Who are we?
ACTS was started in a small home in Koramangala, Bangalore, in 1979 by the late Dr Ken Gnanakan (1940-2021), a musician, artist, theologian, philosopher, author, teacher, educationist, and environmentalist. After completing his Ph.D in London, Dr Gnanakan returned to India to start ACTS Institute, a unique programme that took adult students through both theological and vocational training. Over the years, the work of ACTS has grown across India and is now located in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Meghalaya, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, with over 1000 people working under the umbrella of ACTS.
Formerly known as ACTS Ministries, education lies at the heart of ACTS Group of Institutions. The work also includes community development programmes, as well as floriculture, agriculture, and guitar-building social enterprises.
ACTS was started in a small home in Koramangala, Bangalore, in 1979 by Dr Ken Gnanakan (1940-2021). Over the years, the work has grown across India and is now located in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Meghalaya, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
ACTS is an acronym for Agriculture, Crafts, Trade and Studies. And our vision is stronger than ever even after three decades.

Our Vision
A community of people learning to live.
Our mission
Fulfilling our vision through integrated holistic education and environmental health action and preparing a people who will build a sustainable society.
Our values
Compassion. Commitment. Competence.
ACTS Vision is Born
Dr. Ken Gnanakan receives the vision that would lay the foundation for ACTS.
Returning with Purpose
Dr. Ken and his family return to India, committed to turning the vision into reality.
A Humble Beginning
Registered as International Needs India, the ACTS Institute officially starts in Bangalore.
Expanding the Mission
Kachhwa Christian School and ACTS Allahabad are established to broaden the impact.
A New Identity
International Needs India is renamed ACTS Ministries, reflecting a renewed focus.
Education for the Future
ACTS School (formerly ACTS Secondary School) is established, strengthening the group’s commitment to quality education.
Growing Stronger Together
ACTS Ministries becomes the ACTS Group of Institutions, uniting all initiatives under one banner.
Sowing into the Future
ACTS Farms begins operations, furthering the mission through sustainable development.
THE ACTS TIMELINE
Our Leadership
The ACTS movement is guided by committed leaders, educators, and practitioners who bring together experience, faith, and a heart for service.

Santosh Gnanakan
President & Chief Executive Officer
A dynamic leader with a heart for youth, Santosh oversees the strategic growth and development of the ACTS movement across India.

Aruldass Gnanamuthu
Chief Financial Officer
A visionary leader, serving as CFO of ACTS Group . With decades of experience in finance and institutional development, he also actively supports community upliftment.
Our Work
Want to be a part of the ACTS story?
Join us in empowering the next generation through education and compassion.