The SBI Foundation, the CSR arm of the State Bank Group, has announced a special drive inviting applications for the 13th batch of its flagship programme – the SBI Youth for India (YFI) Fellowship. This fully funded fellowship provides young professionals and graduates with an opportunity to contribute to rural development and social transformation at the grassroots level. Applications are open and will close on September 11, 2025. The fellowship will begin in October 2025.
SBI Youth for India Fellowship 2025 – An Overview
The SBI YFI Fellowship 2025 is a 13-month programme designed to immerse Fellows in rural India, where they collaborate with local communities and NGOs to co-create sustainable development solutions. This initiative reflects SBI Foundation’s commitment to nurturing future leaders in the development sector and building long-term impact in rural areas.
Since its inception in 2011, the fellowship has developed a strong alumni base of 640 Fellows who have positively impacted over 150,000 lives across 250+ villages in 21 states. Nearly 70% of alumni continue to work in development, governance, public policy, and academia, while more than 40 alumni have gone on to launch social enterprises, and 100+ have pursued higher education in social impact-related fields.
Eligibility Criteria for SBI YFI Fellowship Special Drive
Under this special drive, the fellowship is open to a wider pool of applicants, including:
- SBI employees
- Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs)
- Non-Resident Indians (NRIs)
- Citizens of Nepal and Bhutan
Applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Be aged between 21 and 32 years at the start of the programme on October 6, 2025.
- Be ready to engage in a 13-month immersive fellowship experience.
Selected Fellows are required to report to SWRC (Barefoot College), Tilonia, Kishangarh, Rajasthan, on October 4, 2025, to begin the Orientation Programme.
Areas of Work in the SBI YFI Fellowship 2025
The SBI YFI Fellowship engages Fellows across 12 thematic areas, including:
- Health and Education
- Rural Livelihoods
- Environmental Sustainability
- Women’s Empowerment
- Water and Sanitation
- Technology and Alternate Energy
- Self-Governance and Policy
- Traditional Crafts
- Food Security and Social Entrepreneurship
Fellows will work in partnership with 13 reputed NGOs across India, gaining hands-on experience and insights into real-world challenges faced by rural communities.
Why Apply for the SBI YFI Fellowship 2025?
The SBI Youth for India Fellowship is among the most prestigious rural development fellowships in India. Key benefits include:
- Fully funded fellowship covering living expenses, travel, and health insurance.
- Opportunity to work directly with rural communities and grassroots organizations.
- Exposure to sustainable development practices and innovative models.
- Access to a strong alumni network and career opportunities in social impact.
The SBI Youth for India Fellowship 2025 special drive offers a unique platform for passionate young individuals, professionals, and SBI employees to contribute meaningfully to rural development in India. With its strong legacy of impact and alumni engagement, the fellowship continues to inspire future leaders to create sustainable social change. Interested candidates must apply online at apply.youthforindia.org before September 11, 2025 to secure their chance to be part of this transformative journey, for more details and apply CLICK HERE
