The SBI Foundation, the CSR arm of the State Bank of India, successfully hosted the SBI Youth for India (YFI) Conclave 2025 in Guwahati, bringing together social entrepreneurs, development sector experts, academicians, and SBI YFI Alumni to discuss scalable solutions for rural transformation.
The Conclave was graced by Padmashri Bertha Dkhar, Executive Director, Bethany Society, Shillong. Sanjay Prakash, MD & CEO, SBI Foundation, Jagannath Sahoo, President & COO, SBI Foundation and other distinguished dignitaries who shared valuable insights on youth-driven social innovation and rural development.
Over the years, motivated Fellows of SBI YFI have initiated transformative projects across thematic areas like education, alternate energy, women’s empowerment, traditional craft, environmental sustainability, rural livelihood, water, health, etc. This year’s YFI Conclave saw deliberations and impact stories of many such youth-led projects and enterprises that are driving impact at the grassroots.
A key highlight of the event was SBI YFI Sahyog – The Pitch Fest, where ten social enterprises presented their impact-driven ideas, competing for seed funding and mentorship. In a power-packed Shark Tank-like round, the winners of this year’s Pitch Fest were chosen by a panel of jury that included Anupam Joshi and Swapnil Sinha and will receive funding along with strategic mentorship from SBI Foundation and industry leaders.
In the last 4 years, SBI YFI Sahyog has supported 24 social ventures with a total funding of ₹1.06 crore, enabling them to scale and sustain their initiatives. The details of the winners this year are:
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Speaking at the event, Sanjay Prakash, Managing Director & CEO, SBI Foundation, emphasized the need for young changemakers to lead India’s rural development efforts. He said, “For over 14 years, the SBI Youth for India Fellowship has been a catalyst for social change, empowering 640 dedicated individuals to co-create sustainable solutions at the grassroots. Through our focus on key thematic areas, including education, healthcare, women empowerment, and rural livelihoods, our Fellows have made a lasting impact across 21 States, and Union Territories, transforming the lives of over 1,50,000 people.
This journey is a testament to the power of collective action and innovation in addressing critical social challenges. By fostering a network of socially conscious leaders, we are not only driving immediate change but also building a strong foundation for long-term rural development. As we look ahead, SBI Foundation remains committed to expanding this impact, supporting social entrepreneurs, and strengthening community-driven initiatives. Our goal is to continue bridging gaps, empowering communities, and enabling sustainable progress through collaboration and innovation.”
For more details about SBI Youth for India Fellowship and applications for the 13th Batch, visit www.youthforindia.org/register.
About SBI Youth for India
Launched in 2011 by SBI Foundation, the SBI Youth for India Fellowship is a 13-month programme offering talented young professionals the opportunity to work with rural communities and implement sustainable development projects. Over the last decade, the programme has empowered 640 Fellows, impacting 250+ villages across 21 States.
