Soon after, the need to launch a full-fledged awareness building Campaign for Human Rights became clear, and this was followed, soon afterward, by the realization that victim rehabilitation was also essential.
Building on a mandate to monitor violations the growth and development of a broad range of individuals People's Watch initiated in committed to, knowledgeable and skilled in human rights work, 1997–98, the first Human Rights Education program in nine Tamil Nadu schools in 9th standard.
By 2002–2005, standards 6-9th were involved in human rights education in nearly 800 schools, and teachers and students alike were reporting extraordinary classroom interest and enthusiasm.
By 2004, when the Strategic Planning process began, People's Watch had developed into a highly respected, effective NGO, making connections, facilitating programs and spreading both a heightened awareness and an imperative to be an agent for change.
People's Watch is a member organization of the Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA).