What are the 9 best career options in the social development sector for youth in India? Check out the details here

The social sector in India has witnessed a remarkable transformation over the years. Today, thousands of young people are looking to make a significant contribution to social change and, in the process, contribute to nation building. According to a report titled ‘India Philanthropy Report 2024’ by strategic philanthropy foundation Dasra, written in collaboration with Bain & Co, the social sector spending in India has witnessed a solid annual growth of 13% over the last five years and stands at around 23 trillion rupees ($280 billion) in fiscal year 2023 (8.3% of GDP).

Given the evolution of the social sector over the last decade, there is a growing demand for professionals with academic preparation and industry skills. Young people in India can become the leaders of the social change we want. There are many career paths for young people to choose from – here are a few options:

• Employees of non-governmental organizations (NGOs): These professionals are at the forefront of social sector efforts. Opportunities range from program managers to field workers and project coordinators. NGO workers help solve pressing social problems by developing strategies, implementing projects, and engaging with local communities to drive positive change.
• Social entrepreneurs: Social entrepreneurs create ventures that address diverse challenges such as education, healthcare, environmental sustainability, and poverty alleviation using an innovative and sustainable business model. They combine financial profitability with social impact, driving change through entrepreneurial initiatives that combine revenue generation with social good.
• Political analysts: Policy analysts drive social progress by collaborating with think tanks, NGOs, and government agencies. They work closely with decision-makers to review and propose policies to create a more just and inclusive society. They also design strategies around implementing policies at national and regional levels.
• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Professionals: CSR professionals design, implement and supervise CSR programs in corporations and align social initiatives with broad business goals, creating a positive impact on society. Under the Companies Act, every organization must allocate a certain percentage of its profit to CSR.
• Public health workers:Health educators, community health workers, and public health analysts contribute to building healthier and more resilient communities. They do this by educating and advocating for primary health care services, thereby providing preventive measures, especially for women and children.
• Ecological activists:Environmental and conservation professionals are dedicated to protecting the environment through research, conservation strategies, and advocacy for sustainable practices. These activists strive to preserve biodiversity, combat climate change, and ensure a healthy planet for future generations through positive action on the ground.
• Rural Development Officers: Collaboration between government agencies, non-governmental organizations and the development sector Scholarship programs drive progress in rural and peri-urban areas. They design and implement development programs to improve living conditions, upgrade infrastructure and support economic growth, thereby bridging the rural-urban development gap.
• Education Specialists: Teachers, curriculum developers, and educational program coordinators play a key role in improving the quality and accessibility of education. They empower individuals and support social development through learning. They design innovative curricula, implement effective teaching methods, and ensure equal access to learning opportunities.
• Social researchers:Through empirical research and data analysis, social scientists provide evidence-based insights to inform policy and program implementation. By understanding and investigating complex social problems, they help shape effective interventions and support positive social change.

A career in the social sector requires strong skills and a passion for driving change. Several organizations, including SBI Foundation, are working to build a young workforce that can drive social change. India’s youth must consider career options beyond the corporate world and explore ways they can drive change at the grassroots level, thereby contributing to national goals.

The views are personal. The author is the president and chief operating officer of the SBI Foundation