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Health

Growing Importance of Technology in Healthcare Interventions

Growing Importance of Technology in Healthcare Interventions
A smile on wheels mobile medical unit reaching the elderly population of remote areas of India

The integration of technology into healthcare has rapidly transformed the way medical services are delivered and accessed, making healthcare more efficient, personalised and accessible. As healthcare costs continue to rise and disparities in access persist, technology offers innovative solutions to address these challenges. From the proliferation of telemedicine and mobile health apps to the use of artificial intelligence, technology is redefining healthcare. 

In countries like India, where health equity remains a significant concern, especially in rural areas, the role of technology is becoming increasingly critical. By leveraging modern technologies, healthcare can reach underserved populations, providing them with the tools and information necessary to manage their health effectively. 

The Importance of Technology in Healthcare

Enhancing Access to Healthcare

One of the most impactful contributions of technology to healthcare is improving access to medical services, especially in remote and underserved regions. Telemedicine has transformed healthcare delivery by enabling patients to consult with providers from their homes, which is particularly advantageous for those in rural areas where healthcare facilities are often scarce. This approach reduces the need for travel, ensures timely consultations and is vital for early diagnosis and treatment. 

In India, where a significant portion of the population lives in rural areas, telemedicine can close the healthcare gap. Mobile health units with telemedicine capabilities can reach these remote regions, providing essential services and optimising healthcare resources through remote patient monitoring.

Empowering Patients Through Digital Health Tools

Digital health tools, such as mobile apps and wearable devices, have significantly empowered patients to manage their health. These tools enable individuals to monitor conditions, track symptoms and access health information conveniently. For instance, mobile apps can provide medication reminders, schedule appointments and offer educational resources, simplifying chronic condition management. 

Additionally, mhealth tools enhance communication between patients and healthcare providers by enabling real-time data sharing. This allows healthcare providers to monitor patient progress more closely, resulting in more personalised and effective treatment plans. Continuous monitoring and timely interventions, made possible by these tools, are beneficial for improving outcomes in chronic disease management.

Data-Driven Healthcare

The integration of data analysis technologies, such as big data analytics and artificial intelligence (AI), is revolutionising healthcare by offering critical insights into disease patterns, patient behaviors and treatment outcomes. These tools empower healthcare providers to make more informed decisions, enhancing care quality and minimising medical errors. 

AI can process vast datasets to uncover patterns invisible to human analysts, aiding in predicting disease outbreaks, optimising treatments, and identifying high-risk patients. Big data analytics is also vital in public health, guiding targeted interventions and policy-making. In India, where healthcare resources are often stretched, data-driven technologies can improve efficiency and equity, leading to better health outcomes.

Addressing Health Equity Through Technology

Reaching Underserved Populations

India’s population of 1.4 billion, faces health equity challenges, especially in rural areas with limited access to public health systems. Modern technologies, such as the internet and mobile phones, are being leveraged to bridge this gap by delivering essential health information. The widespread use of these technologies, including SMS reminders, mass media, and mhealth platforms, enhances communication and extends healthcare reach. According to the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India, as of March 2023, there were approximately 1.034 billion active wireless subscriptions, highlighting the potential of mobile technologies to improve health outcomes for underserved populations.

Digital health hubs can be established in rural and remote areas to provide access to telemedicine, health education and digital health records. These hubs can also serve as points for data collection, contributing to better public health surveillance and more informed decision-making. Additionally, community health workers equipped with digital tools can extend the reach of healthcare services.

Current Landscape in Healthcare In India

In India, technology is transforming public healthcare with significant advancements. The National Digital Health Mission (NDHM), launched on August 15, 2020, aimed to create a unified health infrastructure and connect practitioners and patients digitally. This initiative also endeavored to create a Health ID for every Indian, allowing the integration of digital health records and facilitating seamless healthcare delivery. The adoption of eHealth systems in hospitals like health management information systems is also on the rise. 

Mobile health apps and telemedicine platforms like eSanjeevani are improving access to care, especially in rural areas, where almost 70% of India’s population resides. The government continues to invest in healthcare technology to improve service delivery and address public health needs more effectively

Smile Foundation’s Tech-Driven Approach to Transform Healthcare

Through initiatives like the Smile on Wheels mobile health units, Smile Foundation brings essential medical services directly to disadvantaged communities. In collaboration with CSR partners, the foundation has also launched mobile dental units that deliver diagnostic and curative dental health services in underserved and hard-to-reach areas. 

The foundation introduced ReMeDi, a telemedicine system for remote consultations and real-time diagnostic tests, and Health Cube, a portable AI-powered diagnostic device providing quick results for over 30 tests to enhance healthcare access and efficiency for disadvantaged communities, enabling timely medical assessments and care without physical appointments.

Additionally, Smile Foundation provides teleconsultation services in Bengaluru, Chennai and Hyderabad to connect patients with specialist doctors, reducing the need for travel. With an aim to strengthen government healthcare facilities, the foundation has also worked towards upgrading the infrastructure at various Primary Healthcare Centres with new technologically advanced equipment.

The Bottom Line: Importance of Technology in Healthcare Interventions

The growing importance of technology in healthcare interventions cannot be overstated. While technology offers numerous benefits, its adoption in healthcare is not without challenges. Barriers such as lack of digital literacy, limited internet connectivity and concerns about data privacy can hinder the effective use of digital health tools, particularly in rural and resource-poor settings. 

To overcome these challenges, investing in digital literacy programmes, expanding internet connectivity and ensuring affordable digital devices are crucial. Addressing data privacy and security concerns is also essential to building trust in digital health tools.  By prioritising investments in technology and ensuring the accessibility of these tools, we can create a more equitable and effective healthcare system that benefits everyone.

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Smile CSR

Understanding Section 198 of Companies Act 2013

Understanding Section 198 of Companies Act 2013
Understanding Section 198 of Companies Act 2013

The Companies Act 2013 exists for the regulation of corporate landscape in India. It is like a compass that guides the companies throughout the process of setting up, governance and dissolution. It is an act that outlines everything that a company needs to follow to legally operate in India. So, if you are running a company that comes under the purview of Companies Act 2013, then understanding the nitty-gritty of this Act is crucial for you.

But, if you are not someone who runs a company, then why should you care about it? This is where the Section 198 of the Act comes into picture. This section is not just about corporate affairs, but it also impacts the NGO funding landscape in India, in turn impacting the millions of people who benefit from the activities of various non-governmental organisations. Therefore, understanding the section 198 of Companies Act 2013 is essential for you, dear readers.

Companies Act 2013: A Basic Understanding

Before we begin talking about Section 198 of the Act, let us quickly look at what this Act encompasses. It came into effect on September 12, 2013, replacing the old Companies Act, 1956. The new Act was brought into place because of the changing corporate landscape in the country and globally, and the need for relevant legislation.

