Archive · 9 Jan 2026
Pennsylvania University Studies Dharmasthala Rural Development
A team of 10 people from the University of Pennsylvania in the USA visited a special place in India called Dharmasthala.
They wanted to learn about how this place helps poor people and makes their lives better.
They met with the leader, Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade, and talked about how the programs work.
The team was impressed and thought this model could be used in other places around the world.
They also visited a museum and some other important places to learn more.
The university even gave Dr. Heggade a special title for his great work.
A 10-member study team from the University of Pennsylvania visited the Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala Rural Development Project (SKDRDP) to study its rural development programs.
The team met with Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade, the Dharmadhikari of Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala, and discussed the philosophy and impact of the rural development initiatives.
The SKDRDP model focuses on poverty alleviation, women’s empowerment, and sustainable rural livelihoods through self-help groups and low-interest loans.
The University of Pennsylvania honored Dr. Heggade with the title of ‘Visionary Leader’ during the visit.
The team visited the Manjusha Museum, Annapoorna Bhojanalaya, and the SIRI institutional centre to gain further insights into Dharmasthala’s integrated social service activities.
- Who
- A 10-member study team from the University of Pennsylvania and Dr D. Veerendra Heggade
- What
- A study of SKDRDP's rural development programs and community initiatives
- When
- Recently (exact date not specified)
- Where
- Dharmasthala, India
- Why
- To understand and potentially replicate the SKDRDP model globally
- Organization
- Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala Rural Development Project (SKDRDP)
- Visiting Team
- University of Pennsylvania study team
- Team Size
- 10 members
- Honorary Title
- Visionary Leader
- Key Focus Areas
- Poverty alleviation, women’s empowerment, sustainable rural livelihoods
- Notable Visits
- Manjusha Museum, Annapoorna Bhojanalaya, SIRI institutional centre
- Key Figure
- Dr D. Veerendra Heggade
- Team Leader
- Prof. Femi Handi