoes, two pairs of socks, two T-shirts, two pens, one notebook, and feminine hygiene material.

Why Girls’ Education Matters in India

Girls in India face significant challenges to accessing education. Low female literacy rates, societal biases, and patriarchal norms often prevent girls from attending school. In many communities, a girl’s education is not seen as a priority, and she may be expected to focus on domestic chores or marry early.

Without education, girls are less likely to enter the workforce, gain financial independence, or contribute to their communities. Educating girls is not only essential for their personal growth but also for building a more just, equal, and economically prosperous society.

Since its inception, Project Nanhi Kali, through regular engagements with various stakeholders creates girl-friendly ecosystems in underserved communities in India where these girls are empowered to realise their full potential. The project has transformed the lives of 870,000+ girls across 15 states since its inception.

Project Nanhi Kali is jointly managed by K.C. Mahindra Education Trust and Naandi Foundation.

Aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals 4 & 5 (Quality Education & Gender Equality), the project has improved attendance, reduced dropout rates, enhanced learning outcomes, and ensured that disadvantaged girls in India receive a meaningful and successful schooling experience.

This Diwali, your donation can empower a Nanhi Kali to bloom, giving her the tools, confidence, and opportunities to build a brighter future.

Join us in lighting up the path to education, growth, and empowerment for thousands of girls.