Why Section 198 Matters?

Now, the Companies Act 2013 talks focuses on a variety of aspects related to functioning of a corporation. However, in this article, we will focus on section 198 because of its significance for companies, NGOs, and common people. First of all, section 198 is extremely important for the companies because it tells the leadership and the stakeholders to “know their net profits.” It shapes dividend decisions, expansion plans and financial strategies of the companies.

At the same time, this section also highlights the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) of these companies. The 2 per cent of net profits that a company makes fuel its CSR initiatives. This is where the NGOs come in because a big chuck of this CSR amount is routed to reliable NGOs as partners to these companies. Through their partner NGOs, the companies ensure that their money goes for a greater purpose of helping the people and society. Therefore, section 198 ensures that many NGOs that are doing good work do not run out of funds and continue to contribute to the society.

Additionally, section 198 also ensures accountability for these CSR activities that the companies undertake because it ensures that they report results of these activities. Lastly, there is a indirect impact on the people of this section as some consumers may make their buying decisions based on what kind of CSR activities a company is undertaking. The social impact of this can also not be ignored as it can be translated into better schools, safer environment and much more.

Understanding Section 198 of Companies Act 2013

Now that we have a basic understanding of what section 198 is and how it impacts companies, NGOs and people; let us take a deeper look at what it consists of. To begin, we can say that section 198 is not just a set of rules but a guide that points the companies towards a responsible citizenship.

Imagine a boardroom with senior leadership of a company huddled together and discussing something important. What is the agenda of this meeting? To compute their net profits and decide the future trajectory of the company based on that. The first thing that is you need to remember from is PAT or Profit After Tax. This is what serves as the foundation of net profit calculations of a company.

Once you calculate PAT, section 198 instructs the companies to deduct certain items like:

  1. Premium profits – gains from shares or debentures.
  2. Forfeited shares.
  3. Undertakings and immovable property – when a company sells an entire business unit or a piece of land, those profits (of capital nature) step out of the spotlight.
  4. Unrealised gains.

Apart from these, there are some highlighted non-permissible deductions in the section which are added back to the calculation. These are voluntary compensation, losses of capital nature, etc. After all the calculations are done, a three-year average profit is calculated. It is the 2% of this amount that becomes the CSR corpus of an organisation. It is the company’s pledge to the society. The calculations are complex and it has been presented here in a simplified manner. To understand them better, you can visit the official website of Ministry of Corporate Affairs.

Why Companies Must Grasp Section 198?

While we have talked about its impact on NGOs and public too, the biggest impact of section 198 is on the companies. This is why they must grasp every aspect of it carefully. This is because of the various reasons:

  1. Legal compliance and accountability – companies must understand Section 198 to comply with the law. It’s not a mere checkbox; it’s a legal mandate. Non-compliance can lead to penalties, reputational damage and shareholder discontent.
  2. Strategic decision-making – from dividend distribution to expansion plans, companies rely on accurate net profit figures. Section 198 shapes these decisions.
  3. Beyond profit margins – the 2% CSR corpus is extremely important for the companies because they have the mandate to report their CSR activities annually. Therefore, companies must try to either implement projects that bear results or partner with NGOs that provide good results. Section 198 ensures this transparency for public and shareholders of the company. It is because of this that the companies regularly monitor and evaluate the impact of their CSR projects, which further translates into meaningful work on the grassroots.

Looking beyond profits

So, next time we look at the profit figures of a company, we must see it from the lens of Section 198 of Companies Act 2013 as well. The profit that companies make is not just a number, but also a promise for the society as a 2% share of that profit has to go to CSR activities. The public can ask important questions like what work is a company doing under its CSR initiative and what impact it is creating. This can help in ensuring accountability.

Categories
Smile Health

Nipping the problem of stunted growth in children

Nipping the problem of stunted growth in children
Nipping the problem of stunted growth in children

Stunting, a severe form of chronic malnutrition, is a public health crisis that affects millions of children worldwide. Defined by low height-for-age, stunting is not just a measure of a child’s physical growth; it is a reflection of their overall development. The condition is associated with impaired cognitive, neurological and psychosocial development, which can have lifelong consequences for individuals and societies alike. 

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Target 2.2 aims to “end all forms of malnutrition” by 2030. While there is progress, the issue remains prevalent, particularly in lower-middle-income countries. India, home to 24.2% of the world’s stunted children, faces an enormous challenge in tackling this issue. Addressing stunting in India is crucial for global efforts to combat malnutrition. 

Understanding Stunting and Its Determinants

Stunting is a result of chronic malnutrition, often beginning in utero and continuing into early childhood. It is caused by long-term insufficient nutrient intake, frequent infections and inadequate healthcare. The condition is closely linked to a range of socio-economic factors, including poverty, food insecurity, poor maternal nutrition and limited access to healthcare services. In India, stunting is more prevalent among children born to families with low household wealth, those residing in rural areas, and those born to mothers with low levels of education.

Research has shown that children residing in hilly and mountainous regions are particularly vulnerable to stunting, with the risk increasing with altitude. This is due to reduced appetite, limited oxygen and nutrient absorption, and food insecurity in these areas due to lower crop yields and harsher climates. Furthermore, stunting is more common among children born as a third or later child, and those with a small size at birth, reflecting the cumulative impact of maternal and household factors on child health.

The Current Situation: Global and Indian Context

Globally, significant progress is there in reducing stunting. Between 2000 and 2022, the prevalence of stunting decreased by 10.7%. However, socio-economic inequalities within and between countries remain a significant challenge. The majority of the world’s stunted children live in Sub-Saharan Africa (38.3%) and Central and Southern Asia (36.6%). India, with the largest population of children under five years, bears a significant burden, accounting for nearly one-quarter of the world’s stunted children.

In India, the prevalence of stunting varies widely across different states and socio-economic groups. According to the Rapid Survey on Children (2014), an estimated 44 million children in India are stunted.  Additionally, the impact of a child’s sex on stunting has shifted from a female disadvantage in the early 1990s to a male disadvantage in recent years. Despite substantial economic growth and improvements in educational attainment, stunting remains a persistent problem in the country.

National and Global Interventions

India has implemented several national programs to address stunting and improve child nutrition. The Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Scheme is one of the largest and most comprehensive programmes, providing supplemental nutrition, health check-ups, immunisation and basic education to over 90.6 million women and children. The National Nutrition Mission, relaunched in 2018, aims to reduce the prevalence of stunting by 2 percentage points per annum. These programmes, along with efforts under the National Health Mission (NHM), have contributed to improvements in coverage of health and nutrition interventions across the country.

