Code of Conduct

Code of Conduct – Upholding Integrity, Transparency, and Accountability

At Drishti Foundation, we have been working at the grassroots level for the last 27 successful years in Public Policy, Research and Development, Environment, and Higher Education. Our long-standing commitment to social impact is built on a foundation of integrity, transparency, accountability, and respect and code of conduct. As an organization registered under the Rajasthan Society Act, 1958 (Registration No. 64/Alwar/1998-99), our reputation and effectiveness depend on the trust we have built with communities, partners, donors, and stakeholders.

Our Code of Conduct reflects our core values and sets the standards of behavior expected from our team members, volunteers, partners, and representatives. It ensures that all activities are conducted ethically, lawfully, and in alignment with our mission to create lasting positive change in society.

Purpose of the Code of Conduct

The primary purpose of this Code is to guide everyone associated with Drishti Foundation in making ethical decisions, maintaining high professional standards, and ensuring that all work is carried out with honesty, fairness, and respect. This Code serves as a reference point to:

  • Promote integrity and professionalism in all operations.
  • Protect the interests of beneficiaries, stakeholders, and partners.
  • Comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and contractual obligations.
  • Foster an inclusive, safe, and respectful work environment.

Scope of Application

This Code applies to all individuals and groups connected to Drishti Foundation, including:

  • Board Members and Trustees
  • Full-time and part-time staff
  • Volunteers and interns
  • Consultants and contractors
  • Partner organizations and collaborators

All members of our community are expected to understand, accept, and comply with the principles outlined in this document.

Core Values Guiding Our Conduct

1. Integrity and Honesty

Every member of the Drishti Foundation team must act with honesty and integrity in all dealings—whether with beneficiaries, donors, partners, or the general public. We reject corruption, bribery, and unethical practices in all forms.

2. Transparency and Accountability

We are committed to openness in our operations. All financial transactions, program reports, and communications must be accurate, complete, and truthful. Accountability to our stakeholders is central to sustaining trust and credibility.

3. Respect and Dignity

We treat all individuals with respect, regardless of race, religion, gender, caste, ethnicity, disability, or socio-economic status. We uphold the dignity and rights of every person we serve and work with.

4. Commitment to Quality

All activities, projects, and services must meet the highest standards of quality and professionalism. Our beneficiaries deserve the best outcomes, and we are committed to continuous improvement in our work.

Professional Behavior Standards

Compliance with Laws – All activities must comply with local, national, and international laws, including labor laws, anti-discrimination laws, and environmental regulations.

  1. Avoidance of Conflicts of Interest – Members must avoid situations where personal interests conflict with organizational responsibilities. Any potential conflict must be disclosed immediately.
  2. Confidentiality – Sensitive information about the organization, its partners, or beneficiaries must be handled with utmost care and not disclosed without proper authorization.
  3. Use of Resources – Organizational funds, equipment, and resources must only be used for legitimate purposes that advance our mission. Misuse or misappropriation of resources is strictly prohibited.
  4. Fair Representation – All public statements, media interactions, and publications must accurately reflect the work, vision, and mission of Drishti Foundation.

Commitment to Beneficiaries and Communities

We work directly with communities, often in vulnerable and marginalized settings. Our Code ensures that:

  • We engage beneficiaries with empathy, respect, and cultural sensitivity.
  • We protect the privacy of individuals and avoid exploiting their stories for fundraising or publicity.
  • We seek informed consent before using images, videos, or testimonials.
  • We avoid any actions that could cause harm or distress to the communities we serve.

Workplace Ethics and Conduct

Drishti Foundation is committed to maintaining a workplace culture that is safe, respectful, and inclusive. This includes:

  • Non-Discrimination – Equal opportunity for all, free from bias or prejudice.
  • Anti-Harassment – Zero tolerance for sexual harassment, bullying, or any form of abuse.
  • Health and Safety – Providing a safe working environment and adhering to all occupational safety standards.
  • Collaboration and Teamwork – Encouraging open communication, cooperation, and mutual respect among team members.

Environmental Responsibility

As part of our commitment to environmental sustainability, all members are expected to minimize their ecological footprint. This includes:

  • Reducing waste and promoting recycling.
  • Conserving energy and natural resources.
  • Supporting initiatives for biodiversity, climate resilience, and sustainable development.

Partnership Ethics

We believe strong partnerships are key to achieving long-term impact. Our conduct with partners is guided by:

  • Mutual respect and trust.
  • Clear communication and transparency in agreements.
  • Shared accountability for project outcomes.
  • Avoiding partnerships that conflict with our mission or values.

Financial Integrity

Drishti Foundation maintains strict financial controls to ensure responsible use of funds. Our Code demands:

  • Accurate and timely record-keeping.
  • Compliance with donor agreements and grant conditions.
  • Prevention of fraud, corruption, and financial mismanagement.
  • Open audits and public disclosure of financial statements.

Digital and Social Media Conduct

In the digital age, our online presence reflects our values and credibility. Members are expected to:

  • Use social media responsibly and professionally.
  • Avoid posting harmful, misleading, or offensive content.
  • Protect the confidentiality of internal matters online.
  • Ensure that digital communication aligns with our organizational mission and tone.

Reporting Violations and Whistleblower Protection

We encourage all members to report any suspected violations of this Code without fear of retaliation. Our whistleblower policy ensures:

  • Confidential handling of reports.
  • Protection from discrimination or reprisal.
  • Fair investigation and resolution of reported issues.

Reports can be made through designated internal channels, including our ethics committee and governance board.

Training and Awareness

To ensure that everyone understands and upholds the Code, we provide regular training sessions, orientation programs, and refresher workshops for staff, volunteers, and partners. All new members are required to review and sign their commitment to this Code upon joining.

Review and Updates

The Code of Conduct is a living document, reviewed annually by the Board of Trustees to ensure it remains relevant and aligned with emerging ethical standards, laws, and organizational priorities. Updates are communicated to all members promptly.

Our Commitment to the Public

Drishti Foundation is accountable to the communities we serve, our donors, and the wider public. Upholding this Code of Conduct is not just a legal or procedural obligation—it is the moral compass that guides our actions. By adhering to these principles, we strengthen public trust and reinforce our role as a responsible and credible organization committed to social, environmental, and educational transformation.

Drishti Foundation has earned the trust of thousands through unwavering dedication to ethics, transparency, and impact. This Code of Conduct is a reflection of our values in action—it defines who we are, how we work, and how we aspire to be a role model for integrity in the development sector.

We invite all staff, volunteers, partners, and supporters to not only follow these guidelines but to embody them in their daily interactions. Together, we can continue building an organization that stands as a beacon of trust, accountability, and excellence for generations to come.

“Reach out to explore collaborations, discover our initiatives, and contribute to creating meaningful, lasting change.”

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