Development Alternatives is a non-profit organization engaged in research and action for sustainable development. It was established in 1983. Development Alternatives believes that ‘development’, being a dynamic process, is all about evolving inter-relationships between social and environmental factors, particularly interactions between nature, machines, institutions and people.

The activities of Development Alternatives Group broadly cover the three primary areas that underlie any form of sustainable development process: the design and large-scale dissemination of appropriate technologies, environmental management systems and effective people-oriented institutions and policies.

Ever since its inception in 1982, Development Alternatives (DA) has acted as a research and action organisation, designing and delivering eco-solutions for the poor and the marginalised.

A pioneer in sustainable development and the first social enterprise in India, DA realised the necessity of establishing several associated organisations working toward distinct goals that converge on the unified ambition of regenerating the environment and creating large-scale sustainable livelihoods.

Thus, a conglomerate called Development Alternatives Group was set up, comprising five organisations. The non-profit Societies, such as the flagship entity Development Alternatives and TARA (Technology and Action for Rural Advancement) are responsible for research, innovation, policy, incubation of green businesses and technical support services. The for-profit companies, such as DESI Power, TARA Machines and TARA Enviro are responsible for implementing the work of the DA Group at scale in business mode, all under the overall brand name of TARA.

Development Alternatives Group
Non-Profit Societies

• Development Alternatives engages in scientific research and innovation, on-the-ground implementation of eco solutions as well as communication and policy influence.
• Technology and Action for Rural Advancement (TARA) practices green business incubation and provides technical support services.

For-Profit Social Enterprises 

• TARA Machines and Tech Services Private Limited promotes sustainable technology solutions for small and medium enterprises. It markets green technology solutions for building construction, waste recycling and hand made paper production, delivering business solutions to a global network of micro, small and medium enterprises, specialising in eco concrete, eco-kilns, fly ash and recycling technology.
• TARAhaat Information and Marketing Services Private Limited creates micro-franchises to deliver IT-enabled education and skill building products to young job seekers.
• TARA Nirman Kendra delivers environmentally friendly habitat products and services through a range of sustainable building technologies and advisory support.
• TARA Enviro markets cutting-edge products designed for safe water and other vital resources.
• DESI Power Private Limited promotes biomass energy-based “EmPower” models for rural electrification and enterprise creation.