Published Mar 25, 2026 | 2:19 PM ⚊ Updated Mar 25, 2026 | 2:19 PM
Moncho Ferrer with Nara Lokesh. (Supplied)
Synopsis: Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu has ensured restoration of foreign funding to the Rural Development Trust (RDT) after prolonged FCRA hurdles. Programme Director Moncho Ferrer expressed gratitude, noting the move safeguards healthcare, education, women’s empowerment, disability inclusion, and livelihood programmes across drought-prone Rayalaseema. Founded by Vicente Ferrer, RDT’s services now continue uninterrupted, benefiting lakhs of vulnerable families in Anantapur and beyond.
Moncho Ferrer, Programme Director of the Rural Development Trust (RDT), called on Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu at his camp office on Tuesday, 24 March, and expressed gratitude for ensuring restoration of foreign funding to the organisation.
The clearance comes after a prolonged disruption triggered by regulatory hurdles under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), which had stalled inflows of overseas funds to the trust.
RDT, a well-known non-profit organisation headquartered in Anantapur district, has been serving vulnerable and marginalised communities in Andhra Pradesh for several decades. Its work spans critical sectors such as rural healthcare, education, women’s empowerment, disability inclusion, housing, and sustainable livelihoods. The trust operates extensively across the drought-prone Rayalaseema region, particularly in Anantapur, Sri Sathya Sai, and neighbouring districts, where it has built a strong grassroots presence.
According to officials, the interruption in foreign funding had posed a serious challenge to the continuity of RDT’s welfare programmes, many of which depend significantly on international donor support.
The issue was repeatedly taken up with the Centre by the state government. Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu is learnt to have personally raised the matter with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, seeking a resolution.
Following sustained efforts, the Centre has now granted the necessary clearances, effectively removing the bottlenecks.
“With the obstacles now cleared, RDT can continue its services to the poor without disruption,” the Chief Minister said, reaffirming the state’s support to institutions working in the social sector.
The development also underscores the role played by Andhra Pradesh IT and Education Minister Nara Lokesh, who had earlier assured intervention after the issue was brought to his attention. Lokesh had described RDT as a “beacon of hope” for lakhs of underprivileged families and had pledged to ensure that its services were not affected.
During his meeting with the minister at Undavalli, Ferrer expressed appreciation for the government’s efforts. “This is not merely RDT thanking a minister. It is the collective gratitude of lakhs of people whose lives have been touched by the trust,” he said.
Founded in 1969 by Spanish humanitarian Vicente Ferrer, RDT has evolved into one of India’s most respected rural development organisations. Its interventions have transformed the socio-economic landscape of backward regions through long-term, community-driven initiatives.
In education, RDT runs schools and hostels that provide access to quality learning for children from economically weaker sections. In healthcare, it operates hospitals and mobile clinics offering affordable and often free treatment to those who cannot otherwise access medical services.
The trust is also known for its pioneering work in disability inclusion, ensuring access to education, assistive devices, and livelihood opportunities for persons with disabilities. Women’s self-help groups supported by RDT have played a crucial role in financial inclusion and empowerment, while its environmental programmes have helped improve agricultural sustainability in arid regions.
Officials sources said that the restoration of foreign funding is critical not just for sustaining existing programmes but also for expanding outreach to newer areas. The move is expected to benefit lakhs of beneficiaries who rely on RDT’s services for education, healthcare, and livelihood support.
Speaking on the occasion, Lokesh remarked that his role in resolving the issue was minimal compared to the decades of selfless service rendered by RDT. “The organisation’s contribution to Telugu society through education, healthcare, and livelihoods is immense,” he said.