At the global level, the World Health Assembly has set a target to reduce the number of stunted children by 40% by 2025. Achieving this goal requires accelerated efforts in countries like India, where the burden of stunting is highest. International organisations, including UNICEF and the World Health Organization (WHO), are working closely with national governments to implement evidence-based interventions, promote maternal and child health, and address the underlying determinants of stunting.

What does Smile Foundation Do?

Smile Foundation tackles the issue of stunted growth in children through its comprehensive Nutrition Enhancement programme, developed in collaboration with one of its most socially-inclined CSR partners. This initiative focuses on equipping and empowering pregnant women, lactating mothers and mothers of children up to 6 years old with essential knowledge about health, hygiene, safe institutional delivery and nutrition. By providing accurate and practical information, the programme ensures that mothers are better prepared to care for their children’s health and development. 

Additionally, Smile Foundation collaborated with KFC’s Add Hope initiative, which aimed to end hunger, by supporting a nutritious meal program for 2,500 underserved children. Complementing these efforts, Smile’s mobile medical units provide regular healthcare visits, ensuring continuous access to essential services, further contributing to the well-being of mothers and children.

The Future Prospect: A Collaborative Effort

Despite the progress made, significant gaps remain in the fight against stunting. One of the critical challenges is ensuring that interventions reach the most vulnerable populations, particularly those in remote and rural areas. A collaborative effort from all sectors of society, including government, nonprofits, healthcare providers and communities is essential to make a difference.

Achieving the global target of reducing stunting will depend on sustained political commitment, adequate funding and the effective implementation of evidence-based interventions. By focusing on improving maternal and child nutrition, addressing disparity in healthcare and promoting awareness, India can make significant strides in reducing the prevalence of stunting and improving the health and well-being of its children.

No more stunted growth in children

Stunting is a complex issue that reflects the broader socio-economic challenges faced by communities worldwide. While there is progress in reducing stunting, particularly in countries like India, much work remains. Addressing stunting requires a multi-faceted approach that includes improving nutrition, enhancing food security, increasing access to healthcare and raising awareness about the importance of early childhood development.

As we move towards the 2030 deadline for the SDGs, we must intensify our efforts to ensure that every child has the opportunity to grow and thrive. By working together, we can make significant progress in nipping the problem of stunted growth in children and creating a healthier, more prosperous future for all.

Categories
Livelihood Skill Development Smile

The Trials and Triumphs of Young India

Early Age Marriage: A means to have control over women
Early Age Marriage: A means to have control over women

Magdalene Jeyarathnam, founder-director East West Centre for Counselling, is often roped in by colleges to conduct courses in expressive arts therapy or psychodrama. “As per UGC guidelines it is now mandatory for undergraduate and postgraduate students to have skill certification. The certificate courses I conduct are part of it, and I get students from various disciplines,” she says.

India’s burgeoning youth population

There is an expectation that India’s youth population will reach 420 million in 2024, according to the People Research on India’s Consumer Economy (PRICE) survey. This makes up 29% of the total population. By 2047, India will also have 1.1 billion people in the working age group (15-64).

The country’s youth can be an integral part of India’s economic growth. However, they need the access to the right skill sets and training to realise their full potential.

Ground realities

At present, the scenario is rather bleak. According to the India Skills Report 2020, the youth employment rate has remained stagnant for the past three years. According to UNICEF and the Education Commission, more than 50% of Indian youth do not have the education and skills necessary for employment by 2030. 

“The educational curriculum has become redundant over the years. It doesn’t look at the needs of the country and is not geared to help students enter the job market,” says Magdalene. “The curriculum is based on what was taught in the past, and changes are made keeping the next few years, and not the long-term picture, in mind.”

In 2023, the University Grants Commission approved draft guidelines for the ‘Introduction of Short-Term Skill Development Courses in Higher Educational Institutes’, paving the way for introduction of credit-based courses of three to six months duration. 

Unemployability on the rise

The India Skills Report 2021 states that nearly half of India’s graduates are unemployable. Open unemployment was barely 2.1% in 2012. It nearly tripled to 6.1% in 2018.

Youth unemployment rates also soared — for those with middle school (class 8) education, it rose from 4.5% to 13.7%; with secondary education (class 10) from 5.9% to 14.4%; and with higher secondary (class 12) education from 10.8% to 23.8%. 

As far as graduates are concerned, the unemployment rate rose from 19.2% to 35.8% in 2022-23. For postgraduates, it rose from 21.3% to 36.2% in the same timeframe.

Government initiatives for India’s youth population

The Indian government has come up with programmes to skill the youth. For instance, the Suryamitra Skill Development Programme to develop the skills of youth, considering the opportunities for employment in the growing Solar Energy Power Project’s installation, operation & maintenance in India and abroad.

Other programmes include the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, the flagship scheme of the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, which aims to enable a large number of Indian youth to take up industry-relevant skill training that will help them in securing a better livelihood. 

The Skill India Mission was also launched in 2015 to create and implement comprehensive skill development training programmes that would help bridge the gap between industry demands and skill requirements and therefore, develop the country at large.

“We visit top media schools in the country for campus recruitments. While the candidates are chosen based on a test and interview, once they begin working, we find that they do not have the practical skill sets or aptitude to handle the daily demands and pressures of the industry,” says Aarti Sivakumar, former HR professional with a media company. “Universities and colleges need to not just focus on academic components but also the industry needs and prepare students for the job markets.”

Initiatives taken by the private sector

The need to bridge the gap between the demands of the industry and skill requirements is vast so civil institutions, and NGOs also need to join the drive. And a few have begun addressing the issue. 

Schaeffler India and Don Bosco Training Centre launched a skilling initiative to train the youth in the maintenance of electric vehicles (EVs) recognising the future relevance of EVs. 

Need to address gender disparity

Gender disparities in vocational training affect women’s access to and participation in skill development opportunities. 

A survey conducted in 2023-24 by the Digital Platforms and Women’s Economic Empowerment (DP-WEE) Project housed at IFMR-LEAD and the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI Delhi) throws light on the issue of women’s skilling and employment.

According to it, three in five women surveyed in urban Delhi and Bengaluru said they do not have the skills required to get a well-paying, steady job. Also, 57% said they do not have adequate skills necessary for job interviews, and half of all the women surveyed said they do not know how to prepare a resume. The survey included 1,560 women in the age group of 18 to 35.

In 2023, India ranked 127th of 146 countries in the Global Gender Gap Index. The country ranked 142 on women’s economic participation and opportunities. 

According to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2022-23, India’s female labour force participation rate is 37.0%), more than 40 percentage points lower than men’s (78.5.).

