AID recognizes certain outstanding social and environmental activists in India with "Saathi" awards. Since they are highly creative, committed and motivated individuals, we wish to support them in a manner that allows them freedom to operate without the constraints of a specific time-bound project. The program creates a mutually enriching relationship between AID and the saathi and entails not only support in the form of a stipend, but also non-monetary involvement and strategic support from AID volunteers. Saathis are a source of great inspiration to AID volunteers, and provide insight into development processes. AID so far has 10 Saathis.