Shri Sahu Akshay Bhai

Founder Member, Confederation of NGOs of Rural India (CNRI)

Former Member, National Commission for Backward Classes (Government of India)

Shri Sahu Akshay Bhai is an eminent social justice advocate, institution builder, and grassroots leader whose public life has been dedicated to advancing the cause of inclusive development, social equity, and the empowerment of marginalized communities. As a Founder Member of the Confederation of NGOs of Rural India (CNRI), he has been closely associated with the organization since its inception, contributing significantly to its evolution as one of India’s foremost national platforms representing civil society organizations committed to participatory governance, sustainable development, and nation-building.

A distinguished public servant, Shri Akshay Bhai served as Member of the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC), Government of India, from 1997 to 2000, where he played an important role in examining issues relating to the constitutional, educational, social, and economic rights of socially and educationally backward classes. During his tenure, he contributed to strengthening the institutional framework for social justice and worked towards ensuring that the benefits of affirmative action and welfare policies reached the most disadvantaged sections of society. His work reflected a deep commitment to constitutional values, equity, and inclusive governance.

Throughout his distinguished career, Shri Akshay Bhai has remained a steadfast voice for the upliftment of backward and marginalized communities. His interventions have consistently emphasized equitable access to education, livelihood opportunities, social security, and meaningful participation in democratic institutions. Recognized for his balanced approach and unwavering commitment to public service, he has earned widespread respect across government institutions, civil society organizations, and community networks.

Beyond his statutory responsibilities, Shri Akshay Bhai has actively engaged with national policy discourse on social justice and backward class welfare. Through his association with various civil society initiatives and representative forums, he has advocated for evidence-based policymaking, grassroots participation, and stronger institutional mechanisms to address the aspirations of historically disadvantaged communities. His contributions have helped bridge the gap between policy formulation and grassroots realities, reinforcing the importance of community participation in governance.

As a Founder Member of CNRI, Shri Akshay Bhai has played a pivotal role in nurturing an organization that has grown into a nationwide movement of voluntary organizations dedicated to rural transformation, community empowerment, and participatory development. His guidance has strengthened CNRI’s commitment to promoting accountable governance, strengthening civil society institutions, encouraging community participation, and fostering partnerships among government, cooperatives, and voluntary organizations for inclusive national development.

Widely respected for his integrity, humility, and lifelong commitment to public welfare, Shri Sahu Akshay Bhai continues to inspire civil society leaders, policymakers, and grassroots organizations across the country. His enduring legacy lies in his unwavering pursuit of social justice, constitutional empowerment, and his belief that organized civil society remains one of the strongest pillars of an inclusive, democratic, and self-reliant India.