The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has undertaken several initiatives to increase women’s participation in skill development. There are about 15,000 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) in India providing various skilling programmes, of which 30% reservation is for women. Another 33 National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs) are there, exclusively catering to vocational training for women. The Deen Dayal Upadhyaya-Grameen Kaushalaya Yojana (DDU-GKY), a placement-linked skill development programme for rural youth, also reserves 33% of its seats for women.

Rising to the occasion for India’s youth population

Organisations like ours have been working to skill the youth. The skill training and livelihood programme of Smile Foundation named STeP closely aligns with the ‘Skill India’ initiative of the Government of India. We aim to empower individuals with relevant and in-demand skills through specialised training courses.

This will help them adapt to the changing job market and secure meaningful employment opportunities. The focus of their programmes is on comprehensive training, skill development and placement. Through tailored counselling sessions, engagement programmes and hands-on experience, the Foundation provides young trainees with the tools and guidance needed to unlock their potential, creating a nurturing environment where they can explore their capabilities and cultivate their talents.

Categories
Smile CSR Health Women Empowerment

Healthcare CSR Partnerships For Tribal Women

Sensitising parents and communities for better education outputs
Sensitising parents and communities for better education outputs

Did you know that even in today’s day and age, several countries still do not recognise their indigenous or tribal communities as part of their constitution? For example, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, the indigenous community of Australia are not recognised in the Australian constitution, which often puts them in a very uneasy situation when it comes to receiving fundamental protection and rights from the state. So is this a matter of concern? How does constitutional recognition help in the upliftment of a particular community? And even after 78 years of Independence and constitutional recognition what does the status of Indian tribal communities especially when it comes to healthcare for tribal communities, particularly tribal women in India look like?

Tribals & Healthcare in India

India’s constitution recognises tribal communities as citizens of the nation under Article 342, thereby, providing them with all the benefits and protection necessary for them to be able to live a dignified life. Articles like 15, 46, 330, 335 and 338 A have been specially tailored to protect the educational, health, economic and political interests of the tribal communities so that this minority community can develop themselves without hindrances of any form of discrimination.

Being over 104 million in number, Indian tribal communities are large in number and versatile in culture and therefore, it gets even more pertinent to understand how tribal women who already hail from a weaker section of the society and who often do not get the chance to come into the limelight, how are they getting access to their healthcare services?

There is no doubt that Indian healthcare structures have reached the remotest corners of the country and state initiatives for healthcare, especially for the underserved and tribal communities of India have been helping many of them with access to healthcare. 

But the real question is- Are the underserved and tribal communities of India receiving free and quality healthcare?

Challenges faced by Indian Tribal Women

In a civic society, healthcare is necessary, but having access to quality healthcare is a fundamental right for every human being to live a healthy and dignified life. As India strives to carve its healthcare structure with preventive care, it is important to explore the availability of quality healthcare for tribal women and the challenges that are becoming obstacles for tribal women to receive quality healthcare.

Tribal communities in India, especially women, face numerous challenges in accessing quality healthcare. These obstacles are deeply rooted in geographical, socio-economic, cultural, educational and systemic issues.

One major challenge is geographical barriers. Many tribal communities live in remote, hard-to-reach areas, making it difficult to access healthcare facilities. Additionally, inadequate infrastructure, such as poor roads and limited transportation options, exacerbates these challenges, further obstructing access to essential health services.

Socio-economic factors also play a significant role. High levels of poverty restrict the ability tribal families to afford healthcare services or travel to distant health centers. The lack of financial resources impacts the availability of essential health services, medications and preventive care, compounding the difficulties faced by these communities.

What about societal attitudes?

Cultural and social barriers further complicate the situation. Traditional beliefs often lead to resistance to modern medical interventions, as deep-rooted cultural practices influence health-seeking behaviors. Additionally, gender inequality means that tribal women frequently face discrimination, affecting their access to healthcare services and their involvement in decision-making processes related to their health.

Education and awareness are also critical issues. Low health literacy within tribal communities contributes to poor health outcomes, as limited awareness and education about health issues and available services hinder individuals from seeking appropriate care. Furthermore, the limited information about healthcare rights and available services prevents tribal women from accessing necessary medical help.

Lastly, challenges in the healthcare system pose significant barriers. Healthcare facilities in tribal areas often suffer from inadequate equipment, a lack of trained personnel and insufficient basic amenities. The shortage of medical professionals willing to work in remote regions further diminishes the quality of care, leaving tribal communities with limited and substandard healthcare options.

Addressing these multifaceted challenges requires comprehensive and targeted interventions to improve healthcare access for tribal women, ensuring they receive the quality care they need and deserve.

Healthcare CSR Partnerships for Tribal Women

Preventive healthcare is a crucial aspect of overall health that demands substantial focus and investment from all sectors of society. Recognised as a national health priority, it is also designated as a key area under Schedule VII of CSR Section 135 of the Companies Act. 

As the Indian Government has initiated several healthcare initiatives for women, it is pertinent for other social stakeholders to channel their resources and strategies towards implementing these initiatives through their Healthcare CSR Partnerships with social development organisations so that the benefits of these initiatives can reach at the doors of the unreachable. 

By tailoring Healthcare CSR Partnerships towards improving tribal women’s nutrition, reproductive healthcare, menstrual hygiene and hygienic sanitation practices Corporates can actually facilitate preventive healthcare at the ground level. These initiatives will not only help these women to be healthy physically, but they will also open avenues for young tribal girls to grow up in a healthy environment where they can continue their schooling and not drop out because of menstrual cycle problems like staining or the unavailability of proper washrooms. 

Moreover, partnerships with social development organisations like ours can evolve CSR activities into enduring initiatives that significantly enhance the sustainability of underserved communities.

What is our intervention to support the tribal women?

Smile Foundation recognises that women are the cornerstone of communities. Their nurturing and guidance are essential to the fabric of community life. Therefore, our Swabhiman programme goes beyond conventional measures to ensure that underserved and tribal women receive the preventive quality healthcare they deserve, overcoming socio-economic barriers to their development.

Swabhiman focuses primarily on reproductive health and menstrual hygiene, providing comprehensive ante-natal and postnatal care to support both mothers and their children throughout pregnancy and after delivery, thereby securing their future. Additionally, Swabhiman experts conduct regular counseling sessions and workshops with young tribal girls, promoting proper nutrition and menstrual hygiene practices while addressing and alleviating any barriers that might impede their educational progress due to menstruation.

With interventions like Swabhiman, Smile Foundation shall continue to give women including tribal women the opportunity to live a life they deserve, the life and status they have been recognised by the constitution of India- a life of dignity, safety and equality of being independent and healthy for themselves and their families. 

Collaborate with us for healthcare CSR partnerships and let’s make a world for underserved women of India, where they are not underserved or tribal women, but just healthy women of India who are capable enough to shape their destinies for a brighter future for themselves and their community.

