Our Board & Leadership

Our Board

The leadership of READS is strengthened by a dedicated and experienced Board comprising professionals from diverse fields — social development, education, rural development, women's empowerment, human rights, environmental issues, and community welfare.

With decades of collective experience, our Board provides strategic guidance, promotes transparency and accountability, and supports READS in advancing its mission to empower marginalised and vulnerable communities.

Meet our Board members

Portrait of Mr. B. Siddaramaiah

Mr. B. Siddaramaiah

President

A retired Professor with extensive academic experience, currently working as a Consultant on environmental issues. His expertise in education and environmental concerns contributes to the organisation's broader vision of sustainable development.

Mysuru, Karnataka
Portrait of Mr. Siddaraj Naik

Mr. Siddaraj Naik

Vice President

Over 25 years of experience in the development sector, with extensive exposure to social welfare and community development. Currently serves as a Social Welfare Officer at Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research.

Bengaluru, Karnataka
Portrait of Mr. C. Thippeshappa

Mr. C. Thippeshappa

Secretary

37 years of experience in development and social-sector work, spanning programme management, rural development, training, women's development, and community-based initiatives. Currently the Executive Director of READS.

Ballari, Karnataka
Portrait of Mr. Basavaraj

Mr. Basavaraj

Board Member

An Advocate with more than 25 years of professional experience, and former President of the Human Rights Forum in Hosadurga. His legal expertise and human rights experience contribute to READS' commitment to social justice and community rights.

Hosadurga, Chitradurga District, Karnataka
Portrait of Ms. Saraswathi

Ms. Saraswathi

Board Member

More than 30 years of experience in women's empowerment and social development. Currently the Executive Director of RLHP, Mysuru. Her experience strengthens READS' efforts to promote gender equality and inclusive development.

Mysuru, Karnataka
Portrait of Ms. K. Seetha Mahalakshmi

Ms. K. Seetha Mahalakshmi

Board Member

Over 17 years of experience in rural development, having worked in various capacities with non-governmental organisations. Currently working with READS Ballari.

Kurugodu, Bellary, Karnataka
Portrait of Ms. Bhagyalakshmi

Ms. Bhagyalakshmi

Board Member

More than 30 years of experience in women's empowerment and social development. Currently the Executive Director of SAKHI, Hospet. Her experience contributes to READS' vision of an equitable, inclusive, and dignified society.

Hospet, Vijayanagara District, Karnataka

Collective leadership

A shared commitment to lasting change

The READS Board brings together diverse professional experience and a shared commitment to social justice, gender equality, child protection, community empowerment, and sustainable development. Through responsible leadership and collective decision-making, the Board provides strategic direction to READS and supports the organisation in creating meaningful and lasting change in the lives of marginalised communities.