India - Kolkata

Overview

Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) is the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal and one of India's largest cities. With a metropolitan population of nearly 15 million, it is a densely populated urban center with a rich cultural heritage and complex social challenges. The city faces significant issues including extreme poverty, overcrowded living conditions, inadequate infrastructure, and environmental pollution. Despite economic growth in some sectors, many residents live in slums with limited access to clean water, sanitation, healthcare, and education. Kolkata has a predominantly Hindu population, with significant Muslim communities and small Christian, Sikh, Buddhist, and Jain minorities. The city is known for its intellectual and cultural contributions to Indian society, including literature, art, and political thought. Mission work in Kolkata has a notable history, including Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity who serve the poorest of the poor. Current mission efforts focus on education for underprivileged children, healthcare for the destitute, vocational training for economic empowerment, and community development in slum areas. The city's massive population and significant needs make it an important location for holistic mission approaches that address both physical and spiritual dimensions.

Religious Landscape

• Hinduism (76%)
• Islam (20%)
• Christianity (0.6%)
• Others (3.4%)

Current Projects

Needed Expertise