Categories
Smile

Integrating Climate Change Sensibilities into NGO Initiatives

COP29: Climate Action and what's stake for South Asia?
Integrating Climate Change Sensibilities into NGO Initiatives

In India, where diverse ecosystems and communities face unique climate challenges, integrating climate change sensibilities into NGO programmes is both a strategic choice and a necessity. Climate change is an immediate reality that affects every aspect of life—from agriculture and water resources to health and livelihoods. NGOs, which are at the forefront of addressing social and environmental issues, must weave climate considerations into their programs to enhance effectiveness and sustainability.

The Urgent Need for Integration

Climate change impacts are increasingly evident across India. Rising temperatures, erratic monsoons and extreme weather events such as floods and droughts are becoming more frequent. According to many reports, extreme weather events have intensified, with the frequency of heatwaves and heavy rainfall increasing. These changes exacerbate existing problems like food insecurity, health crises and displacement, making it crucial for nonprofits to integrate climate change sensibilities into their work.

For example, organisations like the Development Alternatives have incorporated climate resilience into their sustainable development projects. They work on water resource management and agricultural practices that adapt to changing climatic conditions, thereby ensuring the long-term success of their initiatives. Similarly, Goonj integrates climate awareness into their community-based programmes, addressing how climate change impacts the underserved and finding ways to mitigate these effects through their work.

Challenges and Solutions

Integrating climate change into NGO initiatives presents several challenges. First, there is often a lack of technical expertise and resources within them to address climate issues effectively. Additionally, many NGOs operate with limited funding and may prioritise immediate humanitarian needs over long-term climate resilience. However, the integration of climate change sensibilities can lead to more holistic and impactful solutions.

One effective strategy is to conduct climate risk assessments as part of program planning. This involves understanding how climate change could impact the communities and sectors nonprofits work with, and then designing interventions that address these risks. For instance, NGOs focusing on agricultural development can incorporate climate-smart practices such as drought-resistant crops and water-saving irrigation techniques.

Policy and Funding Opportunities

Government policies and funding opportunities can support NGOs in this integration process. The Indian government’s National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) outlines various missions such as the National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture, which nonprofits can align their projects with to access resources and support. Additionally, grants and funding from international organisations and climate-focused funds can provide the necessary financial backing for NGOs to implement climate-sensitive interventions.

Real-World Impact

Integrating climate change sensibilities can significantly enhance the impact of NGO programmes. For example, The Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) has worked on projects that not only address pollution and waste management but also incorporate climate resilience strategies. By focusing on reducing carbon footprints and enhancing environmental sustainability, CSE’s initiatives help communities adapt to climate change while improving their overall quality of life.

Visualising the Future

To effectively communicate the importance of this integration, NGOs can use visual tools such as infographics and charts. An infographic showing the correlation between climate change impacts and nonprofit programme outcomes can illustrate the benefits of climate-smart interventions. Additionally, photographs depicting the effects of extreme weather events on communities can help highlight the urgency of integrating climate considerations.

As climate change continues to reshape our world, NGOs in India must step up and embed climate sensibilities into every programme and initiative. This integration is about adapting to change and proactively shaping a resilient future. y

NGOs should assess their current programmes like Smile Foundation do, identify climate-related risks and incorporate strategies that enhance both their immediate impact and long-term sustainability. By doing so, they will not only improve their effectiveness but also contribute to a broader movement towards climate resilience and sustainable development.

Integrating climate change considerations into NGO programmes is essential for addressing the challenges of our time. With strategic planning, collaboration and a commitment to long-term impact, we can lead the way in creating a more sustainable and resilient India.

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Smile

What all contributes to human capital development?

What all contributes to human capital development?
What all contributes to human capital development?

Have you ever wondered what is more important to an individual, company, or even country for its economic growth? It is definitely not just the financial capital. According to experts, it is the human capital that pushes every company and country forward. The potential of an organization is often determined based on its people from the top down. That’s why almost all the organisations invest a huge sum and build a separate team to monitor and upskill their human resources.

Understanding human capital

Human capital, in broader terms, refers to the economic value of an individual’s skills and experience. It includes assets like education, intelligence, training, skills, health and other important values like meeting deadlines, punctuality and loyalty, among others. We believe it to be an intangible asset capable of increasing productivity and profitability of businesses. But not all the labour is equal. That’s why it becomes important for a company to invest in employees to improve their quality.

The more investment a business makes in its employees, the chances of increasing its productivity and success become higher. Human capital has a strong association with the economic growth of a country. It directly helps in boosting the country’s economy. Not just that, human capital development is a multifaceted concept that is also crucial for an individual’s own progress. It helps in fostering economic growth, increasing individual opportunities and promoting social benefits.

World Bank’s Human Capital Project

Aiming to assist countries to invest effectively in their human resources through a comprehensive approach, the World Bank officially launched the human capital project in 2018. India was part of the project ever since the launch. In addition, 85 countries have signed up for the project to work on strategic approaches to transform the outcomes of their human capital. As a part of the programme, countries regularly connect to exchange knowledge and feedback.

Believing it to be the centre of their strategy for global development, the World Bank says, “Protecting and investing in people is one of three main ways we are working to reach our goals of ending extreme poverty by 2030 and boosting shared prosperity in all countries. It is closely integrated with our efforts to promote sustainable, inclusive growth and build resilience across developing countries.”

About 60% of children born today will only be half as productive as they can be with complete education and full health, as per the World Bank Group’s Human Capital Index (HCI), published in 2018 and updated in 2020. The number reflects a serious human capital crisis and emphasises the dire need for human capital development.

Factors contributing to human capital development

Human capital development refers to the enhancement of an individual’s skills, abilities and other values to make them more productive and valuable in the existing workforce. Since it is crucial for the growth of individuals, businesses and the country as a whole, it is important to take it seriously.

Understanding the components of human capital development would help individuals, organisations and governments optimise their investment for better growth. It in turn will help them to widen the economy and provide innovative and sustainable contributions to society. Some of the key factors contributing to human capital development are below.

Education

Education’s pivotal role in the advancement and progress of a society makes it an influencing factor in the human capital development. With the help of both formal and vocational education, an individual will acquire knowledge that is required not just to survive but also to grow and help speed up the economic growth.

Acquiring, improving and honing specific abilities have become essential in recent times. Fundamental skills like reading, writing, and mathematics lay a strong foundation for further upskilling. Gaining specialised knowledge and expertise in a particular sector will help an individual shine better in their profession. Acquired skills need to be upskilled constantly because of the evolving technological advancements. Not just that, human capital and scientific reforms go hand in hand as it provides a productive and sensitive perspective.

