By Impactlens Correspondent
Terre Des Hommes Germany marked 50 years of impactful work in India with a two-day celebration held on 3rd and 4th January 2026 at the J P Naik Education & Development Centre, Pune, Maharashtra. The event was organised in partnership with Centre for Youth Development and Activities (CYDA). It brought together more than 400 children and youth from 10 states in India, along with 34 partner organisations, government representatives, and international dignitaries. The gathering reflected on five decades of advancing child and youth rights and collectively envisioned the future.
The programme was inaugurated with hope and belief that youth possess abundant energy and the power to drive meaningful transformation in society. Ms Mousam, a youth volunteer from Bihar, shared her personal journey and emphasised the importance of TDH in her life. She said the organisation taught her to ask questions and value herself, which became a major turning point in her journey.
Over two days, children and youth participated in a series of creative sessions exploring six thematic and skill-based workshops. Each group was guided by mentors and experts, and the workshops included street theatre (nukkad natak), photography and short video creation, group dance, group song and music, art and craft installations, and STEM innovations. Throughout the event, participants had the opportunity to hone their skills and showcase their talents across these creative platforms. The atmosphere was festive and vibrant, reflecting the rich flavours of India. Young participants expressed themselves through diverse forms of art, performance, and innovation. The event also became a dynamic platform for youth from all over India. It allowed them to share and exchange their cultures and ideas.
While addressing the press, Mr Joshua Hofert, Executive Director, TDH Germany stated that since 2018, TDH Germany has been working in collaboration with 64 partner organisations across 18 states in India. Through various interventions, the organisation has aimed to bring positive change in the lives of children and youth. He expressed his happiness at the presence of more than 400 young people from across the country at the event. He further noted that the challenges faced by children and youth have increased in the post-COVID period. He highlighted the need for strong networks and collaboration to create a sustainable impact. Dr Vandana Prasad, a former member for (Child Health) National Commission for Protection of Child Rights, (NCPCR), interacted and guided youth representatives on the issues concerned to them.
Mr. Bernard Simon, Chairman of the Supervisory Board, Dachser Group SE & Co. KG, Germany, thanked TDH for its impact on the ground. He stated that the organisation is not only positively transforming lives but also acting as a bridge to understand local needs. He emphasised that understanding local contexts and nurturing leadership from within communities are essential for building a better future.
The 50th Anniversary Celebration commenced with a warm welcome by youth representatives. Dr Namrata Jaitli, Regional Coordinator, TDH Germany, shared an overview of TDH Germany’s journey and contributions in India. This was followed by an opening remark from Mr Joshua Hofert, Executive Director, TDH Germany. A key highlight of the event was the screening of a video capturing TDH Germany’s 50-year journey in India, followed by the unveiling of the TDH 50 Years book and the YES (Youth For Ecological Sustainability) booklet.
Mr Gottfried von Gemmingen, Head of Development Cooperation at the Embassy of Germany, while delivering the keynote address, acknowledged that children and youth are not just beneficiaries but also agents of change. While congratulating TDH Germany on its anniversary, he said that there are many issues that require united and collective efforts.
The celebration concluded with vibrant, creative performances by youth, marking the successful close of the two-day anniversary event.
