This question crossed my mind after reading ‘I have a Dream’ by Rashmi Bansal.
‘I have a Dream’ is awe-inspiring. The author has narrated twenty social entrepreneurs stories who chose to follow their heart and made a substantial positive impact in our society.
Preview of a couple of sections.
a)Vineet Rai of Aavishkaar Social Venture Fund.
Vineet who failed getting into the Army, worked as sales rep. selling taxation books and later on worked in remote areas after completing Forest Management.
In a while Mr.Rai emerged with an idea of ‘micro-venture fund’ – sponsor business ventures between Rs.1 and Rs.20 lakh to rural entrepreneurs.
I believe, initiatives like these will bring a ray of hope to rural youth as 69% of total population stay in rural India.
Source: 2011 Census report.
b)Ms.Ishitha Khanna of Spiti Ecosphere
A back bencher in her school days and after completing her Masters, Ishitha fell in love with Nature. She started a NGO which harvested ‘orange berries’ in Spiti valley, Himachal Pradesh. Subsequently from harvesting these shrubs she got into eco-tourism as well. It’s inspiring to read that Ishitha’s venture is profitable and employs local youth.
After I read about Ishitha , I remembered Dr.Sudarshan* of BR Hills.
Just think about it – what if we had many entrepreneurs like Ishitha and Dr.Sudarshan?
Rural youth can be gainfully employed.
Author has prudently chosen 20 stories from different strata of society.
It’s pleasant surprise, that she has covered three stories in Spiritual domain as well- ISKCON and Belur Math. There are hardly few authors in India who appreciate social entrepreneurs in the Spiritual society.
May be the author’s dream has come true as her third book is also one of the ‘best selling’ in non-fiction category. Other two books are ‘Connect the Dots’ and ‘Stay Hungry Stay Foolish’
*
Relevant links which you make like to browse
http://www.aavishkaar.in/investee-portfolio/
http://www.spitiecosphere.com/index.htm
http://www.soligahoney.com/about/soliga.htm
