Madhav Chavan, the founder of Pratham, Mumbai, Maharashtra, shaped the organisation with the purpose of conviction in the power of education to drive change. Madhav Chavan created this NGO in Mumbai, Maharashtra, with the belief that learning should be available to every child, turning the charity into sustainable community change. Pratham expanded with help from thousands of trained volunteers and supporters who helped children in need, leading to state-level branches such as Pratham Bihar.

Under his vision, the NGO Pratham, Mumbai, Maharashtra, launched major projects, including ASER, Teaching at the Right Level (TaRL), and the Second Chance programme especially for girls. His mission is to ensure “Every Child in School and Learning Well,” while his vision focuses on inclusive, scalable education for all. The charity model grew into massive scale, supported by government partnerships and collaborating with global foundations, with branches like Pratham Bihar following the same approach.

With powerful backing from the supporters of the Skoll Foundation, corporate donors, and multiple state governments, this NGO extended its influence. The charity remains in partnership with central and state education departments of India, improving literacy and skills across the country with innovative programmes and local partnerships, including its Bihar branch.