The Sankat Mochan Foundation (SMF) in Varanasi started the Campaign for a Clean Ganga.. As a non-profit entity registered in India, SMF is funded through contributions from private individuals and organisations, as well as companies and international development assistance agencies.

Dr. Veer Bhadra Mishra (Mahantji) is chairman of the Board of Directors. Other members include Dr. D.K. Sundd, Dr. S.N. Upadhayaya, S.K. Mishra, Roger Choate of Stockholm, Sweden and Frances Peavey of San Francisco, California.

Ms Peavey has played a prominent role in the history of the Foundation and Campaign over the years, together with Mahantji. They registered the Sankat Mochan Foundation (Sankat Mochan means "removal of suffering") as a non-governmental organisation in June, 1982. In the same month, Dr. Mishra submitted a memo to late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, outlining the river pollution problem and possible solutions.

A clean and healthy Ganga River is the main goal of the Foundation, along with conducting educational and health care programs for the less privileged.

Other goals include maintaining and encouraging the age-old traditions of Varanasi; and promoting the literature of the poet-saint Goswami Tulsidas ji. An annual Indian classical music concert sponsored by SMF attracts music lovers everywhere.

Address:
Sankat Mochan Foundation
15, Tulsi Ghat
Varanasi 221 001, India
Phone/fax +91 542 314 278 (+91 542 231 4278)
Email: rohit@cleanganga.com, vbmganga@satyam.net.in
www.cleanganga.com