[A] SCOPE AND PURPOSE
The purpose of volunteering is to provide individuals with an opportunity to contribute to building an inclusive society. Volunteers dedicate their time, skills, and experience, leading to both personal and professional growth. Volunteers are at the heart of Deepstambh Manobal’s development initiatives and are vital to our success. We gain immense value from volunteers, benefiting from their diverse experiences and talents to deliver our programs more effectively. Deepstambh Manobal engages volunteers because they:
Offer skills and experience that enhance our impact.
Strengthen our credibility by freely choosing to support our mission.
Extend our reach within communities.
Provide fresh perspectives, challenging and guiding us with new ideas.
Bring enthusiasm, passion, and commitment to our initiatives.
[B] LEGAL STATUS OF VOLUNTEERS
Deepstambh Manobal volunteers are not employees. They are not subject to Deepstambh Manobal’s Staff Regulations, Staff Rules, or employee benefits. However, volunteers are governed by this document, including any amendments made in the future. Their terms of service are defined in the Volunteer Contract and Description of Assignment.
Volunteers are expected to promote volunteerism through their actions and conduct. The Conditions of Service (COS) outline the policies and rules regulating volunteer assignments and may be updated periodically by Deepstambh Manobal. This COS is specific to volunteers and any other policies applicable to Deepstambh Manobal employees or any other personnel, is not applicable to volunteers.

[C] PRIVILEGES
Volunteers may receive certain privileges depending on agreements between Deepstambh Manobal and the host entities where they serve. However, the following conditions apply:
Privileges granted are in accordance with the prevailing agreements and no special arrangements will be made solely for volunteering purposes unless pre-approved.
If assigned to a government body or institution, the respective rules and regulations will apply.
While Deepstambh Manobal strives to provide a safe working environment, volunteers should be aware that certain assignments may involve challenges, including remote or emergency locations. Volunteers must assess these conditions before accepting an assignment.
[D] VOLUNTEER ENGAGEMENT
Age Requirement: Individuals above 18 years can volunteer. Those below 18 may participate only with written parental/guardian consent, assuming full responsibility and compliance with mandatory disclosures.
Recruitment Process: Prospective volunteers must complete an application form via the website or a shared link, followed by an orientation session. Deepstambh Manobal upholds diversity and inclusion in its recruitment process.
[E] OPERATIONAL PROTOCOL
Roles and Responsibilities: Volunteers will not assume fiduciary, managerial, supervisory, or certifying roles typically assigned to staff. However, they may take on capacity-building responsibilities or increased roles based on specific agreements. The assigned tasks and expected outcomes will be documented in the Volunteer Engagement Contract and monitored by the designated reporting manager.
Time Commitment: Volunteers must commit to a specific schedule, whether a set number of hours per week, weekends, or project-based engagements. The volunteer is responsible for managing their time, though Deepstambh Manobal will provide necessary support.
Supervision and Support: A designated volunteer coordinator will address questions, concerns, and provide guidance. Volunteers are expected to provide periodic updates on their work progress.
Recognition and Feedback: Volunteers will be recognized for their contributions through certificates, letters of recommendation, or appreciation events.
Conflict Resolution: A structured process will be in place to resolve conflicts between volunteers, team members, or beneficiaries.
Termination and Exit Procedures: In the event of conflicts, issues should first be reported to the program head for resolution. Further escalation will follow Deepstambh Manobal’s institutional conflict resolution mechanisms.
[F] LEGAL AND ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS
Safeguarding Code of Conduct: Volunteers must sign and adhere to Deepstambh Manobal’s Safeguarding Policy to ensure the safety and well-being of children and program participants. Volunteers are expected to maintain respect for beneficiaries and team members while upholding the organization’s values.
Program Guidelines: Volunteers must follow Deepstambh Manobal’s operational guidelines when engaging with communities, institutions, and other entities.
Ethical Conduct: All ethical policies applicable to volunteers will be communicated by the Human Resources & Organizational Development Department. Volunteers must comply with these policies in both letter and spirit.
[G] PROPRIETARY RIGHTS
All intellectual property, including patents, copyrights, trademarks, and other proprietary rights related to work developed during volunteer assignments, will be owned by the host entity. Volunteers will receive a non-exclusive, royalty-free, and non-transferable license to use intellectual property arising from their assignments, subject to prior approval from Deepstambh Manobal. Unauthorized use or withholding of organizational intellectual property may result in disciplinary or legal action.
[H] POLICY REVIEW AND UPDATES
This policy will be periodically reviewed and updated to ensure its continued relevance and effectiveness.
[I] COMMUNICATION
Once finalized, this policy will be communicated to all existing and prospective volunteers. It will be made accessible through the Deepstambh Manobal website and printed materials where necessary.