An Initiative for Empowering Women through Education
The word "Pehchan" translates to "Identity." At the heart of our philosophy is the belief that every woman deserves an independent identity that transcends her roles as a wife, mother, or daughter.
About Us
Our Vision
Pehchan is a community-based organization dedicated to the educational and socio-economic empowerment of women in Jaitpur Extension, a resettlement colony in New Delhi. Formally established in 2015—following foundational groundwork that began in 2011—the organization addresses the complex, intersectional challenges faced by Muslim women and girls from marginalized socio-economic backgrounds. Through a multi-pronged approach encompassing academic bridging, vocational training, legal aid, and mental health advocacy, Pehchan has transformed the lives of over 2,000 women, helping them transition from school dropouts to financially independent, empowered citizens.
Our Leadership:
Pehchan Trustees
Pehchan is guided by a dedicated board of trustees bringing together expertise in journalism, academia, social activism, and the creative arts.
Chairperson
Iqbal Ahmad
A seasoned journalist currently working with the BBC World Service.
Managing Trustee
Farida Khan
A committed Social Activist and the foundational force behind Pehchan’s grassroots operations.
Treasurer
Dr. Kausar Wizarat
An esteemed academic and Former Assistant Professor at NUEPA (National University of Educational Planning and Administration).
Trustee
Chandrakanta Khan
A veteran Social Activist dedicated to community development and women's rights.
Trustee
Seher Hashmi
A professional Fashion Stylist and Motivational Speaker who brings creative vision and empowerment to our students.
What We Do
Education & Vocational Training
Educational Support
Each year, we reach out to 50–60 young women who have dropped out of school, encouraging them to reclaim their education at our center. We conduct regular, year-round classes to prepare students for Class 10th and 12th board examinations, primarily through Jamia Millia Islamia.
Vocational Training
To ensure long-term financial autonomy, we complement academic learning with skill-based certification in tailoring, cutting, beauty culture, and computer literacy.
Community Advocacy
We serve as a vital support system, assisting local residents in navigating government schemes, securing minority scholarships, and accessing legal aid.
Relief & Crisis Intervention
Beyond our core educational programs, Pehchan serves as a frontline responder for the community during times of hardship. We regularly mobilize and distribute essential relief materials to those in need.
COVID-19 Response
During the height of the pandemic, Pehchan transformed into a critical relief hub. We successfully provided comprehensive ration kits to over 1,000 families on two separate occasions, ensuring food security for daily-wage earners during the lockdowns.
Disaster Relief
The Jaitpur Extension area includes several low-lying pockets that are prone to regular flooding. Pehchan remains active in disaster management, mobilizing emergency supplies—including clothes, blankets, household essentials, and rations—for families displaced or affected by natural calamities in the region.
Social Intervention & Legal Aid
Pehchan actively intervenes in pressing social issues within the community. We frequently manage cases of domestic violence, providing sensitive counseling to victims and their families. In instances where counseling does not reach a resolution, Pehchan volunteers stand in solidarity with survivors—facilitating free legal aid and empowering them through education and vocational skills to break the cycle of abuse and achieve self-reliance.
Mental Health Advocacy
Recognizing that mental well-being is the foundation of empowerment, Pehchan has expanded its scope to address this often-overlooked aspect of community health. We conduct regular mental health awareness sessions and facilitate professional therapy for girls and women in need. Our comprehensive initiative in Jaitpur Extension provides a safe space for advocacy, emotional support, and professional counseling.
Social
Impact
Through constant engagement with students and their parents, Pehchan has achieved a significant reduction in child marriage within the community. By demonstrating that education leads to viable career paths, we have successfully persuaded parents to prioritize their daughters' academic completion over early marriage.Furthermore, we believe in holistic exposure. Our students regularly attend seminars, conferences, and workshops to broaden their horizons. We organize educational visits to landmarks such as the National Science Centre, the Crafts Museum, Gandhi Smriti, and the National Gallery of Modern Art, alongside occasional recreational picnics to foster a sense of joy and community.
Impact by the Numbers
The years of dedicated grassroots intervention have yielded tangible results. While we initially faced strong resistance to female education, our persistent door-to-door outreach has shifted the community's mindset. To date, our achievements include:
175
girls completed High School (Class 10th).
125
girls completed Senior Secondary (Class 12th).
65
graduates (B.A.) and
post-graduates (M.A.).
50
graduates with Advanced Diplomas in Computer Applications.
5
girls completedtrained in Fashion Designing; 8 completed Nursing courses. High School (Class 10th).
3
Teacher Training graduates; 3 completed 4-year DMLT courses.
92
Certified Beauticians; trained in Cutting & Tailoring.
400
women achieved functional literacy.
The Woman Behind Pehchan: Farida Khan
Farida’s own life is a testament to the power of the "Identity" she seeks for others. Originally from Mewat, Haryana, she received only a religious education at home and was married at the age of 12. By 16, she was a divorced mother of two. Her path changed in 1981 when she met Shabnam Hashmi, a young volunteer who began teaching Farida and five other girls in Nizamuddin Basti.That small group grew into the Sehar Study Centre. Over the next seven years, Farida completed her 12th grade, earned equivalency for her graduation, and completed her B.Ed. Her journey of grit is documented in the film Story of Hope. Today, Farida leads the organization as Managing Trustee, helping girls find their own names and their own voices.
Support Our Mission
Pehchan is a grassroots experiment operating with modest resources and fueled largely by personal contributions. Your support is vital to help us cover examination fees, tutor salaries, rent, and vocational materials.
We warmly welcome volunteers and interns who wish to contribute their time and skills to our cause.
For Bank Details & Inquiries: Phone: +91 99999 10994 / +91 98118 07558