Are you a young, driven individual looking for an opportunity to create meaningful change in rural India?

The SBI Youth for India Fellowship 2025 offers a unique platform for passionate individuals to immerse themselves in grassroots development, working directly with rural communities to address some of the country’s most pressing challenges.

This 13-month fellowship, initiated by the SBI Foundation, is one of the most prestigious rural development fellowships in India, designed to empower youth to become catalysts for social change.

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If you're from West Bengal, Assam, Andhra Pradesh, or Delhi, this is your chance to make a tangible impact while gaining unparalleled experience in the development sector.

About the Fellowship

The SBI Youth for India Fellowship is a full-time, immersive program that places selected fellows in rural areas across India to collaborate with leading NGOs and local communities. The goal is to create sustainable development models in various sectors, including education, healthcare, women’s empowerment, environmental sustainability, and rural livelihoods.

The fellowship is designed to:

  • Develop socially-conscious leaders: Fellows gain first-hand experience in rural development and problem-solving.
  • Encourage innovation: Through hands-on projects, fellows design and implement sustainable solutions to grassroots challenges.
  • Foster collaboration: Fellows work alongside experienced NGOs, government agencies, and local communities to drive real change.

Why Should You Apply?

The SBI Youth for India Fellowship is more than just a rural placement—it’s an opportunity for personal growth, skill development, and networking. Here’s what makes it special:

  1. Hands-on Experience: Work on real-world development projects in rural areas.
  2. Financial Support: Monthly stipend, travel allowance, and project funding.
  3. Guidance from Experts: Collaborate with leading NGOs and mentors.
  4. Impact-Driven Work: Contribute directly to India’s sustainable development goals.
  5. Career Growth: Opens doors to careers in the social sector, public policy, and sustainable development.

Fellowship Structure

The program is divided into three key phases:

  1. Induction & Training

    • Orientation on rural development, social challenges, and project design.
    • Interaction with experts and previous fellows for insights.
  2. Fieldwork & Project Implementation

    • Placement with a partner NGO in a rural community.
    • Project planning, execution, and monitoring in key development sectors.
  3. Sustainability & Exit Strategy

    • Ensuring continuity of the project by integrating it with community resources.
    • Documentation and knowledge transfer to local stakeholders.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the SBI Youth for India Fellowship, applicants must:

  • Be an Indian citizen, OCI (Overseas Citizen of India), or citizen of Nepal/Bhutan.
  • Be between 21-32 years old at the time of application.
  • Hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution.
  • Be willing to live and work in rural locations for 13 months.
  • Have a passion for social change and rural development.

Target Locations: West Bengal, Assam, Andhra Pradesh & Delhi

The SBI Youth for India Fellowship is open to applicants from all over India, but individuals from West Bengal, Assam, Andhra Pradesh, and Delhi are strongly encouraged to apply. These states have diverse rural challenges, and local fellows can bring regional knowledge, language skills, and cultural understanding to create deeper impact.

For instance:

  • West Bengal & Assam: Agricultural development, flood resilience, education, and healthcare initiatives.
  • Andhra Pradesh: Fisheries, rural entrepreneurship, and sustainable farming solutions.
  • Delhi: While urban, Delhi-based applicants can apply their experience and learning to transform rural communities.

Fellowship Benefits

Selected fellows receive comprehensive support, including:

  • Monthly stipend for living expenses in rural areas.
  • Travel allowance for field visits and project implementation.
  • Project funding to develop and execute community-based solutions.
  • Accommodation assistance at the project site.
  • Health insurance & accident coverage during the fellowship.
  • Certification upon successful completion of the program.

Application & Selection Process

The application process for the SBI Youth for India Fellowship 2025 consists of two stages:

  1. Online Application & Assessment

    • Submit an online application detailing your motivation and aspirations.
    • Answer a set of essay-based questions to evaluate your suitability.
  2. Personal Interview

    • Shortlisted candidates will undergo an interview with the selection panel.
    • Assessment of leadership potential, problem-solving skills, and commitment to social impact.

Important Dates

  • Application Deadline: Rolling applications (Apply early to secure a spot)
  • Interviews & Selection: Mid-2025
  • Fellowship Commencement: Late 2025

Post-Fellowship Opportunities

The SBI Youth for India Fellowship is a launchpad for careers in the social sector, sustainable development, public policy, and entrepreneurship. Many alumni have gone on to:

  • Work with renowned NGOs, UN agencies, and think tanks.
  • Pursue higher studies in development studies, public policy, and sustainability.
  • Launch their own social enterprises and grassroots initiatives.
  • Join government agencies and CSR programs.

How to Apply

If you’re passionate about making a difference in rural India, apply now for the SBI Youth for India Fellowship 2025! Visit the official website and submit your application:

Apply Here

For updates, follow the SBI Youth for India social media channels.

Conclusion

The SBI Youth for India Fellowship 2025 is your chance to step out of your comfort zone, challenge yourself, and contribute to India’s rural transformation.

Whether you're from West Bengal, Assam, Andhra Pradesh, or Delhi, your skills and dedication can bring real change to rural communities.

Join this life-changing journey and become a leader in social impact!