Manasa Centre for Development and Social Action (commonly known as Manasa) is a grassroots nonprofit organization headquartered in Bangalore, Karnataka, India. Founded in 1995 by the late visionary Shri Mathews Philip, Manasa has grown over the past three decades into a vibrant and deeply rooted civil society organization.
The name Manasa reflects its core values:
● Ma – Manaviya Mathu (Humanity)
● Na – Nyayayukta (Justice)
● Sa – Samajakagi (For Society)
Guided by the principles of dignity, empowerment, and participatory development, Manasa is committed to building a just, inclusive, and equitable society. Over the years, it has focused on empowering women, children, and marginalized communities across Karnataka and neighboring states.
Today, Manasa operates in nine districts of Karnataka, implementing preventive, promotive, and rights-restorative interventions. Through community engagement, advocacy, education, and monitoring, the organization has enabled thousands of individuals to claim their rights, strengthen their capacities, and lead lives of dignity.

To empower marginalized communities
Particularly dalits, tribals, women, children, and minorities—by enabling them to protect and assert their rights, live with dignity, and participate actively in democratic and developmental processes.
Mobile Legal Clinics
in Schools
& Livelihood Training
3 Lakh+
Students reached through CRE
15,000+
Students completed internships
100+
Women trained in livelihood skills
9
District Resource Centres
2 Lakh+
Calls received on helpline
1,000+
Workshops conducted
3 Lakh+
People reached through Legal Outreach
Volunteer With Us
Share your time and skills
Partner With Us
Collaborate as an NGO, academic institution, or corporate partner
Intern With Us
Gain practical learning experience
Support our programs with transparency and tax benefits under Section 80G
