History
Founded in 1949, the Sisters of Notre Dame began their mission in India when six sisters from the United States traveled to Jamalpur, Bihar, to serve poor and marginalized communities. Their work has since expanded into two provinces—Patna, established in 1961, and Bangalore (Bengaluru), established in 2004.
The sisters first opened a small clinic and school in Jamalpur. Their work has grown to include more than 30 mission stations and a network of schools offering instruction in English and Hindi across multiple states. The apostolic work of the sisters spans a culturally and religiously diverse nation, where only 2% of the population identifies as Christian.
Today, more than 300 Indian Sisters of Notre Dame serve across the country. Their ministries include education, healthcare and social services in underserved areas.
Apostolic Priorities
Healthcare remains a central focus. The Jamalpur clinic serves hundreds of patients daily, supported by additional centers in several states. Sisters provide care in rural areas where medical services are limited, as well as in prisons, leprosy communities and public health programs. Sisters are trained as doctors and nurses in order to minister in underserved areas where hospitals might be hours away.
Education
The sisters also operate schools from preschool through college, along with teacher training programs, special education services and adult literacy initiatives. Some Notre Dame schools have as many as 3,000 students! The sisters also conduct non-formal education programs for rural village children.
Empowerment of Women
SND social workers lead programs that support women through job skills training, self-help groups and income-generating activities. These efforts help women build financial independence and advocate for their rights.