Understanding Singapore Indian Development Association (SINDA)
The Singapore Indian Development Association (SINDA) was formed in 1991 to uplift the Indian community in Singapore. With a focus on socioeconomic development, SINDA offers various programs and services to support individuals and families. One of SINDA’s key objectives is to ensure that every member of the Indian community in Singapore is given equal opportunities to achieve success in life. For this, SINDA offers educational programs such as tuition and mentorship, as well as career guidance and training to support individuals in their professional endeavours.
SINDA also recognises the importance of cultural and sporting activities in fostering a sense of community and belonging. It, therefore, provides a range of cultural programs and events. These help to promote Indian arts, culture, and traditions. Additionally, SINDA offers financial assistance to families and individuals facing financial difficulties. This includes support for school-related expenses, medical bills, and other necessities.
How SINDA Empowers the Indian Community
SINDA collaborates with other community organisations and government agencies. It strives to create a resilient and confident Singaporean Indian community. Furthermore, it empowers the community to work alongside other communities to advance multi-racial Singapore. It has put forth several recommendations and strategies to achieve this vision, including:
- Encouraging parents to enrol their children in preschool centres.
- Utilising innovative teaching methods to enhance Mathematics Education.
- Expanding STEP tuition and Project Teach programs to reach more students and schools.
- Empowering youth to aim higher and remain focused on their goals.
- Engaging parents to strengthen family resilience in the Indian community.
- Collaborating with various organisations to enhance community partnerships.
To improve the standard of living of the Indian community in Singapore, all individuals of Indian sub-continental ethnic origins, including Singaporeans, Permanent Residents, Employment Pass holders, as well as those from groups such as Bangladeshis, Bengalis, Gujaratis, Parsees, Sikhs, Sinhalese, Telugus, Pakistanis, Sri Lankans, Goans, Malayalees, Punjabis, Sindhis, and Tamils, are required to contribute a monthly amount to the SINDA fund.
SINDA offers various versatile programs to benefit individuals in the community. One such program, “Let Her Shine!” is particularly well-known and is designed to empower women in the Indian society by providing them with the essential skills they need to succeed. SINDA’s offerings within this program include an Employability Program, a Public Speaking Workshop, a STEM Mentorship Program, a PYTON Coding for Girls course, and Leadership Camps.
In addition to its educational programmes, SINDA provides enjoyable activities such as Fluffy Slime classes and a 3D Printing Workshop. They also organise informative talks like ‘What is PCOS all about?’ to raise awareness of important health issues. Community programs like the ones offered by SINDA can have a significant positive impact on the individuals and families they serve. These programs provide opportunities for personal and professional development, increase access to resources and services, and create a sense of community and support. They can also promote social awareness and help address critical issues, such as health and education.
How to Get Involved?
Several opportunities are available for those interested in participating in SINDA’s partnership programmes or becoming a volunteer. Activities such as SINDA Book Wizards, Mentor Me, and ad hoc duties are all options for those interested in volunteering. Door Knocking Exercises, Youth Football Initiative are also there, To get involved, you can reach out to SINDA directly. They welcome both individual and corporate volunteers. You can find more information on their website or by contacting them directly through their contact page.
Every donation and contribution goes a long way. It plays a vital role in positively changing the lives of students, youths, parents, older adults, and low-income individuals. As the Indian community’s needs continue to change, SINDA remains steadfast in their commitment to providing the necessary resources and support to uplift our beneficiaries. Do note that all tax deductions will be in accordance with the guidelines set by IRAS.
SINDA’s Call for Increased Contributions
To meet the objectives outlined in the SINDA 2020 review and expand the scope of programs and services, expenses have increased. Coupled with budget deficits over the past three years, it is necessary to raise the level of contributions to the SINDA Fund. As SINDA focuses on reaching the appropriate target audience and providing essential services, the costs will rise accordingly. Therefore, the community must increase their contributions.
Employees’ salaries will be automatically deducted with the prescribed amounts for the SINDA Fund. Those who wish to contribute varying amounts or opt out of the scheme must obtain the necessary forms from SINDA and submit them to their employers. Foreign workers under the Foreign Worker Levy Scheme are exempt from contributing to the Fund.
The rates for the contribution starting from 1st January 2015, are as follows:
| ≤ $1,000 | $1.00 |
| > $1,000 to $1,500 | $3.00 |
| > $1,500 to $2,500 | $5.00 |
| > $2,500 to $4,500 | $7.00 |
| The total amount of an employee’s wages for the calendar month | Contributions payable by an employee for the calendar month |
| > $4,500 to $7,500 | $9.00 |
| > $7,500 to $10,000 | $12.00 |
| > $10,000 to $15,000 | $18.00 |
| > $15,000 | $30.00 |
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