NDA Policy

Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) Policy – Drishti Foundation

At Drishti Foundation, we have been actively working at the grassroots level for the last 27 successful years in the fields of Public Policy, Research and Development, Environment, and Higher Education. Our work involves sensitive information, strategic collaborations, and data that are vital to the success of our mission. To maintain confidentiality, trust, and integrity in all our operations, we have established a comprehensive NDA Policy or Non Disclosure Policy. This policy sets out the terms, responsibilities, and expectations regarding the protection of confidential information shared between Drishti Foundation and its stakeholders.

The NDA Policy is a cornerstone of our commitment to transparency and ethical operations. While we believe in openness about our mission and impact, certain information must be safeguarded to protect our projects, partners, and the communities we serve. This document outlines how we define, manage, and protect confidential information to ensure that our values of trust, accountability, and professionalism are upheld at all times.

Purpose of the NDA Policy

The primary purpose of our NDA Policy is to ensure that all individuals and organizations who work with or on behalf of Drishti Foundation understand their responsibility to protect sensitive information. Whether you are a donor, employee, consultant, volunteer, research collaborator, or corporate partner, you may have access to privileged data that is not intended for public disclosure.

By implementing an NDA framework, we protect:

• Project Strategies and Plans – Ensuring that our project concepts, methodologies, and timelines are safeguarded until officially released.
• Donor and Partner Information – Preserving the privacy and trust of those who contribute to our mission.
• Research Data – Protecting intellectual property, unpublished studies, and innovative solutions.
• Operational Details – Safeguarding internal processes, financial information, and administrative strategies.

Scope of the NDA Policy

This NDA Policy applies to all stakeholders who may be exposed to non-public information while interacting with Drishti Foundation. It includes, but is not limited to:

1. Employees and Staff Members – All permanent, contractual, and part-time employees.
2. Volunteers and Interns – Individuals assisting in projects or administrative activities.
3. Donors and Funding Agencies – When confidential terms or details are shared during negotiations.
4. Consultants and Contractors – Professionals engaged for specialized services.
5. Research Partners and Academic Institutions – Collaborators involved in studies and development initiatives.

Definition of Confidential Information

Confidential information may include, but is not limited to:

• Internal reports, policies, and strategies.
• Financial statements and funding details.
• Donor lists and contact details.
• Unpublished research findings and intellectual property.
• Beneficiary data, including personal and demographic information.
• Strategic partnership discussions and contracts.
• Any other information explicitly marked or understood to be confidential.

This definition covers information in all formats—written, electronic, verbal, or visual.

Obligations Under the NDA Policy

Under this policy, all individuals and entities bound by an NDA with Drishti Foundation agree to:

• Maintain Strict Confidentiality – Not disclose confidential information to any third party without written consent.
• Use Information Solely for Authorized Purposes – Apply the information only in ways that directly support the agreed objectives with the Foundation.
• Secure Storage of Data – Protect information through appropriate security measures, whether digital or physical.
• Return or Destroy Data Upon Termination – Once the agreement or collaboration ends, all confidential documents must be returned or securely destroyed.
• Report Breaches Immediately – Inform Drishti Foundation of any suspected or actual breach of confidentiality.

Exclusions to Confidentiality

Certain information is not considered confidential under this policy, including:

• Data that is already in the public domain at the time of disclosure.
• Information independently developed by the recipient without access to Drishti Foundation’s confidential materials.
• Details disclosed under a legal requirement or court order, provided that prior notice is given to the Foundation.
• Any content specifically authorized for public release by Drishti Foundation.

Importance of the NDA in the Non profit Sector

In the non profit sector, especially for organizations working in public policy, research, environmental protection, and education, confidentiality is crucial for several reasons:

• Protecting Vulnerable Communities – Many of our projects involve sensitive community data. Protecting this information safeguards the dignity and privacy of beneficiaries.
• Maintaining Donor Trust – Donors share financial and personal details with the expectation that this information will be handled responsibly.
• Preventing Intellectual Property Theft – Our innovative research, policy recommendations, and project frameworks are valuable assets that must be protected from unauthorized use.
• Ensuring Fair Implementation – By controlling the release of strategic information, we prevent misuse, duplication, or premature competition.

Digital Confidentiality and Cybersecurity

In today’s technology-driven environment, a significant portion of confidential information is stored and transmitted digitally. Drishti Foundation takes cybersecurity seriously by implementing:

• Secure Communication Channels – Using encrypted emails and file-sharing platforms.
• Access Control – Granting data access only to authorized personnel.
• Regular Data Backups – Ensuring secure storage and recovery.
• Cybersecurity Training – Equipping staff and volunteers with the knowledge to recognize and prevent digital threats.

These measures complement the NDA framework, providing multi-layered protection for sensitive information.

Breach of NDA and Consequences

Violation of this NDA Policy can result in serious consequences, including:

• Termination of Employment or Collaboration – Immediate cessation of work with Drishti Foundation.
• Legal Action – Pursuing remedies under applicable laws for damages caused.
• Loss of Partnership Opportunities – Ending current and future collaborations.
• Reputational Damage – Public disclosure of misconduct, when appropriate and lawful.

The Foundation is committed to taking strict action against any breach to protect the integrity of its mission.

Reporting and Compliance

All stakeholders are encouraged to promptly report any suspected breaches of confidentiality to the designated Compliance Officer or through our official reporting channels. We maintain an open-door policy for concerns related to data protection and confidentiality.

Our compliance team periodically reviews all NDAs to ensure that they reflect the latest legal standards and best practices. Updates are communicated to all relevant parties, and renewed agreements are signed when required.

Role of NDA in Partnerships and Collaborations

When Drishti Foundation enters into partnerships with governments, NGOs, corporations, or academic institutions, NDAs serve as the foundation for mutual trust. These agreements:

• Provide clarity about what information can and cannot be shared.
• Set the tone for professional and ethical collaboration.
• Ensure that sensitive research findings, pilot project data, and strategic plans are protected until formal release.

This is particularly important in our public policy advocacy, marine conservation projects, disaster relief operations, and higher education initiatives, where the premature release of information can have far-reaching consequences.

Commitment to Ethical Standards

Drishti Foundation views confidentiality as more than just a legal obligation—it is a moral responsibility. Our NDA Policy is rooted in the values of integrity, respect, accountability, and professionalism. We believe that protecting information is integral to sustaining long-term impact and building trust with every stakeholder.

Transparency vs. Confidentiality

While our NDA Policy focuses on safeguarding sensitive information, we remain committed to transparency about our mission, impact, and use of resources. We regularly publish public reports, audited financial statements, and project updates on our official platforms. The NDA simply ensures that the release of information is managed in a way that protects stakeholders and maximizes positive impact.

Building Trust Through Confidentiality

For over 27 years, Drishti Foundation has worked tirelessly to create sustainable change in public policy, research, environmental conservation, and higher education. Our success is built on trust—trust that we will use resources responsibly, deliver on our promises, and protect the information entrusted to us.

The NDA Policy is a vital tool in safeguarding that trust. By clearly defining responsibilities, ensuring secure handling of data, and taking firm action against breaches, we uphold our values and maintain the credibility we have worked hard to earn.

We invite all partners, donors, employees, and collaborators to embrace this policy as part of our shared commitment to ethical practices. Protecting information is not just about legal compliance—it is about ensuring that every project, every relationship, and every innovation continues to serve the communities and causes we care about most.

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

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