Some AID volunteers are so inspired by their experiences that they decide to give up their careers to go full-time into community work in India. AID recognizes and supports these volunteers as associate JeevanSaathis during this period of transition. We are proud to present our new associate Jeevan Saathi: Madhulika Yalamanchi.

Madhulika completed her undergraduate studies in BITS Pilani in 2001 and then came to UT Austin for an MS degree, and then worked for a year in Fortworth, TX. During these years, she volunteered with the AID Austin chapter, coordinating projects and taking part in the Bhopal and Narmada campaigns.

In 2005, she decided to return to India to do social work full time. Madhulika decided to work in Chittorgarh district, Rajasthan, volunteering with Mazdoor Kisan Sangatan (MKS) and Lok Shikshan Sansthan (LSS). She is actively involved in the BPL campaign and protecting the rights of the Bheels in a village called Bheeladi (please follow the links to read more about these campaigns).