Gurgaon — The SBI Foundation recently celebrated the completion of its 12th Youth for India fellowship batch. A valedictory ceremony in Gurgaon marked the end of a year-long program for 70 young changemakers. These fellows lived in rural communities, developing sustainable local solutions to social challenges across India.
The SBI Youth for India fellowship is a year-long rural development program. It places young graduates and postgraduates in villages to work on grassroots projects. The program aims to foster community-driven solutions in collaboration with non-governmental organizations.
Fellowship Reach and Impact
Over its duration, the SBI Youth for India fellowship has reached over 200,000 lives . Its work extends across more than 250 villages in 21 states and 1 Union Territory . The program partners with 15 non-governmental organizations to implement its initiatives.
With the graduation of the 2024-25 cohort, the alumni network now includes over 700 fellows . Approximately 70% of these alumni continue to work within the social sector. Their contributions span entrepreneurship, policy development, research, and community development.
The fellowship focuses on 12 thematic areas . These areas align with 10 UN Sustainable Development Goals . Key focus areas include health, education, livelihoods, environment, and social entrepreneurship.
The 2024-25 cohort represented various academic backgrounds. Fellows included graduates and postgraduates from arts, commerce, mathematics, and engineering disciplines.
Alumni Projects Highlighted
Several alumni have demonstrated significant impact through their projects:
- Nitesh Bhardwaj (Aadiwasi Janjagruti, Maharashtra): Bhardwaj established a citizen-led media platform. This platform helps tribal communities access government schemes. His work benefited over 2,500 families. He also trained 60 tribal youth in digital communication and entrepreneurship.
- Ruchinilo Kemp (Kenono Foundation, Nagaland): Kemp leads initiatives in biodiversity conservation and eco-tourism. These projects strengthen local economies while preserving natural resources.
- Nishit Sangomla (Navikarana Trust): Sangomla focused on providing renewable energy and clean water access. His work improved livelihoods and quality of life for remote Himalayan communities.
Leadership Statement
Sanjay Prakash, CEO of SBI Foundation, commented on the fellowship’s objectives. Prakash stated the program cultivates changemakers. He added that fellows immerse in rural communities to understand challenges and co-create sustainable solutions.