About Us

Welcome to the Society for Motivational Training and Action (SMTA), a beacon of sustainable development in the Himalayan heartland. Established in 1983 and headquartered in Chakrata, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, SMTA is a voluntary organization committed to enhancing the well-being of mountain communities without discrimination based on race, caste, creed, gender, or religion.

In the year 1983 Social Work and Research Center (SWRC) Tilonia Rajasthan opened a State Unit at Chakrata. Till 1986 it was known as SWRC-UP. The year 1986, when it was felt that there is the need for a mechanism to strengthen the capacity of local folk in watershed development, including Right Based Advocacy, Networking, lobbying and alliance building, Information and knowledge sharing, Research and documentation along with promotion of livelihood opportunities, saw the birth of Society for Motivational Training and Action, also known as SMTA.

Founded by a team of seasoned social scientists and professionals, SMTA has evolved its strategies over the years to address the diverse challenges within its scope. Our multifaceted initiatives span across primary education, environment protection, water and sanitation, watershed management, human resource development, gender equality, and cultural preservation.

Operating under the Societies Registration Act of 1860, SMTA has demonstrated expertise through successful project implementations in the Uttarakhand region. Our commitment extends to seven blocks in Dehradun and Uttarkashi districts, including tribal-inhabited Chakrata and Kalsi. In Dehradun, we serve Vikas Nagar, Chakrata, and Kalsi blocks, while extending support to Mori, Purola, Dunda, and Naugaon blocks in Uttarkashi.

Our dedicated team, led by Kunwar Singh (Director & Secretary) and supported by community mobilizers, teachers, and volunteers, works tirelessly to drive impactful change. Our president, M.C. Joshi, an esteemed educationist and social entrepreneur, provides valuable guidance.

SMTA’s journey is deeply rooted in the vision of our founders like Sh. Gulab Ramchandani, the Founder President, former Head Master of Doon School, laid strong foundations from 1986 to 1995. Sh. Kirpa Ram Joshi, as Vice Principal of Cant High School, Chakrata, led with zeal from 1995 to 2013. Sanjay Sharma, A.K Tyagi, Fr. Augustine, and others. Former leaders Ruben Furtudo and Marget Furtudo, facilitated by Bankar Roy, nurtured young local talent and guided SMTA through various phases of growth. Despite stepping down in 2016 due to health reasons, their spirit of service continues to inspire our mission.

We express gratitude to our co-founders, members, volunteers, and well-wishers whose unwavering support has propelled SMTA’s mission to uplift rural communities in the Chakrata region through holistic development. Join us in our commitment to sustainable development as we focus on core issues that shape a better future for all.

For Sustainable Development, SMTA Focus on the Following Core Issues:

Quality Primary Education
Environment Protection
Water & Sanitation
Watershed Management
Human Resource Development
Gender Equality
Cultural Preservation