Health and well-being

The physical and mental health of people is directly proportional to the formation of human capital. According to the National Library of Medicine, poor health in childhood will suppress human capital development. This is mainly because much of an individual’s physiological and cognitive development takes place before they turn five years. Not just that, early-life health will also affect the productivity of an individual in adulthood because of poor intake of nutrition.

Economic theories also suggest that human capital investments should be made early in life. Only when a person is sound both physically and mentally will they be able to increase the efficiency of their work. Brimming with innovative techniques, they are more engaged and effective in their roles.

Government policies

Understanding the importance of their roles in the formation of human capital, the Indian government has implemented several schemes that are aimed at improving health, education, upskilling, social welfare and employment opportunities. Improvement in these core areas will automatically boost economic growth.

One of the important implementations is the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009. The act guarantees free and compulsory education for all children aged below 14 years. Similarly, Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) provides vocational training aligned with industry needs to youths to increase their employability skills. Several schemes, like the Skill India mission and the Deen Dayal Upandhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY), that are focusing on skill development are also witnessed to be beneficial to the economy.

Upskill training

Another important factor that contributes significantly to human capital development is upskilling. For it keeps an individual aligned with the demands of the rapidly evolving job market and technological landscape. Upskilling improves the qualification and expertise of a human resource. It in turn makes him more competitive in the employment market. Not just that, it also helps him to contribute effectively to the business that he was part of. Thereby, not just increasing his growth but also the productivity and profitability of the organisation he works for. Upskilled employees are well capable of proposing new ideas and contributing enormously to innovative projects.

These are some of the fundamental and foundational factors that contribute to human capital development. They have a direct impact on productivity, economic efficiency and social stability of the individual, organization and country. Investment in human capital helps to create a more capable, resilient and prosperous population. It leads to economic growth, which in turn promotes the overall social progress of the country. 

About Smile Foundation’s contribution towards capacitating the nation

At Smile Foundation, we understand the vital role that human capital development plays in fostering individual growth, economic prosperity and societal well-being. Our mission aligns closely with this vision by empowering underserved communities through quality education, healthcare and skill-building initiatives. We believe that investing in people—especially children and youth—is key to creating a sustainable future.

Our initiatives enhance the economic value of individuals by equipping them with essential skills, education and health resources. Through programmes like Shiksha Na Ruke, we focus on providing quality education to children, ensuring that they have the foundational skills necessary for lifelong learning and success. Similarly, our Health Cannot Wait programme brings healthcare to remote communities, recognising that good health is an important component of human capital.

We also understand that upskilling is critical in today’s fast-changing world. Our livelihood programme, Smile Twin e-Learning Programme (STeP), offer vocational training and employment opportunities to the youth, preparing them for better job prospects and helping them contribute meaningfully to the economy. By empowering individuals, we are helping build a more robust and resilient human capital base, which is essential for the long-term economic growth and social stability of our country.

At Smile Foundation, our commitment is towards driving positive change and building a brighter future for all. We invite you to join us in our mission to enhance human capital development and create a more inclusive and prosperous society. Together, we can make a difference.

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Health

The green gains of Telemedicine through better rural healthcare 

The green gains of Telemedicine through better rural healthcare 
The green gains of Telemedicine through better rural healthcare 

With a population of 1.41 billion, one of India’s greatest challenges has been ensuring equitable distribution of healthcare services. Despite various government policies aimed at improving equity and access, disparities in healthcare continue to affect households and social groups across the country. Among the many interventions introduced to address this issue is telemedicine—a broad term encompassing the delivery of healthcare services through real-time, two-way communication between patients and healthcare providers using electronic information and telecommunications technologies. The goal of telemedicine is to extend high-quality health services to low-income and underserved regions, thereby enhancing healthcare standards and accessibility throughout the country.

In 2019, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare launched eSanjeevani, a cloud-based National Telemedicine Service designed to provide healthcare services across the entire country. This platform aims to achieve digital equity by connecting patients with over 218,489 doctors, specialists and healthcare workers through telemedicine.

eSanjeevani has particularly impacted rural areas, where it has significantly improved primary healthcare services by facilitating e-consultations, on-demand care and expanded facilities. This initiative represents the green gains of telemedicine and a big step in providing accessible, quality healthcare to underserved populations in India. 

A sustained effort over years- Green gains of telemedicine

One of the most urgent challenges in rural India continues to be the scarcity of healthcare facilities. Many villages are missing even the most basic healthcare infrastructure, like primary health centres (PHCs) and hospitals. This lack of access takes a toll on both the health of the population and patient well-being. Rural areas face significant hurdles, including long distances to healthcare facilities, limited transportation options, workforce shortages and inadequate health insurance coverage.

Keeping these issues in sight, telemedicine has emerged as a promising solution. Telemedicine practices, including those integrating traditional medicine, are becoming increasingly important in rural areas since the very inception of the idea.

A great example to substantiate the same is the Amrita Telemedicine Programme that achieved a milestone on January 13, 2003, by conducting its first remote telesurgery. This procedure took place at the Amrita Emergency Care Unit in Pampa, where a critical telesurgical operation was performed to save the life of a tourist. By utilising the local telemedicine infrastructure, a cardiothoracic surgeon provided expert guidance remotely—the procedure was carried out by a paediatric cardiologist stationed at Pampa. This successful operation highlighted the potential of telemedicine to bridge distances and deliver life-saving care in remote areas.

ISRO’s efforts

Similarly, in the last few years, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has made significant strides in improving rural healthcare through its Village Resource Centers (VRCs). These centres offer a variety of services, including telemedicine, tele-education, online decision support and interactive advisory services for farmers.

With approximately 500 VRCs established nationwide, these centres act as vital hubs for education and connectivity, linking rural communities with specialty hospitals and providing access to expert medical care. Similarly, Aarogyasree, a another internet-based mobile telemedicine initiative by Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

The overarching goals of telemedicine initiatives are to prevent unnecessary hospitalisations and also reduce readmissions’ enhance patient care; and empower patients to better manage their health conditions. By bridging gaps in healthcare access, telemedicine aims to improve health outcomes and quality of care in underserved rural areas.

Environmental and economical impact

In India, the healthcare sector contributes to 2 percent of global healthcare emissions, making it the seventh-largest emitter of greenhouse gases in the country. A 2019 report by Health Care Without Harm (HCWH) highlights a clear correlation between a nation’s health spending and its carbon footprint. As India invests more in its healthcare sector—expanding hospital bed capacities and enhancing facilities—this investment also leads to an increase in carbon emissions. 

The emissions stem from various sources, including the energy used by hospitals, medical devices and other infrastructure. Another contributor to these emissions is fossil fuel combustion. This includes the electricity and thermal power required to operate healthcare facilities, as well as vehicular emissions related to transportation and logistics within the sector. In India, vehicular emissions are significant contributors to traffic-related pollution, further impacting the overall carbon footprint of the country.

