1. Introduction
The SBI Youth for India Fellowship (YFI) is a prestigious 13-month rural development program initiated by the SBI Foundation, the CSR arm of the State Bank of India. It connects India’s urban youth with rural India, aiming to solve social and economic challenges at the grassroots level. The fellowship empowers fellows to co-create development solutions in collaboration with local communities and NGOs.
2. Purpose and Vision
The main goals of the fellowship are:
- Engage educated youth in nation-building.
- Offer transformative exposure to India’s rural realities.
- Solve rural issues through grassroots innovation.
- Build a network of social change-makers.
3. Core Features
- Duration: 13 months
- Location: Rural India
- Financial Support: Fully funded by SBI Foundation
- Target: Young professionals and graduates aged 21–32
- Outcome: Real-world projects, community impact, leadership growth
4. Who Can Apply? (Eligibility)
- Age: 21–32 years
- Nationality: Indian Citizen or OCI (Overseas Citizen of India)
- Qualification: Graduate or higher (from any field)
- Commitment: 13 months full-time in rural areas
- Language: Fluent in English; regional language knowledge is a bonus
5. Fellowship Duration & Timeline
| Phase | Description |
|---|---|
| Month 1 | Orientation, induction, NGO matching |
| Month 2-12 | On-ground fieldwork |
| Month 13 | Final review and project handover |
Tentative start: September 2025
Completion: October 2026
6. Program Structure
- Induction Phase
– Training on rural development, project management, and communication - NGO Partnership Matching
– Based on skills, interest, and thematic areas - Field Immersion
– Live with the community, understand local issues - Project Design and Implementation
– Create or assist in social impact projects - Review and Closure
– Submit mid-term and final reports
7. Fellowship Benefits
Financial:
- Monthly stipend
- Travel allowance
- Housing/accommodation
- Medical insurance
- Reimbursement for project-related expenses
Non-Financial:
- Certificate from SBI Foundation
- Professional mentorship
- Alumni network access
- Personal and professional transformation
- Real-world rural leadership experience
8. Project Themes
Fellows work in areas such as:
- Education: Learning aids, digital classrooms, teacher training
- Health: Sanitation, awareness, preventive care
- Women Empowerment: SHGs, vocational skills, legal awareness
- Livelihoods: Agriculture, crafts, micro-entrepreneurship
- Environment: Sustainability, water conservation, afforestation
- Technology: Digital solutions for rural challenges
- Social Entrepreneurship: Low-cost innovations, business models
- Self-Governance: Panchayat strengthening, rights awareness
9. NGO Partners
The fellowship is powered by partnerships with well-known rural development organizations such as:
- BAIF
- Seva Mandir
- Gram Vikas
- Barefoot College
- CORD
- AKRSP
- MSSRF
- Dhan Foundation
- Urmul Trust
- Samaj Pragati Sahayog
- LEPRA India
Each NGO provides ground support, mentorship, and project infrastructure.
10. SBI Foundation’s Role
SBI Foundation is responsible for:
- Funding the fellowship
- Coordinating between fellows and NGOs
- Organizing orientation, reviews, and final evaluations
- Providing logistical and emergency support
11. Life of a Fellow
Living in rural India can be:
- Emotionally enriching yet physically demanding
- Deeply immersive and educational
- Full of cultural learning and real-life social work
- Isolated, but purpose-driven
- An eye-opening experience on rural resilience, poverty, and innovation
12. Application Process (Step-by-Step)
- Online Registration – Visit youthforindia.org
- Application Form – Fill out educational background, work history, and motivations
- Essay Submission – Reflective essays on rural development, values, and personal interest
- Personal Interview – Shortlisted applicants attend an online interview
- Final Selection – Receive offer letter and start onboarding
13. Documents Required
- Resume
- Degree certificate
- ID proof (Aadhar, Passport, etc.)
- Photograph
- Reference letters (optional)
- Any portfolio (for creatives or tech backgrounds)
14. Selection Process
| Stage | Description |
|---|---|
| Round 1 | Form + Resume review |
| Round 2 | Essay shortlisting |
| Round 3 | Interview by program mentors |
| Final | Offer + project matching |
Selection ratio: 1 in 250 approx.
Total intake: ~100 fellows
15. Fellowship Timeline (Tentative 2025)
| Activity | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | March 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | May 2025 |
| Shortlisting | June 2025 |
| Interviews | July 2025 |
| Final Results | August 2025 |
| Fellowship Begins | September 2025 |
16. Alumni Testimonials
“I left with a project, and returned with a purpose.” – Divya T., Education Fellow
“The program made me question urban privilege and motivated me to be a better citizen.” – Ravi Sharma, Water Conservation Fellow
17. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Do I need rural experience?
A: No, but a passion for change is essential.
Q2: Can I apply if I am an NRI or foreign graduate?
A: Only if you are an Indian citizen or OCI cardholder.
Q3: Do I get a job after this?
A: Many fellows pursue social sector careers, higher education, or policy jobs post-fellowship.
Q4: Do I choose my project location?
A: Preferences are considered, but NGO needs are prioritized.
18. Fellowship Impact
- 500+ fellows trained
- 200+ social development projects
- Projects in 18+ states
- Alumni working in UN, NITI Aayog, startups, CSR sectors
- Innovations scaled into permanent NGO initiatives
19. Challenges Faced by Fellows
- Infrastructure issues: electricity, water
- Language/cultural barriers
- Emotional fatigue
- Difficult stakeholder negotiations
- Slow bureaucratic processes
Despite challenges, the experience is rewarding and life-changing.
20. Application Tips
- Be authentic in essays
- Research rural issues and NGOs
- Reflect on personal values and motivations
- Show commitment to social good
- Include real examples from your life/work
21. Contact & Helpdesk
- Website: https://youthforindia.org
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @sbiyouthforindia
- Twitter: @youthforindia
22. Conclusion
The SBI Youth for India Fellowship 2025–26 is one of the most transformative rural leadership programs in India. It goes beyond volunteering—it cultivates empathy, leadership, and innovation. If you aspire to build a better India from the ground up and grow into a socially responsible leader, this is the program for you.
