Code of Conduct
Sarthaq Future Federation (Sarthaq.org) is committed to upholding the highest standards of ethical behavior and integrity. This Code of Conduct outlines the expectations for all individuals who are associated with our organization, including employees, volunteers, donors, and partners. It is designed to foster a positive work environment, encourage responsible and ethical behavior, and ensure that our operations align with our mission of driving positive social change.
1. Integrity and Honesty
All members, employees, volunteers, and partners of Sarthaq Future Federation are expected to act with the highest levels of honesty, integrity, and transparency in all dealings, both internal and external. This includes:
- Providing truthful and accurate information in all communications, reports, and statements.
- Upholding transparency in all financial and operational matters, ensuring that all stakeholders are fully informed.
- Ensuring that no misleading, deceptive, or fraudulent practices are undertaken by any individual associated with Sarthaq Future Federation.
- Being accountable for actions and decisions, and admitting mistakes when they occur, and taking corrective actions as needed.
2. Respect for Individuals
We believe in a culture of respect, inclusivity, and dignity for all people. We expect all members, employees, volunteers, and partners to:
- Respect the dignity, rights, and opinions of others, treating everyone fairly and without discrimination.
- Refrain from discriminatory behavior, harassment, or any form of verbal, physical, or emotional abuse.
- Foster an inclusive environment that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds, regardless of their race, gender, religion, ethnicity, nationality, sexual orientation, disability, or any other characteristic.
- Encourage a culture of mutual support, collaboration, and positivity that enhances the collective welfare of the organization and the communities we serve.
3. Commitment to Social Responsibility
Sarthaq Future Federation is committed to acting as a responsible corporate citizen and fulfilling our social obligations. All members, employees, volunteers, and partners must actively contribute to the organization’s goal of driving positive social change. This commitment includes:
- Promoting ethical practices and contributing to the well-being of the communities we serve.
- Engaging in projects that promote social welfare, equal opportunities, and long-term community development.
- Conducting business in a manner that respects the environment, ensures sustainability, and promotes ecological balance.
- Striving to be a positive influence, motivating others to take part in activities that benefit the greater good.
4. Confidentiality and Privacy
We are committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of all individuals we interact with, including donors, beneficiaries, employees, volunteers, and partners. This includes the protection of personal and sensitive information. All members are required to:
- Ensure that personal data, including contact details, financial information, and health data, is kept confidential and used only for the intended purposes.
- Obtain consent before disclosing any personal or sensitive information to third parties.
- Ensure that any data collected is stored securely and in compliance with relevant data protection laws and guidelines.
- Report any breaches of confidentiality or privacy to the appropriate authority within the organization for immediate action.
5. Transparency and Accountability
We prioritize transparency and accountability in all our activities to maintain trust with our stakeholders, including donors, beneficiaries, employees, and partners. This includes:
- Maintaining accurate and truthful records of financial transactions, donations, and program expenditures.
- Regularly publishing financial statements and other reports to ensure transparency in the management of funds and resources.
- Adhering to internal auditing procedures and financial management guidelines to ensure accountability in the use of donations and funds.
- Providing clear communication to stakeholders about the impact of their contributions and the use of their donations.
6. Conflicts of Interest
All individuals associated with Sarthaq Future Federation must avoid any situation where personal interests conflict, or appear to conflict, with the interests of the organization. This includes:
- Disclosing any personal, financial, or other relationships that may create a conflict of interest.
- Refraining from participating in decisions or activities that may personally benefit an individual or family member without full disclosure.
- Taking steps to ensure that personal relationships or financial interests do not unduly influence the organization’s work or decisions.
- Seeking guidance from the management if there is any doubt about a potential conflict of interest.
7. Compliance with Laws and Regulations
Sarthaq Future Federation adheres to all applicable laws, regulations, and guidelines in the countries and regions where it operates. This includes, but is not limited to, the following:
- Complying with the Companies Act, 2013, and other relevant Indian legislation governing non-profit organizations.
- Ensuring that all activities related to donations and fundraising are conducted in compliance with the Income Tax Act, Section 80G and 12A, and other tax-related regulations.
- Abiding by all applicable laws related to data protection, intellectual property rights, labor laws, and environmental protection.
- Ensuring that all fundraising activities are transparent, ethical, and in compliance with the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Income Tax Department, and Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
8. Ethical Fundraising and Donations
We are committed to conducting all fundraising activities in an ethical and transparent manner. This includes:
- Ensuring that all donations are used strictly for the intended purpose, as communicated to the donor.
- Providing clear and accurate receipts to donors, detailing the amount of their contribution and the intended use of funds.
- Respecting the wishes of donors and protecting their privacy in accordance with our confidentiality policies.
- Being transparent about how funds are raised, utilized, and the impact they have on the community.
9. Environmental Responsibility
We are committed to protecting the environment through sustainable practices. All individuals involved with Sarthaq Future Federation should:
- Minimize waste and resource consumption in the operation of the organization.
- Support projects and initiatives that promote environmental sustainability and climate change mitigation.
- Encourage the use of eco-friendly materials, renewable resources, and green technologies in all aspects of our work.
10. Reporting Violations
Any individual who believes that a violation of this Code of Conduct has occurred is encouraged to report the issue promptly. We assure confidentiality and protection against retaliation for anyone reporting in good faith. The reporting process includes:
- Submitting a written report to the management or a designated ethics committee.
- Providing all relevant details and evidence in the report to allow for a thorough investigation.
- Cooperating with any investigation into the alleged violation.
11. Commitment to Continuous Improvement
At Sarthaq Future Federation, we believe that ethical behavior and organizational practices should always evolve in response to new challenges and opportunities. We are committed to:
- Regularly reviewing our policies, procedures, and Code of Conduct to ensure their continued relevance and effectiveness.
- Encouraging feedback from all members, employees, and stakeholders to improve our operations.
- Providing ongoing training and development opportunities to ensure all members understand and uphold this Code of Conduct.
Conclusion
By being a part of Sarthaq Future Federation, you agree to uphold the principles outlined in this Code of Conduct and work together to achieve the mission of the organization. Every action, no matter how small, contributes to the larger goal of creating a better, more just, and inclusive world for all.