As the healthcare sector grows, addressing these emissions becomes crucial in balancing improved health outcomes with environmental sustainability. This is when facilities like telemedicine come into play, since they don’t only have a technological benefit but also provide economic and environmental benefits.

The heavy cost

A recent study has made notable advancements specifically in the field of teleophthalmology. Published in Eye, this multi-author research evaluated the environmental and economic impacts of teleophthalmology services in both rural and urban eyecare networks in India. The study assessed potential carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions saved by reducing travel and analysed cost savings from reduced travel, food and wages.

The findings indicated that the rural network saved approximately 2.89 kg of CO2 per person and 80 km per person, while the urban network achieved more significant savings of 176.6 kg of CO2 per person and 1666 km per person. Additionally, the report highlighted considerable cost savings on travel expenses: INR 19,970 (USD 250) for the primary network (average savings of INR 370 or USD 4.6 per patient) and INR 758,870 (USD 9,486) for the tertiary network (average savings of INR 8,339 or USD 104 per patient). Significant reductions in indirect expenses, such as food and wages, were also observed.

These results demonstrate that teleophthalmology offers substantial environmental and economic benefits, making it a valuable addition to both rural and urban eyecare systems.

Telemedicine services of Smile Foundation

At Smile Foundation, we are deeply committed to using the power of telemedicine to tackle the healthcare challenges faced by rural India. By leveraging technology, we are breaking down geographical barriers and ensuring that quality medical care reaches everyone who needs it along with the green gains of telemedicine.

What excites us most about this initiative is that apart from improving healthcare access—it also supports our commitment to environmental sustainability. By reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for consultations, we are helping to lower carbon emissions associated with transportation. This approach perfectly aligns with our vision of making a positive impact on both health outcomes and the environment.

Apart from our green gains of telemedicine services, we are connecting rural communities with specialist care and are also empowering them with health education and follow-up services. It is incredibly rewarding to see how this initiative is reducing the burden on overcrowded urban hospitals while contributing to a more equitable healthcare system. We are proud to be part of an effort that is using modern technology to create meaningful, long-lasting change for both people and the planet.

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Smile

Upskilling, increasing your paycheck: Pathway to economic security

Upskilling, increasing your paycheck: Pathway to economic security
Upskilling, increasing your paycheck: Pathway to economic security

India, with its vast and youthful population, is at a critical juncture! We are one of the youngest nations of the world but our unemployment numbers are concerning too. The demographic dividend, which began around 2005-06, offers a unique opportunity that is expected to last until the mid-2050s. By 2047, India is projected to have 1.1 billion people in the working-age group (15-64 years), a peak that could significantly influence the country’s economic trajectory. However, this potential can only be fully realised if the workforce is adequately skilled and employable. 

The current employment rate is 8%, and the number of job seekers has risen from 33 million in 2016-17 to 36.9 million in 2023-24. In this context, upskilling the youth can secure jobs and enhance income, especially for those in low-paying and unstable jobs.

Understanding the Current Landscape

The economic challenges India faces today have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which severely disrupted job markets. According to the Centre for Monitoring the Indian Economy (CMIE), the pandemic-induced lockdown in April 2020 pushed the unemployment rate to a staggering 23.5%. Although the situation has improved, with unemployment rates stabilising around 9.2% by mid-2024, the job market remains precarious, particularly for those with low skills. Additionally, rising inflation and escalating costs of essentials like education, healthcare, and housing make upskilling a necessity for economic survival.

Though India’s livelihood market is vast and varied, the majority of this market is informal, with over 90% of the workforce employed in the informal sector, according to the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO). Workers in these sectors often lack formal education and technical skills, which limits their ability to secure stable, well-paying jobs. 

The government of India introduced the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), a programme providing skill training to youth across India. While the government and private sector have launched several skill development initiatives to address this gap, these programmes often fail to reach the most vulnerable populations, particularly those in rural areas. This is where targeted upskilling initiatives become important, as they aim to bridge the skills gap by providing access to training for those who need it most.

Why is Upskilling Necessary?

The need for upskilling, the process of acquiring new skills or enhancing existing ones, cannot be overstated in today’s rapidly evolving job market. Here’s why:

1. Job Security: Automation and technological advancements are rendering many traditional jobs obsolete. Upskilling enables workers to adapt to new technologies, ensuring their relevance in the job market.

2. Increased Earnings: Skilled workers typically earn more than their unskilled counterparts. For example, a World Economic Forum study found that individuals who participated in skill development programs experienced an average wage increase of 30%.

3. Career Advancement: Upskilling opens doors to career growth by enabling workers to take on more responsibilities and move into higher-paying roles.

4. Adaptability: In a fast-changing job market, adaptability is key. Upskilling the youth equips workers with the skills needed to navigate industry changes effectively.

The Impact of Upskilling the Youth on Individuals and Communities

Upskilling has substantial impact on individuals and their entire communities. Skilled workers are significantly more productive than their unskilled counterparts. This increase in productivity can contribute to the overall efficiency of their industries, as well as lead to economic growth.

As individuals increase their earning potential, they can invest more in their families, improving access to education, healthcare, and overall quality of life. As workers become more skilled, their enhanced capabilities contribute to a stronger, more resilient economy, capable of withstanding external shocks such as economic downturns or pandemics.

Bringing Training to the Doorstep

One of the biggest challenges in upskilling is reaching those in remote or underserved areas who lack access to formal training programs. Traditional training centers are often located in urban areas, making it difficult for rural populations to access these opportunities due to distance, cost, or lack of awareness. This is where innovative approaches to upskilling, such as mobile training units, come into play.

These units travel to remote locations, offering training in high-demand trades. They also offer tailored counseling sessions, engagement programs, and real-world experience, giving trainees the tools and guidance they need to unlock their potential. By creating a nurturing environment, these initiatives help individuals explore their capabilities, ultimately leading to better job opportunities and financial stability.

What Smile Foundation is Doing?

Smile Foundation’s skilling and livelihood programme, STeP (Smile Twin e-Learning Progrmame) helps disadvantaged youth gain skills and access jobs in high-growth sectors. Aligned with the Government of India’s ‘Skill India’ initiative, the programme offers specialised training, counseling, and hands-on experience to equip low/no-income individuals with in-demand skills. Intending to create lasting change, we reach out to marginalised communities across India, ensuring that they have access to opportunities that can improve their lives. 

