SBI Foundation has opened registrations for the 14th edition of its Youth for India Fellowship, a 13-month programme that places young urban professionals and graduates in rural communities to work on social development projects. The initiative aims to give participants hands-on experience in grassroots development while contributing to local communities across India.
The Fellowship is open to Indian citizens, Overseas Citizens of India, and citizens of Bhutan or Nepal, as well as employees of SBI. Applicants should be between 21 and 32 years old and willing to work closely with 15 partner NGOs operating in more than 250 villages across 22 states and union territories.
Swapan Dhar, Managing Director and CEO of SBI Foundation, highlighted the Fellowship’s emphasis on collaboration and empathy. He said the programme supports changemakers in addressing challenges in areas such as education, women’s empowerment, rural livelihoods, and environmental protection. Alumni of the Fellowship have gone on to lead social initiatives, launch ventures, and partner with organisations including NITI Aayog, UN Women, the International Labour Organization, and J-PAL.
Since its launch in 2011, the programme has engaged over 700 alumni who have collectively impacted more than 200,000 lives. Notable projects include the creation of micro-forests in Madhya Pradesh, which expanded to over 1,800 across three states, and rainwater harvesting in Rajasthan, benefiting more than 1,000 families with year-round water access.
The Fellowship covers twelve thematic areas, ranging from health and food security to self-governance and alternate energy. Participants focus on one theme during their tenure, developing leadership, problem-solving, and project management skills along the way. Around 70 per cent of alumni pursue careers in the social sector, taking up roles in rural development, governance, academia, and social entrepreneurship.
Applications for the 14th batch are now open , inviting young people to take part in a programme that combines experiential learning with meaningful community engagement.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
