The Avaada Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Avaada Group, has launched an interactive planetarium in Dongla, Madhya Pradesh, in partnership with Acharya Varah Mihir Nyas. Strategically situated on the Tropic of Cancer, this new facility allows students to witness a rare astronomical phenomenon—when the sun appears directly overhead on June 21st each year.
Designed to make science more engaging and accessible, the initiative aims to inspire interest in astronomy and connect young learners to India’s scientific heritage. The project was formally inaugurated by the Hon’ble Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav, who commended the foundation for its contribution to education and innovation in the region.
“This region has long deserved a dedicated center for astronomical learning. The establishment of this planetarium is a much-needed step, and I extend my gratitude to the Avaada Foundation for their role in making it a reality,” said Dr Yadav during the event.
The planetarium marks another milestone in the foundation’s efforts to drive social development across Madhya Pradesh. Its work spans a range of sectors including education, healthcare, environmental awareness, women’s empowerment, and rural advancement.
In Madhya Pradesh, the Avaada Foundation is implementing a wide range of impactful initiatives aimed at improving access to education, healthcare, and sustainable livelihoods. Among these efforts is the provision of transport services for schoolchildren in remote tribal areas, helping reduce barriers to regular attendance. The foundation is also enhancing government school infrastructure by constructing essential facilities such as toilets and libraries, creating a more conducive environment for learning. To further support academic growth, it offers free coaching classes, organizes educational workshops, and provides ITI scholarships and sports training—ensuring holistic development opportunities for students.
Beyond education, the foundation is committed to empowering rural women through practical skill development. It operates stitching centers and supplies industrial sewing machines, while also creating links to the garment industry to help women achieve financial independence. In addition, Avaada Foundation is addressing health and environmental concerns by conducting regular medical camps, veterinary health drives, and tree plantation campaigns. These initiatives collectively reflect a comprehensive approach to rural development, blending education, empowerment, and sustainability to improve quality of life across the region.
Vineet Mittal, Chairman of Avaada Group, has been the driving force behind the foundation’s work, focused on sustainable and inclusive development that benefits underserved communities. Speaking about the planetarium,
Speaking about the planetarium, Ritu Patwari, Director of Avaada Foundation, said, “This space will give students a real-world introduction to astronomy and science. It encourages hands-on learning and helps young minds understand complex subjects in an immersive way—something that’s central to our educational mission.”
Avaada Foundation, the social responsibility arm of the Avaada Group, is committed to promoting inclusive and sustainable growth throughout India. Anchored in its core mission of Triple E & H—Education, Employment, Environment, and Health—the Foundation delivers impactful grassroots programs aimed at uplifting underrepresented and underserved communities.
With a nationwide footprint, Avaada Foundation has improved educational access for over 300,000 students, empowered more than 20,000 women through skill development and livelihood initiatives, and provided healthcare services to upwards of 200,000 individuals. Its environmental efforts include nurturing over 114,000 saplings to foster a greener future.
Additionally, the Foundation has engaged more than 100,000 youth and community members in awareness and capacity-building initiatives. Rooted in the belief that meaningful change begins with small, consistent efforts, Avaada Foundation remains dedicated to strengthening community resilience, advancing social equity, and supporting a healthier, more sustainable India.