In partnership with Berger Paints India, Smile Foundation runs the iTrain on Wheels programme. This initiative upskills young and existing painters, teaching them contemporary techniques and entrepreneurial skills. The programme uses mobile training vans to reach 100+ remote sites across 24 states, having already trained over 94,333 painters. By bringing the training directly to the community, this approach helps underutilised youth overcome barriers, adapt to the changing job market, and secure meaningful employment, enabling them to become active contributors to the country’s economic growth.

Upskilling the Youth as a Pathway to Economic Resilience

By equipping individuals with the skills they need to secure better-paying jobs and adapt to industry changes, upskilling can help reduce unemployment and improve living standards for millions of people. The benefits extend beyond individuals, positively impacting entire communities. With a vast and growing working-age population, upskilling can unlock new opportunities, secure financial stability, and contribute to the country’s economic growth.

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Livelihood Smile

Layered Meanings of Unemployment, Changing Quality of Life

What are Personalized Scholarships?
What are Personalized Scholarships?

Unemployment – simply defined as an absence of gainful employment – may seem like a unidimensional challenge which restricts one’s ability to financially support themselves and their family. However, unemployment is not just about that. It holds multifaceted meanings that go beyond mere joblessness. It is related to individual lives, communities, and entire economies. In India, where diverse narratives intersect, understanding unemployment requires peeling back layers to reveal its profound implications. 

Economic Realities and Mental Strain

One of the biggest effects of unemployment is that it disrupts the financial stability of an individual, putting them and their dependents in a constant state of uncertainty. The lack of a regular income makes it difficult to meet basic daily needs—food, shelter, education, and healthcare. Lack of employment often leads to an individual struggling with anxiety, extreme stress, and low self-worth. It can also make someone being seen as worthless by the community or society. This can have an adverse impact on that individual’s mental health and wellbeing.

With a reduced self-worth and constant struggle with anxiety and stress, the individual may suffer from worse effects of poor mental health. It can also put them in a state of depression. The daily struggle to secure employment erodes confidence, leaving scars that linger even after re-entering the workforce.

Identity Crisis and Social Isolation

Imagine yourself as someone who comes from a small town in India. Often, it is observed that young people move out of these towns for higher studies and later to find employment in the cities where opportunities are available. In these new cities and workplaces, these people find new social connections and create communities. This also acts as a social support to them.

However, someone who is in the trap of unemployment for long loses out on these social connections as they have to spend most of their time at home or, in some cases, move back to their hometowns until they find a meaningful employment. This can cut them off from any type of social support and isolate them.

At the same time, it is seen that work becomes a major part of our lives after a particular age. What we do becomes an important part of our identity as well. Losing one’s job can disrupt this balance and equilibrium. The question, “What do you do?” becomes loaded. Unemployed individuals often grapple with self-doubt, questioning their worth beyond their job titles.

Quality of Life and Health

Leading a mentally and physically active life goes a long way in maintaining a strong mental and physical health. However, in the absence of work, an individual might end up in a state of mind where they are constantly dealing with high stress, anxiety, and sometimes depression. This can severely affect their mental health. At the same time, this can have negative effects for their physical health too. And, if that individual does not have an emergency fund to take care of their health-related expenses, they may ignore it at the time when they are unemployed. This can further exacerbate their health problems. Reports suggest that unemployed people are more than five times as likely to report poor health compared to employees.

Beyond health, unemployment affects overall quality of life. The loss of structure, purpose, and social connections compounds the struggle. The absence of meaningful work robs life of fulfilment and purpose. The usual social activities that an individual participates in on a daily basis may become rare as they struggle with low self-worth and financial uncertainty.

Unemployment and Gender

One of the aspects of unemployment that is often ignored or brushed under the carpet is its direct link with gender disparity in our society. Unemployment affects men and women differently. In India, gender disparities persist. Women often face additional challenges—unequal pay, limited access to education, and societal expectations. When women lose jobs, the repercussions extend beyond finances. Their roles as caregivers, homemakers, and community members intersect with their professional identities. Unemployment disrupts this delicate balance, affecting not only women but entire families.

Unemployed women often shoulder a double burden—seeking employment while managing household responsibilities. The lack of affordable childcare facilities and flexible work options further increases this challenge. As women navigate this complex terrain, their mental and physical health suffer. Addressing gender-specific unemployment requires targeted policies and cultural shifts.

Financial and Professional Risk

When an individual loses their job or is not able to find meaningful employment, they tend to lose hope and may end up taking uncalculated risk out of desperation. This risk may come in the form of investing in doubtful business opportunities, taking loans at high interest rates, or putting their money in extremely risky investments. While self-employment and entrepreneurship offer autonomy, it also comes with a high risk, especially when the person does not have necessary experience, social support, financial back-up, and network.

It is also seen in many cases that highly-educated individuals end up in gig-economy because of the desperate situation they are in. India’s informal sector absorbs a significant workforce. Street vendors, artisans, and gig economy workers constitute this dynamic landscape. While self-employment provides flexibility, it lacks social security benefits. Strengthening the informal sector—ensuring fair wages, safety nets, and skill enhancement—can enhance the quality of life for millions.

The Indian Context

India’s unemployment landscape is intricate. Youth unemployment, underemployment, and disguised unemployment coexist. The informal sector absorbs many, but job insecurity persists. The rural-urban divide exacerbates disparities. The Indian government has various schemes to offer employment support to people, like Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act 2005 or MGNREGA. At the same time, the government has been investing heavily in the skill of individuals and has been nurturing a healthy startup ecosystem. However, data suggests that unemployment is still a big challenge in India. While we often see this as a problem which can be solved by creating more job opportunities and filling the skill gap, we must also acknowledge that the effects of unemployment go much deeper and may be long lasting.

Unemployment is not just about statistics. It involves the lives of countless people. It impacts everyday decisions that individuals make, and it has many layers that need to be dissected to understand its true impact. Therefore, by ensuring meaningful employment for people, we do not just create a positive economic impact but also impact their lives at a much deeper level.

What are we doing about it?

Recognising the need to address the root causes of unemployment, Smile Foundation‘s Smile Twin e-Learning Programme (STeP) is designed to bridge the gap between education and employment for youth from low-income families. By providing job-oriented skills, the programme prepares these young individuals for jobs changing their lives for good.

The programme’s holistic approach, which includes training in banking and financial services, English communication, general duty assistance, digital marketing, Business process outsourcing, and retail management, prepares participants to enter the competitive job market with confidence. Through STeP, they not only gain practical skills but also a renewed sense of self-worth and purpose—two critical factors that unemployment often erodes.

In many ways, STeP embodies the broader fight against unemployment. By equipping youth with the tools they need to succeed, we are not just addressing the immediate challenge of joblessness but also fostering long-term economic stability and personal fulfilment. For these young individuals, STeP represents freedom—the freedom to dream, to earn with dignity, and to build a life that reflects their true potential.

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