The School for Social Entrepreneurs – India is trying to address inequalities and social exclusion by supporting social entrepreneurs from all backgrounds. The Optimist Citizen did long form, creative essay style articles on the fellows of the first two batches of School for Social Entrepreneurs – India. The stories covered a wide variety of social innovations on topics from public health in rural Rajasthan to livelihood solutions for hundreds in Kumaon.
How a renewable source of fuel made out of natural needles of Chir Pine trees is giving livelihood to hundreds in Kumaon
As one walks through pathways weaved in the hilly heartland of the remote mountain villages in Uttarakhand, there is much to behold. The towering mountains, the wind sweeping through the trees, the brisk mountain air and a picturesque serenity are striking features of this natural beauty. But, beyond this picturesque beauty, lies the quietness of …
Smile Express: A start-up which is providing mobile dental services and spreading smiles across the rural belt of Rajasthan
Dr. Mukesh Panwar always had an acute sense of service to the helpless. Studying in Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, he was an active scout and also received an award from the President. Scouting instilled this deep sense of service in him. After finishing school, he went on to pursue Dentistry in college. It was during his …
A start-up’s attempt to put tribal farmers back on top of the food chain
Rakesh Kumar Gupta had worked in the development sector for more than a decade. But, one assignment with SRIJAN in Pali district of Rajasthan changed his worldview about agriculture, farmers and farm produce. During this assignment, he came in contact the Bhil and Grasiya tribal community, who used to sell custard apple at a throwaway …
This health startup by two sisters in Chandigarh is solving health problems of the Urban Poor
It is deplorable yet true that in a “welfare” nation like India, health care costs alone push around 60 million persons into poverty every year. The Government is evidently negligent of the needs of the urban poor; public health systems and timely quality health services at an affordable cost are evasive for them. In 70% …